Banteay Srei

Banteay Srei is a beautiful temple complex a couple of kilometres out of Siem Reap. It was built in the 10th century and, although it is smaller than most of the other temple complexes we saw, I thought it was just as spectacular, if not more-so. The temple is covered in thousands of intricate carvings which are set off by the stunning reds and oranges of the stone. Some guidebooks say that it is called the Citadel of Women and that the carvings are believed to have been done by women - because they are too fine to have been done by men. However, an information sign at Banteay Srei said this could be a mis-translation of the name. Regardless, the temple is absolutely stunning and it is set in a beautiful countryside area.

Carvings above a doorway at Banteay Srei.