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Prasat Kravan: The Hidden Gem of Brick Carvings
921 AD (10th Century)
Red Brick (Not Stone)
Interior Bas-Reliefs
Small Circuit (South of Srah Srang)
Among the gray sandstone giants of Angkor, Prasat Kravan stands apart with its warm, reddish glow. This small but stunning 10th-century monument is a rare masterpiece of brick construction. While many tourists drive right past it, those who stop are rewarded with some of the most unique and intricate carvings in the entire park.
A Unique History
Unlike most major Angkorian temples, Kravan was not built by a King. It was commissioned in 921 AD by high-ranking noblemen. Dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, the temple consists of a row of five brick towers. It was carefully restored in the 1960s, giving it the clean appearance we see today.
The Must-See Interior Carvings
An Artistic Anomaly
What makes Kravan Temple so special is hidden inside. While most Khmer temples feature carvings on the outside, here the artists carved directly into the interior brick walls of the sanctuary towers. This technique is incredibly rare and requires immense skill, as mistakes on brick cannot be easily fixed.
Vishnu & Lakshmi
Inside the central tower, you will find massive carvings of Vishnu taking three giant steps to cross the universe. But don't miss the Northern tower! Inside, you will find rare and beautiful carvings of his consort, Lakshmi, holding lotus flowers. It is one of the few places where the female deity takes center stage.
📸 Photographer's Tip
Because the carvings are deep inside the towers, they can be quite dark. The best time to visit is mid-morning (around 10:00 AM). Since the temple faces East, the morning sun floods directly into the doorways, illuminating the carvings perfectly without the need for a flash.
Don't Miss the Details
Prasat Kravan is a quick 20-minute stop, but it adds incredible variety to your temple tour. It fits perfectly between Angkor Wat and Banteay Kdei.
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