Kompong Thom is the capital of Kampong Thom Province in Cambodia. It’s situated about half-way between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and thus most travellers will only rush through on their transfer between these two major attractions.
Nevertheless it is a pleasant and relaxed place and a good starting point for exploring the countryside and the temples of Sambor Prei Kuk. Cambodia’s most impressive group of pre-Angkorian monuments, Sambor Prei Kuk encompasses more than 100 mainly brick temples scattered through the forest, among them some of the oldest structures in the country. The attraction was recently named Cambodia’s third Unesco World Heritage site.
A 40-minute drive from Kompong Thom, the area has a serene and soothing atmosphere, with the sandy trails between temples looping through the shady forest. A community-based tourism initiative employs local guides, organises activities and sets up homestays.