Koh Ker
Discover Koh Ker, a 10th-century jungle-clad city featuring a unique 7-tiered pyramid, offering a serene 'lost city' adventure.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Koh Ker
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Koh Ker, a 10th-century jungle-clad city featuring a unique 7-tiered pyramid, offering a serene 'lost city' adventure.
"Experience a magical, lost city with ancient ruins taken over by the jungle and an amazing pyramid."
🎟️ Separate Ticket Needed
Koh Ker often requires its own entrance ticket, distinct from the Angkor Pass.
🚗 Plan Your Transport
The site is remote; arrange a taxi or tuk-tuk in advance for a comfortable journey.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Prasat Thom Pyramid
Central Complex
A magnificent 7-tiered pyramid, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the jungle canopy.

Jungle-Reclaimed Ruins
Throughout the site
Ancient temples entwined with massive tree roots, creating a magical, lost-city atmosphere.

Serene Atmosphere
Entire site
Experience a sense of discovery and peace away from the crowds of more popular temples.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Tickets & Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Has anybody here done a day trip to the Koh Ker temple?
🎟️ Separate Ticket Needed
Koh Ker often requires its own entrance ticket, distinct from the Angkor Pass.
🚗 Plan Your Transport
The site is remote; arrange a taxi or tuk-tuk in advance for a comfortable journey.
Beng Melea/Roulos/Koh Ker
Go to Koh Ker (Cambodia) to have a taste of how was to explore Angkor Wat before the restorations, and with almost no tourists.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during the dry season. The Cambodian heat is intense. :droplet:
Kulen Mountains, Beng Mealea and Koh Ker in 1 day
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Separate Ticket Needed
Koh Ker often requires its own entrance ticket, distinct from the Angkor Pass.
🚗 Plan Your Transport
The site is remote; arrange a taxi or tuk-tuk in advance for a comfortable journey.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during the dry season. The Cambodian heat is intense. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Magic
The jungle-clad ruins and pyramid offer incredible photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors describe Koh Ker as a magical, 'lost city' experience, with the 7-tiered pyramid being a standout attraction. The jungle-reclaimed ruins and serene atmosphere offer a unique adventure away from the crowds. While impressive, some find its scale smaller and more ruinous than Angkor, questioning the time and expense for a brief visit.
"Koh Ker is a magical place. It feels like you're truly discovering a lost city, with ancient ruins taken over by the jungle. The pyramid is an amazing sight, and the quiet, calm atmosphere makes for an unforgettable visit. A perfect alternative to the more crowded temples. ❤️"
Ya Ti
"Discover the awe-inspiring ruins of Koh Ker, a forgotten city that once rivaled Angkor. Unlike the sprawling temples of Angkor Wat, Koh Ker's centerpiece is a majestic seven-tiered pyramid temple, Prasat Thom. This is no ordinary temple; it's a monumental structure that evokes the grandeur of ancient Mesoamerican pyramids, right in the heart of the Cambodian jungle.
Imagine a journey into a mysterious and untouched world. Koh Ker is shrouded in a dense, enchanting forest, creating a sense of adventure and discovery. The jungle has reclaimed much of the site, with ancient trees coiling their roots around crumbling stone, offering a breathtaking blend of nature and history. The air is thick with the sounds of exotic birds and the rustle of leaves, making you feel like a true explorer.
Climb to the top of the pyramid and be rewarded with a panoramic vista of the lush, green canopy that stretches to the horizon. This is more than a historical site; it's a place of profound peace and raw beauty, a testament to the power of a lost civilization and the relentless embrace of the natural world.
Don't just see history—experience it. Koh Ker offers a unique adventure for those seeking to step off the beaten path and into a world where ancient legends and wild nature collide. Are you ready to uncover its secrets?"
Sight Media
"Climbing to the top (via a staircase added for visitors) rewards you with panoramic views over the surrounding jungle and countryside.
This is one of the highest temple structures in Cambodia, and the vistas are especially breathtaking at sunrise or sunset."
Visit Cambodia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Koh Ker is located about 120 km northeast of Siem Reap. The most common way to get there is by hiring a private taxi or a tuk-tuk for a day trip. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours each way. Some travelers combine Koh Ker with Beng Mealea, but this makes for a very long day.
Yes, it's definitely possible to visit Koh Ker as a day trip from Siem Reap. However, be prepared for an early start and a full day of travel and exploration.
Public transport options to Koh Ker are very limited and not practical for tourists. Hiring private transport is highly recommended for convenience and flexibility.
Koh Ker and Beng Mealea are relatively close to each other, about 40-50 km apart. Many tours offer a combined visit, but it's a very packed itinerary.
Accommodation options directly at Koh Ker are scarce. Most visitors stay in Siem Reap and make it a day trip, or look for basic guesthouses in nearby towns if they wish to stay overnight.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the standard Angkor Pass typically does not include Koh Ker. You will need to purchase a separate entrance ticket specifically for the Koh Ker archaeological site.
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around $10-15 USD for a single entry ticket to Koh Ker. It's advisable to check the latest prices before your visit.
Koh Ker is generally open from early morning until late afternoon, typically around 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM. It's best to confirm these hours closer to your travel date.
Tickets are usually purchased on-site at the entrance to the Koh Ker complex. There isn't typically an option for advance online booking for individual tickets.
If you are only visiting Koh Ker, a multi-day pass is not necessary. The site is usually visited as a single-day excursion.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The undisputed highlight is Prasat Thom, a magnificent seven-tiered pyramid temple that you can climb for stunning views. The site also features numerous other temples, many of which are beautifully reclaimed by the jungle.
Yes, visitors can climb the central pyramid, Prasat Thom, via a staircase that has been added for access. The climb offers rewarding panoramic views.
To truly explore the main complex and appreciate the atmosphere, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to visit other temples within the wider Koh Ker area, you might need more time.
Yes, Koh Ker can be an exciting adventure for families. The pyramid climb offers a sense of achievement, and the jungle setting sparks imagination. Ensure children are supervised, especially near ruins and during the climb.
Walking is the primary way to explore the main Koh Ker complex. The paths are generally well-maintained, but comfortable shoes are essential. A guide can enhance the experience by providing historical context.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of Prasat Thom offers incredible panoramic shots of the jungle. Also, look for the unique tree root formations engulfing some of the smaller temples for dramatic, atmospheric photos.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow. Sunrise and sunset views from the pyramid are particularly spectacular.
Drone regulations can change, and it's best to check with local authorities or your tour operator. Generally, flying drones over archaeological sites may be restricted.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the pyramid and the jungle. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on distant temples. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies. :iphone:
Focus on the interplay between the ancient stone structures and the encroaching jungle. Look for dramatic lighting filtering through the trees and capture the textures of moss and roots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Adventurers
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Prasat Thom
Constructed in the 10th century during the reign of King Jayavarman IV, Prasat Thom was part of a vast city that served as the capital of the Khmer Empire for a brief period. Its unique design and imposing presence set it apart from other Khmer temples, hinting at a distinct architectural and religious influence. The climb to the summit is a highlight for many, providing a moment of reflection amidst the ancient grandeur and the vast expanse of the Cambodian landscape.
Nature's Embrace: Jungle Ruins
The interplay between ancient architecture and the relentless power of nature is a photographer's dream. The vibrant greens of the jungle contrast beautifully with the weathered grey stone, offering countless opportunities for dramatic and evocative shots. Exploring these overgrown ruins feels like stepping back in time, where the whispers of history are carried on the rustling leaves and the calls of exotic birds.
A Quieter Alternative to Angkor
This peaceful ambiance is a significant draw for many visitors. It allows for a deeper appreciation of the historical significance and the natural beauty of the site without the constant bustle. If you're looking to escape the typical tourist trail and experience a more authentic sense of archaeological exploration, Koh Ker is an excellent choice.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit