What is special about Ta Som's eastern gopura?

The eastern entrance pavilion has been dramatically engulfed by a massive strangler fig tree, whose roots cascade over the ancient stones. This creates one of Angkor's most photographed scenes of nature reclaiming architecture.

Is Ta Som similar to Ta Prohm?

Yes, both temples feature trees growing over ancient stones, but Ta Som is much smaller and less visited. While Ta Prohm is famous from Tomb Raider, Ta Som offers a similar aesthetic with more peaceful atmosphere and better photography conditions.

Ta Som - Travel Guide

Ta Som is a captivating late 12th-century Buddhist temple built by King Jayavarman VII, located at the eastern end of the Angkor complex near the East Baray reservoir. This compact but beautifully designed temple features the characteristic face towers depicting Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, similar to those at Bayon. The temple's most photographed feature is its eastern gopura (entrance pavilion), which has been spectacularly engulfed by a massive strangler fig tree, creating one of Angkor's most iconic images of nature reclaiming ancient architecture. The roots cascade dramatically over the stone gateway, framing it in a natural embrace that has become synonymous with the romantic decay of the Khmer ruins. The inner sanctuary houses a Buddhist shrine and retains some delicate devata carvings. Ta Som was likely dedicated to Jayavarman VII's father and served as part of the extended temple network radiating from Preah Khan. The temple sees significantly fewer visitors than nearby sites, offering photographers and history enthusiasts a more intimate experience with exceptional morning light.