Cambodia Says Preah Vihear Restoration Could Take 20 Years, Cost Up to $70 Million

Cambodia Says Preah Vihear Restoration Could Take 20 Years, Cost Up to $70 Million

PHNOM PENH, April 6, 2026 — Cambodia said efforts to stabilise and fully restore the Preah Vihear Temple could take decades and cost tens of millions of dollars, following damage attributed to past military clashes.

Kong Puthika, director-general of the Preah Vihear National Authority, told Radio France Internationale that preventing further deterioration of the temple could take between five and 10 years.

He added that full restoration and conservation work may require at least 20 years and an estimated budget of between $60 million and $70 million.

The assessment follows inspections carried out by UNESCO officials, who visited the site earlier in March to evaluate the extent of the damage.

The ancient temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has sustained significant structural impacts in recent years, with Cambodian authorities attributing the damage to two incidents of military attacks in 2025.

Officials say the scale of the restoration highlights the complexity of preserving heritage sites affected by conflict, requiring long-term planning, international cooperation and substantial funding.

Preah Vihear Temple remains one of Cambodia’s most important cultural landmarks, with authorities emphasising the need to safeguard it for future generations.