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Bakong Temple: A Glimpse into the Khmer Empire's Dawn

Discover Bakong Temple: The first great sandstone pyramid and state temple of the Khmer Empire, predating Angkor Wat, in the Roluos complex.

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Bakong Temple, constructed in the late 9th century, stands as a testament to the early Khmer Empire's architectural prowess. As the first sandstone temple mountain, it served as the state temple of King Indravarman I and a prototype for future Angkorian temple designs. Located in Roluos, it offers a serene and historically rich experience.

A brief summary to Bakong Temples

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
  • Combine your visit to Bakong with other temples in the Roluos Group, such as Preah Ko and Lolei, for a comprehensive historical experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking around the temple complex.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Siem Reap, hire a tuk-tuk for a 25-45 minute ride to Bakong Temple. Negotiate the fare in advance, typically around $8-$10 for a one-way trip or $15-$20 for a half-day tour including other Roluos temples. The route follows National Road 6 towards Phnom Penh, turning right at Bakong Village.

  • Taxi/Rented Car

    A taxi or rented car from Siem Reap offers a comfortable and direct route to Bakong Temple. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes and costs around $10-$15. Alternatively, a minivan for larger groups can be hired for around $15. Follow National Road 6 towards Phnom Penh, turning right at Bakong Village.

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Discover more about Bakong Temples

Bakong Temple, located approximately 15 kilometers east of Siem Reap in the Roluos area, offers a captivating journey into the origins of Khmer temple architecture. Built in the late 9th century during the reign of King Indravarman I, it was the centerpiece of the ancient city of Hariharalaya and served as the kingdom's state temple. Bakong is historically significant as the first large-scale sandstone temple mountain, setting the standard for future temple designs in the Angkor region. The temple's design reflects the Hindu cosmological concept of Mount Meru, with its five-tiered pyramid structure symbolizing the sacred mountain. The central sanctuary, though later modified, once housed a Shiva Lingam, representing imperial power. Around the base of the pyramid, eight intricately carved temple towers stand as guardians, while remnants of bas-relief sculptures offer glimpses into the temple's original artistic details. While not as crowded as the central Angkor temples, Bakong still attracts visitors seeking a more tranquil and historically immersive experience. Exploring the temple grounds, one can appreciate the intricate carvings, the imposing pyramid structure, and the serene atmosphere that evokes a sense of ancient grandeur. Though time and restoration efforts have left their mark, Bakong remains a remarkable monument and a vital link to the Khmer Empire's formative years.

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