About
Banteay Samré is a Hindu temple in Siem Reap Province, Cambodia, set within the wider Angkor area. It is also known as the Citadel of the Samré. The temple is dedicated to Vishnu and is built in the classical style associated with Angkor Wat, which makes it a good place to see that architectural tradition up close.
What to see
The main draw is the bas-reliefs, the carved panels that decorate the walls and depict scenes from Hindu mythology. Taking time over the carvings is the best way to appreciate the temple, and many visitors find that the details reward a slow walk around the site. The temple is generally considered well preserved, so you can still make out a great deal of its original form.
Planning your visit
- Location: Banteay Samré, Krong Siem Reap 17000, Cambodia.
- Who it suits: Visitors interested in Hindu art, Khmer temple architecture and carved relief work.
- Contact: +855 63 760 079.
Because the temple sits in the Siem Reap area, it can be combined with other visits in the region on the same trip. The town of Siem Reap, which serves as the base for most travellers exploring Angkor, is the natural starting point for getting there. If you are interested in the history and craft of the region's temples, Banteay Samré offers a quieter, more focused experience than the larger sites, with the carvings as its central attraction.