Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang

Historic Site and Reservoir in Siem Reap

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Diego Delso

Srah Srang is a large reservoir in Angkor, Cambodia, situated south of the East Baray and east of Banteay Kdei. Measuring 700 by 350 meters, it is bordered with laterite blocks capped by sandstone, featuring a landing stage or terrace on its western side and an island temple at its center. This terrace has a cruciform design adorned with naga balustrades ending in the six-headed naga fan, with a garuda perched atop the naga’s body, adding to the reservoir’s intricate details. The steps descending to the water are flanked by guardian lions, and this landing stage, directly opposite Banteay Kdei’s entrance, is a favored spot for watching the sunrise. The reservoir’s eastern side also offers a serene vantage for sunset. Excavations in its northwest corner revealed a 1,600 square meter cemetery, where mortuary jars with cremated remains and artifacts from the reign of Udayadityavarman II were uncovered by archaeologist B.P. Groslier.

Srah Srang was originally constructed in the mid-10th century and expanded around the early 13th century by Jayavarman VII, who added the terrace. In the center lies Kandal Srah Srang, a small temple dating back to the 10th century and restored between the 12th and 13th centuries. Recently restored by APSARA and reopened to the public in October 2021, the temple gained attention when two ancient turtle sculptures were unearthed during the restoration. One of the turtles, opened during the excavation, contained a white crystal dragon and a trident, now preserved for study at the Preah Norodom Sihanouk Angkor Museum.

The Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Siem Reap!

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