At 8am your driver and guide will pick you up from your pre-arranged meeting point, and make the trip to the atmospheric, beautiful Koh Ker Temple.
The history of Cambodia is packed with spats between dynasties, political intrigue and personal dramas that have shaped the country, and thanks to your local guide, you’ll learn exactly why these crumbling ruins stand where they are today as you learn the history behind the stones.
Ancient Temple Discovery at Koh Ker
At 8am your driver and guide will pick you up from your pre-arranged meeting point, and make the trip to the atmospheric, beautiful Koh Ker Temple.
The history of Cambodia is packed with spats between dynasties, political intrigue and personal dramas that have shaped the country, and thanks to your local guide, you’ll learn exactly why these crumbling ruins stand where they are today as you learn the history behind the stones.
For example, in the 10th century, when Jayavarman IV (928-942) fell out with his family, he stormed off to the northwest and established the rival capital of Koh Ker, the very place you will be exploring on your first day.
You also will visit the Hindu temple in Koh Ker, Prasat Krahom, also known as the ‘Red Temple’ thanks to the dust-red piles of stone that form the old walkways and sun-dappled towers.
The temple was famous in its day for the stunning carved lions it boasted. Unfortunately, these have fallen victim to the centuries that have worn the temple down, but there is still plenty to see.
Wandering through the ancient passages and crumbling arches takes you back to another age, and it is a singularly magical experience to explore where they lead, walking in the footsteps of an ancient civilisation.
You will then stroll to the small village behind Koh Ker temple; about 1km from Thom Temple; and meet locals in Srayong Commune, Kulen District.
Here, there are two families that offer accommodation to tourists at Koh Ker Jungle Lodge. This is a chance to immerse yourself in the local community in this part of Cambodia, and experience what it is like to really live here, as a local, not as a tourist.
Accommodation
Koh Ker Jungle Lodge
Facilities: Two private rooms, each with balcony, one at the rear overlooking a small ruined temple and one in front overlooking the main road in the village.
5 additional double beds and one single bed that can be moved around to suit the main open area. We also have any number of mattresses and a camp bed that can be set up. Each bed is prepared with a mosquito net, 2 white sheets, a pillow, a blanket, a towel and a bottle of water.
