Koh Ker was the capital of the Khmer Empire from 928 AD to 944 AD. This was the only interruption in the almost 500 year history of the Khmer Capital being at Angkor. About 20 years after the establishment of the capital at Angkor, there was a breakdown in the line succession for reasons that are unclear, and in 928 AD King Jayavarman IV, probably a usurper to the throne, created a new capital at Koh Ker. Whatever the reasons for the move to Koh Ker, King Jayavarman IV created a large royal capital of Brahmanic temples, shrines, and prasats, which surrounded a huge Rahal (baray). King Jayavarman IV ruled at Koh Ker for 20 years until his death in 941 AD, and King Hashavarman II, his son, would remain at Koh Ker for some 3 years before returning the capital to Angkor.

Koh Ker Location: 100km northeast of Siem Reap, Construction period: 928 AD to 944 AD Religion: Hindu Built by: King Jayavarman IV Getting there: Take National Highway #6 east from Siem Reap to Damdek, turn north, and follow the signs. There is a toll road for part of the way. Always check road conditions before departing, especially in the rainy season.