Do I need a guide for Preah Vihear Temple?

While not mandatory, a licensed guide is highly recommended for historical context and to navigate the complex safely, including pointing out areas with potential UXO risk.

Is Koh Ker included in the Angkor Pass?

No, Koh Ker requires a separate entrance fee. The Angkor Archaeological Park pass is only valid for temples in the Siem Reap area.

Can I visit Preah Vihear as a day trip from Siem Reap?

It is a very long (4-5 hour drive each way) and arduous day trip. It is better to stay overnight in Sra Em to visit the temple comfortably in the cooler morning hours.

Are there ATMs in Preah Vihear?

ATMs are scarce and unreliable. Sra Em may have one or two, but you should carry sufficient cash (US Dollars and Cambodian Riel) from a major city like Siem Reap.

What is the border situation near the temple?

The Preah Vihear temple is firmly in Cambodian territory. The border with Thailand is closed at this location. Access is strictly from the Cambodian side via Sra Em. Do not attempt to cross any unofficial borders.

Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival ($30) or e-visa. Check current requirements.

Is the Preah Vihear temple open every day?

Yes, 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The site is closed during some national holidays.

Can I visit the temple from Thailand?

Yes, but you must enter Cambodia through the official border checkpoint. A visa is required.

What is the entrance fee for the temple?

$10 for foreigners. Additional fee for vehicles and guides.

Is there accommodation near the temple?

Basic guesthouses are available in Sra Em town, about 10 km away. Book in advance during peak season.

Is it safe to drive a motorbike here?

Only if you are an experienced rider. Roads are poor, and traffic is minimal but unpredictable.

Sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a flashlight. Rain gear if visiting in wet season.

Yes, recommended. Guides at the temple offer historical context. Hire through official kiosks.

Is the area affected by landmines?

Yes, in some remote areas. Stay on marked trails and roads. Do not wander off.

What is the local currency?

Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely used. Change is often given in Riel.

Are there any health risks?

Malaria and dengue are present. Use repellent and sleep under nets. No special vaccinations required beyond routine ones.

Preah Vihear

ProvinceCambodia, Asia

Preah Vihear is a STATE in Cambodia, Asia.

Preah Vihear is a captivating Cambodian province where ancient grandeur meets untamed wilderness. The crown jewel is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Prasat Preah Vihear, a breathtaking 11th-century Khmer temple complex dramatically perched atop the Dângrêk Mountains, offering panoramic views stretching into Thailand. This architectural masterpiece, dedicated to Shiva, represents one of the most spectacular temple settings in Southeast Asia. Beyond the temple, the province is a gateway to adventure, encompassing vast stretches of the remote and biodiverse Preah Vihear Protected Forest. Travelers can explore lesser-known Angkorian ruins like Koh Ker, the former capital of the Khmer Empire, with its iconic seven-tiered pyramid temple. The landscape transitions from rugged escarpments to dense jungle, home to rare wildlife. The authentic rural life along the Stung Sen River and in villages like Sra Em provides a glimpse into traditional Cambodia far from the tourist trail. Preah Vihear offers a profound sense of discovery, combining monumental history with raw, natural beauty for intrepid explorers.

Best time to visit Preah Vihear

November to February (Cool Dry Season). This period offers pleasant, cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the temple complex and hiking. The skies are clear, providing the best views from the mountaintop temple. Avoid the peak of the hot season (March-May) and the rainy season (June-October) when roads can become impassable and leeches are prevalent in forests.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Rain easing, 24-32°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Transition month; some sunny days.

Know before you go

Getting there

REP

Siem Reap International Airport

International

180 km away

PNH

Phnom Penh International Airport

International

320 km away

Getting around

"Transport is challenging. The primary hub is Sra Em town. Shared taxis (often old cars) and minivans connect Sra Em to Tbeng Meanchey (provincial capital) and Siem Reap. For the temple, hire a motorbike taxi (moto) or a 4x4 vehicle with driver from Sra Em; the final ascent is via a steep, winding road. There is no reliable public transit to remote sites like Koh Ker; hiring a private car with driver from Siem Reap or Sra Em is essential. Ride-hailing apps do not operate here. Walking is only safe within clearly defined temple and town areas."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

5 Mbps

Mobile data

Fair

WiFi

Available in some guesthouses in Sra Em, but slow

Local SIM

Local SIM available in Sra Em from $3

Calling code

+855

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Landmine risk in unmarked areas. Night travel not recommended.

Night safety

5/10

Landmine risk in unmarked areas. Night travel not recommended.

Transport

6/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Exercise high caution due to residual landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) in rural areas, especially near the former Thai border. NEVER venture off marked paths or cleared areas. The temple of Preah Vihear itself is safe to visit, but access roads and surrounding areas have been historically sensitive. Check current travel advisories before visiting. Petty crime is low but secure valuables. Road safety is a major concern; travel by day, use reputable drivers, and expect poor road conditions. Avoid all political demonstrations. Scams are rare but agree on prices for transport and guides upfront."

Police

117

Ambulance

119

Fire

118

Tourist Police

097 778 0002

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in Preah Vihear are extremely limited. Sra Em town has basic clinics, but serious conditions require evacuation to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. Travelers must have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Malaria and dengue fever are risks in rural and forested areas; use DEET repellent, mosquito nets, and consider antimalarial prophylaxis. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Tetanus are strongly recommended. Drink only bottled or purified water. Be prepared for basic sanitation. Carry a comprehensive personal medical kit."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly, especially at temples. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Remove hats and shoes before entering temple sanctuary areas. Always ask permission before photographing people. The wai (a slight bow with palms together) is a common greeting. Tipping is not customary but appreciated for good service in tourism roles. Respect local authorities and monks. Avoid public displays of affection. When visiting, it is polite to use both hands or the right hand to give or receive items."

Khmer

Costs and practicals

Currency

Cambodian Riel (KHR) · ៛

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$10-30 | budget guesthouses range $10-30/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Prices are lower than in Siem Reap. Bargaining is expected at markets.

Timezone

Asia/Phnom_Penh +07:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

254,827

Area

13,788 km²

Government

Provincial Government

ISO code

KH-13

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: プレアヴィヒア, Preah Vihear, Preavihėjos provincija, ខេត្តព្រះវិហារ, 柏威夏省, Прэахвихеа, Khêt Preăh Vihéar, KH-13, Kampong Preng, Kimpong Pranak, Kompong Pranak, Kompong Prena, Kompong Preng, OMY, Phnom Tbeng Meanchey, Phnom Thbeng Meanchey, Phnom Thbeng Neanchey, Phnum Tbeng Meanchey, Phnum Tbêng Méanchey, Phom Thbeng Meanchey, Phumi Thbeng Meanchey, Phumĭ Thbeng Meanchey, Tbaeng Mean Chey, Tbeng Meanchej, Tbeng Meanchey, Tbêng Méanchey, Thbeng Meanchey, tabaga me'anace, tabenga me'ance, tbng myanchy, tbnj myanchy, tbynj myatshay, teben'ga meyanace, teben・meanche, tibeniግ miyanice, Тбенг Меанчей, تبنج میانچی, تبنگ میانچی, تبينج مياتشاي, ٹbyng myanchے, ٹبینگ میانچے, टबेंग मेअंचे, টেবেন্গ মেয়ানচে, ਟਬੰਗ ਮੇਅਨਚੇ, ትቤንግ ሚያንቼ, テベン・メアンチェ

Capital CityMajor HubHistoric SiteTempleNatureAdventureOff the Beaten PathUNESCO