Prasat Preah Khan, Siem Reap Travel Guide

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Explore Prasat Preah Khan, a sprawling 12th-century temple complex near Angkor Thom, and discover the grandeur of the Khmer empire.

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Prasat Preah Khan

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

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 through the temple complex.
Allocate at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore Preah Khan and appreciate its intricate details.
Visit during the cooler months (November to March) for a more comfortable experience.
Enter through the east gate to experience the traditional approach to the temple.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Angkor National Museum

Angkor Wat

temple remains

Bayon Temple

Ankor wat

Explore Prasat Preah Khan on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Prasat Preah Khan, mapped for you.

Getting There

Tuk-tuk

From Siem Reap city center or Angkor Wat, the most common way to reach Prasat Preah Khan is by tuk-tuk. A one-way trip should cost between $15 and $20. Negotiate the price beforehand. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk for the entire day to explore multiple temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park; this typically costs around $30-$40.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Siem Reap and offer a comfortable, air-conditioned ride to Prasat Preah Khan. Expect to pay around $25-$30 for a one-way trip. Agree on the fare before starting your journey. A full-day taxi hire for temple touring will cost approximately $40-$50.
Bicycle

For a more adventurous and eco-friendly option, rent a bicycle and cycle to Prasat Preah Khan. The distance from Siem Reap is approximately 12.5 kilometers. Bicycle rentals cost around $1-$3 per day. Be prepared for a moderately challenging ride, especially during the hotter months. Follow the main road north from Angkor Thom, and you'll find Preah Khan on your right.

Discover more about Prasat Preah Khan

Prasat Preah Khan, a magnificent temple in the Angkor Archaeological Park, stands as a testament to the Khmer empire's grandeur. Built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, it was dedicated to his father and served as a royal city, temple, and Buddhist university. The temple's name, meaning 'Royal Sword,' is derived from the original name, Nagara Jayasri, or 'holy city of victory'.Covering 56 hectares, Preah Khan is a complex labyrinth of vaulted corridors, courtyards, and shrines. The architecture showcases a blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences, with intricate carvings of garudas and nagas adorning the walls. The temple complex once housed almost 100,000 officials and servants, including dancers and teachers.Unlike some other Angkor temples, Preah Khan is moderately preserved, thanks to restoration efforts by the World Monuments Fund. Exploring the temple offers a unique experience, with towering enclosures, the Hall of Dancers, and the remnants of a once-great city to discover. Trees and vegetation grow through the structure, adding to its mystical atmosphere.Preah Khan is located northeast of Angkor Thom and west of the Jayatataka baray (reservoir), with which it was historically connected. The temple's strategic location and intricate design reflect its importance as a religious, cultural, and administrative center during the Khmer empire.