Trapeang Phong Temple

Trapeang Phong Temple (ប្រាសាទ​ត្រពាំងផុង) is located east of Siem Reap, and south of Bakong Temple. One central tower remains standing among what is a group of six with other structures. Notably, it features what is believed to be the first bas-reliefs of Apsaras/Devata in the Angkor region (although Trapeang Run is another).

Trapeang Phong is also interesting for its hydraulic structure which researchers believe to be a precursor to the complex hydraulic network development of Angkor. The site has a large elongated basin to its north and another to its east along with the temple site itself being surrounded by a moat. Research also highlights the diversity of the art styles seen, pre-Angkorian, Kulen, Preah Ko, and later 11th century, indicating alterations/additions over time (Christophe Pottier et Annie Bolle, 2009).

The site is located south of Bakong Temple, in present-day Roluos, the area known as the ancient capital Hariharalaya. It is also hypothesized that Trapeang Phong could in fact be the “The Temple of Harihara” with two such statues found here (out of three found in the entire Angkor region).

On the north side of the central tower a lintel above the false door remains in situ featuring a kala head with padmamula (lotus root) coming from its mouth and stretching across either side where it transforms into a makara holding garlands of jewels.

Moving up the central tower we can see a series of false floors, almost like a temple stacked atop a temple, featuring rich carvings into the brick structure. On either side of the doorways are the fabulous Apsara/deity depictions (noting the tilted hips and remaining stucco rendering) that are flanked by floral-decorated pilasters.

Just beside the central tower, one of the other towers is partially standing, and of a different style with some unique decoration of its own, attributable to an earlier period.

Remains of a lion, decorative pieces, and corner accents seen around the site

An array of carvings were located here inc. a statue of Harihara, a Buddha on Naga, bas-reliefs of Vishnu, square and round ornate colonnettes, and a lintel were found at the site and now believed to be at the National Museum in Phnom Penh. Recently (03/21), the head of a Vishnu statue was also found here during the ongoing restoration work.

It’s so nice to see tour groups making their way there and enjoying the water challenge! The site is accessible by foot, bike, or moto by trail during the dry season although during the rainy season, it will be surrounded by waist-deep water.

Historical Images

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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..