Banteay Srei temple stands among the highlights of visiting the Angkor archaeological site. Let yourself be captivated by its unique beauty, three-dimensional sculptures and mystical atmosphere. While admiring the artistic elements, deepen your knowledge of Hindu culture by exploring this 10th-century monument.

History

Constructed in the late 900s, Banteay Srei temple has weathered centuries of history. Unlike most temples of the period, its creation was not ordered by a king, but by two eminent nobles, Yajnyavaraha and Vishnukumara, known as advisors to Rajendravarman II.

Originally named Tribhuvanamahesvara, the temple was dedicated to the Hindu gods Shiva and Vishnu. The name "Banteay Srei," meaning "citadel of women," came much later, alluding to the complexity and delicacy of the sculptures, which could only have been the work of a woman according to local belief.

Enlarged in the 12th century, Banteay Srei temple remained active until the 14th century, after which it was abandoned like other Angkor temples in the 15th century. In 1914, the monument resurfaced, discovered by French lieutenant Marec. In 1923, the affair of the devatas theft by writer André Malraux sparked renewed interest in the site.

The first major restoration took place in the 1930s under the direction of the French School of the Far East (EFEO). From 2001 to 2006, a Swiss team undertook new renovation work following looting and vandalism perpetrated during the Khmer Rouge uprising. Today, Banteay Srei is celebrated as one of the jewels of the Angkor archaeological park.

Visiting Banteay Srei Temple

Banteay Srei temple is located about twenty kilometers from the main Angkor Wat complex, in Siem Reap province. Deep in the forest, prepare to discover a gem of Khmer art, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992. Still relatively unknown to travelers, this Cambodian monument will delight lovers of ancient sculpture.

A charismatic small temple

Banteay Srei is an architectural pearl. Unique in its kind, the temple is entirely built of pink sandstone. Add to this finely carved walls, and you have an exceptional vision of the craftsmanship of ancient Khmer artisans.

Compared to other Angkor monuments, Banteay Srei is smaller in size, though the site covers 45,000 m² of land. It is a flat temple, with the main entrance accessed via a causeway bordered by moats. From an overall perspective, the temple adopts a racquet and quadrilateral-shaped architecture.

Banteay Srei temple consists of four enclosures, each grouping different structures. You can enter through two pillar-supported porches. Subsequently, the various structures are arranged around a cruciform central hall. After touring the libraries and subsidiary sanctuaries in the first enclosure, head to the fourth enclosure to contemplate two mythical scenes from the Indian epic on the gables.

Contemplatethe representation of the god Indra riding the three-headed elephant Airata, and the scene of Sita's abduction by Viradha. Along the way, take a look at the decorative boundary stones adorning the great avenue. Don't miss the representation of Shiva on the gopura, as well as the commemorative stele of King Jayavarman V.

Marvel at three-dimensional sculptures

From the entrance, Banteay Srei temple impresses with its beautifully preserved bas-reliefs. The sculptures depict scenes from the lives of Shiva and Vishnu, as well as various episodes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Amid floral motifs, you'll discover all manner of creatures, ranging from lions, bulls, wild boars and monkeys, to demons. Be enchanted by the apsaras, sublime nymphs adorned with lotus flowers in their hands. While carvings in Angkor temples are often flat, the sculptures of Banteay Srei stand out for their 3D quality, further enhancing their beauty.

How to Get There?

From the city of Siem Reap, you can take a tuk-tuk to reach Banteay Srei temple. Throughout the journey, which takes about an hour and a half, you'll have plenty of opportunity to appreciate Cambodia's rural landscape. Alternatively, the more adventurous can cover the route by bicycle. Car rental services are also available.

Opening Hours and Admission

Banteay Srei site is accessible daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Preferably, come early in the morning to escape the crowds and enjoy the peaceful, intimate atmosphere of the temple.

Access to Banteay Srei temple is included with your Angkor archaeological park ticket. Prices vary depending on the length of your visit. One-day passes cost around 37 dollars, while three-day passes are offered at 62 dollars. You can purchase your ticket at the park entrance, and it is valid for several days.