Prasat Preah Khan: The Royal Sword Temple

4.8 (2675)

Explore Prasat Preah Khan, a vast and historic temple in Angkor, Cambodia, once a royal city and center of Khmer power.

Home
Cambodia
Oddar Meanchey
Prasat Preah Khan

Prasat Preah Khan, meaning 'Royal Sword,' is a sprawling temple complex in Angkor, Cambodia, constructed in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII to honor his father. Once a thriving city and center of learning, it offers a captivating glimpse into the Khmer empire's grandeur.

A brief summary to Prasat Preah Khan

FV6C+QJ4, Krong Siem Reap, KH

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Prasat Preah Khan.

Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking exploring the extensive temple complex.
Bring mosquito repellent to protect yourself from bites while exploring the temple grounds.
Allocate at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the temple's intricate details and vastness.
Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the temple in a more peaceful atmosphere.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

World Monuments Fund Visitor Center at Preah Khan

Preah Khan: A Royal City Encompassed by the Jungle

Thommanon

Thommanon: A Jewel of Khmer Architecture

Victory Gate

Victory Gate: A Royal Entrance to Angkor Thom

Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Siem Reap city center, a tuk-tuk is a convenient way to reach Prasat Preah Khan. The journey typically takes 20-30 minutes. Negotiate the price beforehand, with a typical round trip costing between $15-$20 USD, including waiting time. The route usually follows the road to Angkor Thom, continuing northeast.
Taxi

A taxi from Siem Reap International Airport (REP) to Prasat Preah Khan takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $25-$35 USD for a one-way trip. Alternatively, arrange for a taxi from your hotel in Siem Reap; prices are comparable.
Bicycle/Motorbike

For adventurous travelers, renting a bicycle or motorbike in Siem Reap is an option. A bicycle rental costs around $1-$2 USD per day, while a motorbike is approximately $5-$10 USD per day. The ride to Preah Khan is relatively straightforward, but be mindful of traffic and road conditions. An Angkor Pass is required to enter the archaeological park.

Discover more about Prasat Preah Khan

Prasat Preah Khan, built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, stands as a testament to the power and ambition of the Khmer empire. The temple, whose name translates to 'Royal Sword' or 'Holy Sword', was dedicated to King Jayavarman VII's father and was constructed on the site of his victory over the invading Chams in 1191.More than just a temple, Preah Khan was a multifaceted complex that functioned as a royal city, a Buddhist monastery, and a university. It is believed that nearly 100,000 people lived here, including monks, students, dancers, and workers. The temple's design reflects a blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences, showcasing the religious tolerance of the time.Covering 56 hectares, Preah Khan is a maze of vaulted corridors, courtyards, and crumbling sanctuaries. The outer wall, made of laterite, features 72 garudas holding nagas. The temple is oriented towards the east, with additional entrances at each cardinal point. The unrestored nature of the temple, with trees and vegetation growing through the structure, adds to its charm and makes it a popular spot for photographers.