A jem of Khmer art, Banteay Srei is known for its delicate carvings and three-dimensional reliefs of devatas (divine nymphs), which earned the temple the modern name "citadel of the women." Originally dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, the temple is tiny compared to typical Angkorian edifices. It was founded in the 10th century by two of the king's counselors, making it the only major Angkorian temple not commissioned by a king. Notice the lavish decorations on the library pediments depicting scenes from the ancient Indian epic Ramayana. Due to pilferage and vandalism, some of the original statues and carvings were moved to a museum by the end of the 20th century; all of the mythical guardians are copies. With our custom trip planner, Siem Reap attractions like Banteay Srei can be center stage of your vacation plans, and you can find out about other attractions like it, unlike it, near it, and miles away.
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Banteay Srei reviews
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Banteay Srei is about 32km northeast of Siem Reap on good roads, and falls on the outer-circuit. It should take about 45 minutes to reach by car or one hour by remork; agree to a price before setting.... more
Banteay Srei is about 32km northeast of Siem Reap on good roads, and falls on the outer-circuit. It should take about 45 minutes to reach by car or one hour by remork; agree to a price before setting.... more »
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It is an amazing construction in which we have to pass through multiple Gopurams to reach the sanctum. Dedicated to God Shiva, the temple hardly has any idols inside that now. The Nandi facing the...
It is an amazing construction in which we have to pass through multiple Gopurams to reach the sanctum. Dedicated to God Shiva, the temple hardly has any idols inside that now. The Nandi facing the... more »
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Thi temple is far.. but it is amazing place to go.. because it is the best structure temple you can watching... mostly still have good shape and real carving..
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Pros: Amazing temple complex that has intricate detail on another level. The story of the temple's restoration is interesting aswell. The restored temple provides an excellent photo opportunity and the surrounding wetlands are great to stroll around. You can see this temple for free on your Angkor Wat ticket. Cons: It is a bit of a hike to get to Banteay Srey temple from Siem Reap. 1.5hours in a Tuk Tuk. 30 mins in a car. The temple grounds are full of children selling junk and begging. They followed us for 15 minutes saying they had no money to go to school. When I asked several local people, they confirmed school is free in Cambodia, especially primary school. So just another scam that kinda takes away from the majestic temple and history.
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