Cambodia’s APSARA National Authority has continued conservation work on Angkor Wat’s northern pond, strengthening and repairing key structures such as the banks and steps to save endangered ancient remains and restore the pond’s historic form and landscape.
According to APSARA, the sixth phase of the northern pond restoration formally began in mid-May 2026. This phase covers 56 metres and is the final stage of the overall restoration project. All work is expected to be completed within 2026.
Technical staff from APSARA’s Department of Conservation of Monuments and Archaeology said prolonged natural erosion had damaged the pond’s structures to varying degrees. Sediment accumulation had gradually obscured its original outline, burying many stone steps. Prolonged exposure to water, sunlight and temperature changes had caused bank stones to weather, fracture and become incomplete, leaving voids and gaps in some sections. Rainwater carried soil through the gaps into the pond, creating a cycle that further aggravated structural deterioration.
The repairs follow traditional heritage restoration methods. The team dismantles the original stones layer by layer, numbers them individually and transfers them to temporary storage for cleaning and treatment of damage. Special geotextile is also being installed to prevent soil loss and improve the overall stability and safety of the pond banks.
Preliminary research and preparations for the northern pond project began in 2019. Before each phase, specialists conduct archaeological excavations, surveys of the original form, measured documentation, structural studies and damage assessments to refine the restoration plan. All construction plans must be submitted to ICC-Angkor/Sambor Prei Kuk for approval before work begins. The process follows international heritage conservation and restoration standards to preserve the monument’s historical information and original fabric as fully as possible.
