Banteay Srei temple is located about 25 kilometers northeast of Siem Reap and can be reached by tuk-tuk for $15–$20 or by motorbike rental at around $7 per day. Entrance requires an Angkor pass, which covers multiple temples and offers better value than paying separate fees. The temple is known for its detailed pink sandstone carvings and is accessible via a well-maintained paved road, making it a manageable half-day trip from Siem Reap.
Travelers interested in intricate temple carvings and those willing to take a short trip outside the main Angkor complex.
Less crowded than larger temples with exceptionally detailed and well-preserved pink sandstone sculptures.
Requires extra travel time and cost compared to temples within the main Angkor Park, which may be inconvenient for visitors on a tight schedule.
Banteay Samre, located nearby, offers a similarly quiet experience with impressive architecture and easier access from Siem Reap.
Located about 25 kilometers northeast of the main Angkor Archaeological Park, Banteay Srei stands apart from the larger temple complexes with its intricate pink sandstone carvings. Unlike the more massive temples like Angkor Wat or Angkor Thom, this smaller temple requires a bit more effort to reach but rewards visitors with detailed sculptures that have survived over 1,000 years.
To visit Banteay Srei, most travelers hire a tuk-tuk or rent a motorbike in Siem Reap. Tuk-tuk drivers typically charge around $15 to $20 for a half-day trip including Banteay Srei, often combined with nearby temples like Banteay Samre. A motorbike rental costs about $7 per day, giving you the flexibility to see at your own pace. The road to Banteay Srei is paved and in good condition, making it an easy ride even during the dry season.
Top Banteay Srei Temple Tours
Hand-picked tours — top pick first, then sorted by price.
2-Days Private Tour in Angkor Sunrise, Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea Temple
- Visit to Banteay Srei, known for its exceptionally detailed pink sandstone carvings.
- Exploration of Beng Mealea, a largely unrestored temple overgrown by jungle vegetation.
Private Siem Reap 3 Day Tour Discover All Highlight Angkor Temple
- Coverage of major and lesser-known temples including Rolous Group and Banteay Srei with detailed explanations.
- Private tour format allowing personalized pacing and in-depth exploration.
3-Day Angkor Wat with All Interesting Major Temples, Banteay Srei & Beng Mealea
- Comprehensive coverage of key temple complexes including Angkor Thom’s Bayon and Elephant Terrace.
- Visit to Banteay Srei, well-known for its intricate pink sandstone carvings.
Wildlife Expedition: Elephant Sanctuary, Kbal Spean Banteay Srei
- Close observation and interaction with rescued elephants in a natural forest environment.
- Viewing of Banteay Srei’s finely detailed pink sandstone carvings rarely seen on other Angkor temples.
- 100% ticket guaranteeReceive tickets on time for the experience you’ve booked.
- Free cancellation*Get a refund if your plans change — most options up to 24h before.
- Instant mobile ticketShow your ticket on your phone — no printing needed, confirmed instantly.
How do I get to Banteay Srei and what are the fees?
Banteay Srei is approximately a 40-minute drive from Siem Reap town center. The temple is outside the main Angkor Archaeological Park boundaries, so while your Angkor pass grants you entry to most temples, Banteay Srei requires a separate ticket. The entrance fee is $5, payable at the site.
If you plan to visit multiple temples in the Angkor area, including Angkor Wat and Bayon Temple, consider purchasing a 3-day Angkor pass for $62. This pass covers most major temples, but Banteay Srei’s separate fee means budgeting a little extra for this site.
What is the architectural style and carvings of Banteay Srei?
Banteay Srei is well-known for its pink sandstone, which allows for more elaborate and intricate carvings than the typical grey sandstone used in other temples. The temple’s walls display detailed scenes from Hindu mythology including stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, carved with exceptional precision.
Unlike the grand scale of Ta Prohm or Preah Khan, Banteay Srei’s charm lies in its delicate craftsmanship. The temple is smaller, about 100 meters in length, which makes it easier to appreciate the fine details without the need for hours of walking.
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As recommended by VisitSiemReap.com Editors
Banteay Srei, Cambodia
What are the best Time to Visit?
Early morning is the best time to visit Banteay Srei to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. The temple opens at 7 am, and arriving soon after opening ensures you’ll have more space to admire the carvings without large tour groups.
Cambodia’s dry season, from November to February, has the most comfortable weather for visiting. During the rainy season (June to October), the roads can be slippery and some nearby temples less accessible, so plan accordingly. Sunset visits are less common here compared to temples like Pre Rup or Phnom Bakheng.
“Banteay Srei stands out not just for its remarkable pink sandstone carvings but also for its intricate detail, which reflects the high level of craftsmanship achieved during the Khmer Empire. Its relative distance from the main Angkor complex has visitors a quieter, more contemplative enjoy of Cambodian history and artistry.”
Which nearby temples can I visit with Banteay Srei?
Since Banteay Srei is a bit farther from the main Angkor complex, many visitors combine their trip with other nearby temples. Banteay Samre is just 5 kilometers away and has a quieter atmosphere with well-preserved bas-reliefs.
Further along the same circuit, you can visit temples like Bakong, the first mountain temple of the Khmer Empire, which gives insight into earlier architectural styles. Combining these sites makes for a full day of temple visits without retracing your route.
What are important visitor tips and practical information?
Wear comfortable shoes as the temple grounds can be uneven, and bring water, especially during the hotter months. Entrance is $5, so keep small bills handy to pay the ticket office efficiently. Photography is allowed, but drones are prohibited.
Facilities at Banteay Srei are limited compared to larger temples; there is a small café and souvenir stalls near the entrance. For meals, it’s best to eat in Siem Reap before or after your visit, where you can see options ranging from $1 street food to $15 mid-range restaurants.
What accommodation options are near Banteay Srei?
Most travelers stay in Siem Reap, about a 40-minute drive from Banteay Srei. Siem Reap has accommodation for all budgets, from guesthouses at $10 per night to upscale hotels over $80. Staying in town gives you access to restaurants, markets, and tour operators.
For those seeking tranquility, some boutique hotels and eco-lodges are located closer to the temples but expect higher prices and fewer amenities. Booking a tuk-tuk for the day remains the most convenient way to reach Banteay Srei and other temples in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What useful resources are available for visiting Banteay Srei?
Official Angkor management authority
Cambodia Ministry of Tourism
