Rating: 3.2/5 (6 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 08:30–16:30

 

Sdok Kok Thom Sanctuary is one of the largest and most significant Khmer monuments in Sa Kaeo Province. Located in Ban Nong Samet, Khok Sung Subdistrict, Khok Sung District, this sanctuary reflects the grandeur of Khmer civilization in eastern Thailand. It is believed to have been built around the 11th century (15th Buddhist century) to enshrine the Shiva Linga and perform Hindu rituals of the Vaishnavite faith, following the sacred orientation and water principles typical of Khmer temple design.

 

The complex consists of three sandstone towers built on a laterite base, all facing east. The entire site is surrounded by moats and two laterite walls (outer made of laterite, inner of sandstone). Only the eastern and western gopuras (entrance pavilions) remain standing. Within the cloister are two sandstone libraries located in front of the main tower. The tranquil setting still retains the solemn atmosphere characteristic of Angkorian religious sites.

 

The architecture uses a combination of sandstone and laterite, designed to align precisely with the cardinal directions. To the east of the sanctuary lies a large square pond connected by a laterite-paved causeway from the main temple group to the water’s edge, symbolizing Mount Meru surrounded by the cosmic ocean — a sacred representation of the universe in Hindu cosmology.

 

Among the most valuable archaeological evidence are two ancient Khmer inscriptions carved on sandstone pillars. They describe the installation of the Shiva Linga, donations of land and wealth to the sanctuary, and a dedication to King Udayadityavarman II upon the completion of restoration in 1052 CE (B.E. 1595). These inscriptions serve as crucial documents revealing social structure, religion, and rituals of the Khmer civilization during the 11th–12th centuries. Both are now preserved at the National Library, Fine Arts Department, Bangkok.

 

The name “Sdok Kok Thom” derives from the Khmer language, meaning “the great marsh with dense sedges.” This refers to the original landscape, once a vast wetland near the temple complex, traces of which can still be seen today.

 

Although parts of the sanctuary have deteriorated with time, restoration efforts have preserved most major structures, including the central tower and the enclosure walls. Visitors can enter through the eastern gopura, walk along the laterite causeway toward the cloister, and observe the spatial relationship between the libraries and the main tower. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to enjoy the soft sunlight on the sandstone walls.

 

Getting There: From Aranyaprathet, take Highway No. 348 (Aranyaprathet–Ta Phraya) for about 25.5 km, then turn right onto Highway No. 3381 for 8 km until reaching Khok Sung Health Station on the right. Turn left onto a side road and continue for about 4 km, passing Ban Nong Samet School. At km 12, turn right again and continue 2.5 km to reach the Sdok Kok Thom site. Parking and walking paths are available.

 

Highlights worth noticing include the east-west axis connecting the gopura, main courtyard, principal tower, laterite causeway, and sacred pond; the lintels with Vishnuite motifs such as Vishnu reclining on the serpent Ananta; and the alternating use of sandstone and laterite blocks in the structure, all reflecting the advanced craftsmanship and ritual worldview of the Khmer people.

 

 

A: Based on the inscriptions and architectural style, it was built around the 11th century (15th Buddhist century) during the reign of King Udayadityavarman II.

 

A: Its precise east-facing plan, dual enclosure walls, laterite causeway leading to a sacred pond, twin libraries in front of the main tower, and the two important inscriptions make it a remarkable example of Khmer architecture in Thailand.

 

A: They describe the enshrinement of the Shiva Linga, donations to the temple, and the dedication to King Udayadityavarman II, along with social and religious details of the Khmer era.

 

A: Admission is free for Thai visitors, but it’s advisable to confirm with the local authority before traveling.

 

A: The site is open daily from 08:30–16:30, though hours may vary slightly during holidays or maintenance periods.

 

A: You can take a bus or van to Aranyaprathet and hire a car or taxi from there to the site, located about 34–40 km away.