Takeo province of Cambodia

 Takeo province bordering Vietnam to the south, is blessed with natural beauty and many historical sites. Takeo is often recognized as “the cradle of the Cambodian civilization,” and contains several significant pre-Angkorian sites.
   
While heading towards Takeo, make a trip to Phnom Chisor to visit a well-preserved 11th century temple from the Angkor era. The temple is built on the crest of the hill and surrounded by panoramic views of the countryside. The climb up-- 503 steps-- to the top may be vigorous, but the stunning view of the countryside at the end makes it truly worthwhile. This ancient temple is now an active one where Buddhists make pilgrimages on religious occasions. There are monks’ quarters and a school. Fine carvings of Hindu deities can still be seen on the towers and at the libraries, and unique carvings decorate the door of the main temple.
 
For families, a visit to the Phnom Ta Mao wild life rescue centre is an enriching trip. The centre was set up to preserve rescued rare and endangered local wildlife. Eighty hectares of the area serves as a zoo for visitors.

Takeo is widely believed to be the birthplace of Khmer civilisation

Sandwiched between Kandal, Kampot and Kampong Speu province, with Vietnam flanking it to the south-east, it is often overlooked by foreign tourists. But Takeo is dotted with important temples, ruins, scenic spots and picnic areas. It is a popular visiting place for Khmers, especially Phnom Penh residents on day or weekend trips.

 

Tonlé Bati Resort

The Tonlé Bati is a small lake located along the National Road 2, about 35 km south of Phnom Penh. It is a popular weekend destination for the local population. Innovative bamboo shelters line the side of the lake, providing resort style comfort. This is also a popular fishing spot for tourists and the local people.

 


Angkor Borei and Ta Keo museum
 
There're two museums have been established in Takeo province, one located at Angkor Borei district nearby the Phnom Da temple and the other is in the central part of Takeo town. This provincial museum is one of the most interesting design and layout which adopted to the most artistic style to Phnom Da architectural arts.

Phnom Kleng Mountain

Wat Phnom Kleng is one of the monasteries since 18th century, and built in the 1950s by a famous local monk. Thanks to the generous support from the people, the monastery has become a popular place in Takeo province. On the weekends, locals and non locals go there to pray for lucky and happiness.

Ta Mok House

At the center fresh water lake of Takeo town, sits a house that was built by Ta Mok. The house was built in the 1977 to be used for his private residency during the Pol Pot regime between 1975-79. The house sits on top of a hill with 360 degree scenic view. From the main dirt road, one can walk to the Ta Mok's house by crossing the concrete bridge across the meters long.

Ta Nhean temple

Some 3 km away from the Bayong Koa temple is Ta Nhean (which means 'grandfather Nhean' in Khmer language) temples group were erected in the early 7th century by King Bhavarman I in homage to the Hindu god Shiva.

Phnom Bayong Koa Temple

Some 40 km away from the central city of Takeo province, are two groups of ruins dating back to the Pre-Angkorian period. At these sites, there is the bigger group, belonging to the Bayong Koa and a smaller at the Ta Nhean temple.

Phnom Da and Phnom Borei

This site is believed to be the cradle of Khmer civilization. The Funanese built these temples at a time when they controlled modern-day southern Vietnam and Cambodia. Built from bricks, sandstone and lateritic since 4-6th century, Phnom Da is situated on a 50 meters hill, with stairs at its north eastern corner.

Visiting a silk and Kroma manufacturing village

Cambodian farmers make traditional silk all throughout the kingdom but for day tripping, it may convenient to visit several interesting places such as Pea-ream and Thnoat communes in Bati district, and Tang Yab and Say-va commune in the Samrong district of Takeo province.

Neang Khmao

A brick and sandstone temple in poor condition about 10 km from Ta Mao Zoo further along National Route 2. Built in the nine century and located in Rovieng Commune, Samrong district, this is the temple mentioned in the legend of Takeo's naming. About 58 km Phnom Penh.

Phnom Chiso

High on a mountain, this beautiful temple with spectacular views lies at the end of a 412 step walk from the southern side, and on its eastern side for a drive to the top. Also located in Rovieng Commune, Samrong District, two kilometres past Neang Khmao Temple then turn down left, the oldest sections of the atmospheric ruins date back to the early 11th century. Built by Suryavarman I (of Angkor Wat fame), the temple is a small but impressive lateritic and sandstone structure.

Ta Mao Zoo (Phnom Ta Mao)

About 10 kilometres further down the same road No 2 from Ta Prom temple, Ta Mao Zoo enjoys a picturesque location. The involvement of several wildlife NGOs has helped ensure that most of the zoo is of a fairly humane standard, although work to improve the conditions is ongoing. There are several out standing enclosures, one of which houses the tigers, bears and elephants etc. A good place to experience Cambodia's wildlife at chose quarters. Small entry fee.

Ta Prohm Temple and Tonle Bati

Ta Prohm temple is a small but impressive lateritic and sandstone structure. About 300 meters away is the second, smaller temple, Yey Peo. Further down the road are picnic huts on stills in the shallows of Tonle Bati lake. These huts can be rented and meals of chicken, frog and other delicacies brought to you. Check prices first. Like most popular tourist spots, it maybe a little more expensive than Phnom Penh.