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Banteay Samre: A Miniature Angkor Wat

Discover Banteay Samre, a serene and beautifully restored Angkorian temple showcasing intricate carvings and a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences.

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Banteay Samre, a 12th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, is located near Siem Reap, Cambodia. Constructed during the reigns of Suryavarman II and Yasovarman II, it features the distinctive Angkor Wat style and intricate carvings, offering a serene and less crowded alternative to the main Angkor complex.

A brief summary to Banteay Samre

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the soft light for photography.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Banteay Srei or the Landmine Museum for an efficient day trip.
  • Wear appropriate clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to respect the temple's religious significance.
  • Take your time to explore the intricate carvings and bas-reliefs, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the temple's history, architecture, and the stories behind the carvings.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Siem Reap, the most common way to reach Banteay Samre is by tuk-tuk. A round trip to Banteay Samre, including waiting time, typically costs between $25 and $35. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes each way. Negotiate the price with the driver beforehand and confirm the waiting time arrangements. Alternatively, a one-way tuk-tuk ride can be around $5.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Siem Reap to Banteay Samre typically costs between $24 and $35. The journey takes around 34 to 45 minutes. This is a comfortable and convenient option, especially if you prefer air conditioning. Confirm the price with the driver before starting the journey.

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Discover more about Banteay Samre

Banteay Samre, meaning "The Citadel of the Samré," is a captivating temple located approximately 20 km from Siem Reap, Cambodia. Built in the early 12th century during the reigns of King Suryavarman II and Yasovarman II, this Hindu temple is dedicated to the god Vishnu and showcases the architectural style of Angkor Wat. Often referred to as a miniature Angkor Wat, Banteay Samre offers a more intimate and peaceful experience compared to the larger, more crowded temples in the Angkor complex. The temple's history is rich and complex. Conceived by Suryavarman II, the temple saw influences from his cousin and later, Jayavarman VII, resulting in a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist elements. This succession of rulers, each with their own religious persuasions, created a temple that showcases diverse beliefs, adding to its spiritual ambiance. The temple complex includes a central tower connected to a mandapa, flanked by two libraries, all surrounded by concentric gallery enclosures. A 200-meter-long raised causeway approaches the temple from the east, suggesting that the temple once enclosed a sizable town. The outer enclosure wall stands six meters high, and the inner enclosure features gopuras at the cardinal points. The temple's well-preserved lintels and pediments display intricate carvings featuring scenes from Hindu mythology, including the fight between Rama and Ravana, Vishnu sitting on Makara, and Krishna depictions. Banteay Samre was restored between 1936 and 1944 by Maurice Glaize, making it one of the most complete Khmer monuments. The temple's relative isolation allows visitors to explore its detailed bas-reliefs and stonework in a calm and peaceful atmosphere. The presence of Buddhist scenes within a Hindu temple, along with instances of sculpted motifs being mutilated, reflects the religious tolerance of the monument's patron. Legend connects the temple's naming to a farmer who mistakenly killed the king and then ascended the throne.

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