Pre Rup
ប្រែរូប
A red-brick pyramid temple completed in 961. From the top at sunset, the surrounding rice fields and forest glow in the evening light.
Pre Rup was completed in 961 by Rajendravarman II and is dedicated to Shiva. It has a three-tiered pyramid base of laterite and brick, and five brick towers on top arranged in a quincunx pattern, symbolising Mount Meru. The name means 'turn the body,' and it is said that cremation ceremonies were once held here.
As the sun goes down, the red bricks take on a golden-orange sheen. From the open top, you can see the spires of Angkor Wat in the distance. With fewer visitors than Phnom Bakheng, it is a popular sunset viewpoint. The steps are steep, and it gets dark on the way down, so take care.
The temple lies east of the Royal Bath and requires an Angkor Pass (US$37 for 1 day, US$62 for 3 days, US$72 for 7 days). Sunset viewing usually ends around 5:30 p.m., before the gates close.
Opening hours
05:00–19:00 (sunset viewing period)