If you plan a trip to Cambodia, add this place to your itinerary. Nestled on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia lies a stunning historical tourist attraction Tonle Bati.Explore the popular weekend destinations for the locals, as Tonle Bati Cambodia offers a serene environment, and ancient temples to explore which will give you a deep understanding of Cambodia’s cultural tapestry. Besides that, you will come across various street food stalls that will let you savour Cambodian food. From a tranquil environment to discovering cultural gems in Phnom Penh, this place is a must-visit on your next trip to Cambodia.
Tonle Bati History
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Tonle Bati Temple, also recognized as Ta Prohm Temple, was constructed by the renowned King Jayavarman VII. Situated in Phnom Penh, this ancient temple dates back to the year 1200, offering a glimpse into the architectural marvels of the Khmer Empire, still remarkably preserved today. Much like its counterpart, Ta Prohm Temple in Angkor, Tonle Bati’s Ta Prohm was originally dedicated to Hindu Gods. Adjacent to Ta Prohm lies another temple called Prasat Yeay Pow, located to the north. Yeay Pow Temple served as a retreat for royal families during holidays.
Must Read: Phnom Penh Museums
Tonle Bati Temple
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Tonle Bati boasts two distinct temples: Ta Prohm and Yeay Pov, each showcasing the architectural prowess of the Khmer civilization. Ta Prohm, resembling a smaller version of its counterpart in Angkor, sits peacefully amidst lush green forests, constructed from bricks and laterite. Inside, intricate carvings of Hindu deities adorn its walls, offering a glimpse into ancient craftsmanship. Nearby, Yeay Pov, a Buddhist-Hindu temple built from sandstone, complements Ta Prohm’s historical richness. Together, these temples in Tonle Bati epitomise the architectural significance of the Khmer Empire.
- Tonle Bati Temple Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Tonle Bati Temple Entry Fee: USD 2 per person (includes both Ta Prohm and Yeay Peau temples)
Tonle Bati Lake
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Tonle Bati Lake is a serene retreat offering scenic beauty and cultural explorations. Replete with lush greenery, this lake welcomes visitors to enjoy boat rides and fishing. Tonle Bati Lake is a popular picnic spot among locals and tourists alike, providing a tranquil setting for enjoying traditional Cambodian cuisine. Whether you like to take a dip in the refreshing waters of the lake or simply wish to relax by the shore, Tonle Bati Lake provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Phnom Penh.
- Tonle Bati Lake Timings: Early morning until early evening
- Tonle Bati Lake Entry Fee: USD 2 per person (includes both Ta Prohm and Yeay Peau temples)
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Things To Do
Besides the tranquil Tonle Bati, Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital has other fabulous tourist attractions. Add these places to your itinerary to enjoy a memorable trip to Cambodia.
1. Exploring The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
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Located in Phnom Penh, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum was once a Prison. The place is now a memorial site to show tribute to the S-21 victims. The Museum has a chilling history to it; the site was an interrogation and detention centre of the Khmer Rouge regime. Once you start exploring the museum, you will come across some of the most disturbing photographs and stories of the victims. There are some temporary exhibitions on various floors, such as the clothes of S-21 victims preserved on the second floor of Building B. Visiting the Museum will give you a deep understanding of Cambodia’s history.
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2. Visiting The Royal Palace Of Cambodia
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An architectural gem in the heart of Cambodia’s Capital. The Royal Palace of Cambodia is popular among tourists for its stunning architecture. The Royal Palace serves as a residence for King Shamoni, and some parts of the museums are not allowed for tourists. Visitors are only allowed to explore Thorne Hall, which is the main attraction of the palace. The Thorne Hall is now used for the ceremonies organised for the diplomats. Besides Thorne Hall, the Royal Palace of Cambodia has other tourist attractions, such as the Silver Pagoda, which is known for its splendid architecture. A visit to the Royal Palace of Cambodia is worthwhile.
3. Discovering Wat Phnom Daun Penh
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Founded in 1372, the Pagoda was named after a wealthy lady “Penh”. Situated on top of an artificial hill, the Pagoda was built to preserve the statues of Buddha and Vishnu. Visitors from around the world visit the Pagoda to appreciate the architecture. The temple’s stairs are guarded by naga, a mythical snake in Buddhism and Hinduism. The Temple offers a tranquil environment as the walls are carved with paintings depicting the Buddha’s life. You can also witness the murals, which show a Khmer remake of Ramayana. Overall, Wat Phnom Daun Penh is a must-see attraction in Phnom Penh.
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4. Touring The National Museum Of Cambodia
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Located in Phnom Penh, the National Museum of Cambodia is regarded as the largest museum to preserve the Khmer and its artefacts. The Museum boasts a 15,000 collection that will give you a glimpse of different periods of Khmer civilization. The collection includes stone sculptures, bronze, wooden crafts, paintings, arts, etc. The Museum offers a glimpse to witness the transition from Indian architecture to Khmer architecture. Besides the sculptures and artefacts, the most popular is the Hindu God Vishnu reclining statue, which was retrieved from the Angkor Archaeological Park. The museum also offers an audio guide in Khmer, English, French, and Japanese language.
5. Experiencing The Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center
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Located 30 kilometres south of Phnom Penh, the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center is a must-visit for all wildlife lovers. It is a sanctuary for many animals, such as elephants, gibbons, bears, tigers, lions, gigantic pythons, and deer. The Wildlife Rescue Center was established in 1995, covering an area of 6000 acres. The Wildlife Rescue Center is a perfect place for wildlife enthusiasts. The most thrilling activity is that you can get a chance to get close to and interact with the wild animals. The Wildlife Center is a popular tourist destination in Cambodia and over 2 million tourists visit Phnom Tamao.
Further Read: Things To Do In Phnom Penh
Tonle Bati is a must-visit tourist attraction in Cambodia, whether you are planning to explore the two historic temples in Tonle Bati or enjoy the sunset by the Tonle Bati Lake. The Tonle Bati Lake offers a tranquil environment with a blend of ancient monuments. Book your trip to Cambodia now and visit Tonle Bati Cambodia and its nearby attractions for the best trip of your life.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Tonle Bati
How do you reach Tonle Bati from Phnom Penh?
Tonle Bati enjoys a convenient location making it quickly accessible by car, tuk-tuk, or motorcycle. The temple is about 1 to 1.5 hours drive from Phnom Penh.
What is the ideal time to visit Tonle Bati?
The dry season, from November to March, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities, is the best time to visit Tonle Bati.
Are there any restaurants available at Tonle Bati?
You can find a couple of local restaurants and vendors selling food near Tonle Bati.
What should I carry when visiting Tonle Bati?
It's advised to carry water, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and a camera for capturing the beautiful scenery.
What to do at the Tonle Bati Temple?
Visitors can go sightseeing, and offer prayer in the temple. History buffs can learn about the temple's history.
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