Preah Palilay is believed to take its name from Parilyyaka, a forest that features in the stories of Buddha.
This theory is supported by the range of Buddhist carvings at the site, including one of Buddha calming an enraged elephant and another depicting the offering of forest animals like monkeys, elephants and birds.
Whatever you do don’t lean on it. Photo: Caroline Major
Thought to date back to the reign of Jayavarman VII, Preah Palilay remains a bit of a mystery. With its wealth of Buddhist iconography, it’s considered highly unusual that the site survived the period that followed the death of Jayavarman VII. Instigated by his Hindu successor, Jayavarman VIII, a programme of sanctioned vandalism saw the destruction of many Buddhist icons throughout Angkor, yet Preah Palilay remained largely ... Travelfish members only (Full text is around 100 words.)
Get the full story.
Create an account.
Becoming a Travelfish subscriber costs A$35 for a year. Benefits include:
1) Full access to the site
2) 250+ PDF guides
3) Discount coupons
4) 50% off our travel planning service
5) And of course, our gratitude and a warm fuzzy feeling for helping us stay in business!
Popular attractions in Angkor
A selection of some of our favourite sights and activities around Angkor.
What next?
Check out our listings of things to do in and around Angkor.
Read up on how to get to Angkor, or book your transport online with Camboticket.
Do you have travel insurance yet? If not, find out why you need it.
Planning on riding a scooter in Angkor? Please read this.
Browse the web securely while travelling with TunnelBear. Try with a 7–day free trial.