Phnom Chisor

There are many temples and interesting historical sites that can be found in Cambodia. As well as the famous Angkor Wat complex, it is worthwhile visiting some of the lesser known sites. Not only are they less crowded, they offer fantastic, breathtaking views of the lush Cambodian countryside and are some of the most peaceful and serene places on earth.

One of the best places to get all of this is the “Mountain of the Sun God” – or to the modern civilisation, Phnom Chisor. This “mountain” is located

approximately 60 kilometres south of the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh.

You can reach this attraction by hiring a car or motorcycle for the day. You can also catch a bus destined for Takeo City from the Phnom Penh city terminal (there is one every hour) and alight the bus at the turnoff for Phnom Chisor (it is clearly marked so there is little chance of missing it!). It is then recommended that you take a moto to the base of the hill so that you can start your ascent.

Yes, as with many of the Wats and temples in Cambodia, Phnom Chisor is situated on the top of a hill! The site stands on a square plateau and is surrounded with partially ruined walls. It is a 100 metre high ridge with over 500 steps to navigate your way to the top – but the climb is definitely worth the view and the ruins that are awaiting you at the peak!

The temples at the top of the hill are some of the best preserved and it is

 possible to see a lot of detailed and intricate carving on the lintels and pediments of the buildings. The temples date back to the 11th century and were erected by King Suryavarman I. They are made of laterite and sandstone and are truly great examples of Angkorian temple building practices. Phnom Chisor is one of several temples that King Suryavarman I had built; it is a Hindu temple and is dedicated to Brahma (the Creator of the Universe), Vishnu and Shiva. Indeed, there are many intricate and detailed scenes depicted of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva to be seen on the sandstone lintels and pediments of the temples.

The main temple has been altered several times throughout its history but this does not deflect from the original features of Phnom Chisor at all. Indeed, the ruins have aged considerably well and even survived an American bombing raid on the site in 1973. The great wooden doors at the main entrance to the temple are a sight to behold. They have been well preserved and it is easy to see some wonderful and unique carvings of people standing on the backs of pigs. The inside of the temple has been carefully restored by the French in earlier years and there are great examples of Buddha statues, significant Khmer inscriptions and naga heads placed within the main area.

As well as the serene and peaceful atmosphere of the Phnom Chisor temple, this attraction offers wonderful views of the plains of the Takeo Province. There is also the opportunity to see nearby Phnom Chambok which is home to an ecotourism site.