Full-Day Classic Adventure: Roluos Group Temples & Beyond

Morning: The Roluos Group – Cradle of Khmer Civilization (8:00 AM – 12:30 PM)

8:00 AM: Pick-up from your accommodation.

8:45 AM – 9:45 AM: Preah Ko (The Sacred Bull)

Our first stop is Preah Ko, one of the earliest temples of the Roluos Group, dating back to the late 9th century (879 AD). We’ll explore this stunning brick temple, known for its remarkably preserved stucco work and intricate carvings of devatas (celestial beings) and guardians. I’ll highlight the unique artistry and symbolism found here, including the guardian lions and the delicate figures that adorn the towers. This temple is a testament to the sophisticated craftsmanship of the early Khmer period.

10:00 AM – 11:15 AM: Bakong (The Temple Mountain)

Next, we proceed to Bakong, the earliest of the temple-mountains and the official state temple of King Indravarman I. Built in 881 AD, it marks a significant evolution in Khmer architecture. We’ll ascend its five tiers, each representing different levels of the mythical Mount Meru. From the top, we’ll discuss the architectural innovations, the presence of various deity shrines, and the historical significance of Bakong as a proto-Angkor Wat. The panoramic views from the summit are truly rewarding.

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Lolei (Island Temple)

Our final stop in the Roluos Group is Lolei, located on an island in the middle of a former baray (reservoir). This temple, dedicated in 893 AD by King Yasovarman I, showcases four brick towers, similar in style to Preah Ko. We’ll observe the intricate false doors and the remains of the stucco, discussing how this temple’s location within a large reservoir reflected the Khmer understanding of water management and its spiritual importance. It’s a serene and picturesque setting.

12:30 PM: Lunch Break. We’ll head to a local restaurant for a delicious Khmer lunch, allowing you to relax and recharge.

Afternoon: Artistic Evolution and Sunset Serenity (2:00 PM – 6:30 PM)

2:00 PM – 2:45 PM: Srei (Prasat Kravan)

We begin our afternoon exploration with Kravan, a small but remarkable temple built in 921 AD. This temple is unique for its five brick towers aligned in a row and for its exquisite bas-reliefs carved directly into the brickwork, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including Vishnu and Lakshmi. I’ll point out the incredible detail and the rare technique used in these carvings, offering a glimpse into the evolving artistic styles.

3:00 PM – 3:45 PM: East Mebon (Island Temple)

Our next destination is East Mebon, a 10th-century temple built in 965 AD by King Rajendravarman, also situated on an artificial island within the now dry East Baray. Here, we’ll admire the impressive stone elephants at each corner of the temple’s tiers, representing the four cardinal directions. We’ll discuss the temple’s dedication to Shiva and the ancestral reverence it embodies, as well as its strategic location within the ancient water system.

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Pre Rup (The Cremation Temple)

We then move to Pre Rup, another state temple mountain built in 961 AD by King Rajendravarman. This temple is renowned for its reddish brick and laterite construction and its impressive scale. We’ll explore its three tiers, discussing the symbolism of the five towers and the beautiful, deeply carved false doors. The name “Pre Rup” translates to “turn the body,” leading to the popular but likely inaccurate belief that it was a royal crematorium. We’ll delve into the true architectural and religious significance of this grand structure.

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Sunset at Phnom Bakheng (The centre of Yasodharapura City)

Our grand finale for the day is the iconic Phnom Bakheng, one of the earliest temples in the Angkor region and a popular spot for sunset viewing. Built in the late 9th century by King Yasovarman I, it was part of his new capital, Yasodharapura. We will ascend the hill to the temple, admiring the panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and, weather permitting, the distant Angkor Wat. I’ll share insights into its strategic importance and its role as the axis of the first Angkorian capital. We’ll secure a prime spot to witness the magical sunset over the ancient landscape, a truly unforgettable experience.

Please note: Due to its popularity, reaching a good sunset spot at Phnom Bakheng requires an early arrival and involves a walk uphill. Limited numbers are allowed at the very top for safety and preservation reasons.

6:45 PM: Return to your accommodation.

I am confident that this journey through the Early Angkor Art will leave you with a profound appreciation for the ingenuity, artistry, and spiritual heritage of the Khmer civilization. I look forward to guiding you on this extraordinary adventure!