Grand Tour

The Grand Tour is actually an extension of the Small Circuit and runs through Preah Khan, Preah Neak Pean to the Eastern Mebon and other temple monuments of Ta Som & Pre Rup. The Grand Circuit complex showcases the rich and sophisticated architecture of Khmer Empire.

The best thing about the Grand Tour circuit temples is that it is slightly off the beaten track and thus quieter. The scenery is breath taking and every corner of the temples are a photographers dream!

Preah Khan built in the 12th century was one of Jayavarman VII’s largest projects dedicated to his father. The temple was built as much more than a temple as it was the education center for over 1,000 teachers, it appears also to have been a Buddhist university as well as a considerable city.

Neak Poan was built to represent a paradisiacal Himalayan Mountain lake. East Mebon was guarded at its corners by stone figures of harnessed elephants, some of which are still in a reasonable state of preservation.

Heading to Prasat East Mebon, a majestic 10th Century temple, the tour then continues to Prasat Prerub, a Hindu temple at Angkor, built as the state temple of Khmer King Rajendravarman and completed in 961. This temple is constructed of combined brick, laterite and sandstone.

Ta Som built at end of the 12th century for King Jayavarman VII. It is located north east of Angkor Thom city.