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Banteay Prei is a rarely visited temple located near to another small temple called Prasat Prei. The nearest major temple is Preah Khan.
This Buddhist temple was built in the Bayon style by King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th or early 13th century.
As few tourists visit these ruins, you can explore in peace and quiet. It’s a good opportunity to get away from the crowds and get some great photos.
Temple Facts
Late 12th – Early 13th century AD
Buddhism
Jayavarman VII
Unknown
Bayon
Anytime
15 – 30 minutes
Required
More information about the Angkor Temple Pass.
Location
Banteay Prei is located north of Preah Khan temple and Jayatataka Baray. It’s off the main road along a small dirt road which you can reach by taking the road around Preah Khan temple.
Getting There
If you’re looking to visit Banteay Prei, then you can take the road north out of Angkor Thom. Follow the road past Krol Romeas and around Preah Khan. Take a left just before you get to Jayatataka Baray. If you get to Krol Ko, then you’ve gone too far.
The temple isn’t on any of the main circuits, but it can easily be reached by bicycle, tuk tuk or taxi.
Coordinates
13.4693127, 103.8752707
Distances
Siem Reap: 15.4km
Preah Khan: 1km
Neak Pean: 2.2km
Banteay Thom: 6.3km
Tours
Banteay Prey won’t be listed on most itineraries and very few tourists visit the temple. There isn’t much to see. If you’re into photography, you’ll be happy for the deserted feel of the temple as you can focus on getting some great shots.
It’s also a good area to relax and do some meditation or yoga.
If you want to see this temple, you can take a small detour when you’re on the Grand Angkor Circuit Tour. Otherwise, you can ask your driver to stop by for a quick look when visiting Neak Pean or Preah Khan temples.
Accommodation
Like most temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, it’s recommended that you stay in Siem Reap town. You may find some homestays in the villages in the area, but you won’t find anything suitable for most tourists.
As a major tourist hub which serves the temples of Angkor, you will definitely find something within your budget in Siem Reap town.
Why Visit Banteay Prei?
There are not many reasons to come and see this temple unless you want to visit all the temples in the park.
Some guests like to get a away from the crowds to relax or do some meditation. It can also be a quiet area for a picnic.
There are some Buddhist carvings and lintels which are still visible and it can be nice break to get off the bicycle or tuk tuk and stretch your legs.
Finally, it can be a good spot to take some photos without the crowds getting in your way.
History
Not much is known about these ruins. Banteay Prei was constructed by King Jayavarman VII at some point during his reign in the late 12th and early 13th century. It was built as a Buddhist temple.
Layout and Design
Nowdays, Banteay Prei is mostly ruins. There are some carvings here which are still in pretty good conditions.
There are a few structures which can be explored. The temple is similar to Ta Som in size and style.
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