Preah Ko: The Ancient Sacred Bull Temple
Discover Preah Ko, the 'Sacred Bull' temple, a hidden gem of ancient Khmer architecture in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Preah Ko, meaning 'Sacred Bull', stands as a testament to early Khmer architectural prowess. Constructed in 879 A.D. by King Indravarman I, it was dedicated to Shiva and the king's deified ancestors. The temple was the first to be built in Hariharalaya, an ancient city that predates Angkor Thom. The temple complex features six brick towers arranged in two rows of three, all facing east. The front central tower, taller than the others, is dedicated to Jayavarman II, founder of the Khmer empire. The adjacent towers honor King Indravarman's father and grandfather, while the rear towers are dedicated to their wives. The towers' brick facades are adorned with intricate carvings and the doorposts bear Sanskrit inscriptions. In front of the towers are sandstone statues of Nandi, the sacred bull and mount of Shiva, giving the temple its name. The temple also features enclosures, a library, and guardian lions. Preah Ko offers a serene and less crowded experience compared to the more famous temples of Angkor, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistry and history of the Khmer empire.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces and exploring the temple grounds.
- Bring water and sunscreen, as the temple offers little shade.
- Take your time to admire the intricate carvings and sandstone sculptures on the brick towers.
A brief summary to Preah Ko Temple
- 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
Getting There
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Tuk-tuk
From Siem Reap, the most common way to reach Preah Ko is by tuk-tuk. Negotiate a round-trip fare with a driver in Siem Reap, typically costing between $15 and $20. The journey takes approximately 25-30 minutes. The tuk-tuk will drop you off near the entrance to Preah Ko, and the driver will wait while you explore the temple.
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Taxi
A taxi from Siem Reap to Preah Ko offers a comfortable, air-conditioned ride. Expect to pay around $25 to $30 for the day. The taxi will drop you off near the temple entrance and wait for you. This option is ideal for visiting other temples in the Roluos group.
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Bicycle
For an adventurous and budget-friendly option, rent a bicycle in Siem Reap for $2-$5 per day. Cycle approximately 15 kilometers southeast to reach Preah Ko. Follow the main road towards Angkor Archaeological Park, then take the turnoff to Roluos. Be prepared for a hot ride and bring plenty of water.
