Banteay Chhmar

Buddhist Temple

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Andrew Marino

Banteay Chhmar Temple is a remarkable testament to Cambodia's Angkorian heritage, standing as one of the nation's priceless cultural treasures. Built during the Angkor period, this complex is rich in Buddhist imagery and adorned with breathtaking bas-reliefs depicting Angkorian life, underscoring its significance in Khmer history. For over 800 years, the temple has largely remained untouched, its structures enveloped by nature's overgrowth and decay. Unfortunately, in recent decades, the site has suffered from severe looting, threatening its historical integrity.

Efforts to protect and conserve this temple are now underway, thanks to the collaboration between the Cambodian government, local communities, and organizations like the Global Heritage Fund (GHF) and Heritage Watch. These initiatives aim to restore Banteay Chhmar while simultaneously improving the livelihoods of surrounding villagers. The temple is also on Cambodia's tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage designation, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.

Sustainable Tourism and Community Development

Despite the passage of centuries, life around Banteay Chhmar remains deeply rooted in traditional practices, with many locals relying on farming, fishing, and handicrafts for their livelihoods. As infrastructure in the area improves, there's hope that these communities will see greater economic opportunities.

The Community-Based Tourism (CBT) initiative is a key component of these development efforts, promoting sustainable, low-impact tourism. Through homestays, guided tours, local cooking services, and other activities, tourism is providing a vital source of income for villagers. At the same time, these efforts contribute to preserving the region's cultural heritage and natural environment, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate the splendor of Banteay Chhmar.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (1,226)

Banteay Samre Temple, on Sok San Road in Siem Reap, is an extensive, well-preserved Hindu temple complex in the Angkor Wat style offering detailed stone carvings, good bas-reliefs on lintels and an inner temple with much original work still intact; visitors note its large, intimate layout, quiet, atmospheric setting away from busy routes, easy photo opportunities along the walkways and courtyards, occasional restricted halls, and plenty of direct sunlight while exploring.

Darin Heng

2 weeks ago

"Banteay Samre Temple is one of the most charming and peaceful temples in Siem Reap. Located slightly away from the busy tourist routes, it offers aquiet and relaxing atmosphere where visitors can truly enjoy the beauty of Angkor’s architecture. The temple is very well-preserved, with stu ing carvings, detailed stone walls, and a unique Khmer design similar to Angkor Wat but on a smaller and more intimate scale. The walkway leading to the temple and the i er courtyard are perfect for photos and exploring at your own pace. If you love ancient temples that are calm, clean, and full of history, Banteay Samre is definitely worth a 5-star visit. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Siem Reap!..."

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Micheal Linke

5 months ago

"A large temple without the crowds, what else could I wish for? The ruins are in excellent condition, much of the restoration work was done before myvisit, though a few halls were still off limits. A lot of direct sunlight when exploring the site. The date of its construction is unknown though likely during the reign of Suryavarman II, but without royal patronage, something of a theme on my trip to the outer temples of the empire. This ruin is well worth a visit, and it is not as crowded as the other more popular temples...."

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Greg Ochylski

a month ago

"There never seems to be anyone around whenever i go out there, which honestly is all right with me. I love roaming around this place and not seeinganyone, it gives it a certain atmosphere. this is quite a large place, modelled somewhat along the lines of Angkor, though not nearly the same scale..."

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The Banteay Chhmar appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting !

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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