Phnom Santuk

Phnom Santuk is a a 207-metre high hill and cultural site in Ko Koh village, Kampong Thom, regarded as the most sacred mountain in the Cambodian province.

At its summit is a wat with shrines and several rock statues of reclining Buddhas. Monks live at the site.

How to Get to Phnom Santuk

Around a 20-minute tuk tuk ride to the south of Kompong Thom town centre you can climb the 809 stairs to the pagoda that sits atop a mountain. If climbing isn’t for you, then there is a road that leads to the top from the opposite side. Navigating the road dominated by troops of monkeys coupled with spectacular views on the way up this is one of those uniquely Cambodian experiences.

The wats at the top are full of character: new and old with colourful decoration and full of inquisitive and friendly monks of all ages. The children especially are keen to interact with you and possibly practise their English. Of particular interest is a panirvana sculpture that has been estimated to date back to the 16th century and is carved in the rock of Buddha. Other carvings include nagas (serpents) and dragons. There are several wats here, including a multi-storeyed Chinese pagoda.

Sunsets are especially beautiful but make sure you have a flashlight in case you have to descend in the dark.

History of Phnom Santuk

According to legend, in 1496, King Thommo Reachea I organised the transfer of Buddha relics from the temple of Preah Thong in Angkor to Khvav Brah Dhatu close to Phnom Santuk. The hill also features in the Cambodian Baksei Chamkrong.

Accommodation in Kompong Thom

If you’re planning to stay in Kompong Thom overnight then you could consider staying at Sambor Village not far from Phnom Santuk.