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Banteay Chhmar

Banteay Chhmar Temple is in northwestern Cambodia. The temple complex is from the Angkorian era, just like Cambodia's top attraction, but more remote, less famous and therefore without the tourist crowds. The name also refers to the adjacent village of Khum Banteay Chhmar, where the services can be found.

See
6
Do
7
Eat
3

16 places

  1. See

    Banteay Chhmar Temple

    One of Cambodia’s most important and least understood temples from the great Angkorian era. The temple is similar in style to Bayon Temple and may have originally had over 50 towers within its main enclosure. There are some stunning bas-reliefs of Khmer domestic and military life from the Angkorian era. By far, the most important and spectacular bas-reliefs are the two remaining images of the Avalokitesvara on the west gallery. The temple has suffered hundreds of years of natural decay, and in the late 20th century, was subjected to egregious acts of looting. What remains is still truly spectacular – a remote, deserted temple overgrown with trees and forest. You will experience a sense of mystical aura and have some awesome photographic opportunities. With fewer than 1,000 visitors a year, you will also most likely have the temple to yourself.

    Temple entrance fee is US$5 per person and is good for multi-day entrance to all the satellite temples including Banteay Torp Temple. Children under 12 are free.

  2. Eat

    CBT Restaurant

    This is your best option. The CBT has a kitchen and restaurant area where meals can be served. The CBT cooks have been trained in food safety and hygiene. Picnics and dinner in the temple can also be arranged through the CBT. There is an extra supplement for picnics and dinner in the temple depending upon group size, location and transportation needed.

    Breakfast, US$2; lunch and dinner, US$4

  3. Eat

    Chan Rom Restaurant

    In the market area, this is the restaurant under the big tree across from the moat and taxi stand. There is no menu. Basic Khmer food (look in the pots) and generally clean.

    US$1.00-2.50

  4. Eat

    Market Stalls

    There are various market stalls and sellers selling bobor (rice soup), cane juice, grilled corn, desserts, and other Khmer delicacies (crickets, anyone?). Not necessarily the most hygienic choice, but worth trying, if you are on a very tight budget.

    US$0.50-2

  5. See

    Meborn Baray

    Meborn Baray is a large reservoir constructed during the building of Banteay Chhmar Temple. It served as the primary water supply for the inhabitants of the time. The area now is protected from development and is home to a variety of birds. The baray stretches nearly 1,000 m x 1,500 m. There is a temple on the island in the middle of the baray which can be reached during the dry season. Meborn Baray is 600 m from the CBT office and can be reached by walking or biking.

  6. See

    Pol Pot Baray

    Boeung Cheung Kru

    This baray was constructed during the brutal Pol Pot regime under, as you can imagine, horrific conditions. Today, the baray is an important water source for the villagers in the area. The baray is about 3 km north of Banteay Chhmar and is best visited by moto, though biking may be possible during the dry season. It can be difficult to reach in the rainy season.

  7. See

    Samnang Tasok Temple

    This rather large satellite temple also bears Bayon-style face towers and is covered in vines and jungle

  8. Do

    Soieries du Mekong Silk Centre

    This is a must-see on your trip to Banteay Chhmar. High-quality silk products, some of which are sold in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and France. The silk centre has been training young women in the art of silk weaving since 2001. You can receive a tour of the silk-making process, try some weaving yourself and buy some beautiful. You can also visit the affiliated Enfants du Mekong School nearby.

    Mon-Fri 08:30-12:00 and 13:30-17:00

  9. Do Not mapped

    Kuyon (powered tractor) Trip

    Kuyons can be hired to take visitors to the barays, or to Banteay Torp Temple for sightseeing and picnics.

    US$15 per group of 10.

  10. Do Not mapped

    Motos

    The CBT does not rent motorbikes to visitors. You can ride around Banteay Chhmar with a CBT member.

    US$ 5-10

  11. Do Not mapped

    Ox-cart Tour

    Take a 1-hour tour around Banteay Chhmar village stopping at various sites and learning about local Khmer life.

    US$10 per group of 4.

  12. Do Not mapped

    Rice Flattening

    A traditional way of rice preparation for special occasions. You can help prepare the rice and enjoy tasting it afterwards.

    US$15 per group.

  13. Do Not mapped

    Temple Tour with Tour Guide

    The CBT has English-speaking tour guides available. They can give you a temple tour and will also help you with your homestay arrangements and transportation needs (and anything else you may need help with). US$5 per group of 5.

    US$15 per group

  14. Do Not mapped

    Traditional Music

    A group of local musicians playing traditional songs and instruments. This is often performed in the temple at night during dinner (weather permitting).

    US$20 per group.

  15. See

    Ta Prohm Temple

    Ta Prohm has an excellent 4-sided, Bayon-syle face tower.