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Roluos Group (Bakong)
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historical-site
Bakong is the most significant temple of the Roluos Group and is considered the first great temple-mountain of the Angkorian era. It was erected in the late 9th century (881 AD) by King Indravarman I in the then-capital of Hariharalaya and is dedicated to the god Shiva. The structure consists of a five-tiered sandstone pyramid surrounded by a wide moat, symbolizing the cosmic Mount Meru. Bakong served as the primary state temple of the empire before the capital was moved to Angkor. Its architecture marks the transition from using brick to massive sandstone, which later became the standard for monumental constructions like Angkor Wat. Well-preserved stone elephant statues are located at the corners of the various levels. Today, the temple is still flanked by a modern Buddhist monastery, highlighting the continuous religious significance of the site over more than a millennium.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: Prasat Totoeng Thngai · Prasat Trapeang Phong · Prasat Prei Monti
- Nearby: Siem Reap (13 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 29 | 31 | 31 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 16 | 46 | 75 | 140 | 168 | 197 | 195 | 231 | 138 | 37 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Roluos Group includes some of the earliest permanent temples of the Khmer Empire, including Bakong with its first significant temple-mountain architecture. Visitors can freely walk the temple grounds.
Typical hours
The temples are typically open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Arriving early is advisable to avoid the heat and enjoy the peace.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site, but touching the reliefs is not permitted. Commercial photography requires a permit from the authorities.
Time needed
Allow about one to two hours to visit the main temples Bakong, Preah Ko, and Lolei. Short walks connect the temples.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Angkor Wat complex, just 15 kilometers away. Roluos is a well-suited complement for understanding early Khmer art.
Getting there
The Roluos Group is about 13 kilometers east of Siem Reap, best reached by tuk-tuk or taxi. The journey takes around 30 minutes.
Insider tip
Visit Bakong towards the end of the day when the light beautifully illuminates the temple structure. Bring water as food options are limited.
Geography
Facts
- Bakong was consecrated in the year 881 AD.
- It was the first Khmer temple-mountain to be constructed primarily of sandstone.
- The structure consists of a pyramid with five distinct tiers.
- The temple is located within the ancient capital city of Hariharalaya.
- A moat measuring 800 by 600 meters surrounds the entire complex.
- Eight brick towers surround the central sandstone pyramid structure.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Roluos Group (Bakong) (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Bakong?
The first large sandstone temple mountain of the Angkor era.
Where is the Roluos group located?
About 15 km east of Siem Reap; it was the first capital of the Angkor empire.
Is there an active monastery there?
Yes, a modern Buddhist monastery is located right next to the ancient temple.
What can be seen at the corners of the levels?
There are impressive stone elephants standing as guardian figures.
How many levels does the temple have?
It consists of five levels representing Mount Meru.
Roluos Group (Bakong): where is it located?
Roluos Group (Bakong) is located in Cambodia.
Roluos Group (Bakong): what is there to see?
Highlights include Prasat Totoeng Thngai, Prasat Trapeang Phong, Prasat Prei Monti.
Roluos Group (Bakong): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Roluos Group (Bakong): why is it worth visiting?
Bakong is the most significant temple of the Roluos Group and is considered the first great temple-mountain of the Angkorian era.
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History & landmarks
Preah Ko
The first temple built in the ancient capital of Hariharalaya, known for its surviving stucco decorations.
Lolei
A small temple of the Roluos Group that originally stood on an island in the historical Indratataka reservoir.
Pre Rup
Pre Rup is a brick and laterite temple mountain in the Angkor area.
East Mebon
A monumental temple that once stood on an artificial island in the middle of the now-dry East Baray reservoir.
Banteay Kdei
A fascinating Buddhist monastic complex in Angkor, whose ruins are peacefully shaded by tall trees today.
Kbal Spean
A sacred river in the mountains, whose riverbed is intricately carved with numerous reliefs and Hindu symbols.
Ta Keo
An unfinished, massive sandstone temple mountain that stands out due to its simplicity and lack of external carvings.
Thommanon
A small, well-preserved Hindu temple in Angkor, known for its detailed Devata carvings.
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Banteay Srei
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Ta Som
A small Buddhist temple whose eastern entrance is famously engulfed by the massive roots of a sacred fig tree.
Neak Pean
Neak Pean is a small temple on an artificial island in Angkor.
Ta Prohm
Ta Prohm is a jungle temple in the Angkor area, known for tree roots growing over its walls.
Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity
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Preah Khan
Preah Khan is a large temple complex in Angkor that once served as a Buddhist monastery and learning center.
Angkor Wat
The largest religious monument complex in the world and the national symbol of Cambodia, originally built as a Hindu temple.