Day trip from Siem Reap, Siem Reap
Banteay Chhmar Temple
One of the most remote and atmospheric temples in Cambodia, Banteay Chhmar is a massive 12th-century Buddhist temple complex located 160km northwest of Siem Reap near the Thai border. Built by Jayavarman VII, the temple rivals Preah Khan in scale but sees only a fraction of the visitors. The famous panels of multi-armed Avalokitesvara are among the finest Khmer bas-reliefs surviving anywhere. A community-based tourism project offers simple homestay accommodation if you want to make it an overnight trip.
How to get there
- Private car ($100-130 return)
- Shared driver organized through hotel
Highlights
- One of the largest Khmer temples outside Angkor
- Famous multi-armed Avalokitesvara bas-relief panels
- Almost no tourists - exceptional atmosphere
- Community-based tourism project supports local families
- Surrounding rice fields and rural Cambodia scenery
Tips
- An early departure (5:30 AM) is essential for a day trip at this distance
- Overnight homestay is recommended to make the most of the site
- Private car is essential - too far for a tuk-tuk day trip
- Local guide from the community tourism project is highly recommended ($15-25)
- The drive passes through beautiful Cambodian countryside - enjoy the journey