Koh Keh Temple: The Huge Pyramid of Cambodia

If you are looking for a unique and adventurous destination in Cambodia, you might want to consider visiting the Koh Keh Temple, also known as the Koh Ker Temple. This ancient site was once the capital of the Khmer Empire in the 10th century, and it is home to a remarkable seven-tiered pyramid that rises 36 meters above the ground. In this blog post, I will share with you some interesting facts about the history, architecture, and culture of the Koh Keh Temple, as well as some practical tips on how to get there, when to visit, and what to expect.

History of Koh Keh Temple

The Koh Keh Temple was built by King Jayavarman IV, who moved the capital of the Khmer Empire from Angkor to Koh Keh in 928 AD. He was a devout follower of the Hindu god Shiva, and he constructed more than 180 sanctuaries in the area, dedicated to various deities and ancestors. The most impressive and important of these is the Prasat Thom, or the Great Pyramid, which served as his state temple and the symbol of his power and glory. The pyramid has seven levels, each decorated with statues, carvings, and lingas (phallic symbols of Shiva). On the top level, there is a huge linga that is believed to be the largest in the world, measuring 4 meters in height and 1.5 meters in diameter. The pyramid is also surrounded by a moat and a wall, and it faces west, towards Angkor.

The Koh Keh Temple was abandoned in 944 AD, when King Rajendravarman II moved the capital back to Angkor. The site was largely forgotten and neglected for centuries, until it was rediscovered by French explorers in the 19th century. However, due to its remote location and the presence of landmines, the site remained inaccessible and unsafe for a long time. It was only in the 21st century that the site was cleared of mines and opened to the public, thanks to the efforts of the Cambodian government and various international organizations. In 2023, the Koh Keh Temple was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with other Khmer monuments.

Architecture and Culture of Koh Keh Temple

The Koh Keh Temple is a remarkable example of the Koh Keh style of Khmer art and architecture, which flourished under the reign of Jayavarman IV. This style is characterized by the use of brick, sandstone, and laterite as building materials, the employment of a linear plan rather than a concentric one, and the creation of dynamic and expressive sculptures. The Koh Keh style also reflects the influence of Indian culture and religion, especially the worship of Shiva and the concept of lingapura (city of lingas).

The Koh Keh Temple is not only a historical and architectural marvel, but also a cultural and spiritual one. The site is still revered by the local people, who come to pray and make offerings at the temples. The site also hosts various festivals and ceremonies throughout the year, such as the Koh Keh Festival in February, which celebrates the harvest and the ancestral spirits. The site is also a popular destination for tourists, who come to admire the beauty and mystery of the ancient ruins. The site offers a variety of attractions, such as the Prasat Thom, the Prasat Krahom (Red Temple), the Prasat Pram (Five Towers), the Prasat Chen (Moon Temple), and the Prasat Damrei (Elephant Temple).

How to Get There

The Koh Keh Temple is located in Preah Vihear province, about 120 km from Siem Reap. The easiest way to get there is by car or minibus, which takes about 2.5 hours. You can also take a motorbike or a bicycle, but be prepared for a bumpy and dusty ride. The road to the site is mostly unpaved and passes through rural villages and forests. You can either hire a driver or a guide, or join a tour group from Siem Reap. The entrance fee to the site is $15 per person, and you can also hire a local guide for $5 to $10.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Koh Keh Temple is from November to March, when the weather is dry and cool. The site is open from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, and it is recommended to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and the crowds. You can also stay overnight in the nearby village of Srayong, where there are some guesthouses and homestays. Alternatively, you can camp at the site, but you need to bring your own tent and equipment.

What to Expect

The Koh Keh Temple is a fascinating and adventurous place to visit, but it also requires some preparation and caution. The site is still relatively undeveloped and isolated, so you need to bring your own food, water, and first aid kit. You also need to respect the local culture and customs, and dress modestly and appropriately. You should also be careful of the wildlife, such as snakes, spiders, and scorpions, and avoid touching or stepping on any suspicious objects, as there might still be some unexploded mines in the area. Finally, you should also be mindful of the environment, and not litter or damage any of the temples or sculptures.

• The ticket price of Koh Keh is $15 USD per person. Child under 12 years old is free. This ticket is not included in the Angkor Pass and can be purchased at the entrance of the site or at Beng Mealea.

• The opening hours of Koh Keh are from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. It is recommended to visit in the morning to avoid the heat and the crowds.

• The average price of transportation to Koh Keh depends on the mode of travel and the distance. Some options are:

• Hiring a private taxi from Siem Reap, which can cost around $100 USD for a round trip. This option allows you to combine your visit with other nearby attractions, such as Beng Mealea and Preah Vihear.