Koh Ker: Guide to Cambodia's Remote Pyramid & Lost Capital
NEW UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Approx. 120 km (2.5 - 3 hours) northeast of Siem Reap.
$15 for foreigners. (Free for children under 12). Separate from the Angkor Pass.
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water.
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 a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a remote, adventurous, and unforgettable alternative to the crowds of Angkor, crowned by a spectacular seven-tiered pyramid.
The Lost Capital of King Jayavarman IV
In 928 AD, King Jayavarman IV broke from tradition, moving his capital from Angkor to this remote site. For 16 years, he embarked on an ambitious building campaign, constructing dozens of unique temples and a massive baray (reservoir). After his death, the capital returned to Angkor, and Koh Ker was reclaimed by the jungle for nearly a thousand years.
The Expedition: What to See and Do
The Main Attraction: Prasat Thom
The undisputed centerpiece of Koh Ker is Prasat Thom, a stunning 36-meter-high pyramid that looks more like a Mayan ruin than a typical Khmer temple. A modern wooden staircase allows you to safely climb to the very top, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking, panoramic views over the endless jungle canopy.
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Exploring the Satellite Temples
Beyond the pyramid, a circuit road leads to over a dozen other accessible temples. While many are heavily ruined, exploring them feels like a true discovery. You'll find unique linga shrines, crumbling gateways, and beautiful ruins being slowly reclaimed by nature.
Is it safe? Yes. While the wider area was a former conflict zone, the main temple circuit has been professionally de-mined and is completely safe for tourists to explore.
Plan Your Koh Ker Adventure
Due to its remote location, the best way to visit Koh Ker is on a full-day trip from Siem Reap. Booking a private car or a guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace and often includes a stop at the equally stunning jungle temple of Beng Mealea along the way.
Book a Day Trip to Koh Ker