Twelve kilometres southeast of Siem Reap lie the remains of Hariharalaya, the former capital of King Indravarman I and the starting point of Khmer classical architecture.
The Roluos Group comprises three 9th century temples: Bakong, Lolei and Preah Ko, built using durable brick and carved plaster in a style that would later evolve into the grand sandstone monuments of Angkor. Their shared architecture and decoration mark the beginning of the Classic Period of Khmer art, predating Angkor Wat by more than two centuries. A Buddhist monastery now sits nearby, its monks living alongside this piece of early Khmer history.
On the return drive, pass rice fields and small villages that give a sense of everyday life in the Siem Reap countryside.
A half day that fits naturally alongside any other Angkor excursion, tracing the roots of the empire before its most famous temples were built.
Hotel pickup is available from most centrally located Siem Reap hotel, Supplements apply for customers who want to join this excursion outside one of these regions.
The remains of the Roluos Group, 12 kilometres southeast of Siem Reap date back to the 9th century AD and are all that remains of the former capital of King Indravarman I. The group comprises of three distinctively-different temple complexes – named Bakong. Lolei and Preah Ko – and were the first to be constructed. Using durable material, such as bricks and carved plaster, the outlines of what once was expected to be adorned with precious material and wood, are now confirmed as the earliest definition of the Khmer civilisation. The three temples belonging to this important group have similarities of architecture, decoration materials and construction methods which combine to reveal the beginning of the Classic Period of Khmer Art. Nowadays, the area is home to a Buddhist monastery with its saffron-clad residents taking great pride in living nearby such an integral part of Khmer history.
On the way back to Siem Reap, time to stop and watch over almost endless fields of green with small little villages dotted along the horizon mark the end of an unforgettable day. Before you know it, your Siem Reap overnight address is in sight where your private guide and driver for the day thank you and your travel companions for joining them on a journey through their home country.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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