Preah Ko: The Sacred Bull Temple

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Discover Preah Ko, the 'Sacred Bull' temple, a hidden gem of the Roluos Group showcasing ancient Khmer artistry and religious devotion.

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Preah Ko

Preah Ko, or the Sacred Bull, is the oldest temple in the Roluos Group, dating back to 879 AD. Built by King Indravarman I, it was dedicated to Shiva and the king's ancestors. The temple features six brick towers adorned with intricate carvings and sandstone sculptures, offering a glimpse into the early Khmer empire.

A brief summary to Preah Ko

Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap, 17000, KH

Monday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Friday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Sunday 7:30 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the temple grounds.
Bring water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
Take your time to appreciate the intricate carvings and architectural details of the towers.
Combine your visit with other temples in the Roluos Group for a comprehensive experience.

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Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Siem Reap, hire a tuk-tuk for a round trip to Preah Ko, located in the Roluos Group approximately 15 km southeast of the city. Negotiate the fare beforehand, typically around $15-$20 for the trip, which includes waiting time while you explore the temple. The journey takes about 30 minutes. The tuk-tuk will drop you off near the entrance to Preah Ko. An Angkor Pass is required to enter the archaeological park, costing approximately $37 for a one-day pass.
Car

Rent a car with a driver from Siem Reap. Head south on National Road 6 (NR6) towards Angkor Archaeological Park. The entrance to the park is about 6.5 km from Siem Reap. Purchase an Angkor Pass for $37 for a one-day pass. Follow the main road for about 3 km, then turn left to Preah Ko, which is well-signposted. Expect to pay around $30-$40 for a car and driver for the day. Parking is available near the temple.
Bicycle

Rent a bicycle in Siem Reap for approximately $2-$5 per day. Cycle to Angkor Archaeological Park, about 6.5 km from the city center. Purchase an Angkor Pass for $37 for a one-day pass. Cycle for about 3 km within the park and turn left to Preah Ko. Lock your bicycle at the designated area near the temple.

Discover more about Preah Ko

Preah Ko, meaning "Sacred Bull," is a 9th-century Hindu temple constructed in 879 A.D. by King Indravarman I. Located 15 kilometers southeast of Siem Reap in the Roluos area, it was the first major temple built in the ancient city of Hariharalaya. Dedicated to Shiva and the divinized ancestors of the king, Preah Ko provides insight into the early Khmer empire and its religious practices.The temple complex consists of six brick towers arranged in two rows on a sandstone platform. The towers face east, with the front central tower being the tallest. These towers are dedicated to three forefathers of Indravarman I and their respective wives. The intricate carvings on the lintels and doorposts depict Hindu deities and scenes from Khmer mythology. Three sandstone statues of Nandi, the sacred bull and mount of Shiva, stand in front of the central towers, giving the temple its name.Preah Ko is known for its beautiful carvings and the use of brick as a primary construction material, a departure from laterite and sandstone more common in the Angkor period. Despite some damage over time, much of the original plasterwork and sandstone reliefs have been preserved, offering a glimpse into the artistry of the era. Visiting Preah Ko offers a serene and less crowded experience compared to the more popular temples of Angkor, allowing visitors to appreciate the temple's unique charm and historical significance.