The short answer
Roluos Group: what visitors should know first
Yes, as a short, easy half-day that shows where Angkor began. The temples are compact, shaded and mostly flat, and the site is quieter than the main park. Combine it with a village stop on the way back to town.
History and context
The story behind Roluos Group
Hariharalaya was an early Khmer capital near modern Siem Reap. Indravarman I built Preah Ko, dedicated in 880 CE, and completed Bakong, where he consecrated the lingam Sri Indreshvara in 881 CE. His son Yasovarman I succeeded him in 889 CE and built Lolei on an artificial island in the reservoir Indratataka.
Yasovarman I later founded Yasodharapura at the site of Angkor Thom, and the centre of the kingdom moved away from Roluos.
Useful facts
Roluos Group facts at a glance
- Location
- About 13 km east of Siem Reap
- Experience type
- Three early temples
- Known for
- Oldest large temples in the Angkor area
- Built
- Late 9th century, Indravarman I and Yasovarman I
- Temples
- Preah Ko, Bakong, Lolei
- Visitor note
- Quiet and shaded
Why it matters
Why Roluos Group is worth your time
The Roluos group is what remains of Hariharalaya, an early Khmer capital established by Jayavarman II and developed by Indravarman I. Its temples show the first appearance of the temple mountain, brick towers and sandstone carving in Khmer architecture, which later reached its peak at Angkor Wat.
It is a useful stop for understanding the Khmer story as a long development. Preah Ko, Bakong and Lolei each add a piece, and together they explain how royal temples and reservoirs shaped the landscape.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Preah Ko
Six brick towers with carved lintels, dedicated in 880 CE.
- 02
Bakong
The first large temple mountain, with a moat and sandstone towers.
- 03
Lolei
A temple built on an island in a reservoir.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Start with Preah Ko, a small temple of six brick towers dedicated in 880 CE and decorated with carved lintels. Then walk or drive to Bakong, the largest of the three, a stepped temple mountain with a moat and sandstone towers. Lolei sits on what was once an artificial island in a large reservoir.
The temples are compact and shaded, and fewer visitors come here, which makes the site good for slow looking. Take a guide who can explain the carvings and the layout of Hariharalaya, the early capital. Bakong's steps are steep, so go up only if suitable.
The drive from town takes about 25 minutes. Combine it with a stop in a nearby village for local life, and plan for around two to three hours. It is a good first stop in a day that continues to Angkor Wat after lunch, or a restful half-day on its own.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Go in the morning or late afternoon
- Wear closed shoes
- Bring water
- Skip the Bakong steps if tired
- Combine with a village stop
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- About 13 km east of Siem Reap
- Time needed
- 2 to 3 hours
- Best time
- Morning or late afternoon; November to February
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The three temples are small and mostly level, with shade from trees and short walks between them. Bakong has steep steps to its upper level, which can be skipped. A good option for older travellers who want less walking.
- Tickets and access
- Entry to the Angkor Archaeological Park needs an Angkor Pass, sold through the official Angkor Enterprise channels. Pass types and prices change, so check current rates on the official site; the pass carries your photo and is checked at most temples. Children under 12 have been reported as free with a passport, so confirm before you go. The group lies outside the main park circuit but is covered by the standard pass.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Roluos Group
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The three temples are small and mostly level, with shade from trees and short walks between them. Bakong has steep steps to its upper level, which can be skipped. A good option for older travellers who want less walking.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How far is the Roluos group?
About 13 km east of Siem Reap, a drive of 25 minutes or so.
Is it worth visiting after Angkor Wat?
Yes. It shows the earlier phase of Khmer building.
Is it suitable for older visitors?
Mostly yes; the only steep part is Bakong's upper stair.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
