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Prasat Preah Khan: A Royal City in Stone

Explore Prasat Preah Khan, a sprawling 12th-century temple complex that once served as a royal city and honors Khmer history and architecture.

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Prasat Preah Khan, meaning 'Royal Sword,' is a vast temple complex near Angkor Thom, built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII to honor his father. Once a thriving city-temple hybrid, it served as a royal palace, Buddhist monastery, and university, making it a unique and historically significant site.

A brief summary to Prasat Preah Khan

  • FV6C+QJ4, Krong Siem Reap, KH

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking exploring the extensive complex.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities inside the temple.
  • Visit during the cooler months (November to March) for a more comfortable experience.
  • Allocate at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the temple's scale and details.
  • Enter through the east gate for a traditional approach along the causeway leading from the Jayatataka Baray.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Siem Reap, the most common way to reach Prasat Preah Khan is by tuk-tuk. A tuk-tuk ride to Preah Khan from Siem Reap typically costs between $15 and $25 USD for the day. This price can include other temples in the area. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Negotiate the price beforehand.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Siem Reap and offer a more comfortable, albeit more expensive, option. A taxi to Preah Khan can cost between $25 and $40 USD. Agree on the price with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Bicycle

    For adventurous travelers, renting a bicycle is a budget-friendly option. Daily rentals cost around $1-$3 USD. The ride to Preah Khan is approximately 12.5 kilometers from Siem Reap, taking around 45-60 minutes. Be prepared for heat and traffic.

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Discover more about Prasat Preah Khan

Prasat Preah Khan, or 'Royal Sword', is more than just a temple; it was once a flourishing royal city constructed in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. Dedicated to his father, the temple complex also functioned as a Buddhist monastery housing over 1,000 monks, a university, and a royal residence. Located northeast of Angkor Thom, Preah Khan stands as a testament to Khmer architecture and ambition, covering 56 hectares. The temple's design features successive rectangular galleries, Hindu satellite temples, and later additions, reflecting a blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences. The outer wall, made of laterite, displays 72 garudas holding nagas. Exploring Prasat Preah Khan offers a unique experience, with its unrestored state allowing visitors to witness nature reclaiming the stones. Mossy corridors, sun-dappled courtyards, and trees growing through the ruins create a captivating atmosphere. The temple is filled with carvings depicting Vishnu, Krishna, Shiva and Brahma, as well as battle scenes from Ramayana. Preah Khan declined after the Khmer royalty ceased its support around the 15th century. Rediscovered in the 19th century, efforts have been made to stabilize the site, but its semi-ruined state adds to its charm.

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