Koh Ker Pyramid Temple

Koh Ker. The Lost Pyramid City of Cambodia Hidden deep in the jungles of northern Cambodia, about 120 kilometers northeast of Siem Reap, lies Koh Ker, a mysterious ancient city once lost to time. Long overshadowed by Angkor, Koh Ker is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site (listed in 2023) and one of Cambodia’s most extraordinary archaeological treasures. Between 928 and 944 AD, King Jayavarman IV made Koh Ker the capital of the Khmer Empire, launching an ambitious building spree that produced more than 180 sanctuaries across 81 square kilometers. Only a fraction have been cleared and are safe to visit today, but what remains is unforgettable. At the heart of the complex rises a towering seven-tiered pyramid soaring 36 meters high, Cambodia’s own jungle pyramid. Climb to the top for sweeping views of the surrounding jungle forest and the sense that you’ve stepped straight into an ancient legend. Nearby shrines still hold traces of exquisite carvings and massive stone lingas that once symbolized divine power. Koh Ker’s artistic style is unique, bold, expressive, and strikingly different from Angkor’s refined elegance. Many of its sculptures are now prized museum pieces around the world, though sadly, much of the site suffered from looting in the past. Reaching Koh Ker takes about two and a half hours from Siem Reap, passing through beautiful countryside and small rural villages. Visitors can stay nearby at Koh Ker Jungle Lodge or simple guesthouses in the village of Seyiong. Wandering these ancient ruins, surrounded by jungle forest and birdsong, it’s easy to imagine the days when Koh Ker was the heart of an empire, a place of power, devotion, and mystery still alive beneath the Cambodian sky.

Koh Ker is a magical place. It feels like you're truly discovering a lost city, with ancient ruins taken over by the jungle. The pyramid is an amazing sight, and the quiet, calm atmosphere makes for an unforgettable visit. A perfect alternative to the more crowded temples. ❤️

This monumental, seven-tiered pyramid temple would be a major attraction in most parts of Asia, but here it is overshadowed by the world-famous Angkor, which is a couple of hours away. For those who do make it here, you will be rewarded with fantastic views from the top and a beautiful red-brick tower near the entrance. Entrance to the complex costs $15.

I went here on a tour, seemed to be a bit rushed, but my choice. An awesome looking pyramid of the type found in Mexico and Central America, South America. The stairs have many steps, well-spaced and they are numbered, no less. the usual hydration rules and taking it slow applies to climbing this, but I think it's worth the trouble. It is a very photogenic temple. When you get to the top there is a dark hole running down the center, which has all the signs of it being looted at some time, but the tour guide said no, we will have to agree to disagree on this one. Incidentally, I also find this temple listed as Prasat Thom, in some books but not on Google Maps. I would highly recommend going here, because of the lack of crowds and the peaceful tranquility of the place, and it looks just the way you would expect it to look, more along the lines of a lost temple, ready-made for an Indiana Jones, or a Lara Croft. If you're wanting to range out for something a little bit different, try this.

A former Khmer Empire city and also abandoned for many years when these country fall into civil war… now it’s good chance to visit as it’s beautiful temple where offerings to many deeply story and especially these giant pyramid temple Koh Ker. It won’t take long for travel to these temple from Siem Reap. I am strongly recommend to client who look for soft adventure…

Discover the awe-inspiring ruins of Koh Ker, a forgotten city that once rivaled Angkor. Unlike the sprawling temples of Angkor Wat, Koh Ker's centerpiece is a majestic seven-tiered pyramid temple, Prasat Thom. This is no ordinary temple; it's a monumental structure that evokes the grandeur of ancient Mesoamerican pyramids, right in the heart of the Cambodian jungle. Imagine a journey into a mysterious and untouched world. Koh Ker is shrouded in a dense, enchanting forest, creating a sense of adventure and discovery. The jungle has reclaimed much of the site, with ancient trees coiling their roots around crumbling stone, offering a breathtaking blend of nature and history. The air is thick with the sounds of exotic birds and the rustle of leaves, making you feel like a true explorer. Climb to the top of the pyramid and be rewarded with a panoramic vista of the lush, green canopy that stretches to the horizon. This is more than a historical site; it's a place of profound peace and raw beauty, a testament to the power of a lost civilization and the relentless embrace of the natural world. Don't just see history—experience it. Koh Ker offers a unique adventure for those seeking to step off the beaten path and into a world where ancient legends and wild nature collide. Are you ready to uncover its secrets?

Koh ker temple, the biggest Pyramid temple in Cambodia,was built in the 10 century where dedicated to Lod Shiva, LingáPuru mean Ling City , simbol of men . Coved by 9km² it's has over 100 temple s there but only 20s temples can visit. It was hard to extend the city this is the reason why they last king moved to Angkor city

Impressive, yes. But impressive enough to warrant the time and expense of visiting? Not sure. All reviews describe the ruins as “in the jungle ”. I’d say in the woods, as the trees seem too thin and small to be a jungle, like those around main Angkor temples. The whole complex is much quieter, which is nice, (except I was there with a Cambodian school group😁) and the views from the top of the pyramid, out over the trees, is great. The temples are much more ruinous than Angkor, but most just seem to have collapsed. And the scale is much smaller than Angkor. I made the visit on my way to the airport, saving a bit of time and money. Did I enjoy it? Yes. Would I go back? Probably not (I’ve been to Angkor 3 times😜)