Spectacular Preah Khan Temple, Angkor Complex
As someone who has had the privilege of visiting Preah Khan Temple in Cambodia, I can attest to the incredible beauty and rich history of this ancient complex. The intricate carvings on the walls, the towering stone pillars, and the sense of serenity and tranquility all around make it truly a unique and awe-inspiring destination.
Sometimes I wish I was an archaeologist and at Angkor Thom in Siem Reap, the desire got a bit stronger at Preah Khan Temple. So much has been unearthed but I am sure there is much more that is hidden!
We started our 3rd day of our Angkor Temple Trail with tour of Preah Khan Temple. There are 4 temples in Angkor Complex with names starting with Preah; they are
- Preah Palilay
- Preah Pithu
- Preah Ko
- Preah Khan
Among these Preah Khan Temple is the largest, the name translates to Sacred Sword Temple. (Preah word means Sacred.) I strongly recommend including Preah Khan Temple in your 1 day itinerary of Angkor complex.
West Entrance – Preah Khan Temple and the Sacred Khmer Sword – A Journey Through History and Culture
Mythological Snake held by giants on the bridge crossing the moat in Preah Khan Temple
Preah Khan Temple History
King Jayavarman VII built this temple in second half of 1th century, in 1191AD. He then dedicated this temple to his father Dharanindravarman. This complex of Buddhist temples, in an area of 56 hectares include Neak Pean and Ta Som. These temples are located along a huge reservoir Jayatataka Baray.
It is the same King Jayavarman VII who built the Ta Phrom Temple in memory of his mother Jayarajachudanami.
Walking through the ancient ruins of Preah Khan Temple, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and awe at the sheer scale and complexity of this incredible site. As I explored the intricate carvings and towering stone pillars, I found myself imagining what life must have been like during the temple’s heyday.
A stone inscription unearthed here states:
- An invocation to Lokeshvara and Prajnaparamita and also to the three jewels of Buddhism, namely the Buddha, the Dhamma or Buddhist teachings and the Sangha, the Buddhist community.
- The text praises Jayavarman VII, the King who built the temple.
- It also mentions that the King founded a city named Nagara Jayasri, which translates to “the City of the Sacred Sword”.
- The inscription also states that close to 100,000 people served the temple, including rice farmers, monks and dancers.
- It also lists the wealth of the temple, including silver, gold and gems.
- The temple was dedicated to 515 divinities. During the course of a year, 18 major festivals took place here, requiring a team of thousands just to maintain the place.
Image of Buddha in Preah Khan Temple
Despite the incredible amount of archaeological work that has been done at Preah Khan Temple and the other temples of the Angkor Complex, I couldn’t help but feel like there was so much more waiting to be discovered. It’s amazing to think about how much history and culture is still buried beneath the surface of these ancient ruins, just waiting to be unearthed by intrepid archaeologists and historians.
Dancing apsaras on Lintel
Half a Day Tour of Preah Khan Temple
The approach to Preah Khan Temple is very different from other temples of Angkor complex. We paused for a while at the beautiful moat teeming with lovely white lilies. Cross the moat walking through the bridge which is lined with giant figures holding the (mythological) snake.
After the moat you face this huge fortified wall that protects the entire complex of Preah Khan temple. Don’t ignore the garuda, a celestial creature, at the entrance. It is there for centuries quietly observing all who enter and exit.
Inside it is a mini forest, shaded by tall trees to some extent. You will then find a maze of corridors through towers, satellite temples, courtyards, halls, shrines! The central portion is bereft of roof and it can get quite hot here.
At the center is the main Buddhist sanctuary. Rectangular galleries go all around this sanctuary. Most of the corridors are filled with stones that were once the building block of this temple.
Sadly not much restoration work is done on this. At the eastern gate Giant ficus trees are slowly strangulating the temple walls and crushing it to rubble.
Galleries of Preah Khan Temple
One of the highlights of my visit was learning about the sacred Khmer Sword and its role in the temple’s construction. It was fascinating to hear the legends and stories surrounding this legendary weapon, and to see how it has become such an integral part of the temple’s cultural and historical significance.
Passage between satellite temples in Preah Khan complex
Spectacular Intricate Carvings
Observe carefully to notice that the eastern entrance is dedicated to Mahayana Buddhism with equal-sized doors. The other cardinal directions are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma with successively smaller doors, emphasizing the unequal nature of Hinduism. A knowledgeable guide too will tell you this.
It is believed that King Jayavarman VII was a devout Buddhist. He built the Preah Khan Temple as a Buddhist temple. However under Jayavarman VIII’s rule in 13th century most depictions of the Buddha were changed into praying Rishi figures.
The lintels and pediments have Vishnu, Krishna and Buddha images depicting a confluence of both religions. Entrance to the Western satellite temple is guarded by two huge Dvarapalas armed with a sword.
Preah Khan Temple is included in prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list.
Lintel with image of Reclining Vishnu
What struck me the most about Preah Khan Temple was the sense of timelessness it exudes! Despite the centuries that have passed since it was built, the temple remains a living testament to the ingenuity, creativity, and spirituality of the Khmer people.
It is a place that truly captures the essence of Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a unique and inspiring travel experience.
Route plan through the temple
Enter at the west gate near the main road, walk the length of the temple to the east gate. Then back to the central sanctuary and exit at north gate.
Seated Vishnu on Seat of coiled snake in Preah Khan Temple
Exploring Preah Khan Temple
There is no end to sculptures, statues, engraved images. The temple complex includes entryways, towers, ceremonial spaces, courtyards, shrines all connected with corridors. A very special feature of Preah Khan Complex is the two-storey pavilion.
Hard to believe from its present looks, but it is true that the sanctum sanctorum was once bronze plated. Also worthwhile is to spend some time among the sculpted damsels in Hall of Dancers.
During the construction of these temples it was common to include a hall for dancers in those days.
Do check out: Hall of Dancers – Banteay Kdei.
One can do some justice to this magnificent site by taking a hurried 2 hour long tour of Preah Khan temple through these corridors. But if you are a lover of ruins even 4 hours of loitering around here may seem less.
May be those who take 7 day ticket can plan to come back to the site to fall in love once more!
Two-storey pavilion Preah Khan Temple – Discovering the Rich Heritage of the Khmer People
Legend about Jayavarman VII
Preah Khan Temple was built in 1191 during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. Known as a warrior king, Jayavarman is celebrated for reconstructing the Khmer Empire after a period of fragmentation. His rise to power was not without obstacles, and here is short description from what I read in history.
In 1165, news of a rebellion reached him while he was residing in the Cham Kingdom. Although he rushed home, he was too late to stop the usurper Tribhuvanadityavarman from crowning himself King of the Khmers. Despite his powerlessness to interfere, Jayavarman waited patiently for an opportunity to strike back.
In 1177, the Cham kingdom sent an invasion force against the Khmer usurper, which was joined by native elements and eventually toppled him in a bloody campaign. The victorious Cham occupied Khmer territory as a foreign power, but their rule did not last long.
Jayavarman used his own private army to strike at the Cham forces, winning a spectacular naval battle on the Great Lake that crippled the Cham fleet. This opened the door to a wholesale invasion that not only drove out the foreign occupiers, but also struck against native kinglets that resisted his “liberation”.
Finally, in 1181, Jayavarman was confident enough to crown himself King, taking the reign title Jayavarman VII.
His remarkable military victories and leadership skills helped him to rebuild and expand the Khmer Empire. The construction of Preah Khan was just one of his many accomplishments that left a lasting legacy in Cambodian history.
Preah Khan Temple in Cambodia, Once a Self-Sustaining City
During his reign, the King Jayavarman VII commissioned the construction of Ta Prohm and Preah Khan temples as grand monuments of his rule. Preah Khan Temple was believed to have been built on the site where previous kings had kept their palaces, but it was much more than just a monastery.
I was astonished to know the temple complex was more like a city, encompassing an area of 56 hectares. The complex was self-sustaining, with around 100,000 farmers growing rice to feed the estimated 15,000 monks, teachers, and students who lived and studied within its walls. In addition to the main temple, Preah Khan also housed a hospital, rest house, and rice granary, among other subsidiary buildings.
At the heart of Preah Khan Temple was the central Buddhist temple featuring an image of Boddhisattva Lokeshrvara that was carved to resemble the King’s father. Surrounding the main statue were 282 sub-deities, including Khmer heroes and deceased officials.
Interestingly, even a statue of the former usurper-king was placed in front of the temple. This may seem peculiar, but it was a common belief among the Khmer people that all past kings, including usurpers, continued to guard the country even after death.
Another notable feature of the temple was the presence of free-standing statues flanking the gateways, which was a typical architectural detail of Jayavarman VII’s reign.
Hall of Dancing girls – Journey Through Time at Preah Khan Temple in Siem Reap
Tips to Tour
- Don’t confuse with identically named temple in Kampong Svay, located 100 km east of Angkor.
- Take a tuk tuk to this especially if you are on a single day ticket. Bike tour is a strict no then.
- Don’t miss the pair of trees with monstrous roots gripping the wall at the east gate.
- The two-storey structure in the temple grounds is most unique in whole of Angkor complex.
- The temple complex has lot of shade, you can visit mid-day.
FAQ about Preah Khan Temple Angkor
What is the history behind Preah Khan Temple?
This Temple was built in 1191 during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, who was known for reconstructing the Khmer Empire after a period of fragmentation. The temple was built as a Buddhist monastery and served as a center for education and worship.
How long does it take to explore Preah Khan Temple?
Exploring the Sacred Sword Temple can take anywhere from 1-2 hours depending on your pace and interest in the temple’s architecture and history.
What is the significance of the Khmer Sword?
The Khmer Sword, also known as the sacred sword, is a symbol of the Khmer people’s rich cultural heritage and their warrior traditions. It is believed to possess magical powers and is still used in traditional ceremonies today.
Is there an entry ticket to visit Preah Khan Temple?
There is no separate entry ticket to visit Preah Khan Temple. You have to buy the pass for Ankor Temples which allows entry to several temples in the complex. Read more: Entry Ticket to Angkor Wat.
What are some unique features of Preah Khan Temple?
The temple is known for its extensive corridors and complex network of buildings, which include shrines, courtyards, towers, ceremonial spaces, and libraries. The temple also features two-story pavilion, the once-bronze-plated sanctum sanctorum, its Hall of Dancers, intricate carvings and bas-reliefs that depict scenes from Buddhist mythology and the everyday life of the Khmer people.
Can I climb the temple for a better view?
Climbing on the temple structures is strictly prohibited for safety reasons and to preserve the temple’s fragile architecture. However, there are some raised platforms and staircases that offer a good view of the temple complex.
Parting Thoughts
For me, visiting the Sacred Sword Temple was a highlight of my trip to Southeast Asia. It was great knowing The Sacred Khmer Sword and the Marvelous Preah Khan Temple Complex. The trip gave me a newfound appreciation for the incredible cultural heritage of Cambodia and left me with a sense of wonder and curiosity that I will carry with me for years to come.
Overall, I can’t recommend a visit to Sacred Sword Temple enough. If you’re ever in the area, I highly recommend taking the time to explore this amazing temple and all of the other incredible temples around. It’s a place that left an indelible impression on me, and I know it will do the same for anyone who takes the time to explore its hidden wonders and learn about the sacred Khmer Sword.
Pin this for later
I find all four temples are so interesting. The designs are really breathtaking. The artisans who created and built them seem to be really talented. Such intricate designs.
I have never been to Cambodia yet , but Angkor is always been on my list- such a beautiful area to visit the different temples around and knowing the history behind each temple.
What a fabulously detailed post. I’ve not been to Cambodia, but Angkor is on my list. Thank you for drawing my attention to the Preah Khan Temple – I particularly enjoyed the carving of vishnu on a coiled snake. I can’t wait to one day visit for myself.
Thank you! This is the kind of blog people wanted to read.
Very informative and detailed. Awesome photos with a description, too! Among all countries in South East Asia, I haven’t been in Cambodia – after reading your posts, Id like to fly and see it in person!
The detail you provide is incredible. Wow! I remember visiting Preah Khan Temple without a tour guide and I certainly missed a lot of detail. I should have had you with me 🙂 There is so much to see and so much history. Thanks for breaking it down in a simple fashion. Great read. You have the makings of an archaeologist 🙂
Like you, sometimes I wish I had chosen to major in archaeology too. The history of these temples are intriguing and I’m sure you could spend a lifetime researching them. I’m amazed at how this ancient civilisation managed to produce such intricate carvings.
You should be actually an Archaeologist girl. The way you understand and write about the history and facts is just awesome. Loved your pictures and the intricate details of the carvings. Great writeup.
Cambodia is definitely on my wish list. I did not realize there were so many different temple spots. It is so fascinating to read that close to 100,000 people served the temple. But I guess when the temple is dedicated to 515 different divinities, I am sure there are a lot of people visiting. The site looks quite large. I am sure each nook was dedicated to someone different. Certainly a spot to visit.
This is included in my bucket list! I really want to have an Asian tour and visit this temple. It’s not only good in pictures but also rich in history. Thanks for the tips!
I love the intricacy of carvings that have been captured by you. So brilliant. The whole dancing Apsara to the details of the entrance… Makes me Want to get closer and examine more
I so can’t wait to visit Cambodia and explore the temples but I have to admit, I never heard of this temple but love to check it out. It looks so beautiful. I love wandering about and checking out ruins and the history of these sort of places.
I love the carving of the Giant hands holding the snake. The Preah Khan temple looks so stunning. What a shame about the giant ficus trees though – it always saddens me when something so wonderful is gradually being destroyed – even if it is by nature
This temple is so cool! It kind of reminds me of the one in the Jungle Book. I’d love to explore a place like this.
It would be so cool to be an archaeologist who discovered something like this. What a site to see! Love how this one was built for the king’s mother and then dedicated to divinities. So meaningful and loved learning about this place.
I have always wanted to visit Angkor Thom in Siem Reap, and your post is just wonderful. I’m sure it would take days and days to really feel like you’ve explored the whole complex. Your photographs of the amazing carvings in Preah Khan Temple are outstanding!
Your Pictures are saying lot of words . you mention – “The other cardinal directions are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma with successively smaller doors, emphasising the unequal nature of Hinduism. A knowledgeable guide too will tell you this.” But I read somewhere that king Jayaverman was very kind to Hindu mythology and he respect both religion Buddhism and Hinduism equally .
Thanks for sharing information.
One day I shall visit this complex.
Cambodia is in my list for long now 🙂
Great pics & info, Indrani.
wow what a beautiful temple. love the pictures.
This is definitely on my bucket list. I appreciate the breakdown. I would love to explore the Preah Khan temple. It looks so amazing.
fabulous historical place thanks to sharing
I don’t know how many days I will have to spend exploring Angkor Wat, when I do get there finally. It seems that not only are there numerous temples there, most of them are pretty awesome, one better than the other! Preah Khan temple also seems to be right up there with the others that you have written about earlier. So nice to read the history behind the temple and the inscriptions found there. Being an archaeologist would be a pretty cool job, I’d have to agree.
Someday I wish to see these ruins
I’m obsessed with archeology too, and I was friends with people who studied it whilst at University! So fascinating. I can only dream of seeing Angkor in person. Preah Kan is so beautiful, and I cannot believe how many people it used to serve.
What a detailed post! Angkor complex is so beautiful with lots of culture and history! Im so happy to see the pictures of all of these! Amazing history!
Angkor wat temple are so intricately sculptured. I often imagine the temples and people in its heydays and I am in a trance. It is also sad to visualize how everything was completely destroyed when people moved out of Angkor and the jungles took over each and every building.
I’m not quite sure if I’ve been in these temples when I visited Angkor Watt. Perhaps I did I just didn’t remember their names, all I know is so many amazing temples to see here! But Hall of Dancing girls in Preah Khan Temple is something that is quite familiar to me when I see the image above.
I felt like an archaeologist when I was there too. I could easily see Indiana Jones climbing around the buildings! The architecture itself is spectacular, but I also found the trees to be fascinating. To see how they are claiming the buildings just shows how powerful nature is.
Wow, 18 festivals? Definitely seems impressive. This isn’t on the ‘big circuit,’ is it? I visited many of the major temples at Angkor on the three-day ticket a few years ago, but I don’t remember this one at all. Seems like I missed out.
I’m always impressed looking at photos of this Temple, the detail is amazing. I see how it can feel surreal to be there. Great photos!
Preach Kan was one of my favorite sites in the Angkor Complex. It’s just so stunning and detailed. I also loved the trees taking over that gate on the other side. I loved reading even more of the history of this stunner. I had no idea that it was dedicated to 515 deities! So incredible! Thank you for sharing!
Another mindblowing temple from Angkor!
Loved the sculptures, especially that snake with multiple heads. We see it all the time in India but combined with their local style, it looks more fearsome.
Preah Kan Templs sounds really interesting and a temple I’d really love to explore one day. I am no religion expert, but it is interesting how it can merge two (2) religions in single temple seamlessly. I wonder how big the entire temple is as you’ve mentioned close to a 100,000 people served it during its glory days.. Just wow!
Very interesting to learn how the Buddha were changed to the Rishi figures! I love all those beautiful carvings etched into that magnificent architecture!
We started our one week in Angkor at the Preah Kahn Temple. I remember that it was not crowded at all and we ended up staying there for several hours. Our private guide kept explaining the historical background to us, and we kept taking photos of the sculptures. I did my Master thesis on Greek sculptures, but knew nothing about the Khmer history and stylistic styles. Felt so bad! haha…
Honestly one of my fav temples i have ever seen in my life! was there at night during the Khmer new year and it was incredibly!
Sacred Sword, what a great name for a temple! These carvings are amazing, I especially like the dancing apsaras and Reclining Vishnu.
I have just realized how vast the Angkor complex is and that it can take 7 days to get just an appreciation if it. I hope I can visit Cambodia soon and see this temple where trees are grappling with history.
Loved reading about the history. Can’t believe it takes a team of a thousand to get it ready for festivals! This place looks stunning and I love the intricacy of the carvings. Great tips!
Amazing temple.
Glad to know about this lovely temple. All return from Angkor Wat as semi archaeologists. 😉