Lolei Temple is a fascinating and charming 9th-century brick temple located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and is part of the Roluos Group of temples. Situated east of Siem Reap, this temple is a significant part of the ancient city of Hariharalaya, which predates the mighty Angkor complex. The Roluos Group temples mark the beginnings of the Khmer Empire, and Lolei, with its distinct brick architecture, offers a glimpse into the early construction techniques of the Khmer people.
Overview
Lolei Temple, also known as Prasat Lolei, is located in the Bakong Commune of Siem Reap Province, specifically in Lolei Village. The temple is part of the Roluos Group, a collection of early Khmer temples built around the late 9th century. The temples here were once at the center of the massive Indratataka Baray (man-made reservoir) and are now surrounded by rice fields.
Lolei Temple was constructed during the reign of King Yasovarman I, around 893 AD, and is one of the last temples built before the city of Hariharalaya transitioned into the capital of Yashodharapura, the predecessor to Angkor. It is known for its stunning craftsmanship and unique architecture, which includes sandstone lintels, guardian niches, and intricate carvings.
Features
Temple Layout
Lolei Temple is set on a large tiered platform made of laterite, measuring approximately 100 meters by 100 meters, and rises to about 3 meters in height. Today, visitors can see the remains of four brick temples arranged in two rows of two. The temples are in varying stages of restoration, with ongoing work as of 2022.
The temples face east, with the northeast corner temple featuring a lintel above its entrance depicting Indra on Airavata (the divine king of the heavens and his mount, a mythical elephant). The northwest corner temple features a lintel with a carving of Garuda, a mythical bird-like creature that is often associated with the Hindu god Vishnu.
The temples have distinctive brick molding, false doors, sandstone columns, and friezes that highlight the intricate craftsmanship of the Khmer builders. Some of the finest sculptures can be seen on the door frames and guardian niches embedded in the walls of the temples. Despite their age and the wear of time, the remaining carvings continue to provide insight into the religious and cultural practices of the time.
Architectural Significance
Lolei's construction marks an important phase in the development of Khmer temple architecture, particularly the transition from earlier brick temples to the grand stone temples that would later characterize Angkor. Unlike the three-temple configuration common in most Khmer temples, Lolei has an unusual arrangement of four temples (two in each row), likely due to the loss or destruction of one of the temples.
The artistic style is more refined in Lolei compared to the other temples of the Roluos Group, with a mixture of sandstone and brick, and the use of intricate lintels, door columns, and carvings showcasing Hindu deities.
Inscriptions and Cultural Insight
The temple's inscriptions are valuable records that provide insights into the religious practices and society of the time. These inscriptions mention King Yasovarman I’s parents, Indravarman and Indradevī, who were honored with the construction of two principal towers. The secondary towers were dedicated to his maternal grandparents, Mahīpativarman and Rājendradevī. These inscriptions also reveal important details about the roles of workers and the organization of the temple’s construction.
Recent Excavations and Restoration
In recent years, the Apsara National Authority (ANA) has conducted significant excavations around Lolei Temple. These efforts have uncovered an ancient wall surrounding the temple complex, a gopura (gateway), and what is believed to be a "library" structure. Additionally, sacred urns have been found as part of the ongoing excavation work, adding further depth to the historical importance of the site. The restoration of the temple, as well as the nearby pagoda, has been ongoing, with the most recent restoration work completed in 2022.
History
Lolei Temple was part of the Roluos Group, the heart of the ancient city of Hariharalaya, which served as the capital of the Khmer Empire before the rise of Angkor. Hariharalaya was founded by King Indravarman I, and during the reign of his son, Yasovarman I, the city saw extensive building and temple construction.
The Roluos temples, including Lolei, were constructed to honor the Hindu gods, specifically Shiva, Vishnu, and Indra, reflecting the religious practices of the time. Lolei, along with its neighboring temples of Preah Ko and Bakong, were key to establishing the foundation for the later, grander temples of Angkor.
King Yasovarman I completed the construction of Lolei Temple in 893 AD, and it is one of the last temples built during the time of Hariharalaya before the city transitioned into Yashodharapura, which eventually became Angkor. The temple’s inscriptions shed light on the royal lineage and the temple's construction process, providing a window into the early Khmer dynasty.
As a site of religious and royal significance, Lolei Temple is not just an architectural marvel but also an important symbol of the power and influence of the Khmer Empire during its formative years.
Entrance Tickets
Visitors to Lolei Temple must have an Angkor Pass, which grants access to all temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, including those in the Roluos Group. The prices for the Angkor Pass are as follows:
- 1-Day Pass: $37
- 3-Day Pass: $62
- 7-Day Pass: $72
The pass is available at the Angkor ticket office in Siem Reap and is valid for entry to temples from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Location and Address
Lolei Temple is located in Lolei Village, within the Prasat Bakong District of Siem Reap Province, Cambodia. The temple is situated about 13 kilometers east of Siem Reap town.
Address:
- Lolei Temple, Prasat Bakong District, Bakong Commune, Siem Reap, Cambodia.
How to Get There (Transportation)
By Tuk-Tuk or Car
The most common way to reach Lolei Temple is by hiring a tuk-tuk or private car from Siem Reap. The journey takes about 20–30 minutes along National Road 6, heading east. After turning left onto a smaller road, it’s about another 1 km to the temple.
- Tuk-Tuk: A tuk-tuk ride to Lolei Temple will cost around $5–$8 one way, depending on your bargaining skills.
- Private Car: Hiring a private car will cost between $20–$30, depending on the car type and rental duration.
By Bicycle
For an adventurous experience, you can rent a bicycle in Siem Reap and cycle to the temple. The route is flat and relatively easy to follow, passing through rice fields and small villages along the way.
- Bicycle Rental: Many guesthouses and bike shops in Siem Reap offer rentals for about $2–$5 per day.
By Motorbike
Motorbikes can also be rented in Siem Reap, allowing visitors to reach the temple more independently.
- Motorbike Rental: Renting a motorbike typically costs around $5–$10 per day.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Lolei Temple is early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. The dry season (November to February) offers the most pleasant weather for visiting.
- Respect the Sacred Site: As a Hindu temple, visitors should dress modestly and avoid disruptive behavior while on-site. It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering the temple structures.
- Combine with Other Temples: Lolei Temple is located near other important temples in the Roluos Group, such as Preah Ko and Bakong, making it easy to visit multiple temples in one trip. Prei Monti and Trapeang Phong are also nearby and are worth exploring if you have more time.
- Photography: The temple offers great opportunities for photography, but be mindful of any ongoing restoration work. Always ask for permission if you're unsure.
- Guides: Hiring a local guide can greatly enhance your visit to Lolei and the surrounding temples. They can provide historical context and help you better appreciate the significance of the inscriptions and carvings.
Lolei Temple offers a unique and less crowded experience compared to the more famous Angkor Wat, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the early Khmer Empire and its architectural evolution.