Spectacular views accompany this Angkorian-era temple, constructed with laterite and bricks with carved sandstone lintels. Phnom Chisor was built by King Suryavarman I, (1002-1049)
Approaching the temple there are the remains of two processional laterite gateways (Sen Thmol and Sen Ravang) and a sacred pond known as Tonle Om, all three forming a straight line up to the entrance of the main shrine, reminiscent of the Khmer temple at Wat Phu in Southern Laos.
The main temple at the summit stands at the eastern side of the hilltop in a plateau about 80 by 100 metres. It is surrounded by partially ruined walls of a two and a half meter wide gallery with inward facing windows.
Prepare to climb 503 steps to the top of the hill. The quality of the ruins and the amazing view of the Takeo plains make the climb worthwhile.
Once known as the site of Suryagiri, 'the Mountain of the Sun' it was dedicated to Brahma, 'the Creator of the Universe'. Inscriptions here date back to the 11th century.
It was bombed by the US in 1973 during Vietnam war, but the bomb that fell on the altar stone failed to explode.
How to get there:
It is located in the Takeo Province. Follow National Road nr 2 for approx 55 kilometres and turn right at the twin towers of Prasat Neang Khmau or "the Temple of the Black Lady". Phnom Chisor is about 4 kilometres from NR 2
