Ta Keo Temple: the Unfinished Wonder in Angkor Cambodia
My visit to Ta Keo Temple was serendipitous, a happy detour during my exploration of the Angkor temples. Ta Keo isn’t often highlighted in the “must-see” lists of Angkor, yet this massive, awe-inspiring structure made of sturdy sandstone caught my attention as we passed by. Rising impressively from the surrounding forest, Ta Keo’s unfinished silhouette seemed to beckon, and I knew we had to stop and explore.
Despite its modest reputation, this colossal monument holds an undeniable presence. As we approached, the temple’s grandeur and silence seemed almost to tell its own story—a temple that had witnessed history but remained incomplete, forever frozen in time. I’m grateful we answered its call and took the time to uncover its quiet magnificence, even if only for a brief visit.
History of Ta Keo Temple in Angkor
Ta Keo Temple is one of the oldest and most significant temples in the Angkor region. It dates back to the late 10th century AD; construction began around 975 AD under the reign of King Jayavarman V. The mammoth size makes it a monumental representation of Mount Meru, the sacred five-peaked mountain at the center of Hindu cosmology. Mount Meru is considered the home of the gods, and its depiction in Ta Keo emphasizes the temple’s importance in embodying cosmic and divine symbolism.
The temple’s present name, Ta Keo, comes from inscriptions discovered on-site, where it is referred to as Hema Sringagiri, or the mountain with golden peaks. This title reflects the temple’s intended grandeur and spiritual significance. Originally, Ta Keo was dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and transformation, who was revered as the supreme deity by King Jayavarman V and his predecessors.
Tragically, King Jayavarman V passed away before the temple’s completion, leaving it unfinished. Construction resumed under subsequent kings, including Jayaviravarman and Suryavarman I, who took the throne in the early 11th century. King Suryavarman I, renowned for expanding the Khmer Empire, took a unique approach to the incomplete structure by gifting it to a high-ranking Hindu priest, Yogisvara Pandita, around 1010 AD. This act marked the temple as a spiritual center for devotees and religious scholars, although it remained in its incomplete form.
The temple is unique in its minimalist design, a departure from the elaborate carvings that adorn other temples in Angkor. This lack of decoration could be due to the sudden halt in construction, leaving the stone surfaces unadorned and smooth. Its architectural style is an early example of the “Khmer temple-mountain” format, with a five-tiered pyramid rising to a central shrine, symbolizing Mount Meru.
Ta Keo stands approximately 22 m tall, with its highest point overlooking the surrounding jungle. The temple’s tiers create a steep, almost formidable climb to the top, which symbolizes the challenging journey toward spiritual ascension.
Today, visitors can experience the grandeur and architectural innovation of this historical structure while pondering the mysteries of its unfinished state.
Unfinished Wonder – TaKeo
Legend of Unfinished Ta Keo Temple
The story of Ta Keo Temple’s incomplete state is steeped in legend. According to Khmer folklore,
a bolt of lightning struck one of Ta Keo’s central towers while construction was still underway. In the ancient world, lightning was often seen as a powerful message from the gods, and this unexpected strike was interpreted as a bad omen—a sign that the gods were displeased or that misfortune would follow if construction continued. Fearful of the consequences, the labourers and craftsmen abandoned their work, leaving Ta Keo in its unfinished form,
which earned it the name The Unfinished Masterpiece.
The legend only adds to the temple’s mystery and aura. Unlike other temples in Angkor that are richly decorated with intricate carvings, Ta Keo’s sandstone blocks remain unadorned, their surfaces bare and smooth. Some historians suggest that this stark simplicity may also reflect the halted construction efforts, though the temple’s minimalist style has a beauty all its own.
In addition to the folklore, practical challenges may have contributed to the temple’s incompletion. The sheer scale and complexity of Ta Keo’s design would have required immense resources and time to complete.
Whatever the case, the temple’s unfinished state adds to its mystique, making it a unique structure among the temples of Angkor—a silent, towering monument forever touched by both history and myth.
Ta Keo Temple – Architectural Wonder
Entering Ta Keo Temple is a journey back in time, beginning with the east-facing main entrance, where visitor tickets are checked. From here, a pathway lined with history and myth leads to the temple, which is surrounded by what once was a grand moat, measuring 255 m by 195 m. Though the moat is now dry, it is still easy to imagine its reflective waters that added to the temple’s majesty in its prime.
The structure of Ta Keo is defined by steep, towering staircases that connect its various levels, ultimately leading to the main temple atop the central platform.
The outer enclosure, raised and measuring 112 m by 106 m, is bound by a sturdy wall made of laterite and sandstone, a common yet durable choice for Khmer architecture. This outer wall is punctuated with pockmarks, adding a textured, timeworn appearance that amplifies the ancient atmosphere of the site. Ascending further, you reach the inner enclosure, which measures 80 mby 75 m and offers a closer view of the central pyramid.
Within this enclosure, four gopuras (gate towers), now in a shambled state, sit atop the platform, marking each cardinal direction. These gopuras would have once served as stately entranceways, but today, they bear the marks of centuries of exposure. A closer inspection of the platform reveals faint, worn designs etched into the stones, some of which are covered with a thin layer of dead black moss, adding to the aura of age and abandonment.
At the very center rises the main temple structure, a striking central pyramid that is approximately 14 m above the second enclosure. The temple pyramid itself stands at a total height of around 21.5 m from the ground, making it a towering testament to Khmer engineering and religious devotion. Despite its unfinished state, the scale and ambition of Ta Keo Temple stand as an enduring marvel of Angkor’s architectural achievements.
Pock marked sandstone wall holding the second enclosure of Ta Keo Temple in Angkor
Tour of Ta Keo Temple in Angkor
Take one step at a time—this phrase takes on new meaning at TaKeo Temple, where ascending its series of steep staircases feels both physically and spiritually invigorating. Ta Keo is a temple of steps, each layer revealing a new dimension of its architectural grandeur and ancient heritage.
The best time to visit is early morning, when the soft light enhances the natural hues of the sandstone and the day’s heat hasn’t yet set in. Come prepared with plenty of water and comfortable shoes, as Ta Keo offers little shade compared to temples like Banteay Kdei or Ta Prohm. Here, the open sky complements the open-air structure, making the climb all the more exhilarating.
South Entrance and First Ascent
Start your journey on the south side, where the initial staircase, though short, sets the tone for the ascent ahead. A few steps in, you reach the temple’s fourth layer from the top, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding grounds. The path continues with a set of narrow foothold stairs that lead into the temple interior. While steep, these stairs offer an authentic way to experience the original, intended flow of movement through the temple. However, if the climb feels daunting, you can bypass this section by taking the eastward path.
Following the eastern path brings you to long galleries flanking the grand east gopura, or entrance gate. Here, you’ll discover intricately carved doorways that display Khmer craftsmanship at its finest. The three entrances of this gopura are adorned with faded yet elegant carvings that tell ancient stories and celebrate Khmer artistry.
Exploring the Eastern Galleries
Within these galleries, photo opportunities abound. The balustered windows are particularly captivating, creating photogenic frames that capture both the stone’s beauty and the jungle beyond. These windows, with their fine details and carved stone bars, are both functional and decorative, adding elegance to the temple’s otherwise robust design.
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- 4th level from top, entrance from south gate, turn eastwards
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- Long Gallery
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- Windows of Gallery
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- East Gopura as seen from 3rd level from top
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- Inside the gallery
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- Intricate carvings on East Gopura
Inner Enclosure and Second Ascent
From here, a new staircase leads up to the third layer from the top—the inner enclosure of Ta Keo. This level brings you face-to-face with the central pyramid, a powerful sight that symbolizes the peak of Mount Meru. At this point, you encounter a lone, kneeling statue of Nandi, Shiva’s bull, worn down by centuries but still revered. A garland of small bells, carefully placed around Nandi’s neck, is a subtle yet touching reminder of the temple’s Hindu origins. The presence of Nandi, along with other artifacts, attests to the devotion that once filled these stone corridors.
On either side of the inner enclosure stand the temple’s libraries. Though in ruins, these libraries still echo the intellectual pursuits and spiritual learning that would have been housed within their walls centuries ago. It’s humbling to imagine the knowledge that might have once passed through this sacred space.
Galleries and Remnants of the Roof
As you explore further, you’ll notice two shorter galleries extending at the temple’s far ends. Upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that these galleries have missing roofs. Historians believe the original roofs may have been crafted from wood or tiles, materials that have likely decayed over time. Their absence gives an added perspective on the temple’s structure and construction challenges.
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- Intricate carvings on one of the panles in the wall of 1st enclosure
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- …ruins
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- Library in the 3rd level from top
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- The roof less long galleries
You still have energy left in you? Climb one more flight of stairs to 2nd level. This platform was hardly negotiable when we landed there. Major repair work was on in this floor.
Scattered building blocks and construction materials obstructed the easy walk. This was in May 2017. Hopefully, now the space is all clear and more majestic after all that effort by them.
This platform has 4 towers at the cardinal points. Not much art work is seen on their facades. It is evident that construction has been left incomplete.
Peak of Pyramid
Finally, one more flight of stairs and you are at the main shrine, the peak of the pyramid. This is again not a highly decorated structure. Inside there are idols of Buddha. Fresh garlands, burning incense sticks and offerings indicate that people still come to pray here.
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- The temple at the center
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- Buddha idols inside main temple
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- View from 1st level of the temple
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- ruins
Tour Time of Ta Keo Temple in Angkor
The entire tour can be done in 30 to 45 minutes. Since there are not many intricate designs on the walls or facades photographing the temple doesn’t take much time.
Open Timings and Best Time to Visit
The temple is open from 7 AM to 5.30 PM.
Is Ta Keo Cambodia worth visiting?
Here are some compelling reasons why Ta Keo Temple is worth a visit:
Unique Unfinished Design: Ta Keo stands out for its minimalist, unfinished design, setting it apart from the highly ornate temples in Angkor. Its smooth, undecorated sandstone blocks give it an aura of mystery and a distinctive beauty.
Legend of the Lightning Strike: According to local legend, the temple was abandoned after a lightning strike during construction, which was seen as an ill omen. This legend adds an element of intrigue, making it known as the “Unfinished Masterpiece.”
Photo Opportunities: From the striking central pyramid to the balustered windows and long galleries, Ta Keo offers unique photo opportunities that capture its minimalist charm and the surrounding lush landscape.
Historical Libraries: The remnants of the temple’s libraries, located within the inner enclosure, provide a fascinating look at the intellectual and spiritual pursuits that would have taken place here centuries ago.
Rare Hindu Iconography: The lone Nandi statue in the inner enclosure is one of the few remaining Hindu symbols, a rare piece of evidence of the temple’s original dedication to Lord Shiva.
Lone Nandi… a proof that this was once a Hindu Temple
Travel Tips for Ta Keo Temple
- Best time to visit Ta Keo would be early in the morning. A visit late in the afternoon can be rewarding, especially because you can witness the setting sun and the green forest cover.
- Wear good shoes with grip, the steps are narrow in width and bit worn out and smooth at some places.
- Ta Keo does not have facilities such as restrooms or food vendors within its grounds. It’s advisable to bring your own water and snacks and plan rest stops at other nearby temples or designated rest areas.
- Study the plan of the Ta Keo temple in Angkor. It helps to navigate your way through the temple faster.
- Must see temple in your 3 day temple tour ticket in Angkor.
FAQ on TaKeo Temple, Angkor, Siem Reap
What is Ta Keo Temple, and why is it famous?
Ta Keo Temple is one of the oldest and largest temples in the Angkor region, dating back to the 10th century. It’s known for its grand, unfinished structure, steep staircases, and minimalist design, which make it a unique part of the Angkor complex. The temple’s incomplete state, attributed to an ancient legend, has earned it the nickname “The Unfinished Masterpiece.”
Where is TaKeo Temple located?
Ta Keo Temple is located in the Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap, Cambodia. It’s about 2.5 km northeast of Angkor Wat and is easily accessible by tuk-tuk or bicycle from other major temples within the complex.
How do I get to Ta Keo Temple?
You can reach Ta Keo by hiring a tuk-tuk or renting a bicycle or e-bike, which are popular ways to explore the Angkor temples. Many travellers visit it as part of the “small circuit” tour that includes other nearby temples.
What is the best time to visit TaKeo Temple?
The best time to visit Ta Keo is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Early mornings also provide softer lighting for photography and a quieter experience before the temple area becomes busier.
Is there an entrance fee for Ta Keo Temple?
Access to Ta Keo is included in the Angkor Pass, which covers entry to the entire Angkor Archaeological Park. The pass is available in 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day options and can be purchased at the official ticket counters.
How high is Ta Keo Temple?
The main temple pyramid stands about 21.5m above ground level, making it one of the taller structures within the Angkor complex. Climbing to the top offers rewarding views of the surrounding jungle and temple complex.
Are there carvings or decorations at Ta Keo Temple?
Unlike many other Angkor temples, Ta Keo is known for its minimalist design and lack of elaborate carvings. The smooth, undecorated sandstone surfaces give it a unique appearance, adding to its aura of mystery.
How challenging is the climb up Ta Keo Temple?
Ta Keo Temple’s staircases are known for being steep and narrow, requiring caution when ascending and descending. The climb can be physically demanding, so it’s important to wear sturdy shoes and take your time, especially if visiting during the hotter parts of the day.
Are there photo opportunities at TaKeo Temple?
Yes! Ta Keo offers many unique photo opportunities, from the impressive outer staircases and gopuras (gate towers) to the panoramic views from the top level. The temple’s balustered windows and minimalist design also make for intriguing shots.
What is the significance of the lone Nandi statue in Ta Keo?
The worn statue of Nandi, Shiva’s sacred bull, located in the inner enclosure, is a rare remaining symbol of Ta Keo’s original dedication to the Hindu god Shiva. The statue also serves as a reminder of the temple’s Hindu origins, before many Angkor temples transitioned to Buddhist worship.
How much time should I allocate to visit Ta Keo Temple?
Allow at least 30 to 45 minutes to explore Ta Keo Temple. However, if you wish to climb to the top, take photos, and enjoy the views, plan for a little over an hour.
Is Ta Keo Temple crowded?
Ta Keo Temple is less crowded compared to other popular temples like Angkor Wat or Ta Prohm, as it’s not always included on must-see lists. This makes it a more peaceful stop, especially if visited early in the morning.
Why is Ta Keo Temple known as The Unfinished Masterpiece?
Yes, according to legend, Ta Keo was struck by lightning during construction, which was seen as a bad omen. The temple was then abandoned in an unfinished state, adding to its mystique and the nickname “The Unfinished Masterpiece.” Some historians also believe that the temple’s immense scale and resource demands contributed to its incomplete state.
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These photos are beautiful. You’ve captured the raw beauty of these temples in your photos. Makes me want to go to Cambodia
I have always wanted to visit Cambodia for all its architecture and history. Being a history professor too now, I particularly liked the legend you mentioned – that people abandoned the temple when lightning struck and considered it as a bad omen. If you see most architectural wonders in the world – they all have been abandoned and moved on with due to superstitions in various gods of nature and omens that make less sense today – but were of great value and belief then.
I remember asking the same question. How many steps and how many more temples? Having said that we enjoyed each of them thoroughly and Ta Keo was no exception. We missed seeing the inscription Hema Sringagiri . It must have been in Sanskrit or Pali. I like your detailed info on these temples 🙂
I think I saw Ta Keo on one of my two visits to Angkor! Man, there’s so much to see there that I forgot all the amazing things I’ve laid my eyes one. Definitely one of my favourite places on the planet!
I love it that you made a point of visiting all the temples in Angkor even the least visited and famous like Ta Keo, I had not even heard of it, as you guessed, despite having been to Angkor 4 times. Angkor has so many gems, this is just another testimony to its grandeur
So beautiful! I missed the Ta Keo Temple when I visited Angkor a few years back. The Angkor complex is so large it is easy to miss out on some of the best temples that most tourists overlook. Good recommendation on a 3 day pass as well. It really takes at least a couple of days to see more than just the top-visited temples. Can’t wait to go back and discover more!
I remember visiting this temple 15 years ago and fantastic that it hasn’t changed and deteriorated into the environment. I’m glad they kept it the way it is in its current condition.
I loved my visit to Angkor, as the architecture was so fascinating! I could have wandered there for hours! And you’re right to caution people to wear good shoes. Regular flip flips just aren’t a good idea!
Amazing place! The architecture is superb! I cant believe only a few people have been writing about this! This is a must see!
I love temples like this, I would really love to visit here someday. I just simply love the architecture and the library is such an amazing piece of architecture as featured in your post. I really wonder how smart and bright are they centuries ago. Thanks for sharing this post! I learned something new again.
I LOVED it here! I got to explore this temple and many other during the Cambodian new year and I was blown away. The temples are all open at night during the new year so we explored the day and night temples, it was a great time. Thank you for bringing back such wonderful memories.
My husband and I wanted to visit the Angkor temples for a long time, so I’m always excited to read about them. I wonder if lightning was the real reason why Ta Keo Temple was abandoned. I can’t believe that these people put so much work into building this masterpiece and then just decided to leave it unfinished because the thought it was possessed by an evil spirit.
Maybe it was all the Hollywood movies I grew up on but temples like this just thrill me. I so hope it’s restored carefully without losing the wonderful black moss patina. What a wonderful part of Angkor to explore. Thank you for all the details. My walking shoes are ready.
The more I read the stories about all temples in Angkor Wat, on your blog, the more I feel like I want to visit! It’s so interesting to read that the temple’s construction was never completed because it was struck by a bolt of lightening and that was regarded as a bad omen! Good tips on wearing strong and good drip shoes because of excess walking on stones. Can’t wait to get to Angkor wat myself!
It’s just beautiful. The more I read, the more I want to visit this part of the world. I have never been here, although I’ve read a lot about the Angkor temples and have seen many pictures and fils. but nothing substitues for the real thing – thanks for giving me such an education!
Love your series on the Angkir Wat temples. They are so fascinating, The Ka Teo temple is indeed a timeless wonder. Wondering about its history and the stories that the stone structure hides in its folds. I was really awestruck by the idol of the Buddha. Its colourful presence stands out starkly against the grey stones.
You’re right, I haven’t heard of Ta Keo Temple in Angkor, but as one of the oldest temples I would be sure not to miss it. So interesting to hear that superstitions at the time made them abandon it because of lightning – you wonder how much of the world would be left abandoned if that thought process was the same everywhere! It really does look like quite the Architectural Wonder. Thanks for the tip on visiting early in the morning 🙂
I’ve visited the temples in Siem Reap a few times, but there’s always so much more to explore. I’m always amazed at how BIG everything is. The steps are as precarious as you say, one step a time is almost too fast! Getting struck by lightning is a good sign to give up if I ever heard one.
We haven’t made it to Cambodia (yet!), but it’s on my wish list! I can’t believe Ta Keo isn’t as popular as the rest of the sites, as it looks incredible! I love the Khemer legend – it’s so fascinating (and a good reason why it’s not finished!). I really enjoyed scrolling through your gallery and seeing the detail. I bet it looks amazing at sunset!
Thank you for sharing the photos. They’re beautiful. It looks like a lovely place to visit.
I love peeping into the bygone eras and exploring the ruins is something that really fascinates me. The temple looks beautiful even in its unfinished ruins. Love the intriguing carvings and beautiful architecture. Hope to visit this fascinating wonder someday. 🙂
Your photos do justice to this ancient ruin. Thanks for such a detailed post and the useful tips. I would definitely make a mental note of this, whenever I do visit Angkor.
The architecture is beautiful, I didn’t even initially realise that it was unfinished. The Angkor Wat complex has so many different temples that a lot of the smaller and less famous ones fall under the radar and aren’t explored as much. I personally like this one and I think the unfinished nature adds to the aesthetic and charm.
Wow. This temple looks so amazing. On my trip to Cambodia I’ll be sure to check it out.
This sounds like an amazing and intriguing place to visit. I love your beautiful photographs!
I have never heard of this temple until now, but I am so glad you introduced it to me! Fascinating read about its history, and such a beautiful structure even in its incomplete state. Truly a wonder.
It looks a really interesting temple, who doesn’t love a good set of ruins. We have still to visit Cambodia but hope to change that soon.
I love finding sites that are a bit overlooked and Ta Keo seems like a gem – unfinished or not. Thanks for the tips too. Heat is an issue for me so an early morning or late afternoon visit would probably be best. Now I just need to get there. Loved your photo gallery too!
I’ve never heard of this temple before, it’s nice to know there are other temples to see near Angkor Wat. I hope to visit Cambodia soon and will definitely add Ta Keo to my itinerary! I love the legend about the lightning bolt striking down on it, it gives it such a unique history. It’s interesting to know that people still go there to pray even though it’s considered an evil omen.
I was looking for something beyond the main Angkor complex and this fits the bill! Thank you for providing something off the beaten path. I love the idea that it went unfinished due to a lighting bolt taken as an evil omen. How fascinating!
It is amazing how Ta Keo Temple has survived the centuries. It still amazes me how much effort people put into the temples of old. I would love to watch the sunset over these temples.
Ta Keo Temple is truly an architectural wonder! It amazes me how people from back in the days are able to create something so unique and grand. And more importantly, the structure can sustain over all these years!
With a Nandi here, my guess is that this was a Shiva temple. There seems so much left to uncover here. I know I would feel like Lara Croft here 😉 The fact that it is not crowded is a huge plus for me to explore this. Glad you could too.
Ta Keo sounds well worth a visit if you have several days in Siem Reap. I would love to visit at sunset as you suggested. It sounds beautiful, and must be much less crowded than the usual spots. Thanks for sharing about it!
We hear so much about the temples of Ankor Wat but it’s great to hear about one like Ta Keo Temple that has a real (and different) story behind it. I am always fascinated by legends as they are something that doesn’t exist in my culture. I can see how they would think this is a bad omen and failed to finish it. Thanks for highlighting this temple as it is definitely one I would want to see to even out the temple sightseeing here.
Cambodia seems like the perfect place to visit to see ancient temples, ruins, and such! Your article provides all the information I’d need to visit and explore this incredible temple! It’s such an incredible looking place and it seems like there are tons of tourists which is a plus!
It looks beautiful even unfinished. I have Cambodia on the top of my list and would love to visit to see this first hand.
Such a nice read and I must agree with you, Ta Keo Temple is an unfinished wonder! He architectural layout is one of its kind. Reading posts about Cambodia really makes me want to visit.
We are very much fascinated by the architecture of the majestic Angor Wat temple which we are yet to visit but we hadn’t heard about the Ta Keo Temple. It does look stunning the architecture, sculptures with an intriguing history. We would love to visit the Ta Keo Temple whenever we make it to Cambodia and experience the magnificent structure in person.
I love reading your Temple Trail in Cambodia. The history of the temples and the way you describe it in words through pictures are absolutely wonderful. Your love for history and the architecture is commendable. I loved the pictures . I am aiming to cover these temples whenever I visit Cambodia.
I find so many such amusing places which are not in the tourist lists but still quiet interesting. And the best part about these is that there aren’t many people in these places allowing you to take your time and take pictures which do not have people in them. Ta keo’s history is so interesting. For me it looks like a perfect place for a beautiful photoshoot.
Your Cambodian series has been really amazing and besides all the lovely photographs I have specially enjoyed you capturing the history and heritage of the place in detail. Ta Keo and it’s history is pretty interesting and like a lot of the temples in the region, it has it’s own charm. I really want to visit Cambodia, just to visit the temples and photograph them.
I haven’t read anything about the Ta Keo temple in Cambodia. It certainly looks like an Instagrammable structure! The history of this place is amazing, it goes back to before many other countries didn’t exist.
That’s good you can see the temple with the 3-day ticket. I’ve yet to visit Cambodia, so have to admire all the photos from your post! The temples are amazing, and it’s surprising it only takes 35 to 40 minutes to see everything!
Beautiful photography! Every temple in Cambodia is a sight for sore eyes. I visited this site back in 2014 and absolutely feel in love with all the history, primitive design (yet perfect) and the curious fact the guides would tell us along the tour. Definitely a must-go! – Mariella
I consider myself lucky to have had the chance to visit the Angkor Wat temples. The Ta Keo temple is beautiful. It is amazing how something like these temples have stood the test of time and remain standing until today.
I so want to go to Cambodia and this beautiful Ta Keo Temple seems like a place I would love. Enjoyed reading the history, can’t believe how old this is. The balustered windows do look very photogenic, I agree! Thanks for the tips and detailed information about the Unfinished Masterpiece.
What a beautiful tour of Tao Keo Temple. I actually missed this when I was in Cambodia last time, but I’m heading this way again next week and I look forward to exploring it! I love that you can go to the top of the pyramid. It looks incredible! What an amazing structure. I wonder what it would’ve looked like completed.
Tao Keo temple is really a unfinished masterpiece. Taking tour of this temple in 3 day temple tour is a great tip. Also seeing the temple with setting sun and forest cover must be so beautiful. Great post with informative details and stunning pictures taken by you.
These temples you keep taking me to are absolutely stunning. I can’t get enough of this architecture and to think the Ta Keo Temple was around from 9th century AD. Seems like a lot of steps to climb but wow. This place seems to be getting a lot of attention lately. It’s already on my to go to list.
It sounds kinda creepy that a bolt of lightning hit the temple and therefore it was never finished. What was the overall vibe and atmosphere of the area? I’ve never been to Angkor Wat so I’m interested in finding out before I go.
Cambodia has been a dream. I love visiting ancient civilizations such as this. It’s amazing that this temple has stood the test of time. I would love to spend an entire day here.
The TA KEO temple is simply breathtaking! I went to Thailand but never made it here. When I get back from South America I would definitely like to visit Cambodia.
Thanks for the insights.
I found this article to be very interesting. I am surprised that people are allowed to walk around the ancient temple so freely, especially since it is so old! But oh how amazing to imagine the history of the temple and the people who were devoted to building it!
There are just so many amazing temples at Ankor – I have been twice and I still have not seen them all! I actually find that the lesser known temples like Ta Keo are my favorite because you can enjoy them without fighting through the hoards of tourists you face at the more popular spots! If you get an early start and skip the standard sunrise at Angkor Wat you can wandering through places like Ta Keo with the early morning light streaming in through the trees and ancient windows for hours without seeing another soul. It’s absolutely magical!
Is this actually part of the Angkor Wat temple complex? I’m trying to remember if I saw this one while I was there. I definitely went all around, riding over 45 km on the bike to see every temple I can find. It does look vaguely familiar, especially that dry moat surrounding it. If I did miss it, it’s just another reason I’ll have to get back someday.
would love to get to this part of the world. The temples are such thought-provoking passages back in time to a different age.. I always love thinking about who has been in a place before me… and what it looked like when it was first built and was in perfect condition
All the Angor complexes are truly beauties. We also visited the Ta Keo temple and loved the fact that it was a little less crowded.
Great post with a lot of details, useful info and really nice pics. Takes us back to earlier this year… Cheers.
It is really nice. I would love to see this unfinished masterpiece. I wonder what it would have looked like had that lightning not struck and they did finish it.
Indrani, you have given the perfect title to Ta Keo Temple in Angkor Cambodia. It is an unfinished wonder. THe architecture here is amazing and the whole complex is huge. It seems there are lots of steep stairs to reach the next level, but seems worth too. Your pictures are amazing as always.
This looks like a fascinating place to visit. I love the burst of color the Buddhas provide against the stone surroundings
The carvings on the doorways of the eastern gopura are marvellous. Ta Keo is indeed an unfinished masterpiece. It looks like there are lots of stairs to negotiate, but I’m sure they’re all worth climbing.
As you rightly say the architecture looks wonderful. I was there a few years ago but did not go to Ta Keo. Guess will check it out the next time!
The architecture is amazing! Considering how old the temple is, I can’t believe you can go inside and look around. I would love to visit one day, I did not realize how much there is to see in Cambodia.
I can’t believe that temple isn’t on a “must-see” list even if it is unfinished. The architecture and carvings are stunning. Your pictures really help get the feel of the place. When did the lighting hit it as an “evil omen”? Sounds like it was when Suryavarman-I was king.
That is stunning – and something that must be seen in person. I can’t wait to visit. Your photos are beautiful and really show off the unique architecture.
This is one of the places I always wanted to go to, but because I have asthma, I’ve always been afraid that the stairs would be too much. So many steps, which don’t bode well with my lungs! Do you think it’s a very hard hike to the top, or it’s still feasible, maybe taking my sweet time?
OMG! It’s a fantabulous creation! The architecture, the carvings, the stone windows – everything is so unique! You said it right, it is a wonder that needs to be shown to the world. Glad you stopped by! Thanks for sharing 🙂