In short
- Preah Khan is much larger, covering a 56-hectare site.
- Ta Prohm draws heavy crowds due to its movie fame.
- Preah Khan features unique architecture and empty corridors.
In this article
Choosing between Preah Khan and Ta Prohm depends on what you want from your visit. Both temples require an Angkor Pass and show off the heavy jungle overgrowth that makes this region famous. We compare the two sites to help you plan your time.
Which temple is larger?
Preah Khan is significantly larger than Ta Prohm.
Preah Khan sprawls across a massive 56-hectare site. It features a 700m by 800m outer enclosure. The complex once housed nearly 100,000 officials, servants, scholars, and dancers. This vast maze of corridors means you can explore for a long time.
Which temple has fewer crowds?
Preah Khan typically has fewer crowds than Ta Prohm.
Because Ta Prohm is famous, it draws massive tour groups daily. Preah Khan offers the same overgrown jungle look but sits on the Grand Circuit route. You will often find completely empty corridors here.
Can you see tree roots at Preah Khan?
Yes, Preah Khan features massive strangler fig roots woven into the ruins.
If you want the classic photo of trees swallowing ancient stone, Preah Khan delivers. The eastern corridors have heavily overgrown sections. You get the same visual impact as Ta Prohm without waiting in line for a photo.
How does the architecture differ?
Preah Khan blends both Mahayana Buddhist and Hindu elements and features rare structures.
The layout of Preah Khan is a vast labyrinth of vaulted galleries and shrines. It includes a rare two-story pavilion with stout round columns. These columns resemble Mediterranean architecture, though their exact purpose remains a mystery.
Are they on the same tour circuit?
No, Preah Khan is located on the standard Grand Circuit route.
Most visitors see Ta Prohm on the Small Circuit. Preah Khan sits just north of Angkor Thom on the longer route. Visiting Preah Khan requires a separate day or a combined tour. Grand Circuit details explains the route details.
Do both temples require the Angkor Pass?
Yes, you need a valid Angkor Pass to enter any temple in the park.
The pass costs $37 for 1 day, $62 for 3 days, or $72 for 7 days. This single ticket covers both Preah Khan and Ta Prohm. Children under 12 enter free with a valid passport.
Questions travellers ask
Is Preah Khan a Buddhist or Hindu temple?
Preah Khan blends both Mahayana Buddhist and Hindu architectural elements. It was originally built as a major Buddhist university by King Jayavarman VII.
What does Preah Khan mean?
The name Preah Khan translates to 'Sacred Sword' in Khmer.
Why was Preah Khan built?
It was constructed in 1191 AD by King Jayavarman VII to honor his father, Dharanindravarman II. It served as both a bustling city and a religious center.
