Mangalartha (Monument 487, Prasat Top)

Mangalartha (27 February, 2006)


Mangalartha (GPS: 13.44389, 103.86787), also called Prasat Top (East) and Monument 487, is one of the least significant ruin in Angkor. It was built in the late 13th century by King Jayavarman VIII. Mangalartha is unlikely to be of any interest to visitors, hence if you choose to visit it (along with all the more famous Angkor sites), you can count yourself to be as a hardcore Angkor enthusiast. It is the last known monument from the Angkor period, and was built by a Brahmin called Jayamangalartha, who was son of one of the gurus to Jayavarman VII.

360° View of Mangalartha on Google Maps Street View

Mangalartha is in the centre of the Map of Angkor

Mangalartha is located within Angkor Thom. I had some difficulty in located it, but was determined not to have any ruin "get away". On the road between the Royal Palace and the Victory Gate, stop about 300 m before the gate. Look for a jungle path on the right side of the road. Unlike you visit during the dry months, the ruin is likely to be overgrown with vegetation.

Broken pediments and pieces of the temple lie scattered on the ground. Look for the carvings of a reclining Vishnu, as well as the Three Steps of Vishnu, where the deity is shown to step over the ocean.

Mangalartha (27 February, 2006)

How to reach Mangalartha

Mangalartha is not easy to find. Follow the directions I have provided in the above paragraph. Your tuk tuk driver is unlikely to have gone there. Anyway insist on looking for the jungle path about 300 m west of the Victory Gate.

Tim at the ancient Angkor ruins of Mangalartha (27 February, 2006)

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