Banteay Srey Tours

On this tour, we will go to see the famous Banteay Srey (or Srei) temple which is about 20km outside of Siem Reap town. This temple means the “Citadel of the Women” and it’s thought that the fine carvings on the walls could only have been carved by women as men were not delicate enough. The pink sandstone structure is a unique temple because it’s one of the few which wasn’t built by a king, instead it was built by a councilor to the king.

Option 1 – Butterfly Center & Landmine Museum

We can also go to visit the Banteay Srey Butterfly center which houses many species of Cambodian butterflies. You can visit a tropical garden surrounded by nets and view the largest butterfly exhibit in Southeast Asia. The center also supports the local community and conservation projects in the area.

We’ll also go to see the Landmine Museum where you can learn how Mr Aki Ra and his team are cleaning up the landmines in Siem Reap. Hundreds of thousands of landmines were placed around Cambodia and they are still taking their toll on local communities today.

Option 2 – Kulen Mountain

Kulen Mountain is one of the most sacred spots in the whole of Cambodia. It’s where the ancient Khmer empire first started and it was also the quarry for many of the temples built at Angkor. It was here that King Jayavarman II claimed independence from the Java in the 804.

The name means the “Mountain of the Lychees” and is a significant spot to visit. When we get to the top of the mountain you can go for a swim in a tropical waterfall surrounded by thick jungle. We can also relax by the river and stop for lunch at a local restaurant.

Option 3 – Kulen Mountain & Kbal Spean

Kbal Spean is famous for the River of a Thousand Lingas which is said to represent fertility and the water are significant for people who follow the Hindu religion. There are more than 1000 small linga carvings and the waters are holy as King Jayavarman chose the river to bathe in.

Option 4 – Kbal Spean & Beng Mealea

We can also go to see Beng Mealea temple which is located around 40km away from Siem Reap town. It was built as a Hindu temple but it does contain some Buddhist inscriptions. The sandstone structure has also been left unrestored and the temple has taken over is growing through the middle of the structure.

Due to its location, many visitors overlook Beng Mealea. But it’s a fascinating temple and one that you should not miss.