Palilay Temple — Attraction in Siem Reap

Preah Palilay is located at North of Phimeanakas and enter and leave the monument from the east. Built in Middle to last half of the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. This temple dedicated to Buddhist and art style of Angkor Wat. The presence of Buddhist monks and nuns at this temple give it a feeling of an active place of worship. Lintels and pediments lying on the ground at the sides and back of the temple afford a rare opportunity to see relief at eye level. Many depict Buddhist scenes with Hindu divinities. A large seated Buddha in front of the temple of Prah Palilay is of a recent date. A terrace in the shape of a cross precedes the temple and stands as an elegant example of the 'classic 'period of Khmer art. Serpent balustrades terminating with a crest of seven heads frame the terrace. A causeway joins the terrace to the entry tower at the east set in the enclosing laterite wall, of which only parts remain. The entry tower is in the shape of a cross and has three passages and a cylindrical vault with a bouble pediment. The pediments of the pediments of the entry towers are modeled with Buddhist scenes. The lintel on the east side of the entry tower depicts a reclining Buddha and the pediment on the south side has a finely carved seated Buddha; the pediment on the north has an uncommon depiction of a standing Buddha with his hand resting on an elephant. There are remains of two guardians (decapitated) on the east and two lions on the ground between the terrace and the Central Sanctuary. Only the Central Sanctuary of Prah Palilay remains intact. The sandstone tower opens on four sides, each one of which has a porch. The tower stands on a base with three tiers and has a stairway on each side. On the upper portion there is a truncated pyramid that forms a sort of chimney, which is filled with...

Don’t miss: Buddha subduing the elephant Nalagiri 2 beautiful pediments showing Buddha calling the Earth to witness the tall trees which added charm to the site

Preah Palilay is a temple at Angkor, Cambodia. It is located in Angkor Thom, 400 m north-west of Phimeanakas. This small Buddhist sanctuary in the wooded area north of the Royal palace in Angkor Thom has a number of attractive features and is well worth the short detour. The site’s contemporary name, Preah Palilay, has the meaning Sacred Forest of Palilay whilst the original site name is unknown.

The temple has a cross-shaped terrace, 8.5 m by 30 m long, with seven-headed nāga balustrades in good conditions, on the east, guarded by two decapitated dvarapalas and a lion (of an original two). A 33 m-long causeway connects it to the single sandstone gopura.[5] Before the laterite enclosure 50 m square there is a shrine with a 3 m tall statue of Buddha, sitting on a lotus, of a later period.

The eastern gate has pediments which kept many beautiful Buddhist carvings, such as: reclining Buddha on kala’s head, Buddha subduing the elephant Nalagiri, Vessantara giving his children away, Buddha calling the earth to witness and so on.

Behind the gopura (eastern gate) is the chimney tower like sanctuary on top of a 6 meter high base. A stairway on all four sides leads to the top. A few large trees surrounded the tower have added so much charm...

Prasat Preah Palilay is a hidden gem within Angkor, Cambodia. Located in Angkor Thom, this small Buddhist sanctuary is a must-visit for its unique features. One of the key highlights is the depiction of Buddha subduing the elephant Nalagiri, a powerful and captivating sight. Additionally, the temple showcases two beautiful pediments illustrating Buddha calling the Earth to witness, showcasing the depth of Buddhist teachings. The site is further enhanced by the presence of tall trees, which add a charming and serene atmosphere. The temple's cross-shaped terrace, adorned with seven-headed nāga balustrades, is well-preserved and visually striking. A causeway connects the terrace to a sandstone gopura, creating a seamless flow throughout the site. Inside, visitors will find a shrine housing a magnificent 3-meter tall statue of Buddha, seated on a lotus. The eastern gate of the temple boasts intricate carvings, including a reclining Buddha on kala's head and Vessantara giving his children away. The chimney tower-like sanctuary behind the gopura offers a unique architectural element, with stairways leading to the top from all four sides. The presence of large trees surrounding the tower adds to the overall charm of the site. Preah Palilay is a sacred forest that offers a tranquil and spiritual experience, making it a worthwhile detour from the main...