The Khmer Empire

By Elvis T
  • 550

    Chenla replaces Funan

    Chenla replaces Funan
    550-700CE State of Chenla replaces Funan as the dominant kingdom.
  • Period: 550 to Nov 20, 1440

    The Khmer Empire

    Key events
  • Nov 20, 770

    Jayavarman II

    Jayavarman II
    770-834 CE Jayavarman II unifies smaller states to create one large empire. The capital is in the Angkor region of Cambodia.
  • Nov 20, 1177

    Angkor invaded by Chams

    Angkor invaded by Chams
    1177- 78 CE Angkor, Khmer capital, is invaded and looted by Chams.
  • Nov 20, 1181

    Reign of Jayavarman VII

    Reign of Jayavarman VII
    1181 CE - 1215 CE Reign of Jayavarman VII. He defeated the Chams and expands the empire to furthest extent to incorporate much of present-day Laos, Thailand and Burma.
  • Nov 20, 1243

    Rule of Jayavarmana VIII

    Rule of Jayavarmana VIII
    1243 - 1298 CE Rule of Jayavarman VIII. He renounces Buddhism and orders that Buddhist temples and images be destroyed and Hinduism become the main religion.
  • Nov 20, 1300

    Buddhism becomes main religion

    Buddhism becomes main religion
    1300s Buddhism grows in importance and again becomes the main religion of the Khmer kings
  • Nov 20, 1431

    The Thais invade

    The Thais invade
    1431 CE The Thai invades Angkor and loots the Angkor Wat
  • Nov 20, 1432

    Khmers abandon Angkor

    Khmers abandon Angkor
    1432 CE Khmers abandon Angkor. Over subsequent centuries, the jungle grows around and over Angkor and its location is forgotten.
  • Nov 20, 1440

    Capital becomes Phnom Penh

    Capital becomes Phnom Penh
    1440s Khmer rulers relocate the capital to Phnom Penh.

  • Khmer Empire expands

    Khmer Empire expands
    834-1145 CE The Khmer Empire expands and Angkor Wat Temple is built. Buddhism becomes important.