West Baray: Angkor's Ancient Reservoir
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of West Baray, Angkor's largest reservoir, offering a tranquil escape near Siem Reap.
West Baray, or Baray Teuk Thla, is the largest reservoir constructed during the Angkor era, dating back to the 11th century. This vast body of water, measuring 7.8km long and 2.1km wide, provided irrigation and symbolized the Sea of Creation in Hindu mythology. Today, it's a popular recreational area for locals and tourists alike, offering swimming, boat rides, and a tranquil escape.
A brief summary to West Baray
- Krong Siem Reap, KH
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best weather and water conditions for swimming and boat rides.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch on the shores of West Baray while watching the sunset for a memorable experience.
- Combine your visit to West Baray with a trip to the West Mebon temple for a deeper understanding of the area's history.
Getting There
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Tuk-tuk
From Siem Reap town, the most common way to reach West Baray is by tuk-tuk. The ride takes approximately 15-30 minutes. Negotiate the fare beforehand, typically around $5-$10 for a one-way trip. Direct the driver towards the western end of the reservoir, near the beach area where most activities are centered. Landmarks to look out for include the road to Siem Reap International Airport; continue past the airport roundabout, then turn right following signs for West Baray. There are no specific tolls to reach the area. Parking for a tuk-tuk near the beach costs around $2.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Siem Reap. A taxi ride to West Baray will take approximately 20-30 minutes, similar to a tuk-tuk. The cost will likely be higher, ranging from $10-$15. Use the same directions as for tuk-tuks, heading past the airport roundabout and turning right towards West Baray. Parking fees for taxis are the same as for tuk-tuks, around $2 near the main beach area.
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Bicycle/Motorbike
For adventurous travelers, renting a bicycle or motorbike is a great option. Numerous rental shops in Siem Reap offer bicycles for around $1-$2 per day and motorbikes for $5-$10 per day. Follow National Road 6 towards the airport, continue past the roundabout, and turn right onto the road leading to West Baray. Be aware that the road can be rough in places, especially on the north and west sides of the reservoir. There is no fee to park bicycles, but motorbikes may incur a small parking fee of around $1 near the beach area.
Discover more about West Baray
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