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Phra Wihan, or Preah Vihear in Khmer, is set atop a 547-meter spike of the Dangrek mountains.
Located on the Thai-Cambodian border about 140 kilometers southwest of Ubon Ratchathani, there has been a long-running dispute between Cambodia and Thailand over ownership due to the fact that the temple entrance is accessible from just inside the Thai border but the central sanctuary stands on Cambodian soil.
Climb to the summit
Built around the same time as Phanom Rung as a tribute to the Hindu God Shiva, this is one of the most astonishing religious monuments to be seen in Thailand. The steep climb to the summit is rewarded with rest stops at the various temple platforms and the spectacular views from the top are truly worth the climb.
Recent history
Preah Vihear is an historical landmark and bears witness to centuries of worship, and, in recent years, was as a former stronghold of the Khmer Rouge.
At the time of writing there is a standoff between Cambodian and Thai troops in the grounds of the temple complex. It relates to the decision by UNESCO to award World Heritage status to Preah Vihear.
who's been there
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Suggested itineraries featuring Phra Wihan
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Places near Phra Wihan
- Khong Jiam 78 miles away
- Phanom Rung 129 miles away
- Phimai 167 miles away
- Nakhon Phanom 206 miles away
- Khao Yai National Park 224 miles away
- Isaan 244 miles away
- Koh Kood 247 miles away
- Udon Thani 248 miles away
- Koh Munnork 249 miles away
- Koh Samet 264 miles away
- Nong Khai 277 miles away
- Ayutthaya 288 miles away
- Bangkok 295 miles away
- Loei Province 297 miles away