Preah Khan

Often included on tours of the Angkor Temples, Preah Khan is an easy detour for those visiting Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, and the Terrace of the Elephants, just to the south. Most Angkor tours run from Siem Reap and take in highlights such as the “jungle temple” of Ta Prohm, the exquisite carvings of Banteay Srei, and, of course, world-famous Angkor Wat. Opt to travel around the vast temple site by tuk-tuk, hire a bike and cycle between the ruins, or, for extra comfort, choose a private tour in an air-conditioned vehicle.

• An Angkor Pass is required to visit Preah Khan and the other Angkor temples.

• The Angkor archaeological site is Cambodia’s most visited attraction, and visiting with a guide will ensure that you maximize your time.

• Parts of the temple site are wheelchair-accessible, but some areas may be off limits due to uneven terrain.

The Angkor Archaeological Park is located 4 miles (6 kilometers) north of Siem Reap in the Siem Reap Province. Travelers can arrive by tuk-tuk or choose a guided Angkor tour with round-trip transportation from the city. Preah Khan is located in the north of the park, around a mile (2 kilometers) north of Angkor Thom.

Angkor’s peak season is from November to February, when huge crowds descend on the temples. Most tours visit Preah Khan in the late morning or early afternoon, so to avoid the big tour groups, head there first thing or just before sunset.

Preah Khan was built around the same time as Angkor Thom and was erected on the site of an important military victory. Built by the Buddhist King Jayavarman VII, its name translates to “the Sacred Sword.” The complex includes a Buddhist stupa, sanctorum, and Hall of Dancers, as well as numerous smaller Hindu temples, built later under the reign of King Jayavarman VIII.