Preah Khan, Siem Reap
Preah Khan, located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is a remarkable temple complex within the Angkor archaeological site. Constructed in the 12th century under the reign of King Jayavarman VII, Preah Khan was built as a dedication to the king's father. This magnificent temple stands northeast of Angkor Thom and is situated just west of the Jayatataka baray, a reservoir connected to it.
Preah Khan served as the focal point of a significant administrative and religious organization. It employed an extensive workforce consisting of approximately 100,000 officials and servants. This vast infrastructure highlights the temple's importance and influence during its heyday.
The architectural design of Preah Khan is characterized by its expansive, flat layout. The temple follows a fundamental plan comprising successive rectangular galleries surrounding a central Buddhist sanctuary. However, the temple's layout is further enriched by the presence of Hindu satellite temples and various later additions, which add complexity and diversity to its overall structure.
One notable feature of Preah Khan is its current state of preservation. Similar to its neighboring temple, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan has been intentionally left largely unrestored. As a result, the site is a captivating blend of ancient ruins and nature's reclamation. Trees, vegetation, and moss have gracefully intertwined with the temple's stone structures, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that evokes a sense of mystery and timelessness.
Visitors can witness the temple's integration with the surrounding natural environment. Strolling through the temple's corridors and courtyards, visitors can marvel at the intricate stone carvings, exquisite lintels, and impressive gateways that reflect the artistic and architectural achievements of the Khmer Empire.
While some areas of Preah Khan have undergone limited restoration efforts, the site predominantly retains its authentic, weathered appearance. This approach preserves the historical integrity of the temple while allowing visitors to witness the effects of centuries of nature's gentle reclamation.
Preah Khan served as the focal point of a significant administrative and religious organization. It employed an extensive workforce consisting of approximately 100,000 officials and servants. This vast infrastructure highlights the temple's importance and influence during its heyday.
The architectural design of Preah Khan is characterized by its expansive, flat layout. The temple follows a fundamental plan comprising successive rectangular galleries surrounding a central Buddhist sanctuary. However, the temple's layout is further enriched by the presence of Hindu satellite temples and various later additions, which add complexity and diversity to its overall structure.
One notable feature of Preah Khan is its current state of preservation. Similar to its neighboring temple, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan has been intentionally left largely unrestored. As a result, the site is a captivating blend of ancient ruins and nature's reclamation. Trees, vegetation, and moss have gracefully intertwined with the temple's stone structures, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that evokes a sense of mystery and timelessness.
Visitors can witness the temple's integration with the surrounding natural environment. Strolling through the temple's corridors and courtyards, visitors can marvel at the intricate stone carvings, exquisite lintels, and impressive gateways that reflect the artistic and architectural achievements of the Khmer Empire.
While some areas of Preah Khan have undergone limited restoration efforts, the site predominantly retains its authentic, weathered appearance. This approach preserves the historical integrity of the temple while allowing visitors to witness the effects of centuries of nature's gentle reclamation.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Siem Reap. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Preah Khan on Map
Sight Name: Preah Khan
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Religious
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Religious
Walking Tours in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Create Your Own Walk in Siem Reap
Creating your own self-guided walk in Siem Reap is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Siem Reap Introduction Walking Tour
As the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap holds within its bounds an extraordinary blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Angkor Thom Walking Tour
Nestled within the sprawling landscape of Siem Reap, Angkor Thom stands as a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and artistic expression. Built during the late 12th century by the Khmer King Jayavarman VII, this expansive city served as the capital of the Khmer Empire. Jayavarman VII's vision was to create a city that embodied the spiritual and cultural essence of the empire. Enclosed... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles