English
French
Spanish
ItalianNokor Bachey Temple
Nokor Bachey Temple, or Wat Nokor Bachey, is a captivating testament to Cambodia's rich historical tapestry. This sacred place stands as a bridge between ancient traditions and modern spirituality, offering visitors a glimpse into the Khmer kingdom's illustrious past.
Nokor Bachey Temple located in the heart of Kampong Cham province, Cambodia, attracts tourists with its enigmatic and mysterious charm. Situated a mere 2.2 kilometers from Kampong Cham's provincial town along National Road 7, the temple is evidence of the rich cultural legacy of Cambodia. When leaving Phnom Penh, travelers will come upon the temple gate on their right, which is the entrance to a world rich in myth and legend.
Nokor Bachey Temple
As you stand before the gates of Nokor Bachey Temple, you are transported back in time to the middle of the 11th century, when this architectural marvel was first erected by the hands of skilled craftsmen and revered monarchs, during the reign of King Suryavarman II and King Ouphey, Nokor Bachey Temple holds a storied past intertwined with Cambodia's ancient dynasties.
Built as a tribute to Brahmanism, the temple's origins remain shrouded in mystery, with archaeologists unable to ascertain its exact age. Legends abound, offering tantalizing glimpses into the temple's mythic origins, including tales of forbidden love between the king’s son and his own mother and karmic redemption.
Legend of Nokor Bachey Temple
Despite the passage of time, Nokor Bachey Temple invites visitors to immerse themselves in its rich tapestry of myth and history, standing as a tribute to Cambodia's continuing legacy.
Nokor Bachey Temple's architectural splendor reflects a harmonious fusion of styles spanning centuries, by blending elements of both Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism. Constructed primarily with black sandstone and laterite, the temple features a series of distinct buildings, each bearing testament to the craftsmanship of its builders with a double wall surrounding the entire structure and the inner wall measures 130 m x 100 m, while the outer wall spans 420 m x 370 m.
Structure of the Temple
The prayer hall (Vihara), an addition built between the 12th and 16th centuries, is located east of the main temple. Four sitting Buddha statues are located behind a stone stele that honors these restorations inside the prayer hall. The temple's main enclosure comprises four long buildings, each with its own unique architectural features.
From the towering statues of Te Cho Dam Din to the intricate stone carvings adorning its walls, Khmer's rich artistic heritage was preserved and presented to tourists as a testament. Visitors can amaze at the temple's intricate design, exploring its labyrinthine corridors and hidden chambers as they uncover the secrets of this ancient marvel.
Nokor Bachey Stone
The entrance fee for Nokor Bachey Temple is approximately $2 USD for foreigners, providing access not only to the temple itself but also to the surrounding area's other two major temples: Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei. This bundled admission fee offers visitors the opportunity to explore multiple historical and cultural sites within the vicinity.
You may also like: Secret of Angkor
While the standard entrance fee applies to most visitors, it's advisable to check for any discounts or promotions available, particularly during off-peak seasons or special events. Some tour operators or travel agencies may offer package deals or reduced rates for group visits, so it's worth exploring all available options to optimize your budget and enhance your overall experience at Nokor Bachey Temple and its neighboring attractions.
You can reach Nokor Bachey Temple with local tuk-tuks, with the site accessible to various modes of transportation. Travelers departing from Kampong Cham's provincial town can embark on a short 2.2-kilometer journey along National Road 7, guided by signposts leading to the temple's entrance.
For people who travel here from Phnom Penh, a scenic drive along the national highway offers an opportunity to soak in the beauty of Cambodia's countryside, in order to find a warm welcome from the shrine gate for those tired pilgrims.
You may also like: Top 5 Most Famous Museums in Cambodia
Nokor Bachey Temple stands as a testament to Cambodia's rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the kingdom's storied past. From its mysterious origins to its architectural marvels, the temple invites travelers to embark on a journey of discovery, uncovering the secrets that lie within its ancient walls. So do not hesitate, let explore this hidden gem of Kampong Cham and find Cambodia's rich background tapestry!
With Asia King Travel, you'll embark on a journey through time as you delve into the rich heritage of Nokor Bachey Temple, and you can discover the hidden gems of Kampong Cham province while enjoying the convenience and comfort of organized travel.
You may also like: Unveiling Cambodia's Timeless Treasures: 10 Destinations Not to Be Missed
