Ek Phnom Temple

Ek Phnom Temple is an 11th-century Angkorian ruin located 11 kilometers north of Battambang city on the west bank of the Sangker River, built during the reign of King Suryavarman I and dedicated to both Brahma and Buddhist deities. The central sandstone sanctuary tower has partially collapsed but several walls and carved lintels remain standing amid the ruins, with a striking broken pediment displaying a scene from the Churning of the Ocean of Milk preserved in good detail. A large modern Cambodian pagoda built directly adjacent to the ancient ruins is an active religious site, creating an interesting juxtaposition of 11th-century Khmer stonework and contemporary Buddhist architecture. The riverside setting surrounded by rice fields and the contrast between ancient and modern make Ek Phnom a rewarding stop on any Battambang excursion.