Preah Ko: The Sacred Bull Temple

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Discover Preah Ko, an ancient Khmer temple near Siem Reap, showcasing 9th-century architecture and dedicated to Shiva and King Indravarman I's ancestors.

Preah Ko, meaning 'Sacred Bull,' is a 9th-century Hindu temple in the Roluos group, marking the beginning of Khmer temple architecture. Built in 879 by King Indravarman I, it honors his ancestors and is dedicated to Shiva, featuring six brick towers adorned with intricate carvings and Nandi statues.

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

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, to show respect for this religious site.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience a peaceful atmosphere.
Combine your visit with other temples in the Roluos Group, such as Bakong and Lolei, for a comprehensive experience.
Hire a local guide to gain valuable insights into the history, architecture, and symbolism of Preah Ko.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay comfortable in the tropical climate.

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Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Siem Reap, the most common way to reach Preah Ko is by tuk-tuk. Negotiate a round-trip fare, typically between $15 and $20, with the driver. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. The tuk-tuk will drop you off near the entrance to the Roluos Group, where Preah Ko is located. Remember that you'll also need an Angkor Pass to enter the archaeological park, which costs $37 for a one-day pass.
Car

If driving from Siem Reap, head south on National Road 6 (NR6) and follow the signs to Angkor Archaeological Park. The park entrance is about 6.5 km from the city center. Purchase a one-day Angkor Pass for $37. After entering, continue on the main road for about 3 km, then turn left to Preah Ko. The temple is well-signposted within the park.
Bicycle

For an adventurous and budget-friendly option, rent a bicycle in Siem Reap for $2-$5 per day. Cycle east along National Road 6 (NR6) towards the Angkor Archaeological Park. Note that the park entrance is approximately 5 km from Siem Reap. Purchase your Angkor Pass for $37. Once inside the park, follow the signs to Preah Ko, about 3 km from the entrance. Be prepared for heat and bring plenty of water.

Discover more about Preah Ko

Preah Ko, also known as the 'Sacred Bull' temple, is a significant Hindu temple constructed in 879 AD by King Indravarman I. Located in the Roluos group, about 13 km east of Siem Reap, it represents one of the earliest major temples of the Khmer empire and the ancient city of Hariharalaya. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built to honor King Indravarman's ancestors.The temple complex features six brick towers arranged in two rows of three on a sandstone platform, all facing east. The front central tower, slightly taller than the others, is dedicated to Jayavarman II, the founder of the Khmer empire. The towers to the north and south are dedicated to King Indravarman's father and grandfather, respectively, while the three rear towers honor their wives. Each tower once housed a statue, though these have been removed. The name 'Sacred Bull' comes from the statues of Nandi, the bull that serves as Shiva's mount, positioned in front of the towers.Originally enclosed by walls and gopuras, only vestiges of these remain today. The temple's architecture, characterized by brick and laterite construction, showcases intricate carvings and decorative elements. The detailed carvings on the lintels and the octagonal colonettes are considered prime examples of Khmer art. Restoration efforts, including those in the early 1990s and early 2024, have helped preserve the stunning state of the towers. Visiting Preah Ko offers a serene experience away from the crowds, allowing visitors to appreciate the early artistry and historical importance of this sacred site.