Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang, Siem Reap

Historic Site and Reservoir in Siem Reap

Srah Srang Angkor
Srah Srang Angkor
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Diego Delso

Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang in Siem Reap, Cambodia is a large Angkor-era reservoir (baray) with a distinctive stone landing terrace and a small island temple at its center. Set south of the East Baray and east of Banteay Kdei, the water basin stretches roughly 700 by 350 meters, edged with laterite blocks capped in sandstone.

What stands out most is the western terrace: a cruciform platform with naga balustrades, guardian lions on the steps down to the water, and detailed carving that rewards a slow look. It’s also a practical stop for travelers planning a sunrise viewpoint opposite Banteay Kdei’s entrance, while the quieter eastern bank can suit a calmer end-of-day pause. If you like Angkor’s water landscapes, stonework details, and short scenic stops between temples, this is an easy addition.

History and Significance of the Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang

10th-century origins

Srah Srang began as a major reservoir in the mid-10th century, part of the broader Angkor system that combined monumental architecture with engineered water landscapes. Its scale and formal edges show it was designed as more than a simple pond, with carefully built embankments and a planned relationship to nearby temples.

At the center sits Kandal Srah Srang, a small island temple dating to the 10th century. Its position reinforces the reservoir’s ceremonial feel, turning the water into a framed setting for a shrine rather than an empty expanse.

Jayavarman VII and the later terrace

In the early 13th century, Jayavarman VII expanded Srah Srang and added the western landing stage. The terrace's cruciform plan, naga balustrades, and guardians create a formal “arrival” point at the water, aligned directly opposite the entrance of Banteay Kdei.

Archaeology and recent restoration

Excavations in the northwest corner uncovered a cemetery of about 1,600 square meters, including mortuary jars with cremated remains and artifacts linked to the reign of Udayadityavarman II, documented by archaeologist B.P. Groslier. More recently, Kandal Srah Srang was restored by APSARA and reopened to the public in October 2021.

During that restoration, two ancient turtle sculptures were unearthed; one contained a white crystal dragon and a trident, now held for study at the Preah Norodom Sihanouk Angkor Museum. The discovery adds a vivid layer to the site’s long timeline, spanning construction, reuse, archaeology, and conservation.

Things to See and Do in the Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang

I'd start at the western landing terrace and take time with the carvings before doing anything else. The naga balustrades, the six-headed naga fan, and the garuda perched above the naga's body are the details that make this reservoir feel like an architectural stop, not just a viewpoint. From the same platform, I like watching the light change over the water-this is the side many people choose for sunrise, especially because it faces Banteay Kdei.

After that, I’d walk along the edge to get a sense of the reservoir’s scale and symmetry. If you want a quieter moment, I find the eastern side works well for a calmer look across the basin, and it’s also noted as a serene place to watch sunset. Keep an eye out for the guardian lions flanking the steps down to the water-they’re easy to miss if you only stop for a quick photo.

How to Get to the Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang

The nearest airport is Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI), with onward road transfers into Siem Reap and the Angkor Archaeological Park. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Siem Reap on Booking.com.

Siem Reap can also be reached by train via the station serving the city area, then continue by road transport to Angkor sites. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

By car or tuk-tuk, travel within the Angkor Archaeological Park to the reservoir area near Banteay Kdei; there is roadside access and typical drop-off/parking space near major stops.

Is the Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang Worth Visiting?

Yes-Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang is worth a short stop if you want a scenic water landscape, a well-preserved ceremonial terrace, and an easy sunrise/sunset viewpoint between temples. It's best for photographers, cyclists, and travelers who enjoy Angkor's quieter spaces and stonework details. It's less essential if your time is tight and you're prioritizing major temple interiors, because the experience here is mainly the terrace, the water, and the atmosphere rather than a large complex to explore. Skip it if you don't care for viewpoints and would rather allocate every stop to big temple enclosures.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.1 (451)

Srah Damrei (Elephant Pond), located in Anlong Thum on Phnom Kulen, is an off‑the‑beaten‑path archaeological site featuring life‑size sandstone carvings—a large elephant plus two lions and a frog‑like figure—set beside a basin; visitors praise it as a beautiful, adventurous stop reached best by motorbike (often via a guided loop from the Kulen Waterfall car park), noting rough dirt trails and the need for local guides or riders to navigate the jungle tracks.

Seng Pheng
4 months ago
"#សៀមរាប - ស្រះដំរីនៃមហេន្រ្ទបពិតn#SiemReap - Elephant Pond of the Real MahanatranSrah Damrei (ស្រះដំរី) on Phnom Kulen is the historical andarchaeological site on top of Phnom Kulen (Mount Kulen). It's a group of large, monolithic carvings of animals, including a giant elephant, two lions, a bull, and a frog-like figure, all carved from the natural sandstone. The name Srah Damrei, or "Elephant Pond," refers to the carvings and the nearby basin. This site is a significant part of the history of the Khmer Empire and is located about 5.5 km southwest of the village of Anlong Thom on the mountain. Mount Kulen is a symbol of Mount Sumeru, the first city of the Angkor era, the starting point of the glorious civilization of the Cambodian Empire, the Angkor era. Of course, the trip to Mount Kulen, Elephant Pond was not disappointing, although the off-road trip made my motorcycle break and break the tire, but what is important is the beauty and wonder of the Sculptures, which is built from huge stones, facing west, in the forest of the ancient city, which was in the era of the ancestors, the wonders of Angkor that the next generation of Cambodians ca ot do.n#timetotravel #travel4what #timetotravel_seng..."
Vonglon
a year ago
"I took my clients to see the local village near there behind Lak Market. We see some Khmer people who still live there , Khmer typical House, pets,oxen cart, rice field. Furthermore we had a small talk to them with smiles from them...."
Megaworld Asia
a year ago
"The Elephant Pond Loop: Starting at the Kulen Waterfall car park, the loop is a two hour circuit which takes in four sightseeing attractions in theremote areas of the national park: 1. Poeng Tbal 2. Aram Rong Chen Temple 3. Damrei Krab Temple 4. Srah Damrei (aka Elephant Pond). The tour goes in a clockwise direction with the Elephant Pond being the final stop, before the ride back to the Kulen Waterfall car park. Off the beaten track: This is not a mainstream tourist junket. To do this tour you’ll need to hire a local guide, and his motorbike, and go as a pillion passenger. The tour price, including the motorbike hire, is sixty thousand Cambodian Rial (15 USD). Warning: Do not attempt to do this circuit solo as there’s a myriad of trails ru ing through the jungle and little, or no, sign posting. The trails are dirt tracks which are only suitable for motorbikes. Only the local guides know the correct routes and without them, you will get lost. Srah Damrei: This is the final stop on the Elephant Pond Loop Tour, and it is definitely the best. The site is located approximately three km to the southwest of Damrei Krab Temple and the trail runs through farming areas. The main attraction of this site is the life size statues, carved from sandstone boulders. There are four large statues: an elephant, two lions, and what looks like a frog. The site dates back to the eighth or ninth century and was part of a Kingdom established by Jayavarman II, on Kulen Mountain. Apparently, this Kingdom was the birthplace of the Khmer Empire, and it precedes the Angkor period. Approximately two hundred meters to the west of the figurines, is a lookout which gives unimpeded views across to Siem Reap. It’s worth noting that this site is located on one of the high points of Kulen Mountain. Once you head back to the Kulen Waterfall site, you’ll understand this very clearly. The trail descends through what is the worst section of jungle track on the loop. The guides go in counterclockwise direction to avoid having ascend this steep section of the trail. Safe travels, Mega...."
Sokda
2 years ago
"Srah Srang is a must-visit spot for cycling teams looking for a picturesque coffee break during their morning rides. The breathtaking sunrise viewsand serene surroundings make it the perfect place to relax and recharge. The local villages surrounding the lake add to the charm, providing a unique cultural experience. With restaurants and a pool available, it's a great place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates a stunning morning sunrise. Optional keywords: cycling, coffee break, sunrise views, local culture, serene surroundings...."
Ti poek
3 months ago
"The best place for Adventure 🍃❤️nI really highly recommend this place!"
DotsGirl2
2 years ago
"Srah Srang is the name of the lake which I understand is also called the Royal Baths. We went to the terrace to view it. The terrace was built forthe Royal barge. Probably takes 15 minutes to view..."

Practical Tips on Visiting the Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang

  • Best time to visit: Early morning for sunrise from the western terrace, or later in the day for a calmer look from the eastern side toward sunset.
  • How long to spend: Plan 15-30 minutes for the terrace and a short walk along the edge; add more time if you’re photographing or pairing it with nearby temples.
  • Accessibility: Expect uneven ground and steps on the landing stage; the terrace steps down to the water are not mobility-friendly.
  • Facilities: As a park stop, facilities can be limited and variable; I’d plan for basic needs before you begin a longer Angkor circuit.

Where to Stay Close to the Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang

For most travelers, the best base is central Siem Reap, so you can balance early Angkor starts with easy evenings back in town for food and downtime. From the center, it's straightforward to head out to Angkor Archaeological Park for sunrise stops like Srah Srang, then continue to nearby temples without changing hotels.

If you want a classic, full-service option with a central location, consider Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor. For a well-known mid-range base close to the action in town, Somadevi Angkor Resort & Spa can suit travelers who want convenience for evenings after temple touring. If you prefer a reliable international-style stay near central Siem Reap, Park Hyatt Siem Reap is another strong option for comfort-focused itineraries.

FAQs for Visiting the Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang

Getting There

It’s inside the Angkor Archaeological Park area near Siem Reap, situated south of the East Baray and east of Banteay Kdei.
It’s not a practical walk from central Siem Reap for most visitors; the simplest approach is to travel into Angkor Archaeological Park by tuk-tuk or car and then walk around the reservoir edges on-site.
Take a taxi or tuk-tuk from the station area to Angkor Archaeological Park, then continue to the Srah Srang stop near Banteay Kdei.
There is typical roadside access and space to stop near major Angkor points of interest; driving can be convenient if you’re doing multiple sites in one loop, but many visitors find a tuk-tuk just as practical.

Tickets & Entry

Because it sits within the Angkor Archaeological Park, access is generally tied to park entry; the reservoir edges and terrace are part of the site experience, while any controlled temple access follows park rules.
It typically covers entry to Angkor Archaeological Park sites, meaning you can include Srah Srang alongside nearby temples such as Banteay Kdei as part of the same circuit.
Most travelers visit as part of their Angkor day plan without pre-booking anything specific for Srah Srang; you mainly need the appropriate park entry for your itinerary.
It’s generally visited year-round as an outdoor stop within the park; exact access conditions can vary by site management and season, so it’s sensible to confirm locally if you’re planning a sunrise visit.
Stay on obvious paths and respect any roped-off or signed areas, especially around restored structures like the island temple; treat carvings and balustrades as fragile and avoid climbing for photos.

Visiting Experience

About 15-20 minutes is enough to see the western terrace, take in the view, and notice the key carvings.
It can be worth a brief stop if you’re already nearby at Banteay Kdei or planning a sunrise start, but it’s not a priority over the biggest temple complexes if your schedule is tight.
Pair it with Banteay Kdei directly opposite the western terrace, then continue to other nearby Angkor stops on the same circuit depending on your route.
It’s better as a fair-weather stop because the main experience is the open terrace and views across the water, and wet conditions can make paths and steps slippery.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

It’s more commonly included in Angkor day itineraries than in city walking tours, since it’s inside the archaeological park rather than in central Siem Reap.
A quick independent stop works well if you mainly want the terrace details and the view, while a guide can add context about the reservoir’s construction, later additions, and the island temple restoration.
Spend time at the western terrace and shoreline, then cross to explore Banteay Kdei; if time remains, continue along your planned Angkor circuit to the next nearby temple stop.

Photography

Yes-its long waterline, the cruciform terrace, and the naga balustrades create strong leading lines and reflections when the light is calm.
Early morning suits sunrise from the western terrace, while later in the day can be more peaceful from the eastern side toward sunset.
As a general rule in Angkor sites, follow posted guidance and avoid entering restricted or roped-off areas; be especially careful around restored structures and fragile carvings.
The classic viewpoint is from the western landing stage looking out across the reservoir, using the naga balustrades and steps to frame the water.

Accessibility & Facilities

Access can be challenging because of uneven surfaces and steps on the terrace; some views are still possible from flatter areas near the top of the embankment.
Facilities can be limited at individual Angkor stops, so it’s best to plan restroom breaks around larger, busier temple areas on your route.
Yes-there are edges of the terrace and embankment areas where visitors commonly pause, but seating is informal rather than dedicated.
Families can enjoy the open space and views, but strollers may struggle on uneven ground and around steps, and children should be watched near the water and terrace edges.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Most people plan food breaks back in Siem Reap or at busier areas within the Angkor circuit rather than relying on this specific stop for dining.
It pairs best with other Angkor stops nearby, then returning to central Siem Reap for markets and meals afterward.

Safety & Timing

It’s generally visited in daylight as part of the Angkor circuit; for evenings, it’s more common to head back to Siem Reap rather than stay around the reservoir after dark.
Early morning suits a focused sunrise stop and cooler temperatures, while later in the day can feel calmer from the eastern side with softer light toward sunset.

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

Moira & Andy
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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Planning Your Visit

Address: Srah Srang, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap: 9 km

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