SIEM REAP DAY TRIP TO KOH KER TEMPLE
Overview
A full-day tour to Koh Ker offers an opportunity to explore the ancient archaeological site located in Cambodia, about 120 kilometers northeast of Siem Reap. Koh Ker was once the capital of the Khmer Empire during the 10th century and features numerous temples and structures, providing a unique historical and cultural experience.
Tour Route Map
TOUR CODE : Koh Ker
The temple complex at Koh Ker, northeast of Siem Reap, represents the remnants of the capital of the Khmer Empire from 928 AD. – 944 A.D. – a very unique period in the Age of Angkor. From the time the Khmer capital was first moved to the Angkor area in the late 9 th century, it would remain there for almost 500 years, with one brief interruption. Just a few decades after the establishment at Angkor there was a disruption in the royal succession for reasons that remain a matter of academic debate. What is known is that in 928 A.D. King Jayavarman IV, possibly a usurper to the throne, created a new capital 100km away at Koh Ker, either moving the capital city from Angkor or creating a rival capital. Obviously a king of much wealth and power, he raised an impressive royal city at Koh Ker of Brahmanic monuments, temples and prasats, surrounding a huge baray (reservoir) Rahal. Jayavarman IV reigned at Koh Ker for 20 years before he died in 941 A.D. His son Hashavarman II would remain at Koh Ker for another 3 years before returning the capital to the Angkor area. The monuments of Koh Ker are now on a road loop around the baray past the most importants temples. The premier ruin of the complex is Prasat Thom, an imposing 7-tiered pyramid and temple complex. (Best photographed in the morning and offering a bird’s eye view from the top.)
As you round the loop, there are several nicely preserved ruins sit just off the road, impressive prasats and small temple complexes. There are lingas still in place in some monuments such as Prasat Balang and Prasat Thneng. For the enthusiast, there are also dozens of other, more remote ruins in the area. A good guide can be most helpful at Koh Ker. A trip to Koh Ker takes the better part of a day out of Siem Reap and is usually combined with a visit to Beng Melea. To get there take Route #6 east from Siem Reap to Damdek. Turn north and follow the sign. Part of the way is a toll road. Check road conditions before leaving Siem Reap, especially in the wet season.
Early Start: Begin your day early to make the most of your time at Koh Ker. The drive to Koh Ker takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
Enjoy the scenic drive through the Cambodian countryside, passing through rural villages and lush landscapes.
Arrival at Koh Ker, you will visit
Prasat Thom (Pyramid Temple): Your first stop is likely to be Prasat Thom, the most iconic temple in Koh Ker. This stepped pyramid temple offers a stunning view of the surrounding forest from its upper level. Climb to the top for panoramic vistas.
Prasat Krahom (Red Temple): Visit the Prasat Krahom, known as the Red Temple due to the reddish bricks used in its construction. This temple features intricate carvings and is an excellent example of Khmer architecture.
Prasat Pram (Five Towers): Visit Prasat Pram, a group of five sandstone towers in a quincunx arrangement. These towers are dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and are adorned with beautiful carvings.
Neak Pean: Explore Neak Pean, a unique temple surrounded by a man-made water reservoir. This site has a central tower with four smaller ones, and it’s believed to have been used for healing rituals.
Linga Temples: Visit some of the smaller Linga temples in the area. These temples have carvings of phallic symbols, representing the god Shiva.
Start your journey back to Siem Reap, reflecting on the historical and cultural insights gained during your day at Koh Ker.
Our tour cost are including: Private A/C vehicle, English speaking guide and 2 cold mineral water
