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East Mebon, Siem Reap is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Siem Reap. East Mebon, Siem Reap is a 10th Century temple and is situated in Angkor in Cambodia. This temple was built during the reign of King Rajendravarman and it stands on what was an artificial island at the center of the now dry East Baray reservoir. A visit to this temple is must otherwise you may miss something vital out of your trip.

The central tower of the East Mebon was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and honors the parents of the king. The location of the temple reflects Khmer architects’ concern with orientation and cardinal directions. It was built on a north-south axis with Rajendravarman’s state temple, Pre Rup, located about 1,200 meters to the south just outside the baray. The temple also lies on an east-west axis with the palace temple Phimeanakas. Another creation of Rajendravarman’s reign, located about 6,800 meters due west.

This temple was built in the Pre Rup style and was dedicated in 953 AD. The temple has two enclosing walls and three tiers. It includes the full array of durable Khmer construction materials which includes sandstone, brick, laterite and stucco. At the top of the temple is a central tower, surrounded by four smaller towers at the platform’s corners. The towers are made of brick holes.

The sculpture at the East Mebon is exceptional and varied. It includes a two-meter-high free-standing stone elephants at corners of the first and second tiers. It also includes a statue of god Indra atop his three-headed elephant Airavata, and Shiva on his mount, the sacred bull Nandi. The carvings on lintels are particularly elegant. There are four landing stages at the base of the temple tha remind of the fact that in earlier times boats where used in order to reach the temple.

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