Preah Ko
Preah Ko, meaning 'Sacred Bull,' is a 9th-century Hindu temple in Cambodia, showcasing early Khmer architecture and intricate carvings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and cool
Preah Ko
Best Time
Peaceful and cool
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Preah Ko, meaning 'Sacred Bull,' is a 9th-century Hindu temple in Cambodia, showcasing early Khmer architecture and intricate carvings.
"A serene and historically significant temple, offering a peaceful glimpse into the dawn of the Angkorian era."
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Experience the serene atmosphere before the crowds. Early mornings offer the best light and tranquility.
🦁 Admire the Lions
Don't miss the guardian lions; they are a key feature and symbol of the temple's strength.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Guardian Lions
Temple Entrance
Majestic stone lions stand guard, embodying the temple's ancient power and spiritual significance.
Intricate Carvings
Tower Facades
Marvel at detailed lintels and door frames adorned with Hindu deities and mythological creatures.
Nandi Statues
Sanctuary Entrance
Discover the sacred bull statues, the namesake of Preah Ko, facing the main towers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Angkor Pass is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Experience the serene atmosphere before the crowds. Early mornings offer the best light and tranquility.
🦁 Admire the Lions
Don't miss the guardian lions; they are a key feature and symbol of the temple's strength.
📜 Check the Script
Look for the unique Cambodian script on doors, a rare artistic detail.
🚶♀️ Combine with Roluos Group
Visit Preah Ko with nearby Bakong and Lolei for a comprehensive Roluos Group experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Experience the serene atmosphere before the crowds. Early mornings offer the best light and tranquility.
🦁 Admire the Lions
Don't miss the guardian lions; they are a key feature and symbol of the temple's strength.
📜 Check the Script
Look for the unique Cambodian script on doors, a rare artistic detail.
🚶♀️ Combine with Roluos Group
Visit Preah Ko with nearby Bakong and Lolei for a comprehensive Roluos Group experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Preah Ko Temple for its historical significance as one of the earliest Khmer structures and its peaceful, less crowded atmosphere compared to major Angkor sites. The intricate carvings and guardian lions are frequently highlighted as impressive features, offering a serene glimpse into the dawn of the Angkorian era.
"Preah Ko ( which means the sacred Bull) was erected by Indravarman I in the late 9th century and dedicated to Shiva.
Six towers sit on a raised platform surrounded on three sides by a forest. The temples are guarded by guardian lions sitting in their majestic form. The only temple that had such intricate carvings and doors adjourned with Cambodian script.
This temple complex was so calm and different from the hustle bustle of Angkor Wat. But then again we were the first to reach the temple and then the crowd started coming in. Do visit this temple. And don't miss the local market and you go ahead to visit the floating village."
Mallika Jamy
"Located in the heart of Cambodia’s Roluos group, Preah Ko Temple is one of the earliest and most significant temples of the Khmer Empire. Built in 879 AD by King Indravarman I, this stunning temple complex honors both Hindu deities and the king’s ancestors, blending spiritual devotion with royal legacy.
Why Visit Preah Ko Temple?
- Historical Significance – As one of the first major brick temples of the Khmer Empire, Preah Ko set the foundation for later masterpieces like Angkor Wat.
- Unique Architecture – Admire its six striking brick towers, intricate carvings, and detailed stucco decorations depicting Hindu gods.
- Peaceful Atmosphere – Less crowded than Angkor’s main sites, Preah Ko offers a serene and authentic experience.
-A Sacred Nandi Bulls – The temple’s name means "Sacred Bull," and you’ll find statues of Nandi (Shiva’s mount) guarding the sanctuary."
Blossoming Romduol
"Preah Ko Temple, meaning “Sacred Bull,” is one of the oldest and most historically significant temples in the Angkor region of Cambodia. Located in the Roluos Group near Siem Reap, it was built in 879 AD by King Indravarman I and is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The temple’s name refers to Nandi, Shiva’s sacred bull, and three large sandstone statues of Nandi face the sanctuary towers as guardians of the site.
The temple complex consists of six brick towers arranged in two rows. The front row of towers was dedicated to the king’s male ancestors, including King Jayavarman II, while the rear row honored their female counterparts. These towers are adorned with early examples of Khmer-style art, including intricate lintels, floral motifs, and stucco carvings depicting Hindu deities.
Set in a peaceful, rural landscape, Preah Ko offers a quiet alternative to the more crowded Angkor temples. It is especially appealing to history enthusiasts and photographers seeking a serene and less touristy experience. Visitors often combine it with nearby temples like Bakong and Lolei, which together make up the Roluos Group. The site is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and beautiful lighting. Entry is included with the standard Angkor Pass."
Melissa Hawthorne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Preah Ko Temple is part of the Roluos Group, located about 15 km southeast of Siem Reap. You can hire a tuk-tuk, taxi, or join a guided tour. Many visitors combine a visit to Preah Ko with other temples in the Roluos Group like Bakong and Lolei.
Yes, the roads leading to the Roluos Group, including Preah Ko Temple, are generally well-maintained and accessible by car or tuk-tuk.
Tuk-tuks are a popular and convenient option for exploring the Roluos Group, offering flexibility and a local experience. Bicycles are also an option for the more adventurous.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Preah Ko Temple is included with the standard Angkor Pass, which is required for all major temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Preah Ko Temple, like other Angkor temples, is generally open from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. It's best to check the official Angkor Enterprise website for the most up-to-date information.
The Angkor Pass is available in 1-day, 3-day, and 7-day options. Prices are subject to change, so it's advisable to check the official Angkor Enterprise website for current rates.
Yes, you can purchase your Angkor Pass online through the official Angkor Enterprise website, which can save you time upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A visit to Preah Ko Temple typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in the details and carvings. It's often visited as part of a larger tour of the Roluos Group.
Key features include the six brick towers, the guardian stone lions, and the statues of Nandi (Shiva's bull). The intricate carvings on the lintels and door frames are also highly recommended.
Preah Ko is generally less crowded than the main Angkor Wat complex, offering a more peaceful experience, especially if visited early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Official guides can be hired at the Angkor Pass ticket office or arranged through your tour operator. Hiring a guide can greatly enhance your understanding of the temple's history and significance.
Preah Ko means 'Sacred Bull' in Khmer, referring to Nandi, the mount of the Hindu god Shiva. The temple features statues of Nandi, symbolizing devotion and the temple's dedication to Shiva.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are early morning and late afternoon when the light is soft and golden, creating beautiful shadows and highlighting the temple's textures.
Generally, photography is allowed at Preah Ko Temple. However, it's always respectful to avoid using flash inside any enclosed structures and to be mindful of other visitors.
The guardian lions, the detailed carvings on the lintels and doorways, and the Nandi statues are particularly photogenic. The overall temple complex with its towers against the sky also makes for great shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and water, as amenities are limited. The relatively short visit time makes it ideal for younger children's attention spans. Combining Preah Ko with a visit to a local market or a floating village nearby can create a more engaging day trip for the whole family.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Focus on the details of the brick towers, the stucco work, and the iconography of the carvings. Understanding its role as an ancestor temple and its connection to King Indravarman I's reign will deepen your appreciation for its historical significance.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the towers against the sky or focus on the intricate details of the lintels and doorways. The less crowded nature of the temple compared to Angkor Wat allows for more freedom to compose your shots without constant interruption.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into the Dawn of Angkor
The temple complex features six brick towers arranged on a raised sandstone platform. The front row of three larger towers was dedicated to King Indravarman I's male ancestors, including his father and grandfather, and the founder of the Khmer Empire, Jayavarman II. The rear row of three smaller towers honored their wives. This arrangement highlights the importance of lineage and ancestor worship in Khmer royal ideology.
Preah Ko is particularly renowned for its exquisite stucco work and intricate stone carvings, representing the "Preah Ko style." Visitors can admire detailed depictions of Hindu deities, floral motifs, and mythological creatures on the lintels and door frames. The presence of three large sandstone statues of Nandi, Shiva's sacred bull, facing the sanctuary towers, gives the temple its name and adds to its spiritual aura.
Architectural Significance and Artistic Style
The "Preah Ko style" of art is characterized by its delicate stucco decorations and detailed stone carvings. These elements are not merely decorative but also serve to convey religious narratives and royal power. The lintels, in particular, are masterfully crafted, often depicting scenes from Hindu mythology or royal ceremonies. The guardian lions at the temple's entrances are also iconic, symbolizing protection and authority.
While smaller and less imposing than later Angkorian masterpieces, Preah Ko's historical and artistic value is immense. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the foundational stages of Khmer temple architecture and art, providing crucial insights into the cultural and religious landscape of 9th-century Cambodia.
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