Set high on a cliff on the edge of the Dongrak Mountains overlooking Cambodia; Preah Vihear (known to the Thais as Khao Phra Viharn) is remarkable both for its outstanding Khmer architecture and for its stunning location.

Long claimed by both Thailand and Cambodia; the temple complex was finally awarded to the latter by the World Court in 1963; though the question of ownership still irks many Thais.

Preah Vihear took around 200 years to build; starting during the reign of Rajendravarman II in the mid-10th century and reaching completion in the early 12th century during the reign of Suryavarman II; the founder of Angkor Wat.

Constructed in the Baphuon and early Angkor styles; Preah Vihear was built originally as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva.