43. Phnom Bakheng

 Date: Late 9th – Early 10th century (about 907); Religion: Hinduism; Reign: Yasovarman I; Style: Bakheng. Visit: Later afternoon and sunset for the views from the summit.

The construction of this temple-mountain on Phnom Bakheng (Bakheng hill), the first major teemple to be constructed in the Angkor to be constructed in the Angkor area, marked the move of the capital of the Khmer empire from Roluos to Angkor in the late 9th Century AD. It served as Yasovarman I's state temple, the center of his new capital city, Yasodharapura. The foundation of Bakheng is carved from the existing rock edifice rather than the late-rite and earth of most other temples. Bakheng's hilltop location makesit the most popular sunset location in the area, offering a view of the Tonle Sap lake and distant Angkor Wat in the jungle which is often overcrowded at sunset. Elephant rides up the hill are available.