Preah Khan

Overview

Preah Khan is a vast 12th-century temple complex built by Jayavarman VII in 1191, serving simultaneously as a Buddhist monastery, university, and small city. Its name means 'Sacred Sword', and it was dedicated to the king's father. The sprawling labyrinth of corridors, courtyards, and galleries remains partially unrestored.

Highlights

• Two-Storey Building: A unique circular-columned structure that may have housed the sacred sword or served as a library.
• Hall of Dancers: Rows of carved apsaras dance across the interior walls in a long gallery.
• Tree-Covered Ruins: Like Ta Prohm, sections of Preah Khan are dramatically overgrown, but with far fewer visitors.

History

Inscriptions record that Preah Khan supported 100,000 officials and servants across 5,324 villages. It functioned as a temporary capital while Angkor Thom was being rebuilt after the Cham invasion. The complex covers 56 hectares, making it one of the largest Angkorian structures.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Enter from the eastern gate for a quieter, more atmospheric approach through the forest.
• Tip 2: Allocate at least 90 minutes to explore the maze-like corridors without rushing.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.