Ta Som Temple (Prasat Ta Som)
Angkor Thom, Angkor, Siem Reap
Known for its photogenic gateway (gopura) choked by the roots of a strangling fig tree, Ta Som is one of Angkor’s smaller temples. Jayavarman VII built the complex in the late 12th century, and it’s particularly scenic because it’s still overgrown. The inner sanctuary includes towers with faces like those at the more famous Bayon.
Entrance to Ta Som is included in the Angkor Archaeological Park ticket, available as a 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day pass. It’s smaller and less impressive than Ta Prohm—the “Tomb Raider Temple”—but some travelers choose to visit Ta Som to capture their strangling-tree photographs as there’s rarely a line and it’s much less crowded. Ta Som is a common stop on what’s variously known as the Big Circuit or Grand Circuit, an expanded loop around the main Angkor sites.
Ta Som will be of interest to photographers, Instagrammers, and history buffs.
Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll need to walk all the way to the end to photograph the strangling tree.
Uneven surfaces and the occasional step make Ta Som a challenging destination for travelers who use wheelchairs.
Ta Som is located within the Angkor Archaeological Park, northeast of Angkor Wat, and about 11 miles (18 kilometers) from downtown Siem Reap. It’s about a 7-mile (12-kilometer) drive from Angkor Wat proper, beside the reservoir that houses the Neak Pean temple.
Ta Som is open from early morning to late afternoon seven days a week. While it is quieter than Ta Prohm, visit early or late in the day to maximize photography time. Peak season for Angkor Wat in general is during the Cambodian dry season, December through April.
If you have more than a day to devote to the Angkor Wat temples, consider doing Angkor’s Grand Circuit. Besides Ta Som, the circuit takes in Neak Pean, a little island temple; Preah Khan, an atmospheric overgrown complex; and East Mebon, once an island temple. Finish at Pre Rup, a mountain temple and a great spot to watch the sunset.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!