Even though Banteai Srei was very busy when I visited it, based on what I was told, it didn’t used to be that way. Had I visited Cambodia a few years earlier, trying to reach the temple would take a lot of effort because there was no paved road leading to this part of the country and if I did make it here, I would likely be the only person inside. This took a whole different turn after the paved road was laid. Buses were now able to comfortably drive their single day pass holders to the temple and back in a manner of hours, affording them an experience unlike any other within Angkor proper (where all main temples are located).
Trips to Banteay Srei can also be combined with trips to Beng Melea – which is what I did, but explorers who want to see even more can also include Kbal Spean and/or Banteay Samrei to their itinerary, as they are both in the same neck of the woods. Below is a small gallery of photos I took during my stop at Banteay Srei. I was accompanied by Ha and her daughter since we were able to fool the ticket inspector that they were Cambodians.
Photo: Intricately Carved Pediment Above the Entrance to Banteay Srei
Photo: Causeway Between Second and Third Enclosures of Banteay Srei with Ha and Her Daughter On It
Photo: Access to Banteay Srei Central Sanctuary is Prohibited
Photo: Cool Looking Tree is The First Thing You See as You Arrive at Banteay Srei
Photo: Gate in the Second Enclosing Wall to Banteay Srei
Photo: Carvings on a Lintel – a Horizontal Stone on the Side of the Gate
Photo: Moat After Second Enclosure to Banteay Srei
Photo: Banteay Srei Pediment Carvings Bear Creatures from Indian Hindu Mythology
Photo: Bas Reliefs on a Pediment Above One of the Gopuras (Entrance Gates)
Photo: Restored Gopura Affording Access to Banteay Srei
Photo: Compared to the Rest of Angkor Temples, Central Sanctuary of Banteay Srei is Small
Photo: Vandalized Statue of an Animal, Only Parts of It Remain
Photo: This Statue of a Woman is Before the Entrance to Banteay Srei – Citadel of the Women
Photo: Banteay Srei Central Sanctuary Consists of Three Towers
Photo: Top Parts of Gates to Banteay Srei Are Always Full of Quality Carvings
