Banteay Srei
Angkor




The small complex of Banteay Srei has been compared to Indian temples and every wall depicts special carvings, included Vishnu and Shiva.

This Shiva Temple is impressive because the place is built of red/pink sandstone. And you`ll also be impressed of its detailed carvings and bas-reliefs. You can see reliefs of Hindu myths on the walls and lintels.

An example of this, is a scene from the Indian epic, Ramayana. It shows how the demon king Rawana tries to kidnap princess Sita.

The site has another look to it because of the red sandstone -- the atmosphere feels kind of... warmer.

But let me tell you something...

It's a shame though how much a beautiful place can get "ruined" by too much people walking around, filling every corner of the area.

When I arrived at Banteay Srei, I thought I was at Angkor Wat again. There was SO much people outside and inside the area, and it took ages to get in!

Even when I got inside, it was packed. I had to walk behind a large crowd the first 50 metres in turtle speed. In addition to this, the big tourist buses, minibuses, Tuk-Tuks were parked outside, and took a lot of space. I got claustrophobic, even though I'm used to crowded places!

Is Banteay Srei still worth the visit?

Yes, it`s still one of the places you have to see. The place is just picture-perfect and has deserved its reputation as one of the most popular temple sites in Angkor.

Recommended time: 30-45 minutes

Author's rating: rating star icon rating star icon rating star icon rating star icon rating star icon

How do you get there?

Easy!

Ask the Tuk-Tuk to take you there. I remember that we had to drive for a while from Ta Prohm, before I got there (about 30 minutes).

For tailored tours around Angkor Park, visit my page about Angkor Wat Tours

Where can I grab some food inside Angkor park?

At the food stalls outside Angkor Watt, Ta Prohm Temple, Banteay Srei, Preah Khan and Kbal Spean you'll get cheap food!

How's the food? Is it safe?

I didn't get sick by eating this food. There was lots of travelers and tourists who ate at the on-site restaurants, so that means high turnover of food.

Food prices at local restaurants inside Angkor park:

Noodle soup: 2.50 $

Steamed rice with vegetables: 2.50 $

angkor watt restaurant food stall rice with vegetables
Steamed rice with vegetables

angkor watt restaurant food stall rice with egg
Rice with egg

Beverages (coke, small water): 1-1,5 $

Small/big bottle of water: 1-2 $

Angkor beer, Tiger beer (can, bottle): 2-3 $

There are also food vendors and kids walking around the park, selling snacks and cold drinks. Cold water is a unbelievable good after you`ve been walking the whole day, in the scorching sun!

For tailored tours around Angkor Park, visit my page about Angkor Wat Tours

So, where do you go next?

If you`re interested in reading about Ta Prohm temple, click here.

The Angkor Watt

The 1000 Lingas of Kbal Spean

The labyrinth of Preah Khan

The faces of Bayon

Get an interactive Cambodia Map and detailed bus information for Cambodia

Read about Cambodia History

Read about Cambodia Culture

Return from Banteay Srei to Backpacking Tips Asia.





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