Preah Ko is one of the earliest and most important temples in the Roluos Group, southeast of Siem Reap. Built in the late 9th century during the reign of King Indravarman I, it predates the great temples of central Angkor and helps show how Khmer architecture developed before the age of Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm.

The name Preah Ko means “Sacred Bull”, referring to Nandi, the bull associated with the Hindu god Shiva. Three stone bulls sit in front of the main towers, facing the sanctuaries, giving the temple its distinctive identity. The layout is compact but beautifully balanced, with six brick towers arranged on a raised platform and decorated with sandstone lintels, carved guardians and traces of stucco work.

Although Preah Ko is smaller than many Angkor temples, it’s rich in detail. The brickwork has a warm, timeworn quality, and the carvings give a sense of the skill and symbolism that would later become central to Khmer temple design. It’s also usually much quieter than the main Angkor circuit, making it a peaceful place to slow down and appreciate the early history of the Khmer Empire.

A visit to Preah Ko works best as part of a half-day excursion to the Roluos Group, together with Bakong and Lolei. Seen together, these temples provide an excellent introduction to the beginnings of Angkorian art, religion and kingship.

Expert Tips: A guide is especially useful here, as the temple’s importance lies in its age, symbolism and place in early Khmer history. Visit in the morning or late afternoon for softer light and cooler conditions. Allow around 20 to 30 minutes at Preah Ko, or longer if you enjoy photography and architectural detail.