Wat Preah Prom Rath (EN)
Wat Preah Prom Rath is a temple complex located directly in Siem Reap. Visitors can easily walk to the temple, which is located on the west bank of the Siem Reap River (near Pub Street) – and will certainly not be disappointed by the structure
Inner courtyard of Wat Preah Prom Rath
The history of the temple dates back to the 13th century and attracts visitors with its magnificent gardens and many colorful representations and statues, which, although not particularly old (all the artwork was created only from the second half of the 20th century), are very aesthetically pleasing to look at. At the same time, a visit to Wat Preah Prom Rath offers an authentic insight into the religious practice of Cambodian Buddhists. In addition to the general temple complex, there is also a monastery house on the property, which is why there are always many Buddhist monks on site. Basically, visitors are not charged an entrance fee, but the project is financed solely by donations, which is why tourists are encouraged to contribute a little money for the preservation of this beautiful site.
Wat Preah Prom Rath attracts with its magnificent, gilded decorations and Buddha representations and thus offers visitors a lot to discover, look at and marvel at. Especially popular here is a statue of the sleeping Buddha inside, which is said to have been built there around the 15th century.
Especially the drawings and paintings on the walls show stories from the life of Buddha. Many of the monks speak reasonably good English and are happy to explain one or the other depiction to the visitors at first hand – there is probably no more authentic way to experience a Buddhist temple.
“Administration Building” of Wat Preah Prom Rath
Besides the general beauty of the building, a visit to Wat Preah Prom Rath also offers something that seems to unite all pagodas: an incredible contrast to the general hustle and bustle of Siem Reap, which is nevertheless quite busy with tourists. Here in the temple, tourists can simply find peace and quiet, meditate or simply indulge their thoughts: completely undisturbed by the hustle and bustle that one is used to, for example, from the visits to many Khmer temples.
Wat Preah Prom Rath not only serves as a monastery and a temple, but also has an on-site school where local children are taught.
A visit to the complex is worthwhile in any case, as it is one of the most beautiful and best maintained temples in the region. Especially because the monastery is located directly in Siem Reap, you should not miss a trip there – even if you have little time, you can discover a lot there.