Following a tour of the major temples on the first day, the second day involved a trip to the (slightly) less visited temples, along with a trip out to Banteay Srei, some 30km from Siem Reap. The distance meant we spent quite a long time on the tuk-tuk, however it was really quite enjoyable as we drove through more rural areas and saw a bit of Cambodian life that was far removed from the tourist hub of Siem Reap.
Before the drive we had an early morning stop at a temple called Banteay Samre. This was great as we arrived with only 2 other people already there. We were able to explore in peace and Ali got to play with the resident temple cat. As we left two coaches pulled up and we we’re even more grateful we experienced the tranquility.
Banteay Srei is one of the smallest temples but is known for its red stone and detailed carvings which were discovered in a very well preserved state. It certainly was busy though!
Banteay Srei Temple, Angkor
Banteay Srei carvings, Angkor
One of the best things about the visit to Banteay Srei was the drive. It was nearly an hour each way but en route we got a glimpse of proper Cambodian life, away from the town, with people tending to crops and animals and kids going home from school. That was something we never saw elsewhere.
Local Cambodian
Cambodian kids playing
Once we were back in the Angkor park proper we stopped at Preah Khan which I’m going to note as my favourite. It’s pretty big but quite quiet. There are parts which are still quite ruined so you can have a bit.of an explore and there’s lots of the cool wall-eating trees about as well! We chilled and had a bit of lunch in a massive, empty courtyard. Ace.
Preah Khan Temple, Angkor
Garuda Statue, Preah Khan Temple, Angkor
Temple Tree, Preah Khan Temple, Angkor
Windows, Preah Khan Temple, Angkor
Courtyard, Preah Khan Temple, Angkor
Awesome Tree, Preah Khan Temple, Angkor
We saw a few more temples including Neak Pean, the water temple set in a huge reservoir with loads of dead, broken trees strewn across the landscape like something from Lord of the Rings.
We finished the day at Pre Rup, another huge pyramid structure with great views of the jungle from the top.
Elephant Statue, Pre Rup Temple, Angkor
Inside Pre Rup Temple, Angkor