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Banteay Samre Siem Reap Cambodia
Temple
394 views
Sok San Road, Krong Siem Reap, Banteay Srei, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia
Added on Sun, Nov 9, 2025 at 2:57 PM
Updated on Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 4:12 PM
Year Built
1150 CE (12th century)
Period
Chola Period
Architectural Style
Built By
Suryavarman II
Patronage
King Suryavarman II
Material Used
बलुआ पत्थर - Baluā Patthar (Sandstone)लैटेराइट - Laiterāiṭa (Laterite)चूना - Chunā (Lime Mortar)लोहा - Lohā (Metal)
Contributed By
Team InheritageAdded Nov 9, 2025
Banteay Samre Siem Reap Cambodia
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Heritage Overview
Banteay Samre Siem Reap Cambodia
Located 12 kilometers east of Angkor, Banteay Samre exemplifies Khmer Vaishnavite temple architecture dating back to the 12th century CE, during the reign of Suryavarman II ([1][2]). Dedicated to Vishnu, the temple illustrates the transmission of Indian Vaishnavite traditions to Cambodia during the Angkorian period ([1][2]). Its layout, featuring a central sanctuary with enclosures and galleries, reflects Indian Vaishnavite temple planning principles, similar to complexes found in India ([1][2]).
Intricate carvings adorning the walls depict scenes from Vaishnavite mythology, including Vishnu's avatars and narratives from the Ramayana and Mahabharata ([1][2]). These carvings demonstrate the sophisticated understanding of Indian iconography by Khmer artists ([1][2]). During the medieval period, temple architecture incorporated the concept of Mount Meru in its central tower, surrounded by galleries, aligning with Indian Vaishnavite planning principles ([1][2]). The central tower, or Shikhara (Spire), rises majestically, embodying the cosmic mountain ([1][2]).
Sandstone blocks, meticulously fitted together without mortar, showcase engineering techniques potentially transmitted from India to Cambodia ([1][2]). Lime mortar was used as an adhesive in certain areas, further securing the structure ([3]). Archaeological excavations have uncovered the temple's role as a center for Vishnu worship, with inscriptions providing evidence of the transmission of Indian Vaishnavite texts and practices ([1][2][3]). The Garbhagriha (Sanctum) likely housed an idol of Vishnu, the supreme deity in Vaishnavism ([3]).
Now a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banteay Samre attests to the impact of Indian culture and architecture on Southeast Asia ([4][5]). Ongoing research and conservation efforts aim to protect this cultural treasure, demonstrating Indian civilization's influence on Southeast Asian religious and artistic traditions ([4][5]). The temple's Mandapa (Pillared Hall) would have served as a space for devotees to gather and offer prayers ([5]). The use of laterite in the foundation provided a stable base for the sandstone superstructure ([3]).
Historical Context
Banteay Samre was constructed in the 12th century CE by King Suryavarman II. The temple was dedicated to Vishnu. The site was inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992. Ongoing restoration and conservation efforts continue. ([1][2])
Location Map
Visit Information
Visiting Hours
Banteay Samre Temple: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Daily.
Entry Fee
Free for all visitors.
Best Visit Times
November to February: This period offers cooler, drier weather (20-30°C) which is ideal for exploring the temple complex comfortably. Early morning (7:30 AM - 9:00 AM) is recommended to avoid crowds and the midday heat, and to experience the temple in softer light. Consider visiting during the Khmer New Year (April) or Water Festival (November) for a vibrant cultural experience, though expect larger crowds.
Official Website
Go to Official WebsiteArchitectural Highlights
Architectural Style
Period
Chola Period
Influences
Indian Vaishnavite Temple Architecture, Indian Vishnu Iconography, Indian Epic Narratives, Khmer Temple Design, Indian Cosmological Planning
Heritage Status
National Heritage Site
Preservation Status
Good; well-preserved; ongoing restoration; UNESCO World Heritage protection. ([1][2])
Conservation Status
Good; well-preserved; ongoing restoration; UNESCO protection. ([1][2])
Archaeological Survey
Surveyed By
French École Française d'Extrême-Orient, UNESCO, APSARA Authority
Survey Date
1900s, 1930s, 1950s, 1990s, 2000s
Featured Images
Citation References
Banteay Samre
World History EncyclopediaAccessed 2025-11-17
Banteay Srei
Asia SocietyAccessed 2025-11-17
Banteay Samre, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Oriental ArchitectureAccessed 2025-11-17
Angkor
UNESCO World Heritage CentreAccessed 2025-11-17
Banteay Samre Temple - Angkor Guide
Angkor GuideAccessed 2025-11-17
Excavation Details
Extensive archaeological excavations, documentation, structural analysis, and conservation work.
Restoration Work
Archaeological excavations; documentation; structural stabilization; restoration of damaged sections; ongoing conservation. ([1][2])
Patronage
King Suryavarman II
Construction Technique
Constructing Banteay Samre involved a meticulous sequence, beginning with quarrying massive sandstone and laterite blocks. Skilled artisans rough-shaped these materials at the quarry, then transported them to the site, likely using elephants and rollers over temporary ramps. On-site, precision stone dressing and intricate carving occurred, often *in situ* after initial assembly. Builders employed dry masonry for the primary structure, relying on gravity and the precise fit of blocks. Lime mortar was then applied, primarily for infill, sealing joints, and rendering, ensuring structural cohesion and a smooth finish. This systematic approach allowed for the monumental scale and detailed ornamentation characteristic of the period.
Architectural Influences
Indian Vaishnavite Temple Architecture, Indian Vishnu Iconography, Indian Epic Narratives, Khmer Temple Design, Indian Cosmological Planning
Building Techniques
Banteay Samre showcases sophisticated building techniques, notably the extensive use of corbelling for its vaults and roofs. This method, where successive courses of stone project inward, allowed for spanning large spaces without true arches, a hallmark of Khmer and early Indian temple architecture. Artisans meticulously carved intricate bas-reliefs directly onto the sandstone surfaces, often after the blocks were set. The integration of laterite for robust core structures, clad with finely dressed sandstone, demonstrates a pragmatic and aesthetically driven material strategy. Evidence suggests the use of metal dowels or dovetail joints to interlock key structural elements, enhancing stability.
Coordinates
13.442166, 103.959110
Accessibility Info
5 items
Visitor Facilities
5 items
Best Visit Times
November to February: This period offers cooler, drier weather (20-30°C) which is ideal for exploring the temple complex comfortably. Early morning (7:30 AM - 9:00 AM) is recommended to avoid crowds and the midday heat, and to experience the temple in softer light. Consider visiting during the Khmer New Year (April) or Water Festival (November) for a vibrant cultural experience, though expect larger crowds.
Seasonal Events
4 items
Visitor Restrictions
["Visitors are required to dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered, as a sign of respect for the sacred site.","Climbing on delicate structures or sitting on statues is strictly prohibited to preserve the ancient ruins.","Loud noises, disruptive behavior, and littering are not permitted within the temple complex.","Photography is generally allowed, but flash photography may be restricted in certain areas, and visitors should be respectful when photographing monks or local people.","Smoking and consumption of alcohol are prohibited within the temple grounds."]
View Count
394
Is Featured
Yes
Is Published
Yes
Completion Score
75
Completion Status
complete
Created By
b609c300-e3e9-42af-8d00-5125af139175
Created At
2025-11-09T09:27:54.429526+00:00
Updated At
2025-11-21T10:42:24.51649+00:00
Related Heritage Sites
What is Banteay Samre Siem Reap Cambodia?
Banteay Samre Siem Reap Cambodia is a historic Temple located in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This Khmer-Nagara architecture style, Nagara architecture style, Vaishnava Temple architecture style, Indian Temple architecture style architectural masterpiece was built during the Chola Period period and represents significant cultural and historical heritage of Cambodia. Located 12 kilometers east of Angkor, Banteay Samre exemplifies Khmer Vaishnavite temple architecture dating back to the 12th century CE, during the reign of Suryavarman II ([1][2]). Dedicated to Vish...
Category:
TempleLocation:
Sok San Road, Krong Siem Reap, Banteay Srei, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia, Siem ReapPeriod:
Chola PeriodStyle:
Khmer-Nagara architecture style, Nagara architecture style, Vaishnava Temple architecture style, Indian Temple architecture styleArchitectural Features