Neak Pean

ប្រាសាទនាគព័ន្ធ

An island shrine in the old Jayatataka reservoir. Two nagas circle the platform, and a horse stands for the bodhisattva who saves sailors.

Quick facts

Pass Type: Angkor Pass ($37-$72)
Entry Fee USD: Included
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Commissioning King: Jayavarman VII
Century Built: Late 12th Century
Religion & Primary Deity: Buddhist · Lokeshvara
Circuit: Grand Circuit
Distance from Siem Reap: 13 km
Best Time to Visit: The rainy season, or just after, when the four ponds still hold water

Nicknames and famous highlights

The Entwined NagasCentral island sanctuaryEntwined naga bodiesHorse BalahaFour surrounding ponds

History and architecture

Neak Pean was built by Jayavarman VII as a representation of Lake Anavatapta, the mythical Himalayan lake whose water could heal. The small central sanctuary sits on an island in a square pond, once surrounded by four more ponds inside the great Jayatataka baray, which is dry for much of the year. The name means the entwined nagas. On the north side a sculpture of the horse Balaha, a form of Avalokiteshvara, recalls the story of the bodhisattva carrying shipwrecked merchants to shore. Come when there is water if you can.

How to get to Neak Pean

No origin routes are published yet. See every temple in Siem Reap.

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to visit Neak Pean?

Neak Pean is covered by Angkor Pass ($37-$72) and has no extra per-temple fee in this directory.

What are the opening hours of Neak Pean?

Neak Pean is listed as open 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM. Best time to visit: The rainy season, or just after, when the four ponds still hold water.

Who built Neak Pean?

Commissioned under Jayavarman VII, Late 12th Century, Late 12th century, dedicated to Lokeshvara. The religion recorded here is Buddhist.

What is Neak Pean known for?

Also called The Entwined Nagas. Known for Central island sanctuary, Entwined naga bodies, Horse Balaha, Four surrounding ponds

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