Krol Ko Temple, Siem Reap

Buddhist Temple near Siem Reap

Krol Ko Temple
Krol Ko Temple
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95

Krol Ko Temple is a small ancient Buddhist temple ruin in Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap, Cambodia. Built in the late 12th century in the Bayon style during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, it sits just south of Neak Pean on the Jayatataka Baray, making it an easy addition if you're already on the Grand Circuit route.

What stands out here is the layout still legible in the ruins: traces of an outer wall, an eastern entrance, and laterite cruciform terraces leading toward the central shrine. I find Krol Ko most rewarding for close-up looking rather than big vistas-pediments lying on the ground, devata bas-reliefs, and small roundels/medallions with figurines. It’s best for travelers who enjoy quieter corners of Angkor and want a short, detail-focused visit between larger temples.

History and Significance of the Krol Ko Temple

Late 12th century foundations

Krol Ko is generally dated to the end of the 12th century based on its Bayon-style architecture. It is associated with the building program of King Jayavarman VII (1181-1218 AD), a period that saw many Buddhist monuments added across Angkor. The temple's position near Neak Pean and the Jayatataka Baray links it to a wider sacred landscape of water, enclosures, and causeways.

Architecture as the main evidence

No foundation inscription survives at Krol Ko, so its chronology relies on architectural features and decoration. Visitors can still trace the temple’s planned sequence: an eastern entry, a cruciform terrace, a gopura, and further enclosure elements leading inward. The presence of a moat on three sides and a permanent basin to the northeast also suggests a carefully organized setting rather than an isolated shrine.

Later religious change and survival of images

Like other Angkor sites, Krol Ko reflects later periods of religious transition, when images were sometimes removed or defaced. A notable detail here is that several niches reportedly retain original idols-an uncommon survival in a landscape where many figures were displaced. This mix of loss and survival is part of what makes the temple feel archaeologically “in progress,” with fragments and intact details side by side.

Things to See and Do in the Krol Ko Temple

I start at the eastern entrance and follow the line of the terraces to understand how you were meant to move through the complex, then slow down near the gopura and central shrine remains. The laterite cruciform terrace connecting toward the shrine is a good place to pause and look back at the approach. Because the site is compact, it’s easy to do a full circuit without feeling rushed.

I also spend time scanning the carvings at ground level: pediments lying on the ground include scenes such as Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara standing on a lotus with devotees, and Krishna lifting Mount Govardhana. The devata bas-reliefs and the roundels/medallions enclosing small figurines are worth a careful look, especially if you've noticed similar motifs at late 12th-century temples like Preah Khan. If you enjoy spotting survivals, check niches for remaining idols before you move on.

How to Get to the Krol Ko Temple

The nearest airport is Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI), from which you continue into Siem Reap and onward to Angkor Archaeological Park. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Siem Reap on Booking.com.

Siem Reap does not have a central passenger rail station in common tourist use, so train travel is not typically a practical way to reach the city for most visitors. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

By car (or tuk-tuk) it's a straightforward stop within Angkor Archaeological Park, and drivers commonly pair it with nearby Neak Pean; expect to be dropped close to the entrance area.

Is the Krol Ko Temple Worth Visiting?

Krol Ko Temple is worth a short stop if you're already visiting Neak Pean or exploring the Grand Circuit and you like quieter ruins with carvings you can study up close. It's best for travelers who enjoy architectural “reading” (walls, terraces, gopuras) and fragmentary sculpture rather than fully restored structures. It's less essential if you're tight on time, prioritizing the biggest headline temples, or prefer sites with extensive standing architecture-treat it as optional and keep it brief if your schedule is packed.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (102)

Krol Ko Temple, located in the Angkor Archaeological Park near Neak Pean, is a small, quiet 12th-century Buddhist site whose modest buildings — a central tower and a so-called “library” within double walls — invite calm reflection away from the larger circuits; visitors note its peaceful, leafy setting, restored ground pediments depicting figures like Avalokitesvara and Krishna, a relaxed atmosphere with few tourists but sometimes local visitors, and that it can feel a bit neglected or only partially restored, making it a worthwhile short stop if you have extra time and seek solitude.

Seng Pheng
6 months ago
"Krol Ko ប្រាសាទក្រោលគោ is a small Buddhist temple from the 12th century. Its name means “Park of the Oxen” and lies about a hundred meters north fromthe artificial island Neak Pean nearby the grand circuit. The Temple Krol Ko was erected by the King Jayavarman VII at the end of the 12th century. Architecture of Krol Ko The temple buildings – a tower and a so-called “library” – are surrounded by two walls. The purpose and function of “library”-buildings, which are quite common in Khmer architecture, are unknown. The main temple tower of Krol Ko is built in the middle of a cross-shaped terrace. The most interesting items at Krol Ko are the pediments on the ground. Some of them are restored, like the triangular pediments with Avalokitesvara standing on a lotus surrounded by devotees or the one with Krishna who lifts Mount Govardhana with his little finger to give shelter to the shepherds...."
Hem Nimeith
5 months ago
"Visiting Krol Ko Temple, I was moved by its quiet, humble beauty. The ancient ruins, surrounded by lush greenery, whispered stories of devotion andresilience. The peaceful atmosphere invited deep reflection, filling me with awe and a heartfelt co ection to Cambodia’s sacred past...."
A.C
a year ago
"Very small and quiet with no crowds. It's the perfect place to relax after visiting busier temples, offering a peaceful atmosphere that's hard tofind elsewhere. The serene surroundings make it an ideal spot to unwind and take in the tranquility. However, if you're short on time and prioritizing the more famous temples, you might consider skipping this one. But for those who appreciate calm and solitude, this small temple is a hidden gem worth discovering, offering a unique experience that contrasts with the more popular tourist sites...."
Gu ar Caya
2 years ago
"This small temple is right across the road from Neak Poan, one of the more beautiful and unique temples in Angkor. Although Neak Poan is one of theprimary stops on the Grand Circuit tour, Krol Ko usually winds up being skipped. It might be due to time constraints, because objectively speaking this temple is much smaller and somewhat less impressive than the other temples you will see on the tour (Preah Khan, Neak Poan, Ta Som, East Mebon, Pre Rup, and Srah Srang). But nonetheless I still found it to be enjoyable. Although it isn't a part of the main circuit, both times I visited here there were quite a few Cambodians here (but no tourists). Maybe it was just coincidence, but it was weird going to a temple and seeing no foreigners, but lots of locals. If you don't have time to see this temple, you won't be missing too much. But if you have more than 3 days to see temples I do think this one is probably worth checking out...."
Guimo-D Brando
12 months ago
"Nice and cool though it seemed a little bit abandoned and not that well restored, besides it seems there is a candle wish business behind that thingand you don't even have the chance to refuse but hey what can I say I'm just a foreigner..."

Practical Tips on Visiting the Krol Ko Temple

  • Best time to visit: Go earlier in the day if you want a calmer feel and softer light on carvings and reliefs.
  • How long to spend: 15-30 minutes is usually enough to walk the layout and look closely at key carvings and pediments.
  • Accessibility: Expect uneven ground and rubble; some areas may be difficult for anyone with limited mobility.
  • Facilities: Facilities are not a defining feature of this small site, so plan to rely on services elsewhere within your Angkor day.

Where to Stay Close to the Krol Ko Temple

Base yourself in central Siem Reap around the Old Market/Pub Street and Wat Bo areas for the easiest access to Angkor Archaeological Park plus restaurants and transport.

These hotels are practical bases in central Siem Reap for day trips into Angkor Archaeological Park, including Krol Ko Temple. FCC Angkor by Avani works well for good choice if you want a central, walkable base near the river and town amenities while keeping tuk-tuk access straightforward for early temple starts. Viroth's Hotel works well for works well for travellers who want a quieter neighborhood feel while staying close to Old Town dining and having easy pick-ups for Angkor touring. Borei Angkor Resort & Spa works well for suitable if you prefer a slightly more set-back base with simpler vehicle access and parking convenience for drivers or arranged transport to the temples.

FAQs for Visiting the Krol Ko Temple

Getting There

Krol Ko Temple is inside Angkor Archaeological Park, near the Jayatataka Baray and just south of Neak Pean.
Walking from central Siem Reap to Krol Ko isn’t a simple or typical route because the temple is within Angkor Archaeological Park, well outside the town center.
Train travel isn’t usually part of getting around Siem Reap for visitors, so the simplest plan is to start from your hotel and arrange road transport into Angkor Archaeological Park.
Drivers can usually stop near the entrance area, and it’s most worth it when combined with Neak Pean and other Grand Circuit temples rather than as a standalone drive.

Tickets & Entry

Krol Ko is within Angkor Archaeological Park, so entry is generally tied to the park access system rather than a separate ticket at the temple.
Access is typically part of broader Angkor Archaeological Park entry, allowing you to visit multiple temples in the park rather than paying per site.
Advance booking isn’t usually necessary specifically for Krol Ko, since it’s a small stop within the wider park visit.
As a small ruin within the Angkor park circuit, it’s generally visited year-round, but exact hours and any changes are managed at the park level.
Stay on established paths where possible, avoid climbing unstable structures, and treat any remaining religious images and carved surfaces with care.

Visiting Experience

Plan on about 15-20 minutes to follow the approach from the eastern entrance and pause for the main carvings and pediments.
It’s not a priority for a single-day itinerary unless you’re already doing the Grand Circuit and want a brief, quieter contrast to bigger stops.
Pair it with Neak Pean nearby, then continue with other Grand Circuit sites depending on your pace and interests.
It’s better as a fair-weather stop because the ground can be uneven and details are easier to appreciate when you can linger comfortably.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

No-because it’s inside Angkor Archaeological Park, it’s more commonly visited as part of a driver-led circuit rather than a city walking tour.
A guide can add context to the Bayon-style features and imagery, but the site also works well as a quick independent stop if you like exploring quietly.
Keep it simple: visit Neak Pean, then cross to Krol Ko for a short walk-through focused on terraces and carvings, adjusting time based on how long you spend at Neak Pean.

Photography

Yes, especially for detail shots-pediments on the ground, devata reliefs, and medallion-like roundels reward close framing.
Earlier light can be gentler on stone texture and makes it easier to see shallow carving details without harsh contrast.
Be respectful around any remaining idols and avoid intrusive behavior; restrictions, when present, are typically about protecting fragile areas rather than casual photography.
Try shooting along the line of the eastern approach toward the inner structures, then switch to close-ups of the pediments and roundels.

Accessibility & Facilities

Access can be challenging due to uneven surfaces, rubble, and the ruin’s compact but irregular paths.
This is a small site, so don’t count on dedicated facilities right at the temple; plan breaks around larger stops on your route.
You can usually find low walls or shaded edges to pause briefly, but seating isn’t formalized.
It can work for families as a short stop, but strollers may struggle on uneven ground and around stone fragments.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Most visitors plan food breaks back in Siem Reap town, where options are concentrated and easier to choose.
Rather than markets near the temple, it pairs best with a return to central Siem Reap for food after finishing nearby Angkor stops.

Safety & Timing

It’s within the Angkor park area, so it’s generally approached as a daytime visit; plan to leave before it gets dark for simpler logistics.
Early is usually best for a quieter feel and more comfortable conditions for lingering over carvings.

The Krol Ko Temple appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Siem Reap!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Krol Ko, Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap: 12 km

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