This hilltop temple on the road to the old Khmer Rouge stronghold of Pailin affords fantastic views of the surrounding area. There are still two government artillery pieces in place pointing to the former Khmer Rouge positions. About halfway up the hill are the "Killing Caves." This was an execution ground during the years of Democratic Kampuchea. Victims were bludgeoned to death and thrown into the caves. There are kids at the base of the mountain, some of whom speak good English and act as guides for a small fee. There are two ways to the summit. One by steep stairs, the other by a far easier track around the sides of the mountain. Phnom Sampeou is best visited in either the early morning or the late afternoon when the light is best and the views are best lit. It's generally open from 7am to 6pm.