Phimeanakas

This is the king’s temple or royal temple. The lack of surviving carvings leaves this temple artistically uninteresting. However, it is the tallest temple in Angkor Thom, providing a beautiful panoramic view from the top. The back staircase is the most easily ascended.

Legend has it that the golden tower crowned the temple and was inhabited by a serpent, which could transform into a woman. The kings of Angkor were required to make love with the serpent every night , lest disaster will befall him or the kingdom.