Wat Ek Phnom Temple is one of the ancient cultural tourist destinations in Battambang Province. It is located in Ta Kom Village, Peam Ek Commune, Ek Phnom District, Battambang Province, approximately 12.5 kilometers from the provincial capital of Battambang. This temple was built in the 11th century, in the year 1027 AD, during the reign of King Suryavarman I (1002–1050 AD) of the Khmer Empire.
Originally, Wat Ek Phnom Temple was named Narendragrāma and was constructed as a dedication to the Hindu god in the Brahmanic religion. This can be observed through the many intricate carvings that remain on parts of the temple, reflecting the belief in Brahmanism.
The temple is currently in a highly dilapidated state, and preservation efforts have been made using supporting structures in areas that are severely damaged and nearly collapsed.
Surrounding the temple are numerous Bodhi trees that provide a pleasant, shady atmosphere and cool, fresh air for both local and international tourists visiting the site.
Within the grounds of Wat Ek Phnom Temple, there is a modern vihara (monastic hall) called Wat Ek, built through the collaborative efforts of the local authorities and residents to accommodate Buddhist monks. The local people frequently gather here to perform merit-making ceremonies. Due to the presence of this monastery (monastic hall) near the temple, the temple has since been renamed Wat Ek Phnom Temple.
A large Buddha statue located to the north of the vihara was constructed in 2003 by the temple's head monk, local residents, and Buddhist devotees both domestically and abroad. This statue stands approximately 25 meters tall.
To reach this cultural and historical tourist site, visitors can travel by car or motorbike, which takes only about 20 minutes.
Visitors to Wat Ek Phnom Temple often express admiration for the beauty of its architecture, the awe-inspiring ancient construction, and the opportunity to learn about Cambodia’s rich and profound history—an unforgettable legacy from a mysterious and glorious past.
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