A Visitor's Guide to Preah Khan: The Sacred Sword of Angkor
King Jayavarman VII in the 12th Century.
Part of the "Grand Circuit" in the Angkor Park.
A large, flat complex, easy to explore without steep climbs.
Step into a world where history and nature are locked in a timeless embrace. Preah Khan ("Sacred Sword") is one of the largest and most atmospheric temples in the Angkor complex. Built by the legendary King Jayavarman VII, it served as a sprawling Buddhist university, a monastery, and a city in its own right, dedicated to the king's father.
Exploring the Labyrinth
Preah Khan is a vast, maze-like temple with a wealth of stunning features to discover. Give yourself plenty of time to get lost in its corridors.
The Two-Story Pavilion
One of Preah Khan's most mysterious and unique structures is this two-story building with round columns, a design seen nowhere else in Khmer architecture. Its exact purpose is unknown, though some believe it may have housed the sacred sword from which the temple gets its name.
The Famous Strangler Fig
Much like its sister temple Ta Prohm, Preah Khan is famous for the gigantic trees that have grown over and through its walls. The most iconic of these is a massive strangler fig tree that has consumed the entrance to one of the eastern gates, creating a breathtaking photo opportunity.
Hallways of Carvings
As you wander the temple's long, atmospheric corridors, look closely at the walls. They are adorned with a treasure trove of intricate carvings, including beautiful apsaras (celestial dancers), meditating hermits, and scenes from Hindu mythology. The level of detail is incredible.
Explore the Grand Circuit
Preah Khan is a major highlight of the Angkor Grand Circuit. To make the most of your visit, hire a tuk-tuk driver or a certified guide for the day who can take you to Preah Khan and other incredible temples like Neak Pean and Ta Som.
Book an Angkor Grand Circuit Tour