Bakong Temple is one of the most important early temples in the Angkor region and a rewarding stop for travellers wanting to understand how Khmer temple architecture developed before the great monuments of Angkor Wat and Bayon. Located at Roluos, southeast of central Siem Reap, it was built in the late 9th century and is often considered the first major temple mountain of the Khmer Empire.

The temple is dedicated to Shiva and was designed to represent Mount Meru, the sacred mountain at the centre of the Hindu universe. Its stepped pyramid form, central sanctuary, surrounding towers and enclosing walls helped establish a style that later Khmer kings would develop on a much grander scale.

What makes Bakong especially enjoyable is its spacious, peaceful setting. The temple rises from a broad complex surrounded by moats, lawns and smaller brick towers, with fewer visitors than the main Angkor temples. The upper levels offer lovely views across the surrounding countryside, and the scale is large enough to feel impressive without being overwhelming.

The stonework is not as intricate as later Angkorian temples, but the atmosphere is excellent, particularly in the soft morning or late afternoon light. It combines naturally with nearby Preah Ko and Lolei, making a visit to the Roluos Group a worthwhile half-day excursion from Siem Reap.

Expert Tips: Allow around 45 minutes for Bakong, or half a day if visiting the wider Roluos Group. The site is more exposed than some temples, so morning or late afternoon is more comfortable. A guide is particularly worthwhile here, as the temple’s importance lies in its place within the early history of the Khmer Empire.