








Year Built
11th century CE
Period
Medieval Period
Architectural Style
Khmer Baphuon to Angkor Wat Style Mountain Temple Architecture
Built By
Khmer Empire (Suryavarman I, Suryavarman II)
Material Used
Gray Sandstone, Laterite, Brick, Stucco
Heritage Status
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Khao Phra Viharn, also known as Preah Vihear, located on the Dangrek Mountain range along the Thailand-Cambodia border in Sisaket Province, represents one of the most spectacular and architecturally significant Khmer temple complexes, constructed primarily in the 11th century CE during the reigns of Suryavarman I and Suryavarman II. The temple complex, dedicated to Shiva, is uniquely positioned on a cliff edge at 525 meters above sea level, creating a dramatic architectural expression that integrates natural topography with religious symbolism. The complex spans approximately 800 meters along a north-south axis, accessed via a series of five gopuras and causeways that ascend the mountain, each representing a stage in the journey to the sacred summit. The main sanctuary, constructed from gray sandstone and laterite, features elaborate lintels and pediments depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including the churning of the ocean of milk, Shiva’s cosmic dance, and various deities. The temple’s architectural style represents the transition from Baphuon to Angkor Wat periods, with distinctive features including false windows, devata carvings, and sophisticated stone carving techniques. The complex includes libraries, ponds, numerous subsidiary shrines, and a unique long gallery connecting the gopuras. The temple has been the subject of border disputes between Thailand and Cambodia, with the International Court of Justice ruling in 1962 that the temple belongs to Cambodia, though Thailand provides access routes. The site underwent restoration in the 20th century and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. Today, Khao Phra Viharn remains one of the most important Khmer temples, attracting visitors for its spectacular location, architectural significance, and historical importance. ([1][2])
Khao Phra Viharn was constructed primarily in the 11th century CE during the reigns of Suryavarman I and Suryavarman II. The temple served as an important mountain sanctuary. The site has been subject to border disputes. UNESCO World Heritage inscription in 2008. ([1][2])
Étienne Aymonier, UNESCO




Excavations revealed construction phases and integration with natural topography.
Restoration work conducted in 20th century; ongoing conservation. ([1][2])
UNESCO, Fine Arts Department of Thailand
Construction utilized gray sandstone quarried from the mountain, with sophisticated engineering to integrate the temple with the cliff topography. The main structures employed corbelled vaulting techniques. The causeways and gopuras were constructed using massive sandstone blocks. The foundation system utilized the natural rock formation, with additional stone platforms. ([1][2])
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The structural system employs load-bearing masonry construction integrated with natural rock formations. The main structures utilize corbelled vaulting. The causeways distribute loads along the mountain slope. The foundation system utilizes natural rock with additional stone platforms. ([1][2])
14.390000, 104.680000
{"notes":"Mountain location; steep climb; border crossing required; check current access regulations.","restrooms":"Available at visitor facilities.","wheelchair_accessible":"Not accessible due to mountain location and steps."}
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Early morning for best lighting and cooler temperatures; dry season for safe access.
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Respect sacred areas; follow border regulations; no climbing on structures; be prepared for mountain conditions.
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Yes
Yes
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2025-11-09T08:50:50.617348+00:00
2025-11-09T14:09:18.511+00:00
Medieval Period
Sisaket
Khmer Baphuon to Angkor Wat Style Mountain Temple Architecture
UNESCO Site
Khao Phra Viharn Sisaket is a historic Temple located in Sisaket, Thailand. This Khmer Baphuon to Angkor Wat Style Mountain Temple Architecture architectural masterpiece was built during the Medieval Period period and represents significant cultural and historical heritage of Thailand. Khao Phra Viharn, also known as Preah Vihear, located on the Dangrek Mountain range along the Thailand-Cambodia border in Sisaket Province, represents one of the most spectacular and architecturally s...
| ฿Entry Fee | Thai nationals: 400 THB; Foreigners: 400 THB; includes border crossing fees. |
| 🕐Opening Hours | Dawn to Dusk (6 AM - 6 PM) |
| 📅Best Time to Visit | October to March (Winter) |
| ⏱️Duration | 2-3 hours |
| ♿Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
| 📸Photography | Allowed (No flash) |
Check opening hours and entry fees for Khao Phra Viharn Sisaket. Book tickets online if available to avoid queues. Best visited during early morning or late afternoon.
Khao Phra Viharn Sisaket is located in Khao Phra Viharn National Park, Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province, Thailand, Sisaket. The nearest major city is Khao Phra Viharn National Park. Accessible by road, rail, and air. Use GPS coordinates: 14.39, 104.68.
Entry fee: Thai nationals: 400 THB; Foreigners: 400 THB; includes border crossing fees.. Follow dress code for religious sites. Photography is allowed. Maintain silence and respect the heritage.
Allocate 2-3 hours to fully explore Khao Phra Viharn Sisaket. Key areas to visit include the main sanctum, pillared halls, and intricate carvings. Consider hiring a local guide for detailed insights.
Construction of Khao Phra Viharn Sisaket by Khmer Empire (Suryavarman I, Suryavarman II)
Conservation and restoration efforts initiated under UNESCO World Heritage Site
Digital documentation and 3D scanning completed by Inheritage Foundation