On our recent trip to Siem Reap, my family and I visited Prasat Preah Khan, and I have to say, it was one of the highlights of our visit. It's a bit more under the radar compared to the famous Angkor Wat or Ta Prohm, but that's what made it so special. We practically had the place to ourselves, which made it feel like we were discovering something truly unique.

A Stunning Entrance As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by this grand entrance lined with statues of gods and demons. The pathway leading up to the temple was surrounded by trees, creating a beautiful, peaceful setting. You could immediately feel the ancient history in the air. Prasat Preah Khan was once a huge Buddhist university and monastery, and even though much of it is now in ruins, there’s still a sense of grandeur about it.

A Temple of Surprises What I loved most was how easy it was to get lost in the maze of corridors and courtyards. Every time we turned a corner, we found something new—a hidden shrine, intricate carvings, or massive trees growing right through the temple walls. It’s incredible to see how nature has slowly taken over parts of the temple, creating this beautiful, almost otherworldly scene. You can really take your time here, and that slower pace made the experience even more meaningful.

Architecture Full of History The detail in the carvings is stunning. What’s interesting is that you can see both Hindu and Buddhist influences in the temple’s design, which tells the story of Cambodia’s shifting religious history. It's amazing how much history is packed into this one place, and you can’t help but feel a sense of awe thinking about the people who built it and how it has survived for so long.

A Peaceful Escape The best part was the sense of calm. Compared to some of the bigger temples, which can get pretty crowded, Prasat Preah Khan was much quieter. We were able to walk around at our own pace, soaking in the atmosphere without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by other tourists. It was the perfect spot to just enjoy being in the moment, taking photos, and appreciating the history.

A Must-See Experience If you're heading to Siem Reap, I can’t recommend Prasat Preah Khan enough. It’s not as famous as some of the other temples, but that’s exactly why it’s worth visiting. The combination of history, architecture, and nature makes it a truly special experience, and for us, it was a peaceful retreat in the midst of Angkor’s wonders. We left feeling really grateful to have stumbled upon this hidden treasure.