Ancient Lion Sculpture Unearthed at Preah Vihear Temple
A striking piece of Cambodia’s ancient past has just been brought to light. During recent excavation work at Gopura 4 of the Preah Vihear Temple, experts from the National Authority of Preah Vihear and the temple’s Heritage Police Unit uncovered a sculpture of a lion believed to have been buried for centuries.
Found on the elevated sandstone terrace of one of Cambodia’s most iconic temples, the lion will now undergo cleaning and preservation. It will also be researched before being returned to its original position at Gopura 4.
This discovery adds another remarkable layer to the legacy of Preah Vihear Temple, which has stood at the top of Cambodia’s northern mountains for generations.
History in Stone
Built during the Angkorian era, Preah Vihear Temple is a spiritual and architectural marvel. Gopura 4, where the lion sculpture was found, is set on a cruciform sandstone terrace with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. These include Krishna slaying the Naga Kaliya and Vishnu reclining on Naga Ananta, symbolizing creation, cosmic balance, and divine protection.
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A 150-meter causeway links Gopura 3 and Gopura 4. Flanked by lotus-shaped stone posts and lined with ancient earthen walls, it offers a peaceful walkway for pilgrims and visitors alike.
How to Visit
Preah Vihear Temple is located in Choam Ksan district in Preah Vihear province, close to Cambodia’s northern border with Thailand. While it takes time to reach, the journey rewards visitors with sweeping views, sacred history, and a real sense of awe.
🛣️ Getting there:
- From Phnom Penh: Travel north via Kampong Thom or Siem Reap, then continue to Preah Vihear town.
- From Siem Reap: It’s a 3 to 4-hour drive. Private taxis or local tour operators can help you reach the site.
- A 4WD vehicle is recommended for the final stretch to the mountaintop.
🎫 Entry: Free for Cambodian nationals. Foreign visitors pay a modest fee.
📅 When to go: The dry season (November to February) offers cooler weather and clearer skies. Visiting at sunrise or sunset gives the best views.
More to Explore in Preah Vihear
While the temple is the main attraction, Preah Vihear province has more to offer. Travelers can explore nearby ancient ruins, enjoy eco-tourism experiences, and get a taste of rural Cambodia at its most peaceful.
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👉 Looking for ideas? Check out our Preah Vihear Province Guide for everything you need to plan a memorable trip.
The rediscovery of the lion sculpture is a reminder of how much Cambodia’s ancient sites still have to reveal. Whether you’re passionate about heritage or simply looking for something different, a trip to Preah Vihear offers a powerful connection to history, culture, and the beauty of the highlands.
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Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
