Abandoned to the forests of the north, Koh Ker, capital of the Angkorian empire from AD 928 to AD 944, is one of the most remote temple complexes around Angkor. Most visitors start at Prasat Krahom where impressive stone carvings grace lintels, doorposts and slender window columns. The principal monument is Mayan-looking Prasat Thom, a 55m-wide, 40m-high sandstone-faced pyramid whose seven tiers offer spectacular views across the forest.
Long one of Cambodia’s most remote and inaccessible temple complexes, the toll road from Dam Dek (via Beng Mealea) has placed Koh Ker (pronounced ko-kayer) within day-tripping distance of Siem Reap. To really appreciate the temples – the ensemble has 42 major structures in an area that measures 9km by 4km – some visitors prefer to spend a night here.
