Prasat Kravan, Siem Reap

Hindu Temple in Siem Reap

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Diego Delso

Prasat Kravan is a 10th-century Hindu temple located at Angkor, Cambodia, situated south of the Srah Srang baray (artificial lake). It consists of five reddish brick towers arranged on a common terrace. The original Sanskrit name is unknown, but the modern Khmer name, “Prasat Kravan,” translates to “artabotrys odoratissimus temple.” The temple, dedicated to Vishnu, was constructed in 921 CE, as evidenced by an inscription found on the doorjambs.

The temple was cleared of vegetation in the 1930s by Henri Marchal and Georges Trouvé. Further restoration was undertaken between 1962 and 1966 by Bernard Philippe Groslier, who added some new bricks, marked with a “CA” to signify the conservation effort.

Architecture and Design

The temple is oriented eastward and is surrounded by a small moat. Its architectural style is characterized by classical lines and symmetry. Notably, the central and south towers feature superstructures designed with a diminishing tier effect, creating an illusion of false perspective. Inside, the sanctuary is decorated with large bas-reliefs depicting Vishnu and Lakshmi, which are carved into the reddish brick walls, set within a vegetative motif. This type of carving, common in Cham temples, is rare in Khmer architecture.

Bas-Reliefs and Sculptures

The bas-reliefs inside the central tower represent the god Vishnu in three distinct forms:

Vishnu, with four arms, is depicted riding his vehicle Garuda and holding his traditional symbols: a globe, conch, discus, and baton.
Vishnu, again with four arms, takes a large step, illustrating his incarnation as Vamana the dwarf, who took three giant steps to reclaim the world from the asura Bali.
Vishnu, now depicted with eight arms, stands in a rigid statue-like posture, surrounded by hundreds of tiny devotees, with a crocodile or lizard above him. The significance of this scene remains unclear.

In the northernmost tower, two bas-reliefs of Lakshmi, Vishnu’s consort, are featured, flanked by devotees. One relief shows Lakshmi holding Shiva’s trident and Vishnu’s discus, possibly representing her as a goddess who transcends both Saiva and Vaishnava traditions. The other more traditional depiction shows her holding lotuses.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (658)

Kravan Temple, tucked inside the Angkor Archaeological Park, is a compact 10th-century sanctuary of five brick towers set within a moat, celebrated for its intricate brick bas-reliefs—especially depictions of Vishnu and Lakshmi—and an uncommon eight-armed Vishnu carved in brick; visitors say it’s often overlooked but worth a stop, best seen early for softer light and fewer crowds, with a lakeside spot in front ideal for relaxing (bring insect repellent) and beware of pricier eateries near the lake.

Chetra Yoeurn

2 weeks ago

"Situated within the Angkor Archeological Park, Kravan Temple was constructed in the 10th Century, featuring a distinctive brick hue and exquisitecarvings. It is truly breathtaking to behold its beauty while participating in a BIG TOUR. Many tourists might overlook this temple; however, it is worth a visit at least once...."

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Greg Ochylski

a month ago

"Early 10th century shrine to Vishnu, unusual for its reliefs carved on brick, best seen after sunrise or early in the day, lighting not great rest ofthe day, eight-armed Vishnu carved in brick unique, as it is the only one found at Angkor. Interestingly enough, there are weddings and other social gatherings held here in the evenings, i walked through them setting one up to take these pictures...."

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Vi ie Hirooka

3 weeks ago

"Nice place to visit while cycling the area. The lake right in front of it is a nice place to relax and unwind, just make sure to bring a repellent.Also, I’d avoid the restaurants around the lake, as they are incredibly expensive compared to the ones in the city center...."

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The Prasat Kravan appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Siem Reap!

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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