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Discovering Preah Ko: History, Architecture, & How to Visit
Located in Cambodia's Angkor Archaeological Park, around 20km from Angkor Wat, Preah Ko Temple is a remarkable archaeological site brimming with history and intricate artistry. Built in 879 AD as part of the now defunct Hariharalaya capital, it’s often overshadowed by Angkor Wat but holds equal importance as the first royal temple of the great Khmer Empire.
Preah Ko's nickname, “Sacred Bull,” comes from the famous sandstone Nandi statues guarding the site. These statues stand majestically at the entrance of the temple complex, as symbols of strength and devotion to the Hindu god Shiva.
This guide, from our personal experience and research, explores Preah Ko's history, the legend behind the temple, travel tips, and handy information like opening times and ticket prices to help you make the most of your visit. Let's get to it!
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Our Preah Ko Highlights
One of the biggest standout highlights for us was the peaceful ambience of Preah Ko compared to to Angkor’s busier temples. Having spent our first few days at Angkor Wat, it was a welcome change! Although we are not quite sure why, given the age and prestige of this place.
The beautifully carved sandstone here comes with all of the divine figures and floral motifs synonymous with Khmer architecture. The six central towers are dedicated to the royal ancestors of King Indravarman I, and when wandering through them they really do exude an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue. It definitely felt spiritual here; there was a calming energy that seemed to encourage thought and reflection.
While most of the hype surrounding Preah Ko is focused on the Nandi bull statues, which are indeed magnificent, the biggest memory we will have of our visit here is the peace and meaning of this sacred place. You really do feel it, like deep down inside. The close quarters of the towers, their intricate designs and the orientation towards the sun was clearly well-thought out.
Then of course there is the legend behind the temple, wonderfully told by our guide. It is the the story of two brothers, Preah Ko (the Sacred Bull) and Preah Keo (the Sacred Gem), who possessed mystical powers and brought prosperity to their kingdom. Preah Ko was believed to be an incarnation of Nandi, the sacred bull of Shiva, and his belly contained precious objects. The brothers' adventures included encounters with royalty, magical transformations, and acts of courage and sacrifice.
Sacred and historic sites are always a huge attraction to us on our travels, especially when they come with a good story, which of course they usually tend to. The story of Preah Ko and his brother is particularly interesting as it literally was the precursor to the rise of the Khmer Empire. It adds that extra bit of magic to this temple, and one which made our time here that much more special.
Oh and as an added bonus, opposite Preah Ko temple, is a small but impactful leather carving establishment which houses a superb miniature replica model of Angkor Wat. It was fascinating to check out this pretty special model, especially having visited the temple itself just a day prior! Along with learning all about leather carving too, and the incredible impact this form of art has had on Cambodian society. See more about this tradition in the next section.
We visited over a dozen temples during our time in Siem Reap, and from our experience we would highly recommend visiting Preah Ko. If you have limited time or options, you would not be disappointed with making the trip out here. Whether you are in it for the history, the story, the intricate architecture or even just the photo opportunities, this one is definitely worth it.
Leather Carving in Cambodia
Cambodian leather carving is a traditional art form that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia. This craft involves the meticulous process of designing and carving intricate patterns and images into leather, often depicting themes from Cambodian history, mythology, and nature. The artisans use various tools to create detailed works that are both functional and decorative.
⪢ Historical Context
The history of leather carving in Cambodia has been influenced by various factors, including the country's tumultuous past, particularly during the Khmer Rouge regime. This period was marked by severe oppression and a devastating loss of cultural heritage. Many artisans and craftsmen suffered, and traditional skills were often lost or suppressed.
⪢ Revival of the Art
In recent years, efforts have been made to revive and promote traditional crafts, including leather carving. Notable initiatives are stores and galleries like the one located opposite Preah Ko. This establishment was opened with the dual purpose of teaching the art of leather carving and providing support to individuals who suffered under the Khmer Rouge.
⪢ Mission and Impact
The gallery serves as a platform for artisans to learn and practice leather carving, helping to restore their livelihoods and cultural identity. By providing training and resources, the initiative aims to empower those affected by the Khmer Rouge, fostering both economic independence and a sense of community. The products created are not only beautiful works of art but also carry stories of resilience and hope.
The History of Preah Ko: Cambodia's First Angkor Temple
Preah Ko, meaning "Sacred Bull," holds a special place in the history of Cambodia as the first temple constructed during the rise of the Khmer Empire. Built in 879 AD under King Indravarman I, the temple was part of Hariharalaya, the empire’s capital before the famed Angkor Thom. Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, Preah Ko served as a tribute to the king's royal ancestors.
Its six brick towers symbolize this ancestral connection, with three front towers devoted to male ancestors and three rear towers honoring female ancestors. Intricately adorned with carvings of deities, floral patterns, and mythical creatures, the temple’s architectural design reflects the early evolution of Khmer artistry.
One of the defining features of Preah Ko is its name, which originates from the sandstone statues of Nandi - the sacred bull and Shiva’s mount - placed prominently at the entrance. These statues not only symbolize devotion to Shiva but also give the temple its serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Preah Ko is notable for introducing stylistic elements that would later define the grandeur of Angkor temples, including decorative lintels and inscriptions in ancient Khmer script, which provide insight into the religious and cultural practices of the time. Despite its age, the temple has retained much of its original charm, standing as a testament to the early ingenuity of Khmer architects.
As one of the temples in the Roluos Group, Preah Ko paved the way for the construction of iconic monuments like Angkor Wat, making it a must-visit for those interested in the origins of the Khmer Empire.
⪢ The Khmer Empire: An Overview
The Khmer Empire was one of Southeast Asia's most powerful and influential civilizations, flourishing between the 9th and 15th centuries. Centered in present-day Cambodia, the empire's influence extended into modern-day Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. It is best known for its incredible architectural achievements, particularly the construction of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world.
The Khmer Empire was deeply rooted in Hinduism and later Buddhism, which shaped its art, architecture, and culture. Kings were considered divine rulers, often commissioning massive temple complexes to honor deities and solidify their spiritual and political authority. The empire's prosperity was largely built on an advanced irrigation system that allowed for the cultivation of rice, supporting a large population and enabling significant economic and cultural growth.
At its height, the Khmer Empire was a hub of innovation, producing intricate stone carvings, monumental temples, and detailed inscriptions that provide a glimpse into their sophisticated society. However, the empire declined in the 15th century due to factors like invasions, shifts in trade routes, and environmental challenges. Despite its fall, the legacy of the Khmer Empire endures through the magnificent ruins of Angkor, which continue to captivate the world.
Tips for Visiting Preah Ko and the Angkor Site
⪢ What to Wear
Respectful attire (covering your shoulders and knees) is not openly required here, as is the case with most of the temples in Angkor. That being said, it is worth bringing a cover-up just to be on the safe side.
⪢ Essentials
Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes, as there is little to no shade on this particular site.
⪢ Photography
Early visits offer the best natural lighting and fewer crowds for photos. We also recommend heading to the back of the temple, where the platform is higher than ground level. It is a great spot for photos like the thumbnail of this post, especially if you can catch the sun in-between the towers.
⪢ Pairing with Nearby Temples
Visit nearby Bakong and Lolei for a comprehensive exploration of the 'Roluos Group' of Hariharalaya temples. Find out more here.
Entry Fee to Preah Ko Temple
The entry fee for the Preah Ko Temple is included in the ticket for the Angkor Archaeological Park. All visitors to the Angkor site must present this pass, at various checkpoints throughout the site. There is no separate entrance fee to visit the temple.
● 1 Day Pass: $37 USD
● 3 Day Pass: $62 USD
● 7 Day Pass: $72 USD
Prices shown are in US Dollars. Convert your currency here. Prices are correct at time of writing (Jan 2025). Please check the official website below for the most up-to-date information.
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Preah Ko Opening Times
Preah Ko is open daily from 7:30am to 5:30pm, with last entry at around 5pm.
The general rule of thumb is from sunrise to sunset, so these times can shift around a little throughout the course of the year.
Best Time to Visit Preah Ko / Angkor
The best time to visit the Siem Reap in general is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April.
⪢ Cool Season (November to February)
This is the peak tourist season in Cambodia. The weather is relatively mild, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. It's an excellent time to explore without being overwhelmed by the heat. However, do keep in mind that this is the busiest time for tourism, so expect larger crowds.
⪢ Hot Season (March to April)
During these months, the weather starts getting hotter, and temperatures can soar, especially in April. While it's not as crowded as the cool season, the scorching heat might make outdoor exploration less comfortable for you.
⪢ Rainy Season (June–October)
Although Cambodia's rainy season, generally from May to October, features heavy rain showers and high humidity, it isn't deemed "bad" for the majority of travelers since the rain typically occurs in brief intervals, providing flexibility for planning activities, and the lush landscape during this period is often seen as appealing. However, the most intense rain tends to be in August and September, which might cause some disruption to outdoor plans.
⪢ Avoid Peak Heat Times
Peak afternoon heat, usually anytime between 12pm and 3pm, is the hottest part of any given day here in Siem Reap. Even Tuk-Tuk drivers tend to hold back on working at this time due to the heat. Try to stick to early mornings for exploring temples. Evenings are okay too, but bear in mind most temples do close at 5pm.
How to Get to Preah Ko
Preah Ko is located approximately 13 km southeast of Siem Reap in the Roluos Royal Group of temples. There are several transport options available:
By Tuk-Tuk
By Bicycle
⪢ Consider Taking a Tour
One of the most popular ways to visit Preah Ko is by tour. Check out a host of different options with Get Your Guide, including combos with other nearby temples, fishing villages and lake tours. You can also find a host of other tours and tickets for all of the major Angkor sites.
No matter where your travels take you, Get Your Guide offers the best way to connect with your destination! Book your tickets here.
⪢ Easily Find Hotels in Siem Reap and Beyond
Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com.
Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
Other Must-See Temples Near Preah Ko
⪢ Bakong Temple
Known as the first temple mountain of the Khmer Empire, Bakong is a pyramid-style temple that represents Mount Meru, the sacred mountain in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. Its impressive central tower and surrounding moat make it a striking and historically significant site.
⪢ Lolei Temple
Built in 893 AD, Lolei features brick towers adorned with detailed inscriptions and carvings. Though partially in ruins, it offers a glimpse into the early artistic development of Khmer temple architecture.
⪢ Angkor Wat
The crown jewel of the Angkor Archaeological Park, Angkor Wat is a massive temple complex dedicated to Vishnu. Famous for its grand scale, intricate bas-reliefs, and stunning sunrise views, it’s a must-visit for any traveler to Cambodia.
⪢ Banteay Srei
Located further away but worth the trip, Banteay Srei is a small temple known for its pink sandstone and remarkably intricate carvings. Often referred to as the “jewel of Khmer art,” its detailed artistry is unmatched.
FAQs About Visiting Preah Ko
How Long Should I Spend at Preah Ko?
Allocate 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the site and admire its details.
Can I Visit Preah Ko Without an Angkor Pass?
Is Preah Ko Crowded?
Are There Any Amenities Nearby?
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Your FREE Interactive Map of Cambodia
Check out all of the places we visited in Cambodia courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more.
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