East Mebon | Siem Reap

East Mebon – A Majestic Temple of the Angkor Era

East Mebon is a historic temple located in the Angkor Archaeological Park in Cambodia. Built during the reign of King Rajendravarman II in the 10th century, it is an example of the early Khmer temple architecture. The temple is part of the Mebon complex, which includes the West Mebon, located in a different part of Angkor.

East Mebon was originally constructed on an island in the middle of the now-dried-up Eastern Baray, an enormous water reservoir. Today, the temple is still an impressive sight, especially with its unique structure, historical significance, and stunning carvings.

History of East Mebon

• Built during the reign of King Rajendravarman II (reigned 944–968 AD) as part of the construction of the Eastern Baray, a large reservoir that was used for both irrigation and religious purposes.
• The temple was dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, and it was likely used as a shrine for the royal family and to honor the king’s ancestors.
• East Mebon was originally located on an island surrounded by the waters of the Eastern Baray, but the water reservoir has long since dried up.
• Over time, the temple fell into disrepair due to natural causes, including erosion and looting, but it has been partially restored.

Architectural Features of East Mebon

1. The Five Towers of East Mebon

• The temple consists of five central towers arranged in a quincunx pattern (a five-pointed arrangement) atop a raised platform.
• The central tower is the largest, and the four surrounding smaller towers represent the cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west).
• The five towers are thought to represent the five peaks of Mount Meru, the sacred Hindu mountain, symbolizing the center of the universe in both Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.

2. The Large Central Platform

• The temple is constructed on a rectangular platform, which is surrounded by a wall.
• The platform is adorned with intricate carvings, including scenes of Hindu deities and animals, symbolizing the king’s power and divine protection.
• The temple's elevation and sculptural elements give it an imposing, majestic appearance, once visible from the water of the Eastern Baray.

3. Sculptural Decorations

• The outer walls of the temple are adorned with high-relief carvings of Hindu deities and mythical creatures, including garudas (mythical birds) and elephants.
• The carvings also depict scenes from Hindu mythology, such as stories of Vishnu, Shiva, and other divine figures.
• The lion statues that stand at the temple’s entrance are some of the most notable features, often admired for their grace and intricacy.

4. The Terrace of Elephants

• Surrounding the temple is a large platform, known as the Terrace of Elephants, featuring carvings of elephants and other animal figures.
• These animals were likely meant to symbolize strength and royal power, as elephants were highly revered in Khmer culture.

Significance of East Mebon

1. Representation of Hindu Cosmology

• East Mebon’s five towers and the rectangular layout symbolize the cosmic mountain, Mount Meru, which is the center of the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
• The temple’s design and dedication to Vishnu reflect the Hinduism that was prevalent in the region during the reign of Rajendravarman II.

2. Religious and Royal Significance

• East Mebon was likely a royal shrine dedicated to the king and his ancestors, as well as a place for the king and his court to perform rituals.
• The temple's association with the Eastern Baray suggests that it was also a site for religious ceremonies related to water, fertility, and harvests, as water played a central role in Khmer life.

Visiting East Mebon

1. Best Time to Visit

• The best time to visit East Mebon is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
• Visiting during sunrise or sunset allows for beautiful lighting, especially on the temple’s carvings and towers.

2. Getting There

• East Mebon is located on the east side of Angkor, about 1 km north of Ta Som and part of the Grand Circuit of Angkor temples.
• It can be reached by tuk-tuk, bicycle, or private car.

3. What to Expect

• A quiet, less crowded temple compared to more famous sites like Angkor Wat and Bayon, offering a more peaceful experience.
• Intricate carvings and a mysterious, imposing structure, ideal for those interested in architecture and Hindu symbolism.
• The surrounding area, once a massive reservoir, provides a great context for understanding the temple’s original design and function.

Conclusion

East Mebon is a magnificent and historically rich temple that provides an essential glimpse into Khmer architectural and religious traditions. Its five central towers, intricate carvings, and unique location offer a unique experience within the Angkor complex. Though smaller and less visited than some other Angkor temples, it remains a key site for understanding the spiritual and political significance of the Khmer Empire during the reign of Rajendravarman II.