Running in the ancient Khmer Empire

The Angkor, as the central area of settlement of the Khmer Kingdom, was the symbol of the ancient civilisation of Khmer people and the largest pre-industrial urban centre in the world.

The Khmer Empire Marathon offers an exceptional opportunity for runners around the world to experience this course within the huge World Heritage site of more than 400 square kilometres. There are 40 ancient temples along the smooth asphalt road which cuts through the archaeological park and rice fields of traditional local villages in Siem Reap Province.

Thousands of runners from around the world will participate in the 10th Khmer Empire Marathon to be staged on 3 August. Participants will experience the ancient atmosphere and natural scenery as they run along the road through thick forest, traditional rice fields, villages and ancient temples from the Angkor Era.

There are several races to choose from: Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km Fun Run and family and kids’ 3km. All race categories start and finish in front of the Angkor Wat temple, the magnificent temple which is the symbol on the national flag of the Kingdom of Cambodia.

The Marathon starts at 04.30 when the temperature is normally about 26C and heads towards the city centre before turning towards the ancient temples set in beautiful green forest. The Half Marathon starts at 05.30 with a small circuit of the Angkor complex during which runners pass through 13 ancient temples. The other races start 15 minutes later. Water stations are available every 2km.

All runners in the Marathon, Half Marathon and 10km will pass by the vast area of Elephant Terrace. This is the 12th-century stadium with a 350m-long ornamental wall carved with elephants. This acted as a reviewing platform for King Jayavarman VII to look over his victorious returning army or watch ancient sporting competitions on the fields.

Runners leave the Elephant Terrace and turn right along the road half-circling the Bayon temple – the most important temple built in the 13th Century by King Jayavarman VII and dedicated to Mahayana Buddhism in Cambodia. The course then goes straight ahead for 3km before reaching the finish in front of the Angkor Wat temple.

The race attracts elite runners. The Cambodian Events Organizing team, along with national and international organisations, invite professional and amateur runners from around the world to participate in this exceptional marathon. This event will bring friendship, kindness and support to disabled people and poor children in Cambodia.

We are waiting to offer the warmest welcome to all of you coming to this beautiful race. You will feel safe and happy within the bounds of the ancient Khmer Civilisation.