🛕 Preah Khan
ព្រះខ័ន
Also known as: Sacred Sword
Province
Siem Reap
Era
Late Angkorian
Difficulty
🟡 Moderate
Crowds
👥 Moderate
Key Facts
Built: 1191
Built by: King Jayavarman VII
Religion: Buddhist
Entry Fee: Angkor Pass
Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours
UNESCO: ✅ World Heritage Site
A vast monastic complex dedicated to Jayavarman VII's father — once home to over 100,000 officials and servants.
Preah Khan ("Sacred Sword") was built by Jayavarman VII to honor his father, Dharanindravarman II. This massive complex served as a monastery, school, and city — the inscription reveals that 97,840 attendants and servants, including 1,000 dancers, once served the temple. The complex covers 56 hectares and features a remarkable two-story structure that is unique in Angkor architecture, possibly used as a library or storeroom. Long, atmospheric corridors create dramatic light-and-shadow effects, and the eastern entrance features an impressive Hall of Dancers. Unlike the more manicured Ta Prohm, Preah Khan retains a wilder, more adventurous feeling with fewer crowds, making it a favorite among repeat visitors to Angkor.
Highlights
- ✦ Two-story pillared structure (unique in Angkor)
- ✦ Hall of Dancers with apsara carvings
- ✦ Dramatic corridor perspectives
- ✦ Tree root formations
- ✦ Garuda wall decorations
- ✦ Much quieter than Ta Prohm
Best Time to Visit
Morning or late afternoon
Visitor Tips
- 💡 Enter from the east for the most impressive approach
- 💡 The two-story building is near the center — don't miss it
- 💡 Combine with Neak Pean and Ta Som on the Grand Circuit
Nearby Temples
13.4618°N, 103.8708°E
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