Preah Khan, Angkor

Preah Khan, which means Royal Sword, is one of the larger temples in the Angkor complex. Its layout is crowded and complex as it functioned not only as a temple, but as a Buddhist monastery and university with more than 1,000 monks.

History of Preah Khan

The temple was built in the late-12th century, completed in the year 1191, by King Jayavarman VII during his massive building campaign. This included the construction of Ta Prohm, Srah Srang and the huge walled city complex of Angkor Thom.

The temple’s layout is similar to Ta Prohm, and served a similar purpose around the same time. Preah Khan was dedicated to Jayavarman VII’s father, just as Ta Prohm was dedicated to his mother when it was built a few years earlier.

The temple complex consists of a series of rectangular galleries whic h are set around a Buddhist sanctuary. However, there are also a number of Hindu temples as well as additions which were added later.

How to Get There

Most commonly, visits to the temple start at the west entrance; you can then walk through the temple to emerge on the other side. The eastern approach causeway is much less crowded, it feels very lost in the jungle walking along the tree-lined approach to the temple.

Where is Preah Khan?

It is in the Angkor complex a few kilometres from Siem Reap.

Nearby Attractions

The temple is just to the north of Angkor Thom. This means that you can combine a visit here with the more popular temples in the Angkor complex, including Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm. It is easy to arrange a tuk tuk tour around the temples, or if you prefer you can always cycle, but if you do this take precautions against the heat.