Prasat Damrei: The Mysterious White Elephant Temple of Koh Ker

Among the dozens of sanctuaries scattered throughout the jungle of Koh Ker—the 10th-century capital of the Khmer Empire—Prasat Damrei (literally “The Elephant Temple”) holds a truly unique place. Often referred to as the “Tomb of the White Elephant,” this sanctuary fascinates visitors as much for its architecture as for the legends that surround it.

A Sacred Sanctuary Built Under Jayavarman IV

Constructed in the 10th century during the reign of King Jayavarman IV, Prasat Damrei was built as a state temple dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. The complex stands atop a raised pyramidal terrace built from brick and sandstone, crowned by a central sanctuary tower.

The defining highlight of this temple lies with its guardians: at the four corners of its main terrace stand magnificent, life-sized elephant statues carved directly from single blocks of stone.

Feature	Detail
Local Name	Prasat Damrei (ប្រាសាទដំរី)
Dedication	Lord Shiva (Shaivism)
Period	10th Century (~921–941 AD)
Key Attraction	Monolithic elephant sculptures at the four corners

Why Is It Called the “Tomb of the White Elephant”?

In Asian and Buddhist heritage, the white elephant is a sacred symbol of royalty, purity, good fortune, and sovereign power. While the term “tomb” is a popular local moniker—the site being primarily an active Hindu sanctuary in its era—several stories explain the name:

• The Sacred Elephants of Airavata: The statues represent Airavata, the celestial multi-tusked elephant ride of Indra, king of the gods in Hindu mythology.
• Local Legend: Local folklore tells of a temple built to honor or serve as a symbolic resting place for King Jayavarman IV’s favorite royal white elephant, which helped him establish his new capital at Koh Ker.
• Exquisite Craftsmanship: Despite centuries of erosion and weathering, these statues still showcase the regal stature and artistry characteristic of the short-lived Koh Ker style of Khmer sculpture.

A Must-See Stop When Visiting Koh Ker

Located just off the main loop road near the famous 7-tiered pyramid of Prasat Thom, Prasat Damrei offers a peaceful, mystical atmosphere. Nestled beneath a canopy of lush forest trees, visiting this temple allows you to experience the quiet beauty of a UNESCO World Heritage site away from the crowds.

For travelers staying at Koh Ker Camping or exploring the archaeological park, a stop at Prasat Damrei is an unmissable chance to admire the sheer artistic mastery of ancient Khmer sculptors.