Kok Mon Temple

Prasat Kok Mon is another of the many “firehouse” that lined the ancient roads of the Khmer Empire acting as the temple of a larger resting area. Sharing the same basic layout as other “firehouses” this one is constructed of laterite with three sandstone framed windows in its south wall.

The temple has several curiosities including the square holes at its eastern end (pictured above) similar to those used for accepting a wooden frame. Also, the use of recycled stone from another temple noting the window frame below.

Amazingly, atop the tower, it still has its sandstone crown in situ, albeit looking quite perilous. Inside a small shrine and nearby several remnants.

Getting this site presently is a bit of a challenge as the roads leading from the northern side are deep sand suited to, and created by, Kubota farm tractors. coming from the east the trail is blocked but I am unsure why. Coming from the lower east road and then heading north towards the temple was the easiest option but still hard going in places. On the way out (10/02/22) via the last option mentioned, there was a grader working on road, hopefully, they keep going all the way!

Rodney Charles LHuillier

Living in Asia for over a decade and now residing in beautiful Siem Reap. Rodney Charles L'Huillier has spent over seven years in Cambodia and is the author of Ancient Cambodia (2024) and Essential Siem Reap (2017, 2019). Contact via [email protected] - more..