Banteay Srey in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Banteay Srey was constructed in late 10th century C.E. during the Rajendravaman rule. The temple is of Hindu (Shiva) religion.























BANTEAY SREY loosely translates to "citadel of the women", but this is a modern appellation that probably refers to the delicate beauty of the carvings. Built at a time when the KhmerEmpire was gaining significant power and territory, the temple was constructed by a Brahmin counselor under a powerful king, Rajendravarman and later under Jayavarman V.

Banteay Srey displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art. The walls are densely covered with of the most beautiful, deep and intricate carvings of any Angkorian temple. The temples's relatively small size, pink sandstone construction and ornate design give it a fairyland ambiance.The colors are best before 10.30 am and after 2.00 pm but there are fewer tourists in the afternoon. This temple was discovered by French archaeologists relatively late in 1914.

The temple area closes at 5.00 pm. Banteay Srey lies 38 km from Siem Reap, requiring extra travel time. We had to pay an extra US15.00 for the car to take us to visit Banteay Srey temple.