Phnom Banan is a beautiful Angkorian ruin which is located at the top of a mountain set behind the road deep within the countryside overlooking several rural villages, 10km outside of Battambang.
Once at the site a stairwell leads to the top where you are greeted with the first of a quincunx of towers which comprise the site, standing proud overlooking the surrounding countryside. This and the remaining towers are in excellent condition on the whole and naga and apsara carvings, mainly on the lintels, remain in good condition also. Building blocks which have fallen, and trees which have laid claim to and grow within the site all add to the atmosphere. The views from the summit are magnificent.
How much does a trip cost?
A US$2 ticket is needed to access the 3 sites of Phnom Banan, Phnom Sampeau and Wat Ek Phnom and is sold in any of these sites.