Sambor Prei Kuk, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, is located in Kampong Thom Province in central Cambodia, within the basin of the Stung Sen River, a tributary of the Tonle Sap. The site corresponds to the ancient city of Ishanapura, capital of the Chenla Empire in the late 6th and early 7th centuries.

The archaeological complex comprises multiple temple groups, with the northern and southern clusters dating to the 7th century and the central group constructed later. Its distinctive brick sanctuaries, including rare octagonal towers, are characteristic of the pre-Angkorian period and reflect an important phase in the development of early Khmer architecture.

Although of major historical significance, Sambor Prei Kuk remains comparatively under-resourced. Ongoing concerns include conservation challenges, environmental pressures, and the need for sustained investment in local archaeological infrastructure, including field equipment, training, and research facilities.