Ta Prohm Temple
The main temple at Banteay Chhmar is surrounded by 9 satellite temples in the nearby area. Like the main temple, most of these temples have received very little study and documentation. Many are in ruins, but still intriguing to visit. The CBT tour guides can help you discover these smaller temples. They offer some unique photographic opportunities and a definite sense of ‘getting away from it all.’
The two most popular temples for picnics are Prasat (Temple) Ta Prohm and Prasat Samnang Tasok. Prasat Ta Prohm has excellent examples of the Bayon-style face towers. Prasat Samnang Tasok is surrounded by thick vegetation and has a jungle feel to it.
Samnang Tasok Temple
During the dry season, it is possible to reach Prasat Mebon. This temple is located in the middle of the large baray (reservoir) built during the construction of the Banteay Chhmar temple complex. This baray (stretching 1,500m x 1,000m) was one part of an ingenious and far-reaching water supply network built in the area to support the inhabitants at the time.
Other Sites
Cheung Kru Baray
Boeung Cheung Kru (Pol Pot Baray or “killing baray”) is another baray of more recent and darker memories in Cambodian history. The baray was built as part of Pol Pot’s vision of an ‘agrarian utopia.’ Needless to say, its history is marked by tragedy. However, today, it is valued by the locals as a water source for farming, fishing and household use. It is home to a variety of birds, including egrets. It is even possible to take a boat ride on the baray and try some fishing or swimming, yourself.
Please ask a CBT tour guide about visiting these sites, as they will be happy to help you with any information you may need.
Moto trip to satellite temples and around Banteay Chhmar area is $7 per day with .50 cents saved in the CBT Local Fund; Bicycle rentals are also available. Please see our Prices and Tours page for more information.