Koh Ker, Archaeological site in Preah Vihear Province, Cambodia.
Koh Ker is an archaeological complex with more than 180 sanctuaries scattered across a large forested area, dominated by the Prasat Thom pyramid rising in seven tiers. The structures include various temple types and palace buildings that formed the center of an ancient Khmer capital.
The site served as the Khmer power center from 928 to 944 AD under two kings, Jayavarman IV and Harshavarman II. Afterward, the city lost importance when power shifted back to Angkor, leading to its abandonment and gradual return to the forest.
The temples show how the Khmer people shaped their sacred spaces over time, with stone carvings and reliefs that tell stories of daily life and religious beliefs. Visitors can see today how these buildings connected with their surroundings and what role they played in people's lives.
The site lies about 120 kilometers from Siem Reap and remains partly covered by forest, making exploration challenging. Visitors should bring sturdy footwear and water bottles, as paths are uneven and the heat can be intense.
Many of the smaller temples hidden in the forest have never been rebuilt or altered since their original construction, preserving their authentic Khmer-era appearance. These untouched structures offer a rare glimpse into what ancient Khmer architecture originally looked like without later modifications.
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