The temple of Banteay Sray is one of the highlights of the visit to the Angkor archaeological site. Let yourself be captivated by its unique beauty, three-dimensional sculptures, and mystical ambiance. While admiring the artistic elements, enhance your knowledge of Hindu culture by exploring this monument dating back to the 10th century.
Built in the late 900s, the temple of Banteay Sray has endured centuries of history. Unlike most temples of the time, its creation was not ordered by a king but by two prominent nobles, Yajnyavaraha and Vishnukumara, known as advisers to Rajendravarman II.
Originally named Tribhuvanamahesvara, the temple was dedicated to the Hindu gods Shiva and Vishnu. The name "Banteay Sray," meaning "citadel of women," came much later, alluding to the complexity and finesse of the sculptures, which could only be the work of a woman according to belief.
Expanded in the 12th century, the temple of Banteay Sray was active until the 14th century, after which it was abandoned like other temples of Angkor in the 15th century. In 1914, the monument reappeared on the radar, discovered by French Lieutenant Marec. In 1923, the theft of Devatas by writer André Malraux sparked renewed interest in the site.
The first major restoration took place in the 1930s, under the direction of the French School of the Far East (EFEO). From 2001 to 2006, a Swiss team carried out further renovation work following acts of pillaging and vandalism during the Khmer Rouge uprising. Today, Banteay Sray is hailed as one of the jewels of the Angkor archaeological park.
The temple of Banteay Sray is located about twenty kilometers from the main complex of Angkor Wat, in the province of Siem Reap. In the heart of the forest, prepare to discover a gem of Khmer art classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992. Still relatively unknown to travelers, this Cambodian monument will delight enthusiasts of ancient sculptures.
Banteay Sray is an architectural gem. Unique in its kind, the temple is entirely made of pink sandstone. Add to those finely carved walls, and you get an exceptional view of the craftsmanship of ancient Khmer artisans.
Compared to other monuments in Angkor, Banteay Sray is smaller, although the site covers an area of 45,000 square meters. It is a flat temple, with the main entrance following a causeway bordered by moats. From a global perspective, the temple adopts a racket and quadrilateral architecture.
The temple of Banteay Sray consists of four enclosures, each containing different structures. You can enter through two pillar porches. Then, the various structures are arranged around a central cruciform hall. After touring the libraries and annexed sanctuaries in the first enclosure, head to the fourth enclosure to contemplate two mythical scenes from the Indian epic on the pediments.
Marvel at the representation of the god Indra riding the three-headed elephant Airavata and the scene of Sita's abduction by Viradha. Along the way, take a look at the decorative boundary stones adorning the grand alley. Don't miss the representation of Shiva on the gopura, as well as the commemorative stele of King Jayavarman V.
From the entrance, the temple of Banteay Sray impresses with its splendidly preserved bas-reliefs. The sculptures depict scenes from the lives of Shiva and Vishnu, as well as various episodes from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana. Amidst floral motifs, you will discover all kinds of creatures, ranging from lions, bulls, wild boars, and monkeys to demons. Let yourself be enchanted by the apsaras, sublime nymphs sporting lotus flowers in their hands. While carvings in the temples of Angkor are often flat, the sculptures of Banteay Sray stand out for their three-dimensional aspect, further enhancing their beauty.
From the city of Siem Reap, you can take a tuk-tuk to reach the temple of Banteay Sray. Throughout the approximately one and a half hour journey, you will have ample opportunity to appreciate the rural landscape of Cambodia. Alternatively, the more adventurous can travel by bicycle. Car rental services are also available.
The site of Banteay Sray is open daily from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. It is preferable to come early in the morning to escape the crowd and enjoy the peaceful and intimate atmosphere of the temple.
Access to the temple of Banteay Sray is included in the ticket to the Angkor archaeological park. Prices vary depending on the duration of your visit. One-day tickets cost around $37, while three-day tickets are offered at $62. You can purchase your ticket at the park entrance, and it is valid for multiple days.