Ta Prohm: The Enigmatic Temple Enveloped by the Majestic Roots of Time

Ta Prohm Temple, within the Angkor monumental complex in Cambodia, is a historical and natural wonderland of a site. In contrast to temples like Angkor Wat that have been well restored, Ta Prohm presents a stark contrast: it remains almost in a wild state, where jungle incursions into the ancient construction create a unique symbiosis between stone and tree, found nowhere else in the world. The article will trace the history, unique architecture, and cultural significance interwoven in this outstanding temple.

Written by Huan NGUYENUpdated on 14-02-2025

Comments

Table of contents

Ta Prohm Temple: Memory of an Empire
A Timeless Spectacle of Nature
The Structure and Symbolism of Ta Prohm's Architecture
Ta Prohm Today: Balancing Preservation and Challenges
Ta Prohm Temple Entry Rates and Visiting Hours
Tips for a successful visit
Other Temples to Explore in the Angkor Complex

Ta Prohm Temple: Memory of an Empire

Origin of "Ta Prohm"

One of the best-preserved and most famous temples of the Khmer Empire, Ta Prohm, or "Ancestor Brahma" (referring to Brahma, the creator God of Hindus), was built in the reign of King Jayavarman VII in the early 13th century. The temple served as both a royal monastery and a university meant for the king's mother, who personified wisdom. The temple is dedicated to the spiritual and cultural grandeur of the empire at its height.

*Ta Prohm is known for its spectacular integration with the jungle, where gigantic tree roots*

The Abandonment and Rediscovery

Ta Prohm Temple underwent many historical upheavals throughout the centuries. Invasions by the Burmese and Thais caused much destruction at the site and the looting of many of its treasures toward the end of the thirteenth century. As was the case with many Angkor temples, Ta Prohm was abandoned in the fifteenth century with the decline of the Khmer Empire. The Cambodian jungle covered the site for centuries, taking it into oblivion until it was rediscovered by French archaeologists at the beginning of the twentieth century.

While the main temple is in ruins today, the places where diamonds were once embedded can still be found. The cult statues have mostly vanished, leaving only a few lingas and yonis. Unlike other restored temples, Ta Prohm has been left purposely in a semi-natural state, where tourists can vividly picture the delicate interplay between nature and human creations, with giant trees and their roots engulfing the remains of the temple.

A Timeless Spectacle of Nature

The Centuries-Old Trees and Their Imposing Roots

What distinguishes Ta Prohm is the presence of massive banyan and kapok trees standing magnificently in the center of the ruins. Their massive roots intermingle with the stone walls, go up onto the rooftops, and disappear deep into the ground, as if the jungle itself had engulfed the temple. These trees, more than 600 years old, add an atmosphere of mystery and timelessness to the site.

Ta Prohm gained international fame with the film Tomb Raider (2001), starring Angelina Jolie, which led to the common name 'Temple of Tomb Raider'.

The Trees of Ta Prohm: Who Planted Them?

The towering trees of Ta Prohm did not fall under the influence of mankind. They were spontaneous growths, their seeds delivered by birds that had perched upon the trees and eaten the fruits; they were carried from the neighboring jungles. Falling onto the temple roofs and walls, the seeds germinated into trees whose roots entwine the stones, sometimes plunging horizontally or vertically for tens of meters, conjuring up a spectacular sight where nature appears to mingle with history. Ta Prohm thus becomes a unique symbol of the equilibrium between human endeavor and the force of nature.

*The giant roots of the trees invade the temple, creating an impressive spectacle*

The roots of Ta Prohm protrude from the trees in golden, brown, and green shades. Some roots plunge down from the sky, linking with the roofs; others coil around the stone blocks. These trees did not get planted but sprang from the walls and roofs of the temple, seeds brought by birds. The roots plunge down to wrap themselves around the cold stone, while the outer trees extend their roots for tens of meters, weaving a network that resonates with nature amidst historical remains.

*An interaction between nature and architecture*

The Structure and Symbolism of Ta Prohm's Architecture

Constructed to epitomize Khmer architecture, Ta Prohm is a rectangular temple shaped with five enclosures surrounding a central shrine. It covers an area of 650,000 square meters, which was extensively developed into a pulsing city and is now covered in dense forests.

Though the temple of Ta Prohm is like other Khmer temples in facing east, it is unique because of its interconnected causeways, galleries, shrines, libraries, narrow corridors, and shaded courtyards. Ta Prohm is particularly famous for its Bayon architecture and intricate carving reliefs.

The sculptures, set in the ancient Khmer style of deities, flowers, and scenes of everyday life, give an artistic touch to the site. A few present rather astounding motifs, such as an image seemingly showing a stegosaurus, giving rise to debates as to whether the ancient Khmers were aware of paleontology.

Built of sandstone from the Kulen Mountains, lying some 50 kilometers away, Ta Prohm fascinates with its richness in sculpture and relief. The temple functioned as a monastery and school, accommodating more than 12,000 people, thus standing as a testimony to the great glory of the Angkor Empire.

Ta Prohm Today: Balancing Preservation and Challenges

Ta Prohm has been in the limelight since it contains ruins constricted by giant tree roots. These ruins are under constant threat as the ancient buildings fall prey to the challenge of maintaining the delicate balance of nature. The heavy roots of the trees apply a lot of pressure on the stonework of the temple, jeopardizing its very existence. The level of humidity and climatic conditions further catalyze the erosion of the site.

In order to support this unique heritage, metal supports were added to prop up the temple's key sections against a possible collapse. In this way, Ta Prohm stands picturesque and proud, yet untamed. Nature bears down upon the spirit of the site, thus becoming an essential part of its attraction, conjuring a mystique with architectural and jungle ambience.

Ta Prohm Temple Entry Rates and Visiting Hours

Exemptions:

Children under 12 years of age with a passport
Cambodian citizens
K visa holders (for people born in Cambodia or with a Cambodian parent)

Ticket prices:

1-day pass: US$37
3-Day Pass: $62 USD
7-Day Pass: $72 USD

Pass Validity:

3-day pass: valid for 10 days from the date of issue
7-day pass: valid for 1 month from the date of issue

Visiting hours in Angkor National Park are from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, but Ta Prohm Temple is open from 5:00 AM to 5:30 PM, so you can enjoy the sunrise and sunset views.

*The mystical beauty of Ta Prohm Temple*

Tips for a successful visit

Transport

The temple lies about 12 kilometers from Siem Reap's city center and is reachable by tuk-tuk or bicycle. Rent a bicycle to explore the temple complex with ease, including the towering Ta Prohm.

Clothing

Wear light but decent clothing, as temples are sacred sites where respect is important. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, which is the minimum respect the local culture should receive.

Mosquito Repellent

The heavy presence of jungles, trees, humidity, mosquitoes, and other insects is something to consider. Do not forget to include mosquito repellent in your preparations, as this will not only keep the little buggers off you but also enhance the enjoyment of your visit.

Water

It can be hot and very humid while temple hopping in Cambodia. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Perfect Times

To have the best experience, visit the temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon. At these times, the light is quite lovely for pictures and also helps avoid the crowds.

*Ruins and desolation, but imbued with a mysterious beauty*

Other Temples to Explore in the Angkor Complex

The Angkor complex is full of fascinating temples, each with its own history and unique architectural style. Below is a short list of must-see temples:

Angkor Wat

The largest religious monument in the world, steeped in history, is famous for its exquisite horizontal bas-reliefs and well-known lotus-shaped towers. Find out more about: Angkor Wat Temple.

Angkor Thom

The last great capital of the Khmer Empire was encircled by massive walls and a moat and was accessed through monumental gates embellished with imposing sculptures.

The Bayon

In the middle of Angkor Thom, this temple is famous for having 54 towers, each with serene and enigmatic faces adorning them. The bas-reliefs of the Bayon illustrate scenes of everyday life and historical battles. More on the Bayon Temple of Angkor: the mysteries of the temple with enigmatic faces.

Our last words

With Ta Prohm, the ancient temple stands for much more than an ancient building; it is a perfect blend of nature and architecture, each root and stone bearing testimony to the tales of endurance and spirituality. This wild beauty and mystical ambience set Ta Prohm apart as one of the rare destinations for the traveler seeking a cultural and historical experience. A visit to Ta Prohm temple unlocks not only an iconic Cambodian destination but also living evidence of Khmer ingenuity, witness to the force of nature.