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The Roluos complex, a masterpiece of King Indravarman I, is one of the largest temples built by the Khmer people and marks the beginning of the Khmer Classical era. Its architectural style is influenced by Borobudur in Indonesia, with its main features being a three-tiered peristyle and a pyramidal structure.
Wat Pakorn is the largest and most important temple in the Roluos complex. Once a large temple in the city center, it was primarily dedicated to the worship of the linga.
Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate, with the rainy season from May to October and the dry season from November to April. The best time to visit depends on personal preference.
The dry season is Cambodia's peak tourist season, with sunny weather and low humidity, making it ideal for visiting temples and ancient monuments. During this time, views of the Roluos Group are clearer, allowing visitors to better appreciate the details of the architecture and relief carvings. The dry season is also Cambodia's festival season, with many celebrations and cultural performances.
Cambodia's rainy season is characterized by heavy rainfall and hotter and more humid weather, but some tourists still prefer this time of year. The advantage of the rainy season is that it's less crowded, making tourist attractions less crowded. Furthermore, after the rain, the temples and surrounding scenery appear even more lush and green, creating a unique aesthetic experience.
【Recommended attractions】
→Bagong Temple
It is the largest and most important temple in the Roluos complex, showcasing the early Khmer civilization. It was not only the city center of its time, but also the first temple in the Angkor archaeological complex to be constructed using sandstone instead of red brick, and the first multi-story temple mountain after the founding of the Angkor Empire.
→Shenniu Temple
The first temple built during Cambodia's Angkor Dynasty, it is named after the three sacred bull statues within. The temple pioneered the use of red bricks in temple construction and consists of six towers. Its unique architectural style and well-preserved relief carvings are evident.
【Recommended Play Time】
2-3 hours
There's no need to buy a separate ticket for the Roluos Group; it's included in the Angkor Wat scenic pass. The Angkor Wat scenic pass is available in three types: one-day, three-day, and seven-day, priced at US$20, US$40, and US$60, respectively.
The opening hours are 5:00-18:00, and the specific business status may be adjusted according to the situation of the day.
The Roluos Group is one of the earliest capitals of the Khmer Empire, dating back to the late 9th century. The temples were built during the reign of King Yasovarman I and are significant for their early representation of Khmer architecture, showcasing advances that would later be seen in Angkor Wat. These temples are an important archaeological site and are considered the foundation of the Angkorian civilization.
The Roluos Group is located about 13 kilometers southeast of Siem Reap, Cambodia. The best way to reach the site is by taxi, tuk-tuk, or private car. Most visitors arrange transportation through local hotels or hire a driver for the day. Walking is not recommended due to the distance from Siem Reap.
The Roluos Group temples are generally open from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or later in the afternoon, as the midday heat can be intense. Visiting early also allows you to avoid larger crowds from the nearby Angkor temples.
The entrance fee for the Roluos Group is included in the Angkor Archaeological Park ticket, which is 37 USD for a one-day pass. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the ticket booth in Siem Reap before heading to the site.
It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance for the Roluos Group, as they are included in the Angkor Park pass. However, booking online can save time, especially during the peak tourist season. It is recommended to book at least a day in advance if you're planning to visit during high season.
You will need around 2 to 3 hours to explore the main temples of the Roluos Group, including Bakong, Lolei, and Preah Ko. If you plan to visit the surrounding villages or take photographs, you may want to allocate additional time.
Guided tours are available and typically offered in English, with some guides also speaking French. Audio guides can be rented, but they may not be as widely available as local guides. It is recommended to hire a local guide for a more personalized experience.
Start with Bakong Temple, which is the most impressive and largest of the three, then proceed to Lolei Temple, which has a charming and compact layout. End with Preah Ko, a smaller but important temple with excellent carvings and architecture. This route will allow you to explore the highlights of the Roluos Group in a logical sequence.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Roluos Group. The temples are only accessible during daylight hours. Special tours may be available, especially for larger groups, but it's best to check in advance with local tour operators.
The Roluos Group is generally less crowded than the main Angkor temples, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons. Weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends, and visiting in the off-peak season (May to October) will also reduce the number of tourists.
Basic facilities such as toilets and water are available near the temple sites, but there are no large restaurants or shops inside. It's advisable to bring your own snacks, drinks, and essentials for the trip.
The Roluos temples are relatively accessible for children and elderly visitors, although some of the structures involve climbing stairs or navigating uneven surfaces. Disabled visitors may find the terrain challenging, so it's recommended to plan ahead for accessibility needs.
Cash is primarily used at the Roluos Group. While some shops in Siem Reap may accept cards or mobile payments, it is advisable to carry enough cash for any purchases or tips during your visit to the temples.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the Roluos Group area. However, nearby Siem Reap offers a wide range of dining options, from street food to high-end restaurants serving traditional Khmer cuisine.
Siem Reap has many vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options. You can easily find these options in the local restaurants, especially those catering to tourists in the town center.
Accommodation options near the Roluos Group include budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts in Siem Reap. Popular hotels include the Angkor Village Resort and Sokha Angkor Resort, offering convenient access to the temples.
There are souvenir shops near the Roluos temples, offering traditional Cambodian crafts, clothing, and jewelry. Common souvenirs include hand-carved wooden statues, silk scarves, and locally made handicrafts.
After visiting the Roluos Group, tuk-tuks and taxis are the best options for continuing your trip, especially if you're heading to other parts of Siem Reap or the Angkor Archaeological Park. Rental cars or private drivers can also be arranged for a more comfortable journey.
