Neam Rup

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Neam Rup, also called Prasat Bangrou, is a ruin of a single Prasat, located 5 km north to the West Baray. The central shrine was surrounded by two moats. The outer one was a square of 550 m. Surprisingly it was not aligned to the cardinal directions. The former Prasat is located right in the centre.

Though in ruins, Neam Rup has some nice carvings at the outer walls, Devatas and floral ornaments.

Neam Rup, surrounded by farmland, now houses a Buddhist monastery. You have to remove your cap when entering the compound. The modern ceremonial hall is decorated with colourful murals, as usual inside Cambodian modern sanctuaries. The contrast between the ancient Prasat in ruins and the new Vihara is not unique in Cambodia, many remnants of medieval temples are integrated into new pagoda complexes. However, this side by side of old and new is a rare sight in the Angkor area.

The afternoon is a little bit better for a visit. But not much depends on the time of the day here. All structures in the area to the west of Angkor Thom are accessible without any ticket.