Prasat Preah Pithu is a group of five temples, T, U, V, Y and X, inside Angkor Thom in Siem Reap. They were built at different times and were not originally planned as one complex. Their ruined condition leaves the carvings easy to study up close: look for temple U’s Trimurti lintel, temple Y’s mythological half-pediments and the sculpted Buddhas at temple X. The quieter setting also makes this a useful pause between Angkor’s better-known sites. Protection and repair work can affect access, so check which areas are open when you arrive.
Five temples built at different times
Prasat Preah Pithu is the name given to five temples, identified as T, U, V, Y and X, within Angkor Thom. They were not designed as a single group and were completed at different times. The buildings are now in poor condition, but carved stonework remains across the site.
The temples differ in size, layout and decoration. Temple T has a sandstone enclosure with entrances on its main east-west axis. Temple U is smaller and simpler, while temple V has no enclosing wall. These differences are part of what makes it worth looking beyond the group name and taking each structure in turn.
Carved scenes at temples T and U
Temple T has two gopuras, or entrance towers, along its east-west axis. Its sanctuary stands on a raised, three-level platform. The walls carry devatas and floral decoration in the Bayon style. A fallen lintel from the western doorway depicts the Churning of the Sea of Milk.
Temple U shares some features with T but has a smaller enclosure and no gopura. Its western doorway lintel shows the Trimurti: Shiva dancing on a kala head, with Vishnu and Brahma beside him. Another carving of the Churning of the Sea of Milk appears on the northern lintel. These details reward a slow look at the doorways and nearby fallen stonework.
Temples V, Y and X
Temple V stands north of temple U, beyond a former moat. It faces east and has a double vestibule; a causeway on its western side leads to a long cruciform terrace. Its sanctuary contains a large linga. The remaining temples add further variety: temple Y is known for half-pediments with mythological scenes, while temple X is Buddhist and has sculpted Buddhas on its walls.
Protection and repair work has taken place around the group, and access has not always been available at every temple. Fencing or work areas can restrict entry, so treat barriers as a sign to stay out and focus on the parts open to visitors.
Perguntas frequentes
How many temples are in the Prasat Preah Pithu group?
There are five, identified as temples T, U, V, Y and X. They were built at different times and were not originally designed as one group.
What carvings can you see at Prasat Preah Pithu?
Details include the Trimurti on temple U’s western lintel, a Churning of the Sea of Milk scene, mythological half-pediments at temple Y and sculpted Buddhas at temple X.
How long do you need at Prasat Preah Pithu?
About 30 minutes is enough for a short visit. Allow longer if you want to examine the carvings at each accessible temple.
Can you enter all five temples?
Access can be affected by protection and repair work, and areas have been fenced off at times. Check which parts are open when you visit.
