Banteay Kdei
12 km from Siem ReapIn Khmer, the name Banteay Kdei means ‘Citadel of Chambers’. The temple was build in the late 12th century and, unlike many other temples in the Archeaulogical Park, used by monks until the late 1960’s. Unlike many other ancient sites, Banteay Kdei is not visited by many tourists, which makes it a perfect place to take your photos or watch the magnificent sunrise!
Sunrise at Bantheay Kdei
Banteay Kdei is located just a couple of miles from Angkor Wat and near Srah Srang, an ancient reservoir made by man and better known as the Royal Bathing Pool.
Watching the sunset from Banteay Kdei or Srah Srang very much recommended, since it’s not as crowded as Angkor Wat. You won’t have a problem finding your perfect spot! Unlike many other historical monuments, Banteay Kdei is not visited by many tourists. You can wonder through the maze of chambers all by yourself and let your mind do the rest. If you want to experience ancient Angkor in a peaceful surrounding, Banteay Kdei is definitely your best option.
WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT TEMPLE RULES?
How to get to Nanteay Kdei?
The best options for your visit to Banteay Kdei are hiring a tuktuk or rent a bicycle. A trip with a tuktuk will take up to 20 minutes.
If you rent a bicycle it may take you up to 50 minutes to reach Banteay Kdei. There are no specific tours to Banteay Kdei, but the temple is part of the Angkor Full Day Temple Tour and a 5 day temple tour.
How much will it cost?
Banteay Kdei is located within the Angkor Archeological park and can only be visited with an Angkor Pass.
There are three different types of passes: a one day Angkor Pass ($37), a three day Pass ($62) and a Pass that will grant you access for a whole week ($72). The Angkor Pass can be purchaced at the Angkor Wat Ticket Office and requires you to bring one photo.
What you should do!
Bring your camera! There are not many tourists who visit this site and that makes it a perfect place to take photos or shoot your videos. Bring some food and don’t forget to bring a bottle of water. Watch the sunrise (or sunset)! Banteay Kdei, and especially Srah Srang, which is opposite Banteay Kdei, is a great spot to enjoy a magnificent sunrise.
What you should not do!
Strict rules apply in the Archaeological Park when it comes to the way you are dressed. Tank tops for men and halter-neck tops for ladies are not allowed. Littering, flying drones, urinating or other indecent behavior may get you in trouble.