Koh Ker: Cambodia's Lost Pyramid City

New UNESCO World Heritage Site (2023)

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Location

120 km Northeast of Siem Reap (2.5 hours).

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Ticket Price

$15 USD (Separate from Angkor Pass).

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Difficulty

Moderate (Stairs to climb the pyramid).

Deep in the jungles of Preah Vihear province lies a place of myth and legend: Koh Ker. For a brief, brilliant period in the 10th century, this was the capital of the mighty Khmer Empire. Now officially a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a remote, Indiana Jones-style adventure far from the crowds of Angkor Wat.

The "Mayan" Pyramid of Cambodia

Prasat Thom (The Pyramid)

The undisputed centerpiece of Koh Ker is Prasat Thom. This seven-tiered sandstone pyramid stands 36 meters tall and looks strikingly similar to Mayan temples found in South America.

Thanks to a sturdy wooden staircase, you can now safely climb to the very top. The reward? A breathtaking 360-degree view over the endless, unbroken jungle canopy.

The Satellite Temples

Beyond the pyramid, a loop road takes you past dozens of smaller ruins. Don't miss Prasat Pram, where strangler figs have completely wrapped around the red brick towers, creating a photogenic scene that rivals Ta Prohm.

Is it safe? Yes. While this area was once a conflict zone, the temple complex has been thoroughly de-mined. However, always stay on the marked paths.

💡 Perfect Day Trip Combo

Since Koh Ker is a long drive (2.5 hours), most travelers combine it with Beng Mealea, the famous "Jungle Temple." Do Beng Mealea in the morning, have lunch, and then hit Koh Ker in the afternoon.

Need a Driver?

This remote adventure requires a private car or taxi, as tuk-tuks are too slow for the distance. We can help you arrange a reliable driver for the day.

Book a Car for Koh Ker