Background

West Baray: Angkor's Ancient Reservoir

4.2 (150)

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.
widget icon

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Attraction

Ak Yum Temple

Ak Yum Temple: A Glimpse into Early Khmer Architecture
Attraction

temple remains

Temple Remains of Krong Siem Reap
Attraction

Kandal Market

Kandal Market: A Vibrant Slice of Cambodian Life

Unlock the Best of West Baray

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

West Baray, also known as Baray Teuk Thla (meaning "Clear Water Reservoir"), is an ancient and massive reservoir located west of Angkor Thom. Constructed in the 11th century during the reign of King Suryavarman I and completed under King Udayadityavarman II, it stands as a testament to the advanced engineering of the Khmer civilization. The baray is the largest in the Angkor region, stretching 7.8 kilometers long and 2.1 kilometers wide, with a capacity of approximately 53 million cubic meters.Originally, West Baray served as a crucial water source for the ancient city of Angkor, providing a stable supply for irrigation and supporting the cultivation of multiple rice crops each year. The reservoir also held cultural and religious significance, symbolizing the cosmic ocean in Hindu cosmology. Temples and shrines, such as West Mebon, were built on its shores, reflecting the spiritual practices of the Khmer people. West Mebon temple once housed a large bronze statue of Vishnu, which is now displayed at the National Museum in Phnom Penh.Today, West Baray continues to be a vital resource for local communities, providing water for irrigation. It has also become a popular recreational area, attracting locals and tourists seeking respite from the bustling city of Siem Reap. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the clear waters, taking boat rides to explore the West Mebon temple (requires Angkor Pass), and relaxing on the sandy shores. The western end of the baray features a small beach with picnic huts and inner tubes for rent, creating a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. Exploring West Baray offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of Angkor.

Explore the best of what West Baray has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



Attraction

Discover Cambodia's vibrant culture and traditions at Siem Reap's Cambodian Cultural Village, featuring ethnic villages, performances, and historical exhibits.

Cambodian Cultural Village
Attraction

Explore Ak Yum Temple near Siem Reap: a serene glimpse into early Khmer architecture and history, predating Angkor, and free to visit.

Ak Yum Temple

Select Currency