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BANTEAY SREI

Banteay Srei

ORIGIN AND STORY

Banteay Srei Temple is located approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Bayon Temple, on the right bank of the Siem Reap River, which flows down from the Kulen Mountains toward Tonle Sap Lake. The temple is surrounded by magnificent large trees and lush forest, creating a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere. Banteay Srei is beautifully decorated with remarkably vivid and intricate carvings, making it one of the finest examples of Khmer artistic craftsmanship. Often described as a “jewel of Khmer art,” Banteay Srey has received great admiration from artists and visitors for its exceptional stone carvings, which resemble delicate woodwork. One of the temple’s most distinctive features is the use of hard pink sandstone, a material rarely seen elsewhere in the Angkor temples. When people speak of Banteay Srey, they often think of its extraordinary decorative carvings emerging from the rare pink sandstone.
This remarkable scenery leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Although the temple is approximately 30 kilometers from Siem Reap city, it remains one of the most popular destinations for visitors exploring Siem Reap. Banteay Srey was built in 967 CE during the reign of King Rajendravarman II, making it significantly older than both Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom (Bayon). The temple was constructed by a Brahmin named Yajnavaraha, who was the spiritual teacher of King Jayavarman V. It was dedicated to Hinduism. The original name of the temple was Iśvarapura, meaning “the city of Shiva.” It was later known as Banteay Srey, a name associated with its small and elegant scale, delicate beauty, and exquisite ornamental carvings that resemble precious jewelry.

where we are

The majestic Banteay Srei Temple

Geographic Location: Banteay Srei Temple is majestically situated in Siem Reap Province, Cambodia, approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Bayon Temple and around 30 kilometers from Siem Reap city. Nestled along the Siem Reap River and close to the foothills of the Kulen Mountains, the temple lies within a peaceful landscape of forests, traditional villages, and lush countryside. Its serene location offers visitors a more intimate experience of Cambodia’s ancient cultural heritage.

Surrounding Landscape & Setting: The temple is surrounded by lush forests, magnificent trees, and peaceful natural landscapes, creating a beautiful contrast with its warm pink sandstone structures. Unlike the monumental scale of Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei is distinguished by its intimate proportions and exceptionally detailed carvings, which cover its walls, doorways, lintels, and pediments. The delicate architecture, vibrant sandstone, and tranquil natural surroundings create a harmonious setting where Khmer artistry and the beauty of nature come together

BANTEAY SREI GALLERY