Banteay Srey Temple

Date: Late 10th century Religion : Hindu, Reign: Rajendravarman II & Jayavarman V Style : Banteay Srey Located 20km north of Angkor, this exquisite little jewel of a temple was built by Yajna-varaha, an official of Rajendravarman (944-968) and Brahmanist guru of Jayavarman V (968-1000). As if to make up for its diminutive size (the first enclosure is a mere 80' square) every square inch of Banteay Srey is covered in carvings of the very finest detail and artistry. The temple is located about 25km from Angkor Wat and should be included on any temple itinery. The road to Banteay Srey passes though wonderful scenery, making the journey a pleasure in itself. Banteay Srey, built in the 10t^ century, is fashioned from a pinkish sandstone instead of the normal grey laterite of other temples. The properties of this stone allowed the ancient masons to imbue their work with an unworldly level of sharpness and detail. Banteay Srey's location means that almost all moto and tuk-tuk drivers charge more for this trip to cover their additional fuel and maintenance costs.