Wat Banan Temple

A solitary environment and scenic view make the hike up Wat Banan totally worth it.

Located on top of a hill with about 400 steep steps, Wat Banan is a temple ruin that features mid 11th to 12th-century architecture in Battambang. Although it is not as famous nor majestic as Angkor Wat, the ruins of Wat Banan is still impressive and is said to be a prototype of Angkor Wat. The Magic Cave can also be found nearby, where legend has it that if a golden drop from the cave falls on your head, you will be blessed with the knowledge of the past, present, and future.

Location

Wat Banan is at Kon Tey 2 commune, Ba Nan District, about 22 kilometres from Battambang town.

Opening Days and Hours

Wat Banan opens daily from 07:00 to 19:00 7.00. However, it is advisable to allot sufficient time for ascending and descending the flight of stairs before it gets dark.

Entry Fee and Bookings

Entrance to Wat Banan costs USD 2 per person.

How to Get There

The most convenient way to get to Wat Banan is via a tuk-tuk or motoride from Battambang city.

Suggested For

The attraction is best suited for people who are physically fit as you will need to hike up many steps. Most visitors to Wat Banan are small groups of friends, young couples, and backpackers.

Time to Spend

Most people spend about 2 to 3 hours exploring the site.

Popularity and Best Time to Go

Wat Banan is not very well-known to international tourists, hence, it is never very crowded. The best time to visit is early in the morning before the temperature gets unbearably hot in the afternoon.

Food

Food options are limited here, as there are only two or three stalls selling refreshments nearby.

Nearby Attractions

You may want to visit Prassat Banan Vineyard for some wine tasting (10 minutes away via tuk-tuk) or Phnom Sampeau which is about a 15-minute tuk-tuk ride away.

Stay

Battambang offers a wide choice of accommodation options, including budget guesthouses.

Good to Know

Bring ample water and insect repellant. Some visitors also bring along isotonic drinks and energy bars to help replenish their energy while going up the stairs.