Prasat Tadong (Ta Ong Temple)

Built partway up the side of the scenic Kulen mountain, Ta Ong (or Prasat Tadong) was originally a group of three ancient brick temples, today one tower remains mostly standing. The tower features ornate lintels carved into the brickwork, reminiscent of 7th-century style, and a series of false floors almost appearing as temples stacked atop temples.

On the north side of the tower there are the remains of a sandstone structure and to the south remnants of an unknown structure with a well left remaining and scattered sandstone blocks.

The site also featured an outer brick enclosure wall with an entry gopura to the east and a laterite staircase (in ruin) leading to the mountain’s base.

Surrounding the site you will see hermit caves and numerous natural rock monoliths.

Getting to the site is easy enough, follow the trail straight off the main road and you will end at a farmer’s field as pictured below.

Follow the foot trail along the bank and then around a large pond, past a farmers’ hut, then you should see the trail below and follow that up to the temple site. Preferably, hook up with a local guide who can fast-track you to the right spots, as there are other temples around Svay Leu and a stunning array atop Phnom Kulen itself.

Rodney Charles LHuillier

Living in Asia for over a decade and now residing in beautiful Siem Reap. Rodney Charles L'Huillier has spent over seven years in Cambodia and is the author of Ancient Cambodia (2024) and Essential Siem Reap (2017, 2019). Contact via [email protected] - more..