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Preah Khan: A Royal City Encompassed by the Jungle

Explore Preah Khan, the 'Royal Sword' temple: a sprawling Angkor complex where jungle meets ancient Khmer architecture and history.

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Preah Khan, meaning 'Royal Sword,' is a sprawling temple complex built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII to honor his father. Once a thriving city, temple, and Buddhist university, it's now a captivating ruin where nature intertwines with ancient architecture, offering a unique glimpse into the Khmer empire.

A brief summary to World Monuments Fund Visitor Center at Preah Khan

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the temple in a quieter atmosphere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as Preah Khan is considered a sacred site.
  • Take your time to explore the less crowded southern area of the temple for a more immersive experience.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Siem Reap city center or any major hotel, the most common way to reach Preah Khan is by tuk-tuk. A tuk-tuk ride to Preah Khan typically takes 20-30 minutes. Negotiate the price beforehand; a round trip should cost between $24-$31, and can be arranged for a half-day or full-day tour of the Angkor complex. This price does not include the Angkor Pass, which is required to enter the temple. A one-day pass costs $37.

  • Taxi/Private Car

    For a more comfortable journey, hire a taxi or private car. Arrange this through your hotel or a local tour operator. A round trip to Preah Khan, including waiting time, will cost approximately $45-$50. Remember that the Angkor Pass is not included in this price; a one-day pass costs $37.

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Discover more about World Monuments Fund Visitor Center at Preah Khan

Preah Khan, a magnificent temple in Angkor, Cambodia, was constructed in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, dedicating it to his father. The temple's modern name, meaning 'holy sword', comes from the original name, Nagara Jayasri, meaning 'holy city of victory'. Built on the site of Jayavarman VII's victory over the invading Chams in 1191, Preah Khan sprawls across 56 hectares and is enclosed by a moat and fortified walls. More than just a temple, Preah Khan was a multifaceted institution, serving as a city, temple, and Buddhist university. It once housed nearly 100,000 attendants and servants, including thousands of teachers and dancers. Within its walls were hospitals, grain houses, and rest homes. The temple complex includes entryways, towers, ceremonial spaces, courtyards, and shrines, connected by a network of corridors. Today, Preah Khan stands largely unrestored, allowing the jungle to reclaim parts of the temple, creating a mystical atmosphere. Trees grow through the stone structures, and carvings of Vishnu, Krishna, Shiva, and Brahma can still be seen. The temple features a Hall of Dancers, a two-story pavilion, and a once-bronze-plated sanctum sanctorum. Visitors can enter through the west, north, or east gates, each offering a unique perspective of this historical site. Exploring the outer wall reveals impressive Garuda statues, mythical birds frozen in battle with Naga snakes.

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