Banteay Chhmar Travel Essentials
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"An Angkorian Temple with Excellent Architecture "
Banteay Chhmar Tourism
Banteay Chhmar is a commune located in Thma Puok District in Banteay Meanchey province in northwest Cambodia and contains 14 villages. It is about 4 hours away from Siem Reap. The region is popular among the tourists for Banteay Chhmar, the fourth largest Angkorian complex, nine other satellite temples and reservoirs. These are one of the most significant ruins of the Angkorian period and classic examples of Khmer history and architecture.
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Places to Visit
Banteay Chhmar Temple - The fourth-largest Angkorian temple and a UNESCO heritage site are a must-visit attraction while traveling in this commune. Built in the Bayon-style of architecture, it is also one of the least visited temples, and hence you would be crowds-free.
Satellite temples - Out of the many satellite temples located close by, three of them are worth exploring. Ta Prohm Temple is the most popular of them all, located very close to Banteay Chhmar. Samnang Tasok and Chinchem Trey Temples are located close to each other and can be visited by renting a motorbike or a bike.
Meborn Baray - Meborn Baray, a beautiful large reservoir built during the Angkor period, which was the primary source of water supply at that time. It is now a conserved area, which is at its best during the rainy season.
What to Wear
As with the other temples in Cambodia, it is expected that tourists dress appropriately. Women need to cover their shoulder at all times and wear knee-length attire. Sleeveless shirts and shorts aren't also allowed for both men and women. The rules are strictly followed, and you might be denied entry by the guards if you fail to obey them.
History
King Jayavarman VII constructed Banteay Chhmar Temple in the late 12th century. It is the only other temple consisting of stone face towers, similar to Bayon temple. The name Banteay Chhmar means the Small Citadel or Narrow Fortress, although there are not many details about the reasons for the construction of this temple.
It is now part of the Community Based Tourism Project, which involves a group of locals committed to protecting the monument. These locals conserve the complex and also promote by organising tours, homestays and guides to the tourists.
Architecture
The temple is mostly known for its enigmatic face towers. Being the fourth largest among all the Angkorian ruins, the complex was must have functioned as an essential place for administration and worship. The outer gallery is carved with bas-reliefs depicting battles fought during the Khmer and also lives of ordinary people, which is similar to the ones found in Bayon temple.
The complex faces the east, opposite to a reservoir, which is now dried. Three enclosures are leading to the complex, the outer two separated by a moat. A smaller canal within the innermost ring had causeways with Naga balustrades, all typical elements found in Angkor temples. There are nine other secondary temples, known as satellite temples built around Banteay Chhmar, which represented various structures of the Kings.
Tips
There are not many options for eating and drinking. It is better to carry some snacks and water.
There are no ATMs here, and all transactions are carried out only in cash. Carry sufficient cash while traveling.
If you are traveling in a group, getting around by car is economical as well as comfortable.
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How to Reach Banteay Chhmar
How to Reach Overview
- The closest town to Banteay Chhmar is Sisophon, which can be reached by taking a cab from Siem Reap. It costs about 3 to 4 hours costing about 50 to 75 USD for a one-way ride until Sisophon.
- From there, you can get to Banteay Chhmar by shared taxis which costs about 50 to 60 USD for a return trip.
- You can also get there by renting a motorbike for about 15 to 20 USD from Sisophon.
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FAQs on Banteay Chhmar
What is famous about Banteay chhmar?
Its remote location attracts fewer tourists, making it one of the grandest temples to visit for people who would like to avoid crowds.
What is not so good about Banteay chhmar?
It takes about a day to explore, and might not be possible if tourists are short on time. Also, it may not be a good idea to visit another temple if tourists are overwhelmed with too many temples already.
Who should visit Banteay chhmar?
Banteay Chhmar is a destination suitable for all kinds of travellers. People who love history and architecture would especially enjoy their visit.
What is the best time to visit Banteay chhmar?
The best time to visit Banteay Chhmar is between October to February, when the weather is not hot, and the humidity is manageable. It is an excellent time to be outdoors exploring the temple. It is best to visit the premises early in the morning or late afternoon.
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What is the best way to reach Banteay chhmar?
- The closest town to Banteay Chhmar is Sisophon, which can be reached by taking a cab from Siem Reap. It costs about 3 to 4 hours costing about 50 to 75 USD for a one-way ride until Sisophon.
- From there, you can get to Banteay Chhmar by shared taxis which costs about 50 to 60 USD for a return trip.
- You can also get there by renting a motorbike for about 15 to 20 USD from Sisophon.
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What are the places near Banteay chhmar?
The top places near to Banteay chhmar are Siem reap which is 112 km from Banteay chhmar, Phnom penh which is located 340 km from Banteay chhmar, Battambang which is located 83 km from Banteay chhmar, Kep which is located 414 km from Banteay chhmar, Pailin which is located 152 km from Banteay chhmar
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