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Banteay Srei: The Citadel of Women

Discover Banteay Srei, the 'Citadel of Women,' a 10th-century gem of Khmer art with intricate carvings and stunning red sandstone architecture.

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Banteay Srei, a 10th-century Cambodian temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, is celebrated for its intricate carvings and red sandstone architecture. Unlike other major temples in the Angkor region, it was built by courtiers, not a king, adding to its unique charm. Its miniature scale and exquisite detail make it a 'jewel of Khmer art'.

A brief summary to Banteay Srei Temple

Local tips

  • Purchase an Angkor Pass in advance to access Banteay Srei and other temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
  • Hire a tuk-tuk or taxi for a comfortable round trip from Siem Reap, allowing flexibility to stop at other sites.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Landmine Museum or Kbal Spean for a full-day excursion.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Siem Reap, hire a tuk-tuk for a round trip to Banteay Srei. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes from the temples of Angkor and a little over 30km from Siem Reap center. Negotiate the price beforehand, typically around $15-25 for the day, including stops at other nearby sites. The route passes through villages and rice paddies. An Angkor Pass is required for entry, which can be purchased at the official ticket center 4 kilometers from Siem Reap. A one-day pass costs $37.

  • Taxi

    For a more comfortable journey, hire a taxi from Siem Reap to Banteay Srei. The taxi ride takes around 34 minutes. Expect to pay between $24 and $35 for a one-way trip. The Angkor Pass is required for entry, and can be purchased at the official ticket center. A one-day pass costs $37.

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Discover more about Banteay Srei Temple

Banteay Srei, meaning 'Citadel of Women' or 'Citadel of Beauty' in Khmer, is a 10th-century temple located in the Angkor region, approximately 25 km northeast of the main Angkor complex. Consecrated on April 22, 967 AD, it distinguishes itself as the only major temple in Angkor not built by a monarch, but by courtiers named Vishnukumara and Yajnavaraha, who served as counselors to King Rajendravarman II. Originally named Tribhuvanamaheshvara, meaning 'Great Lord of the Threefold World,' the temple was primarily dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. However, the temple's buildings are divided along the east-west axis, with structures south of the axis devoted to Shiva and those north of it dedicated to Vishnu. This unique feature reflects the diverse religious influences of the time. Banteay Srei is renowned for its intricate carvings, made possible by the use of red sandstone, which is soft and easily carved. The temple's miniature scale, unusual for Angkorian construction, adds to its appeal. The detailed bas-reliefs depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as images of gods, goddesses, and celestial beings. The temple complex consists of three concentric rectangular enclosures on an east-west axis. The inner enclosure houses the main temple structures, including two libraries and three sanctuary towers. The walls are adorned with carvings of devatas, dvarapalas, and mythical creatures like Kala. Rediscovered in 1914, Banteay Srei underwent restoration in the 1930s using anastylosis, a process of restoring a ruined building with its original architectural elements. The temple remained in use until at least the 14th century. Today, Banteay Srei is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its exquisite beauty and historical significance.

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