Banteay Samré

Banteay Samré is a compact 12th-century Khmer temple in the Angkor archaeological zone, built in an Angkor Wat style and commonly dated to the early 12th century. The temple is notable for finely executed bas-reliefs and a well-preserved central sanctuary.

The complex comprises a central towered sanctuary, entrance gopuras and surrounding galleries with carved lintels and devata figures; its decorative quality is often remarked on by specialists. It is smaller than Angkor Wat but retains much original stonework and architectural detail.

Scholars attribute the temple to the early Angkor period and to the same era that produced major monuments such as Angkor Wat, reflecting the religious and artistic programmes of that time. Later maintenance and some conservation work have helped preserve the reliefs and masonry.

Banteay Samré lies within Siem Reap province inside the greater Angkor area, a few kilometres east of the Angkor Wat group and accessible from the main circuit of archaeological sites.

• Why visit: Built in the Angkor Wat architectural style with well-preserved carvings, it is less crowded than the major temples and suited to short visits within the Angkor park.

What to See #

• Central sanctuary: The central sanctuary contains a small tower sanctuary and inner chamber with carved lintels and pediments typical of 12th-century Angkorian temples. Decoration shows high-quality bas-relief and devata figures.
• Gopuras and galleries: Gopuras and enclosing galleries surround the sanctuary, forming a compact temple plan that preserves much of its original stonework and decorative carving.