Preah Palilay – the hidden temple

Prasat Preah Palilay is a lesser known small temple in the Angkor Archaeological Park in Cambodia. The temple was built in the late 9th or early 10th century and is named after one of the former kings of Cambodia. The temple is part of the rich history and culture of Cambodia and displays Khmer architecture.

The trees grown on the temple provide a very nice photo motif.

The temple is built of laterite stone and sandstone and has a central pyramid. The temple is decorated by stone carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, such as the story of Shiva and Parvati. However, most of the stone carvings are badly eroded and difficult to see.

During the reign of Jayavarman VII in the 12th century, the temple was rebuilt and expanded. However, the temple was severely damaged during the Khmer Rouge era. However, most of the damage was repaired during restoration work in the 1990s.

The temple is less visited than other temples in Angkor Archaeological Park, which makes it a quiet and peaceful place. The temple is surrounded by a wooded area and offers a pleasant atmosphere.

Visitors can best visit the temple at sunrise or sunset, when the light conditions are particularly beautiful. The temple is easily accessible from Siem Reap by tuk-tuk or bicycle.