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Banteay Kdei: The Citadel of Chambers

Explore the serene Banteay Kdei, a hidden gem in Angkor Archaeological Park, offering a tranquil escape into Khmer history and architecture.

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Banteay Kdei, meaning 'Citadel of Chambers,' is a captivating Buddhist temple in Angkor Archaeological Park, constructed in the late 12th to early 13th centuries by King Jayavarman VII. Less visited than other Angkor temples, it offers a tranquil experience amidst a maze of chambers and galleries.

A brief summary to Banteay Kdei

  • Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap, 17000, KH

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the temple's uneven surfaces and numerous chambers.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Srah Srang reservoir for a beautiful sunset view.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Siem Reap, hire a tuk-tuk for a 15-20 minute ride to Banteay Kdei, located within the Angkor Archaeological Park. The round-trip tuk-tuk fare typically costs between $15 and $20. Remember to negotiate the price beforehand. You'll need an Angkor Pass to enter the park; a one-day pass costs $37.

  • Bicycle

    Rent a bicycle in Siem Reap and cycle to Banteay Kdei. The ride is approximately 10.5 kilometers (6 miles) and takes about an hour. Bicycle rentals cost around $1.50 per day. An Angkor Pass is required to enter the archaeological park; a one-day pass costs $37.

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Discover more about Banteay Kdei

Banteay Kdei, often referred to as the 'Citadel of Chambers,' is a mesmerizing Buddhist temple located within the Angkor Archaeological Park. Built between the mid-12th and early 13th centuries during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, this temple shares architectural similarities with Ta Prohm and Preah Khan, though it is smaller and less complex. King Jayavarman VII dedicated the temple to Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. Once a monastic complex, Banteay Kdei provides a serene escape from the more crowded Angkor sites. The temple's design features a series of chambers, concentric galleries, and towers, all enclosed within two successive walls. The entrances are adorned with face towers, similar to those found at Angkor Thom, believed to represent Jayavarman VII and the god Lokesvara. The temple also includes a 'Hall of Dancers,' decorated with carvings of Apsara dancers. Despite its state of disrepair due to the use of poor-quality sandstone and construction methods, Banteay Kdei retains its charm and historical significance. Restoration efforts are ongoing to preserve its original features. The temple's quiet atmosphere and unique architecture make it a hidden gem within the Angkor complex, offering visitors a chance to explore its labyrinthine structure in peace.

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