Thao Tao Temple and That Sampang Temple

On the east side of the enclosure, there is a gopura built of sandstone. The central shrine was built of large sandstone blocks but has collapsed. A tree has grown inside the collapsed shrine, making it look like a huge plant pot. There is a small ruined building near the central shrine, usually identified as a library. A large baray was built on the eastern side of the temple.

The layout is very similar to the layout of hospitals or rest houses established by King Jayavarman VII in Angkor and elsewhere throughout Khmer territory.

As the name "Three Stupas" suggests, That Sampang Temple features three shrines on a shared platform. Although it is currently used by Buddhists, inscriptions in front of the temple reveal that it originally honored the Hindu trinity: Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu. The Ban That inscription, named after the surrounding village, contains valuable historical details about a high-ranking Shaivite priest, the grandeur of Mount Lingaparvata, the patronage of Khmer kings, and the fierce battle between King Suryavarman II and his uncle Dharanindravarman I, likened to the mythological Garuda slaying a serpent, highlighting the ruthlessness of politics.

The Vat Phou-Champasak site was predominantly dedicated to the Shaiva sect, yet it was also inclusive of followers of other Hindu deities who visited from various regions. The presence of additional temples alongside the main Shiva sanctuary suggests a respect for other beliefs, reflecting the Khmer society's tolerance toward different Hindu deities and religions. Like other temples, the That Sampang Temple was accompanied by a large baray (reservoir), with the ancient road from Angkor to Vat Phou passing between them. The sunset view over the ancient road and baray is recommended, evoking a sense of the countless merchants, pilgrims, soldiers, and kings who once traveled this path. Today, only the occasional farmer with his ox-cart can be seen, and the reflection of the sunset in the baray adds a melancholic touch. The journey to Angkor, even by modern car, is arduous and takes at least a day, suggesting how challenging it must have been for the ancient travelers. At dusk in the That Sampang Temple, one can almost imagine those travelers offering their prayers after a long and perilous journey.