Private Two Day Adventure to Koh Ker & Preah Khan Kompung Svay

Embark on an enriching journey where youll get to know everything about this must-visit attraction with its ins and outs, its incredible history, insights, and fun facts. The more you explore, the more youll discover why this place is so important to the locals.

Highlights:

• Visit the remote Koh Ker pyramid temple complex deep in the jungle
• Explore over 180 ancient sanctuaries in a protected archaeological zone
• Discover Preah Khan Kompong Svay, the largest temple complex in Cambodia
• Experience rarely visited, off-the-beaten-path heritage sites
• See ancient barays, moats, and Bayon-style carved faces
• Overnight stay at a local homestay for an authentic cultural experience
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sambor Prei Kuk
• Journey through Cambodias pre-Angkorian history and architecture

Day 01: Pyramid Koh Ker Group & Preh Khan Kompung Svay

You will be picked up and transferred to Koh Ke temple, a remote archaeological site in northern Cambodia about 120 kilometres away from Siem Reap and the ancient site of Angkor. It is a very jungle filled region that is sparsely populated. More than 180 sanctuaries were found in a protected area of 81 square kilometres (31 sq mi). After that, we go to visit Preah Khan Kompung Svay, the largest temple complex found in Cambodia. Four times the size of Angkor Wat, it occpupies an area of 5 square kilometers and it comprises 4 enclosure walls, the central sancturary, a baray and various buldings and basins. Located 105 kilometers from Siem Reap, it is a remote temple and it receives very few visitors if compared with other Angkor Temples. It has undergone some restoration works but it remains very much in its natural state and it is a rewarding site for those who venture all the way here. You can access the temple from the eastern Baray, which has a cruciform sandstone shrine in the middle (prah Thkol) and a square pyramid in the Southeast corner of the Baray (Preah Damrei). At the western end of the moat you will come across Prasat Prah Stung, a sactuary containing carved face that resemble those Bayon.

Day 02: World Heritage Sambor Prei Kuk Group

After breakfast at your hotel, we go to visit the Pre-Angkorian temple complex of Sambor Prei Kuk located about 30 kilometers to the north of the town of Kompung Thom province. It was also known as Isanapura, and was the capital of the Chenla Kingdom. It was declared as the World Heritage Site in 2017. Back to Siem Reap and drop off.

Explore Cambodia's Hidden Temple Treasures on a Private Two Day Adventure

Day one begins with a pickup and drive to Koh Ker, a remote archaeological site about 120 kilometers north of Siem Reap. Here, you'll wander through dense jungle scattered with over 180 ancient temples across a protected 81-square-kilometer area. Next, you'll visit Preah Khan Kompung Svay, Cambodia's largest temple complex, spanning five square kilometers - four times larger than Angkor Wat. This sprawling site features enclosure walls, a central sanctuary, a baray, and various buildings mostly untouched by crowds. Access the temple via the eastern Baray, where you'll find the cruciform sandstone shrine called Prah Thkol and the square pyramid Preah Damrei. At the western end lies Prasat Prah Stung, a sanctuary adorned with carved faces reminiscent of those at Bayon.

On the second day, after breakfast, you'll head to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sambor Prei Kuk - pre-Angkorian and once the Chenla Kingdom's capital. Located 30 kilometers north of Kompung Thom, it's a sprawling site of ancient temples cloaked in rich greenery. After exploring, you'll be transferred back to Siem Reap.

Practical Tips for Your Temple Adventure

To make the most of this experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
• Bring insect repellent - Cambodian jungles are home to a few pesky insects.
• Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Start your days early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
• Visit during the dry season, November to April, for the best weather conditions.
• Don't forget sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun.
• The walking is moderate but includes uneven paths and steps, so be prepared.
• Have a camera ready - you won't want to miss capturing the stunning temple details.

More Facts About This Experience

Koh Ker served as the capital of the Khmer Empire during the 10th century and features one of Southeast Asia's rare pyramid-style temples, Prasat Thom. The ancient city's sprawling ruins lie hidden beneath dense jungle greenery, giving the area an otherworldly vibe. Preah Khan Kompung Svay impresses not only with its size but also its ancient water management systems - moats and barays that supported city life centuries ago. The site's wildlife includes colorful birds and curious monkeys, adding a lively soundtrack to your exploration. The temples generally open early morning and close by late afternoon, perfect for day trips soaking in history and nature alike.

Complementary Activities to Enhance Your Cambodian Journey

For an even richer experience, consider pairing this adventure with other exciting tours. The Siem Reap Exploring Angkor Wat full-day tour offers a chance to discover Cambodia's most famous temple site in depth. After a day of temple trekking, enjoy the cultural grace of the Apsara Dinner Show in Krong Siem Reap, where traditional dance and local cuisine come together beautifully. For those seeking more hidden gems, the Private Tour to Banteay Chhmar Temple delivers a quieter, equally majestic temple experience away from the usual crowds.

Who Will Enjoy This Private Two Day Adventure?

This tour is made for travelers with a taste for off-the-beaten-path discoveries. Solo adventurers keen on ancient history, groups of friends craving a jungle-immersed temple exploration, and small families wishing to share a meaningful cultural journey will all find plenty to love. If you're the type who enjoys unearthing stories behind stones and footsteps, this experience clicks all the boxes - and then some.