Koh Ker Travel Guide

Learn everything about Koh Ker, including its culturally significant museums, stunning natural attractions, best hiking/biking routes, delicious cuisine, ideal time to visit, safety, health, transportation options, and nearby destinations to explore.


Introduction to Koh Ker

Koh Ker, situated in the Northwestern parts of Cambodia, is an off-the-beaten-path destination that boasts a rich cultural heritage and exceptional natural surroundings. Koh Ker was the capital city of the Khmer Empire in the 10th century, and it’s laden with impressive temples, tombs, statues, and other ancient artifacts.

Koh Ker is also known for its tranquil natural beauty that allows visitors to relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy exciting outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Cambodia’s Angkor Wat is the epicenter of tourism in the country, but Koh Ker offers a refreshing, authentic alternative with plenty of interesting things to see and do.

List of Places to Visit in Koh Ker

If you’re planning a trip to Koh Ker, these are the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Prasat Krahom: This temple is the most recent addition to the complex of Koh Ker, located in one of the outermost sections. Its brick construction is slightly different from other temples at Koh Ker, and most of its original sculpture decorations are still preserved in the museum on-site.
  • Prasat Thom: Also known as the Pyramid of Koh Ker. The highest temple in the region. It is a 39-meter high seven-tier pyramid.
  • Prasat Preah: It is the most splendid temple of Koh Ker, with five sanctuaries arranged in a quincunx pattern. The central tower has an original image of Jayavarman IV, the king who built Koh Ker.
  • Neang Kmau Shrine: Legend has it that Jayavarman IV’s wife died at this place while giving birth, and the shrine became a sacred spot for fertility and maternal health.

Natural Attractions of Koh Ker: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Beng Mealea: This temple complex, situated near the town of Siem Reap, is part of the Angkor Wat circuit. It’s relatively unexplored and overgrown, making it an excellent destination for adventurers who want to walk in the footsteps of Indiana Jones.
  • Kulen Mountains: Located nearby Siem Reap, the Kulen Mountains are the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire, and have a waterfall and countless carvings dating back to the 11th century.
  • Chhuk Waterfall: Just a short drive from Koh Ker, the Chhuk Waterfall provides a refreshing respite from the heat of Cambodia. Visitors can swim in the cool and clear water, trek through the jungle, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Koh Ker

Koh Ker is an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts as it has a myriad of hiking and biking trails. The best routes to explore include:

  • Prasat Kram to Beng Mealea Trail
  • Koh Ker to Preah Vihear Trail
  • Kulen Mountains to Beng Mealea Trail

Best Things to Do in Koh Ker: Activities and Tours

Besides the temples and natural wonders, there are several awesome activities and tours to enjoy in Koh Ker:

  • Temple Tour: The most famous pastime in Koh Ker is exploring the ancient temples spread throughout the jungle. Most locals offer guided temple tours to help you see Koh Ker Temple’s hidden secrets.
  • Jungle Trekking: Visitors can indulge in exploratory treks through Koh Ker’s lush green jungle. These hikes also provide an excellent opportunity to explore the scenic waterfalls in the region.
  • Guided Bicycle Tours: Visitors can ride bikes around Koh Ker and travel off the beaten path while admiring the landscape and visiting remote villages to learn about Khmer culture.
  • Aerial Tours: A helicopter ride over Koh Ker provides visitors with spectacular views of the ancient temples amidst the jungle canopy.

Week-Long Itinerary for Koh Ker

Here’s a sample itinerary for a 7-day trip to Koh Ker:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Koh Ker and check-in at a hotel
2 Visit Prasat Krahom and the local museum
3 Excursions to Kulen Mountain and Beng Mealea
4 Relax and swim at Chhuk Waterfall
5 Spend a day exploring Prasat Thom
6 Guided bike tour around Koh Ker
7 Departure from Koh Ker

Food and Drink Scene of Koh Ker

Koh Ker’s food scene offers delectable local dishes that visitors don’t want to miss. Here are the must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Amok: Fish cooked with coconut milk and curry being then steamed in the coconut shell.
  • Sour Soup: Made with tangy tamarind and vegetables.
  • Lok Lak: A beef or chicken dish served with a salad, rice or fries, and a lime pepper dipping sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Angkor Beer: A popular local beer that comes in several different variations, such as Black or Gold.
  • Sugar Cane Juice: A refreshing drink made by pressing sugar cane stalks and adding lime and ice cubes.
  • Coffee: Cambodia has a vibrant coffee culture, and visitors can try the local version of iced coffee, which is sweet and strong.

Where to Stay in Koh Ker: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Koh Ker offers various accommodation options suitable for all types of travelers. Here are the top picks:

  • Koh Ker Lodge
  • Kulen Elephant Forest
  • Preah Vihear Boutique Hotel
  • Real Beach Hotel
  • Happy Banana

What to Buy in Koh Ker: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Koh Ker has a rich handicraft culture, and visitors can buy several unique souvenirs that make excellent giveaways, including:

  • Traditional Scarves: Famous silk scarves native to Cambodia with traditional motifs.
  • Spices: Unique blend of spices used in traditional Cambodian cooking.
  • Handmade Jewelry: Jewelry made from traditional brass and silver patterns.

Local Culture and Customs of Koh Ker

Cambodia has a rich Khmer culture, which is evident in its temples, handicrafts, and cuisine. Cambodian people value respect, politeness, and hospitality, so visitors should reciprocate these values during their stay in Koh Ker.

Best Time to Visit Koh Ker

The best time to visit Koh Ker is between December and February, when the weather is mild and dry.

Do’s and Don’ts of Koh Ker

Do:

  • Cover your legs and shoulders when visiting temples as a form of respect.
  • Ask for permission before taking photographs of locals.
  • Try local food and drinks,

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting temples.
  • Use your left hand to touch others or receive items, as this is considered impolite

Safety and Health

Safety in Koh Ker

Overall, Koh Ker is a safe destination to visit. However, visitors should avoid walking alone at night, practice caution when using public transport, and keep their belongings close to them in heavily congested areas such as markets.

Health in Koh Ker

Visitors should also practice good health practices, such as keeping hydrated, avoiding swimming in stagnant water, and covering themselves to reduce mosquito bites that may cause illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria.

Getting to Koh Ker: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Koh Ker

The most convenient way to get to Koh Ker is to land at Siem Reap International Airport (REP), which is located about 100 km from Koh Ker.

Bus Stations Near Koh Ker

Buses run daily from Siem Reap to Koh Ker, with several private bus companies competing in terms of service and price.

Other Options

Taxis are also available from Siem Reap to Koh Ker. Tuk-tuks are an option in the area, and a private driver is another good option.

How to Get Around in Koh Ker

The best way to explore Koh Ker is by bike, which allows visitors to access remote areas that cars or tuk-tuks cannot reach easily. Visitors can also hire a local driver to take them around, especially those not comfortable riding a bike. This method is convenient as drivers typically know the area and can serve as a guide.

Where to Go Next from Koh Ker: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Koh Ker’s location at the crossroads of provinces in Northwestern Cambodia makes it an excellent gateway to other nearby attractions in the area, such as:

  • Siem Reap
  • Preah Vihear Temple
  • Banteay Chhmar

Conclusion

Koh Ker is a beautiful destination that can excite cultural enthusiasts and nature aficionados. The region has something for everyone, and visitors will enjoy exploring the many temples in the area, hiking/biking around the region, going on food tours, and experiencing the local culture.

Prasat Thom Prasat Thom Prasat Neang Khmau Prasat Neang Khmau Map of Koh Ker Map of Koh Ker Architectural detail at Koh Ker Architectural detail at Koh Ker Temple walls Temple walls Old Khmer script Old Khmer script