Wat Preah Prom Rath

If you’re looking to explore one of Siem Reap’s many wats without having to stray too far from the central tourist area, then Wat Preah Prom Rath is the place for you.

Where is Wat Preah Prom Rat?

The wat is conveniently located just a couple of roads from the Old Market Siem Reap, right in the heart of Cambodia’s main tourist town.

What to See There

The wat is packed full of colourfully-decorated statues and stupas.

Inside the main Preah Vihear building there is a sleeping Buddha just behind the main shrine. Outside the building there is replica boat. Both of these hold special significance in a story about a monk who in 1,500 AD would regularly travel to fetch rice from Long Vek, the ancient capital of Cambodia. On one occasion, he was attacked and his boat was broken. He was able to survive and make it back safely on part of the boat. Hence the reclining Buddha and boat monument were built in honour of this event.

There is a plaque behind the main building with full details of the story.

As with all wats and sacred buildings in Cambodia, dress respectfully when visiting.

Nearby Attractions

One of the attractions of visiting the wat is its handy location. In addition to combining a trip here with some shopping at the Old Market Siem Reap, you can also pop to popular Pub Street and the adjoining alleys. In this way you can pack your visit with shopping and culture before having a drink and meal in the heart of Siem Reap. If that is not enough for one day, the Angkor Night Market is also nearby, allowing you to squeeze in some late night souvenir shopping.