The Roluos temples are a group of three early Khmer stone temples—Bakong, Preah Ko, and Lolei—built in the late 9th century near Siem Reap, marking the start of Khmer temple architecture. Travelers can visit them by purchasing an Angkor Pass (around $37 for one day), located about 13 kilometers east of Siem Reap, accessible by taxi, tuk-tuk, or bicycle.
Visitors interested in early Khmer history and architecture who prefer a less crowded temple experience.
Offers a quieter, more relaxed visit compared to the busier Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom sites.
The temples are smaller and less visually elaborate than later Angkor sites, which may be less impressive to some travelers.
Visiting the main Angkor complex, including Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, for those seeking larger, more famous temples.
The Roluos temples mark the beginning of the great Khmer Empire's architectural legacy near Siem Reap. Situated roughly 13 kilometers east of the town center, this group of ancient temples stands as some of the earliest significant stone structures built by the Khmer rulers during the late 9th century. While overshadowed by the grandeur of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, the roluos temples provide valuable insight into the early development of Khmer temple architecture and religious practices.
Visiting Roluos has a quieter alternative to the busier Angkor sites, with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. The area comprises three main temples: Bakong, Preah Ko, and Lolei, each representing different stages of early Khmer temple design and construction. This makes a trip to the Roluos temples an interesting stop for those wanting to understand the origins of the Angkorian style.
Top Tours for Exploring Rolous Group
Hand-picked tours — top pick first, then sorted by price.
3-Day Angkor Wat with All Interesting Major Temples, Banteay Srei & Beng Mealea
- Comprehensive coverage of key temple complexes including Angkor Thom’s Bayon and Elephant Terrace.
- Visit to Banteay Srei, well-known for its intricate pink sandstone carvings.
Angkor temples Tour
- Personalized photography tips for solo and couple travelers.
- Comprehensive coverage of major and lesser-known temples within the complex.
2-Days Private Tour in Angkor Sunrise, Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea Temple
- Visit to Banteay Srei, known for its exceptionally detailed pink sandstone carvings.
- Exploration of Beng Mealea, a largely unrestored temple overgrown by jungle vegetation.
Private Siem Reap 3 Day Tour Discover All Highlight Angkor Temple
- Coverage of major and lesser-known temples including Rolous Group and Banteay Srei with detailed explanations.
- Private tour format allowing personalized pacing and in-depth exploration.
- 100% ticket guaranteeReceive tickets on time for the experience you’ve booked.
- Free cancellation*Get a refund if your plans change — most options up to 24h before.
- Instant mobile ticketShow your ticket on your phone — no printing needed, confirmed instantly.
Where are the Roluos temples located and how to get there?
The Roluos temples are located about 13 kilometers east of Siem Reap town, an easy 20 to 30-minute tuk-tuk ride costing between $10 and $15 for a round trip depending on your negotiation skills. They lie along National Road 6, heading towards the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake.
Most visitors include the Roluos group as part of a half-day or full-day temple circuit. Since the Angkor pass covers all official temple sites, including Roluos, you won’t need to purchase a separate ticket. A 3-day pass costs $62, and a 1-day pass $37, available only at the official ticket office near Angkor Wat. Arriving early may help you avoid the heat and enjoy the temples with fewer visitors.
What is Bakong Temple and why is it important?
Bakong is the most prominent temple in the Roluos group and was the first temple mountain built entirely of sandstone by the Khmer Empire. Constructed in the late 9th century under King Indravarman I, it served as the state temple and capital.
The temple’s pyramid-like structure features five tiered levels with steep staircases, symbolizing Mount Meru, the Hindu cosmic mountain. The intricate carvings on the sandstone blocks and the remnants of guardian statues add to its historical significance. Entry to Bakong is free with your Angkor pass, and exploring the temple generally takes around 45 minutes to an hour.
After visiting Bakong, consider heading to Preah Khan or Banteay Samre, other notable temples nearby.
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Roluos Group, Cambodia
What is Preah Ko and what does it represent?
Preah Ko, meaning 'Sacred Bull,' is the oldest of the Roluos temples and was built as a dedication to the ancestors of King Indravarman I. Constructed primarily from red brick with sandstone lintels, Preah Ko dates back to the late 9th century.
The temple complex consists of several small shrines arranged in two rows and is noted for its intricate carvings depicting Hindu deities and mythological scenes. The name comes from the bull statues placed in front of the shrines, symbolizing the Hindu god Shiva.
Preah Ko is a compact site and can be explored thoroughly in 30 to 45 minutes. Its relatively small size and tranquil surroundings make it a pleasant stop before or after visiting Bakong.
“The Roluos Group marks the initial phase of monumental Khmer architecture, offering invaluable insights into the empire’s early religious and political developments. Visiting these temples allows one to trace the origins of the grandeur that would define Angkor in later centuries.”
What is Lolei Temple and why is it called the Island Temple?
Lolei sits on a small man-made island surrounded by a moat, creating an atmospheric setting. Constructed around 893 AD by King Yasovarman I, Lolei was built to honor his ancestors and forms the last of the trio of Roluos temples.
The temple’s architecture features four brick towers atop a sandstone platform, with detailed carvings highlighting Hindu iconography. Although smaller and less elaborate than Bakong, Lolei has a peaceful environment for visitors and is less crowded.
A visit here usually takes about 30 minutes, and the moat adds an interesting reflective element to your photos and overall enjoy.
What are the best tips for visiting the Roluos temples?
The Roluos temples are best visited early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and larger tour groups. The area has limited facilities, so bringing water and sun protection is advisable. Unlike the more commercialized Angkor Wat complex, the Roluos group has a quieter atmosphere, allowing you to appreciate the historical context and architectural details at a leisurely pace.
Tuk-tuks or motorbikes are the most practical ways to reach Roluos. Renting a motorbike costs around $7 per day, while a tuk-tuk for a half or full day can be found for $15-$20. Bicycle rental is also an option for the more adventurous, costing $2-$3 per day in Siem Reap, but bear in mind the 13 km distance from town and the Cambodian heat.
Combine your visit with other less crowded temples like Banteay Srei or Ta Keo for a varied temple itinerary.
What is the historical significance of the Roluos temples?
The Roluos temples are significant because they represent the transition from wooden to stone architecture and the establishment of the Khmer Empire's capital in this region. They set architectural and religious precedents that would be expanded in later temples such as Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom.
The temples also reveal early Khmer religious syncretism, with Hindu gods like Shiva and Vishnu featured prominently. Visiting the Roluos temples provides a tangible connection to the empire’s early days, offering context for the more famous Angkor monuments.
What should travelers know about the Roluos temples overall?
For travelers interested in the foundations of Khmer architecture and history, the Roluos temples are an essential stop. Their proximity to Siem Reap and inclusion in the Angkor ticket system make them accessible and affordable to visit. Expect fewer tourists, a more relaxed vibe, and a chance to appreciate the early Khmer Empire’s temple-building skills.
By combining Roluos with other nearby temples, you can create a balanced itinerary that covers both the grand and the foundational sites of Cambodia’s ancient heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What resources are useful for visiting the Roluos temples?
Official Angkor management authority
Cambodia Ministry of Tourism
