Baksei Chamkrong is a small yet historically significant temple located near the entrance to the Angkor Thom complex in Cambodia. Built in the 10th century by King Harshavarman I, it was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and later to the memory of the king's parents.
Baksei Chamkrong is a small yet historically significant temple located near the entrance to the Angkor Thom complex in Cambodia. Built in the 10th century by King Harshavarman I, it was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and later to the memory of the king's parents. The temple's name, which means "The Bird Who Shelters Under Its Wings," is derived from a local legend in which a king was said to have been protected by a divine bird during an attack.
Baksei Chamkrong stands out for its unique architectural style, featuring a pyramid-like structure with steep, narrow steps leading to the top, where a sanctuary once housed a sacred Shiva lingam. The temple is one of the earliest examples of the use of brick and laterite in the construction of Angkorian temples, with sandstone lintels adorned with intricate carvings. Though smaller in scale compared to other temples in the Angkor complex, Baksei Chamkrong holds great importance as a representation of the transitional period in Khmer architecture and religious practices.
Visiting Baksei Chamkrong offers a glimpse into the early architectural innovations and religious devotion of the Khmer Empire. Its serene and relatively secluded location provides a peaceful setting for reflection and appreciation of the ancient craftsmanship that laid the foundation for the grandeur of later temples like Angkor Wat.
Address:
Angkor,
Krong Siem Reap 17000,
Cambodia
