The Khmer civilization was mainly developed by Indian cultural importance. Buddhism was flourished side by side with the offering prayer of Shiva and Hindu Gods, both the religions combined with the worship or devotion of the idolized king. Many Indian scholars, artists, and religious teachers were attracted to the Khmer court. Small temples set on stepped pyramids next appeared during the Khmer period. The Khmers opposed and then fought returned wars against the Annamese.
The Khmer Empire dominated the region from 800 – 1431. The empire mandated the practice of Hinduism, so the religion spread in the region during this time. The capital city, Angkor, was the largest pre-industrial city in the world. It was built on a man-made lake designed to control and store seasonal rains in order to produce enough food for the empire. It is also home to a large and elaborate temple.
