Roluos Temples is a group of ancient temples located in Siem Reap. This group depicts the four Angkor-era monuments. The temples are some of Khmer architecture’s most religious and significant examples. These temples portray the remains of Hariharalaya, the first capital of the Khmer empire. This temple group consists of 3 temples, Bakong, Preah Ko, and Lolei, each with unique architectural sculptures and stucco carvings. The architects in ancient times depicted their artwork with intricate brickwork and influenced the grand temples of Angkor. These temples are a part of a huge organisation that continues its focus on preservation and restoration and continuing the legacy of classical history.
History Of The Roluos Temples
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The Roluos temples represent the remains of Hariharalaya, which was the first capital of the Khmer Empire and was established by King Jayavarman II in the 9th century. The capital remained for more than 70 years under the rule of 4 kings. Among all the Roluos group of temples, few of the permanent structures in the earliest were built by Khmer. They are the fingerprints of the civilization of the classic period. There are 3 ancient temples in the group of Roluos temples, and the step pyramid was the most prominent and was later the prototype for other temples such as Angkor Wat. The temples are the signature of evolution, combining Indian influences and depicting them with beautiful local creativity.
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Architecture Of Roluos Temples
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The Roluos temples are perceived as tall, square-shaped towers made of bricks on pedestals. The temples are entirely built of bricks; some of them are even built of sandstone or laterite. The walls of the temples are enclosed, but nowadays, only the traces are noticeable. The temple has stone lion stairways leading to the sanctuary on top. There are 8 sanctuaries around the temple and the temples are created and built familiar to Angkor, it’s a prototype for the other temples. The temple has a Roluos group of monuments and is beautifully carved with stucco carvings, and the architecture portrays the talent during ancient times. It depicts Hindu deities and mythological scenes. It has a central sanctuary that is surrounded by small shrines. The temple’s architecture reflects the blend of culture and traditions of the Khmer Empire and its evolution.
Roluos Group Of Temples
As part of the ancient city of Hariharalaya, the Roluos group of monuments offers insight into the early development of Angkorian temple design. The intricate carvings and historical significance make it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
1. Koh Ker Temple
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Koh Ker temple is an ancient temple in Cambodia. It’s a fascinating site yet not well known among the chapters of Khmer history. The temple is known for its unique monumental architecture. The most notable is the Prasat Thom, which has a seven-tiered pyramid rising 36 metres above the jungle. The pyramid is unlike any of the other temples; it offers scenic views from its summit and simplifies the grand vision of its builders. Koh Ker temple is a remarkable structure featuring beautiful carvings and statues. The art depicts the Hindu deities and mythological creatures like garuda. For those who visit, explore the depths of Cambodia’s history and culture.
Best time to visit: All time
Timings: 6 Am – 5 Pm
2. Preah Ko Temple
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Preah Ko temple, built in 879 AD, is one of the earliest and most significant temples in the Roluos temples in Cambodia. This temple is a testament to the stages of Khmer’s architecture; it was dedicated to the ancestors, kings and Hindu deities. The temple’s name means “Sacred Bull,” with Nandi and Shiva statues facing the central towers. Six pleasant towers are internally small and are active shrines. The detailed carvings and sophisticated art skills by Khmer craftsmen make this a vital piece of Cambodia’s culture and tradition tapestry.
Best time to visit: All time
Timings: 6 Am – 1 Pm
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3. Bakong Temple
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Bakong temple is one of the most impressive temples in the Roluos group of monuments, and it represents a milestone in the evolution of Khmer architecture. This temple was considered the first temple mountain and served as a state temple in the Khmer Empire. The temple has fascinating designs of a central pyramid and five stepped tiers that symbolise Mount Peru. Each tier is beautifully carved sandstone sculptures, and the central pyramids are small brick towers beautifully decorated with floral patterns. The temple offers a glimpse of the artistic and religious achievements of the early Khmer empire and takes a peek into the captivating culture.
Best time to visit: All time
Timings: 6 Am – 2 Pm
4. Lolei Temple
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Lolei temple in Roluos is one of the temples in the group and is also a historically significant site. It was constructed in 893 AD by King Yasovarman I and dedicated to Lord Shiva and the king’s ancestors. This temple is renowned for its four brick towers on a raised platform with intricate sandstone carvings. The carvings feature hindu deities and mythological scenes done with floral designs portraying artistic period. Lolei temple offers visitors a tranquil and relaxed setting with unique architecture and a glimpse of the spiritual and culture of the early Khmer empire.
Best time to visit: All time
Timings: 6 Am – 2 Pm
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Best Time To Visit Roluos Temple
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The best time to visit Roluos temple is during the dry season, from November to March. The weather during this season is mostly cooler and less humid, making sightseeing comfortable. The grounds near the temple aren’t muddy, which makes photography easy. Visiting the place early in the morning can be much better as you would avoid the midday heat. Plan your visit and enhance your experience by fully appreciating their history and artwork.
How To Reach Roluos Temples
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By Tuk-Tuk: The most common way to reach Roluos temple is by tuk-tuk. This local transport is available in Cambodia, so hire it from Siem Reap. Depending on your duration and additional stops, you can negotiate the price with the driver beforehand.
By Taxi: For a comfortable and faster ride you can hire a taxi. Many hotels or guesthouses in Siem Reap offer or even arrange a taxi.
By Tour: If you have arrived in Cambodia, Siem Reap has several tour packages that allow you to explore the Roluos temples and other places. they even have a guide to teach, or if you want one, it’s preferable to hire one to visit and learn about the history and significance of temples.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Cambodia
Roluos temple is a profound site to visit, as it offers great significance to Cambodian history and culture. The architecture allows travellers to immerse themselves in the past of the Khmer empire. Beautifully carved structures offer an enriching experience, all the serene landscapes cannot be avoided. So plan a trip to Cambodia to explore the enthusiast hidden within yourself.
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Cover Image Credit: Damien for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Roluos Temple
How to dress while visiting the temple?
Dress modestly while visiting the temple. Wear anything comfortable that covers your shoulder and knees. All kinds of shoes are allowed, but again make sure you wear something comfortable as there will be too much walking.
Are guides available near the temple?
Yes, guides are available near the temple. The guides have their charges so ask their prices before hiring. The prices might be negotiable, try negotiating beforehand.
Are wheelchairs of the temple accessible?
The temple may pose challenges, anyways ask the park authorities or the tour operator for the respective accessibility.
Is parking available near the temple?
Yes parking is available near the temple. The parking is available for tour buses, tuk tuk, 4 wheeler and 2 wheeler vehicles, making it convenient for travellers.
What is the meaning of the face at the Bayon temple?
Given his Buddhist leanings, it is thought that the huge faces portray him in semi-divine form as a 'bodhisattva,' an enlightened being conceived in Mahayana Buddhism who postpones entering Nirvana in order to remain on earth helping others towards salvation.
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