Visit Preah Vihear: The Complete Guide

It borders the provinces of Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap to the west, Kampong Thom to the south and Stung Treng to the east. Its northern boundary forms part of Cambodia’s international border with Thailand and Laos. Its capital is Preah Vihear. This is one of the nine provinces that are part of the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve.

If you are planning a trip to visit Preah Vihear, here is some information you need to know. Things to do, the best weather, hotel options, food and drinks will be the things to prepare if you want to have the most perfect and memorable trip.

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Top 7 things to do and see in Preah Vihear

Preah Vihear Province is a land of history, culture, and natural beauty. Famous for its UNESCO World Heritage temples and pristine landscapes, this lesser-visited province offers travelers the chance to step off the beaten path and experience authentic Cambodia. From ancient ruins to wildlife sanctuaries and vibrant local life, here are the top 7 things to do and see when you visit Preah Vihear.

Preah Vihear temple

This ancient temple complex is the province’s principal attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Preah Vihear Temple is perched on a cliff in the Dangrek Mountains and offers stunning vistas as well as beautiful Khmer architecture. The main temple is used for the high-ranking supreme divinities, this mighty group of buildings is considered as the center of the whole temple complex. It’s a great chance to explore the courtyards, galleries, and beautiful bas-reliefs illustrating Hindu mythology at the temple.

Preah Khan Kompong Svay

Another impressive temple complex, Preah Khan Kompong Svay is one of the largest temple complexes in Cambodia. It’s known for its grandeur and mysterious atmosphere. The layout of the temple is unique compared to the other sites in Angkor as it is oriented northeast. It has been proposed that the temple is aligned with the rising sun during the summer solstice. The site is less visited than Angkor Wat, making it a peaceful and captivating experience.

Phnom Tbeng Meanchey

This hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for watching the sunrise or sunset. It’s an easy hike and provides an excellent vantage point for photography. Phnom Tbeng Meanchey is in the category of waterfalls, mountains, and Natural tourism sites. Things to do, as well as the attractions of Phnom Tbeng Meanchey for you such as swimming, viewing the sunset, camping, visiting the pagoda, having a picnic, and more. For the trip to the location of Phnom Tbeng Meanchey, you may need to walk but not cross the river or take a boat.

Kulen Promtep wildlife sanctuary

The Kulen Promtep Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest protected area in Cambodia and was set aside to protect the critically endangered, possibly extinct Kouprey. Let’s explore the biodiversity of Preah Vihear by visiting this wildlife sanctuary. You can spot various species of animals and birds while trekking through the lush forests and grasslands. It’s an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

Preah Vihear bird watching site

Preah Vihear is a haven for bird enthusiasts. If you’re a bird lover, this site is a must-visit. The province is home to a wide variety of bird species, and you can take guided bird-watching tours to observe them in their natural habitat. Thus, visit Preah Vihear Bird Watching Site to observe numerous bird species in their natural habitat. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars and camera.

Explore local markets

Explore the bustling markets of Preah Vihear to sample authentic Cambodian street food and shop for unique souvenirs. The vibrant markets offer a glimpse into daily life, and you can shop for unique souvenirs and sample delicious Cambodian street food. It’s a great way to connect with the local culture. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting markets in Preah Vihear.

Visit local villages

Experience the rural life of Cambodia by visiting local villages in the province. You can interact with the friendly locals, learn about their traditions, and witness their way of life in the countryside. Interact with them, learn about their traditions, and immerse yourself in the culture. To experience the rural life of Cambodia, consider taking a village tour in Preah Vihear.

Best time to visit Preah Vihear

The ideal time to visit Preah Vihear in terms of weather is during the cool and dry season, from November to February:

• Cool temperatures: Daytime ranges from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), ideal for outdoor exploration.

• Dry weather: Minimal rainfall, reducing the risk of disrupted travel plans.

• Clear skies: Great for photography and scenic views, especially at Preah Vihear Temple.

• Comfortable for outdoor activities: Hiking, sightseeing, and temple visits are more enjoyable.

Avoid the wet season (June to October), as heavy rain can cause flooded roads and limit access to attractions. 

How to get to Preah Vihear

Getting to Preah Vihear, Cambodia, primarily depends on your starting point and mode of transportation. Preah Vihear Province is located in the northern part of Cambodia, near the Thai border. The main attraction in the province is Preah Vihear Temple, which is situated atop a cliff in the Dangrek Mountains.

Phnom Penh to Preah Vihear

• By Air: The nearest airport to Preah Vihear is Siem Reap International Airport. You can fly to Siem Reap from Phnom Penh and then take a taxi or bus to Preah Vihear. The distance from Siem Reap to Preah Vihear is approximately 230 kilometers, and the journey takes around 3-4 hours by road.

• By Bus: Several bus companies operate daily services from Phnom Penh to Preah Vihear. The bus journey can take 8-10 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way.

Siem Reap to Preah Vihear

If you’re already in Siem Reap, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to Preah Vihear. The road journey from Siem Reap to Preah Vihear usually takes around 3-4 hours.

Poipet (Thai Border) to Preah Vihear

If you’re coming from Thailand, you can cross the border at Poipet (Aranyaprathet on the Thai side) into Cambodia. From Poipet, you can take a taxi or bus to Preah Vihear, which is approximately 150 kilometers away.

Local transportation

Once you arrive in Preah Vihear town or near the temple, you can use tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, or rental bicycles to explore the area and visit Preah Vihear Temple.

Preah Vihear is a destination where history, culture, and nature come together in a truly remarkable way. From the majestic cliff-top temple to hidden ruins, wildlife sanctuaries, and vibrant local life, the province offers far more than a single landmark—it’s an invitation to explore Cambodia off the beaten path. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or a traveler seeking authentic cultural experiences, Preah Vihear will leave you with lasting memories.

👉 Ready to visit Preah Vihear for yourself? Hanoi Voyages offers tailor-made tours across Cambodia and beyond, ensuring you discover the very best of this extraordinary province with comfort and ease.