Wat Preah Ngok (Temple of the Lead Buddha), Siem Reap
The Temple of the Lead Buddha, located just north of the Bayon, is a captivating historical site with a rich and intriguing history. It is one of the many Buddhist terraces attributed to the post-Angkor period, where recycled masonry from earlier ancient sites was used in its construction.
The temple features a simple yet grand terrace formed by a platform made of laterite blocks, measuring approximately 90 meters by 24 meters and rising about half a meter in height. On top of this platform lies an inner platform that reduces in size to around 50 meters by 10 meters. At the western end of this terrace stands a monumental Buddha statue, serving as the central focus of the site. The Buddha is gracefully covered by a shelter that has been restored in more recent times.
The Temple of the Lead Buddha is adorned with double sema stones, some of the largest seen in the Angkor region, placed at each cardinal point and corner of the terrace. Notably, the northwest sema stone bears an inscription from the French era of discovery, dating back to 1881. This inscription provides valuable historical context and insight into the site's exploration and documentation during that period. Additionally, the sema stone at the center of the western end carries an inscription for which the specific record remains elusive at present.
At the western end of the temple site, visitors can explore the remnants of a stepped laterite structure, believed to have possibly been a chedi or stupa. Sadly, little remains visible atop this structure today. However, stone coffins, lion pedestals, and other remnants have been thoughtfully arranged in this area, offering a glimpse into the site's past significance.
Nearby, two small reassembled stupas and two small sema stones can be found, adding further layers of historical intrigue to the site. Amongst the surrounding trees, the remains of a side building constructed of laterite are still visible, with only a sandstone window frame and base foundation remaining standing.
Throughout the area surrounding the Temple of the Lead Buddha, a vast array of sandstone pieces can be found, some of which are believed to originate from Baphuon. Among these sandstone remnants are curious stumpy round columns, which add to the enigmatic atmosphere of the site.
The temple features a simple yet grand terrace formed by a platform made of laterite blocks, measuring approximately 90 meters by 24 meters and rising about half a meter in height. On top of this platform lies an inner platform that reduces in size to around 50 meters by 10 meters. At the western end of this terrace stands a monumental Buddha statue, serving as the central focus of the site. The Buddha is gracefully covered by a shelter that has been restored in more recent times.
The Temple of the Lead Buddha is adorned with double sema stones, some of the largest seen in the Angkor region, placed at each cardinal point and corner of the terrace. Notably, the northwest sema stone bears an inscription from the French era of discovery, dating back to 1881. This inscription provides valuable historical context and insight into the site's exploration and documentation during that period. Additionally, the sema stone at the center of the western end carries an inscription for which the specific record remains elusive at present.
At the western end of the temple site, visitors can explore the remnants of a stepped laterite structure, believed to have possibly been a chedi or stupa. Sadly, little remains visible atop this structure today. However, stone coffins, lion pedestals, and other remnants have been thoughtfully arranged in this area, offering a glimpse into the site's past significance.
Nearby, two small reassembled stupas and two small sema stones can be found, adding further layers of historical intrigue to the site. Amongst the surrounding trees, the remains of a side building constructed of laterite are still visible, with only a sandstone window frame and base foundation remaining standing.
Throughout the area surrounding the Temple of the Lead Buddha, a vast array of sandstone pieces can be found, some of which are believed to originate from Baphuon. Among these sandstone remnants are curious stumpy round columns, which add to the enigmatic atmosphere of the site.
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Wat Preah Ngok (Temple of the Lead Buddha) on Map
Sight Name: Wat Preah Ngok (Temple of the Lead Buddha)
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Create Your Own Walk in Siem Reap
Creating your own self-guided walk in Siem Reap is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Siem Reap Introduction Walking Tour
As the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap holds within its bounds an extraordinary blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Angkor Thom Walking Tour
Nestled within the sprawling landscape of Siem Reap, Angkor Thom stands as a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and artistic expression. Built during the late 12th century by the Khmer King Jayavarman VII, this expansive city served as the capital of the Khmer Empire. Jayavarman VII's vision was to create a city that embodied the spiritual and cultural essence of the empire. Enclosed... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles