Discover Ta Prohm, the famous Tomb Raider temple in Siem Reap.

Hidden deep in the Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap, Ta Prohm rose to global fame after appearing in the 2001 film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider starring Angelina Jolie.

Originating from the iconic action-adventure video game series that everyone was addicted to in the late 1990's "Tomb Raider", the movie, Lara Croft explores crumbling stone corridors wrapped in giant tree roots — and that breathtaking setting is real.

Ta Prohm Temple is a dramatic fusion of jungle and ancient architecture that made it one of the most photographed temples in Cambodia.

What Makes Ta Prohm Unique?

Unlike other restored temples in the Angkor complex, Ta Prohm was intentionally left partially in its natural state.

Massive silk-cotton and strangler fig trees grow directly through the ruins, with roots wrapping around doorways, towers, and walls.  These trees dubbed "The Crocodile Tree"  create a visually stunning (and slightly terrifying) embrace of nature over stone. It’s like a battle between man-made structures and the relentless power of the natural world. 

• A true “lost city” atmosphere
• Incredible photography opportunities
• A cinematic jungle adventure feel

A Brief History of Ta Prohm

Its history dates back to the 12th century when King Jayavarman VII commissioned the temple as a Buddhist monastery and university, dedicating it to his mother.  At its peak, Ta Prohm was a wealthy and powerful institution.  The temple treasury was filled with gold, pearls, and silks—a stark contrast to the quiet, grey stone ruins we see today.

Over centuries, the jungle reclaimed the site — creating the haunting beauty we see today.

The “Tomb Raider Temple”

While many movie locations rely on green screens and CGI, the eerie beauty you see in the film is real. The production team chose Ta Prohm specifically because of its haunting atmosphere. The image of Lara Croft standing before a jasmine tree growing directly out of the ruins became iconic.

Visiting the Tomb Raider Temple Siem Reap today feels surreal. You can stand in the exact spots where the movie was filmed. Even without the Hollywood glamour, the site radiates an energy that makes you feel like an explorer discovering a lost civilization for the first time.attle between man-made structures and the relentless power of the natural world.

Ta Prohm Travel Guide: Practical Tips for Your Visit

To get the most out of your adventure, a little planning goes a long way. Here are our top travel tips for visiting this specific temple.

Best Time to Visit

Ta Prohm is incredibly popular. To beat the crowds (and the heat), arrive as early as possible.  We wen there in November and the crowd was thankfully small compared the summer months.  The weather in November is also ideal for visiting Siem Reap.

• Early Morning (7:30 AM - 9:00 AM): The lighting is soft, the air is cooler, and tour buses haven't arrived yet.
• Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:30 PM): The crowds thin out as the park prepares to close, offering a quieter, moodier atmosphere.

What to Wear

Remember that this is a sacred site (as all the temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park)

• Cover your shoulders and knees.  Both men and women.
• Wear sturdy walking shoes. The ground is uneven, and you will be climbing over roots and stones.

Getting There

Ta Prohm is located within the Small Circuit of the Angkor Archaeological Park. You can easily reach it by Tuk-Tuk from Siem Reap town or one of many tours. Many visitors combine it with a visit to Angkor Thom or Banteay Kdei.  

FAQs About Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider Temple)

Was Tomb Raider really filmed at Ta Prohm?

Yes. Several scenes from Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) were filmed at Ta Prohm in Angkor.

Is Ta Prohm part of Angkor Wat?

Ta Prohm is part of the Angkor Archaeological Park but is a separate temple from Angkor Wat.

How long should you spend at Ta Prohm?

Plan for 1–2 hours to explore comfortably and take photos.

Can you visit Ta Prohm without a guide?

Yes, but a guide enhances your understanding of its history and symbolism.  So a good suggestion is to first do a complete tour (maybe a Sunrise tour of Ang Wat and temples) and than rent a Tuk Tuk and go explore at leisure without a guide.

Why You Can't Miss This Experience

Whether you are a film buff looking for the Tomb Raider Temple Siem Reap, a history enthusiast, or just someone who loves incredible photography, this site delivers. It is a place where history breathes, where the stones seem to whisper, and where every corner reveals a new secret.