Tep Pranam Temple, Angkor

Tep Pranam (25 February, 2006)


Tep Pranam (GPS: 13.44825, 103.85764) is not a temple, but rather, a huge seated Buddha in Angkor Thom. It was built in the late Angkorian period, between the 15th and 16th century, when the local belief has shifted from Mahayana to Theravada Buddhism. The name Tep Pranam means "the adoring god". It is located on the west side of the road that runs from the North Gate to the Bayon.

360° View of Tep Pranam on Google Maps Street View

Tep Pranam is in the centre of the Map of Angkor

Tep Pranam is visible about one hundred metres north of the Terrace of the Leper King. To reach it, we can walk across the 75 meter laterite causeway that leads to it. The causeway is 8 meters wide, and flanked by naga balustrades and guardian lions. I photographed Tep Pranam when I was sites in Angkor Thom. Although I have visited Angkor Thom several times, this was the first time that I hunted down Tep Pranam.

The Tep Pranam Buddha image is housed in a modern structure. The original building, built of wood, would have disappeared a long time ago. The Buddha is seated on a lotus in the bhumisparsa-mudra position, which is the "calling the earth to witness" pose.

How to reach Tep Pranam

Tep Pranam is one of the many sights within Angkor Thom, just north of the Terrace of the Leper King. All Siem Reap tuk tuk drivers would know how to get there - if you find one who doesn't, well, change tuk tuk! If you're on your own, by bicycle or motorcycle, park somewhere under the shade near the food stalls, and do your on foot.

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