The Architecture of Khmer Temples

Most temples were built according to the scheme of the temple mountain or monastic complex, and have long galleries

Temple mountain

Numerous temples were constructed according to the plan of the temple mountain. It is especially the case for Bakong, Bayon, Baphuon, Pre Rup, Ta Keo and Angkor Wat
It is a symbolic representation of the mythical Mount Meru, the earthly representation of gods, the center of the world, in both Hindu and Buddhist Mithology
Concentric walls surrounding represent mountains enclosing the world and the rectangular water moats represent the cosmic ocean
At the summit of the temple mountain (pyramid shaped temple), gods reside and Khmer kings are buried in an elevated sanctuary

Monastic complex

Though not a technical designation, it is often used to refer to flat temple style as opposed to temple mountain style
Some of the temples in monastic complex style are Ta Prohm, Banteay Kdei, Preah Khan. And temples with a name starting by Banteay are in monastic complex style. Banteay means fortress or citadel

Galleried temple

A gallery is a large square shaped passageway surround the central sanctuary of a temple, often open to one side. Bas-reliefs generally adorn walls in galleries. The largest galleries can be found in Angkor Wat