Phimeanakas Temple, Angkor Thom, Cambodia

Inside the royal palace is another structure, Phimeanakas temple. Like all the temples in Angkor, it was deserted in the 16th century.

Phimeanakas is a 3-tier pyramid like temple. The temple having its roots in Vimaan akaash(विमान आकाश). Vimaan means flying palace and akaash means sky. The Phimeanakas which is a distorted word of vimaanakaash means a palace in sky or a celestial palace.

Phimeanakas is a part of the Royal Palace.

History of Phimeanakas temple:

• The temple is said to be constructed in the late 10th century under the reign of King Rajendravarman II.
• It was later expanded and renovated by King Suryavarman I in 11th century.
• Its close proximity and location within the Royal Palace grounds emphasizes its important role in the lives of kings.

Structure of temple:

Phimeanakas temple is very different from any other temples here in Angkor. It is a three-tiered temple getting smaller as it goes up. The structure symbolizes Mount Meru, the mythical center of universe in Hindu cosmology.

It rises steeply with steps on all four sides leading to the top. There are rooms on the topmost floor where the King used to visit ever night. This floor still exists but it is forbidden for visitors to go up,

Significance of this temple:

Phimeanakas had a significant role in the rituals and mythology of Khmer kings. It is said that the king was supposed to sleep very night in the temple with a naga spirit that took the form of a woman. This was supposed to bring in prosperity to the kingdom. Neglecting the ritual could bring disaster.

east face

Lions guard the stairways. Elephants stand on the corners of ties. One can just imagine them, most part of the body is missing.

The Phimeanakas is a very simple temple consisting of three receding tiers. The lowest tier is 35m x 28m while the top one is 30m x 23 m. The steep stairs are guarded by lion statues on its either side.

north face, lion statues

west face

south face

At the top of tiers is a platform with small galleries. In the center is said to be a tower, "Golden Tower" from which the Naga princess appeared every night.

Phimeanakas stele:

A broken stele written by King Jayavarman VII's second wife, Queen Indradevi was discovered here. The Phimeanakas inscription, mentioned in Preah Khan, tells about the King's coronation and both his wives, Queen Jayarajadevi, the elder one and Queen Indradevi. It also mentions the role played by the second queen in spreading Buddhism across the kingdom. Apart from this, the battles between the Khmer and the Chams are also written.

Phimeanakas, with its pyramid-like structure and captivating myths, continues to attract travelers. A visit to Phimeanakas promises an unforgettable journey.