Absolutely amazing to see these temples even though they’re as not as majestic as the ones you see in Siem Reap. Do hire a tour guide to listen to the stories of these temples. When you hire a tour guide, you need to choose those who wear Ministry of Tourism uniforms (do not hire those policemen around- they might not give you accurate info about the temples). They are locals affiliated with the local community. They don’t get paid by any institutions. They are basically volunteers. Hiring them as your tour guides means supporting them. ✌️✌️

A roughly 40min trip along good roads from Kampong Thom. $10 entry fee, and we paid $15 for return trip by tuk tuk on top. The ruins are set in a pleasant, shady forest; though it is best to get there early in the morning and bring plenty to drink. We spent about 2hrs exploring the site, which is signposted and surprisingly tidy compared to other attractions in Cambodia. Not many tourists here - quite a bonus! Our driver would have taken us to Phnom Santuk temple as well, but this would have meant arriving at the hottest time of day. If you have the time, it would be better to take a midday break and then set out for Santuk temple later in the afternoon. We decided to do an evening river cruise from Sambor Village Lodge instead.

The Sambo Preykuk Temples in Cambodia are a hidden gem that feels like stepping back in time. Tucked away in the quiet countryside of Kampong Thom province, this ancient temple complex, which dates back to the 7th century, is one of the oldest in the country. It’s a place where history and nature blend seamlessly, creating an atmosphere that’s both peaceful and awe-inspiring. One of the best things about Sambo Preykuk is that it’s not overrun with tourists. Unlike the busy temples of Angkor, you can wander these ruins at your own pace, often without another soul in sight. The temples are surrounded by lush forest, and the detailed brick carvings and statues have a weathered beauty that speaks to their age and the stories they hold. The site is made up of three main groups of temples—each with its own character and charm. The Central, Northern, and Southern groups all offer different glimpses into the artistry and spirituality of the ancient Chenla Kingdom. From the intricate carvings to the majestic lion statues, there’s a lot to admire. Getting to Sambo Preykuk does require a bit of effort, as it’s off the beaten path. The journey is part of the adventure, but it’s good to be prepared—bring water, some snacks, and sturdy shoes for exploring. The facilities around the site are pretty basic, but that’s part of what keeps it so authentic and unspoiled.