Neang Khmao Temple: A Guide to the Mysterious 'Black Lady' of Takeo
Takeo Province, Cambodia
(Approx. 52km south of Phnom Penh)
10th Century
(Reign of Jayavarman IV)
Koh Ker Style
Brick & Sandstone
Free
Along National Road 2 in Takeo Province stands a striking and mysterious ruin: Prasat Neang Khmao, the Temple of the Black Lady. With its dark, weathered towers and a fascinating legend to match, this 10th-century temple offers a unique stop for travelers exploring south of Phnom Penh.
The Legend of the Black Lady
The temple gets its evocative name from a local legend about a powerful princess, the daughter of a great king. It is said she was a formidable figure who commanded immense respect and authority. Over time, as the temple's sandstone and brick darkened with age and lichen, the local people associated its imposing, dark appearance with the powerful "Black Lady" of the stories, and the name has endured for centuries.
History & Architecture
A Koh Ker Era Relic
Prasat Neang Khmao was built in the 10th century under the reign of King Jayavarman IV, placing it in the same period as the magnificent temples of the Koh Ker capital. Originally, the site consisted of three towers standing side-by-side, a common feature of the era. Today, only two of the brick towers remain standing.
The temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva and is noted for its impressive sandstone lintels and doorframes, which feature intricate carvings that have withstood the test of time remarkably well.
Plan Your Visit
A Day Trip from Phnom Penh
Important Note: Neang Khmao is located in Takeo Province and is best visited as a day trip from **Phnom Penh**, not Siem Reap. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car or motorbike.
The temple is conveniently located right beside National Road 2, making it a very easy stop if you are exploring the region. While the site itself is small and can be explored in under an hour, it serves as a fantastic introduction to the ancient history of Takeo province.
