Royal Palace and Andaung Preng Pond (ស្រះអណ្តូងប្រេង)

Royal Palace and Andaung Preng Pond (ស្រះអណ្តូងប្រេង) are the important spot in Koh Ker complex. Thesewere built during the second quarter of the 10^th century under the reign of Jayavarman IV, who briefly moved the capital of Khmer Empire form Angkor to Koh Ker. The Royal Palace enclosure, measuring approximately 240 meters (East-West) and 188 meters (North-South), is located approximately 200 meters northwest of the Rahal and 500-meter south of Prasat Thom. According to historians, the Royal Palace complex likely included wooden structures (now lost), surrounded by moats, walls, and temples. Although there are nothing remains of the actual palace buildings, the site’s layout and associated sanctuaries suggest it was a center of political and spiritual power.

Inside the closure of the royal palace; at the northeast corner, there is a rectangular ancient pond called Andong Preng by the local people. It is an ancient man-made pond near Prasat Thom (Koh Ker), which is made of sandstone (this sandstone embankment measures 56 meters from East-West, 28 meters from North to South, depth about 10 meters), a stepped sandstone terrace. According to some historians suggest it is probably a royal pond (King ‘s royal bath) and sits in the compound of a royal palace as seen in other royal palaces in the Angkor Area. Moreover, this pond was likely used for royal or ritual purpose, possibly associated with purification ceremonies or offerings to deities. In addition, it is believed that the pond was part of the water management of the site, as the pond stills holds water to this day. The site is often noted for its peaceful surrounding and historical atmosphere, symbolizing life, renewal, and comic balance in Khmer cosmology. These sites are located in Srayang commune of Kulen district, it is about 65 km from Preah Vihear town along National Road 62, then continue along National Road 64, turn right to Street 2641D (about 9 km).

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