The landing stage
Between lions.
Luca Nebuloni — CC BY 2.0 · Mig Gilbert from Brighton — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Mig Gilbert from Brighton — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 3.0
Srah Srang is a wide royal reservoir at Angkor, its calm water reflecting the sky and trees. A cross-shaped stone landing stage runs down to the water, guarded by two stone lions, with serpent balustrades on either side ending in raised heads, and a tall sugar palm at the edge. Its Khmer name means «royal bath». It was dug in the mid-10th century on the initiative of a Buddhist minister of King Rajendravarman II, and around 1200 King Jayavarman VII added the laterite landing stage on its western side. Today it measures 700 by 350 m and still holds water in part. You stand on the landing stage between the lions looking out over the water and sit on the steps. The landing stage is a well-known spot to watch the sunrise, and quieter than Angkor Wat in the morning. The reservoir is about 4.7 km in a straight line northeast of Angkor Wat, opposite the east gate of Banteay Kdei. Start early if you want the sunrise, and bring a torch for the road. Temples are sacred places, so cover your shoulders and knees, and do not climb on carved stone.
Between lions.
Reflecting the sky.
Over the water.
Opposite Banteay Kdei, south of the East Baray, Angkor Archaeological Park
Banteay KdeiBanteay Kdei is a large Buddhist temple at Angkor, its galleries and passages ru11 minutes walk
Pre RupA pyramid temple mountain that served as King Rajendravarman's state temple, ded20 minutes walk4.6
Ta ProhmA monastery and centre of learning built by King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th24 minutes walk4.9Yes, and quieter than Angkor Wat.
Banteay Kdei temple.