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Phnom BakhengvsBakong
Both Phnom Bakheng and Bakong are endorsed by expert writers. On balance, Phnom Bakheng ranks marginally higher than Bakong. Phnom Bakheng comes in at #11 in Siem Reap with accolades from 2 reviews like Michelin Guide, Lonely Planet.
Phnom Bakheng
Lonely Planet
Michelin Guide Lonely Planet
Siem Reap, Cambodia
From $0/night
Lonely Planet "The temple, a 65m five-tiered pyramid, is a study of Hindu numerology. At the summit, five towers form a quincunx to echo the five peaks of the heavenly mountain. " Full review
Michelin Guide 3 Stars
"The great tourist ritual of Angkor involves climbing up Bakheng Hill to see the sun setting over Angkor Wat and the surrounding forest (either on foot or by elephant). " Full review
i
While you are up there, be sure to visit the mountain-temple devoted to Shiva built atop Phnom Bakheng.
Lonely Planet "Located around 400m south of Angkor Thom, the main attraction at Phnom Bakheng is the sunset view over Angkor Wat...the temple, built by Yasovarman I (r 889–910), has five tiers, with seven levels." Full review
i
Numbers are now restricted to just 300 visitors at any one time, so get here early (4pm) to guarantee a sunset spot.
Bakong
Afar Magazine Michelin Guide Lonely Planet
Roulos, Siem Reap, Cambodia
From $0/night
Afar Magazine "Prasat Bakong is the most impressive of the Roluos Group of temple complexes, located east of Siem Reap." Full review
i
While your there, be sure to purchase some refreshments from the local roadside vendors that don't see nearly as many tourists as the popular Angkor area.
Michelin Guide 2 Stars
"This majestic five-tiered pyramid encircled by moats was built in 881 in what was then considered to be the centre of the Hariharalaya." Full review
Lonely Planet Top Choice
"Bakong is the largest and most interesting of the Roluos group of temples...it’s a representation of Mt Meru, and it served as the city’s central temple." Full review
