temple baksei chamkrong

Baksei Chamkrong Temple is a Hindu temple located in Angkor, Cambodia. It was built in the 10th century by King Harshavarman II, who was known to be a great builder and a great patron of the arts.
The temple is built in an architectural style similar to that of Khmer temples of the time, with thick sandstone walls, a central tower called a “prasat” and galleries decorated with bas-reliefs and statues of Hindu deities. However, it is smaller and less ornate than other famous Angkor temples such as Angkor Wat or the Angkor Thom temple.
The temple was dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva and is considered a remarkable example of Khmer architecture of the period. It was abandoned after the fall of the Khmer dynasty in the 15th century and was overrun by jungle for centuries. It was rediscovered in the 19th century by French archaeologists and was restored in the 1990s. Today it is one of the least visited sites in Angkor, but is considered a symbol of cultural and architectural wealth of the ancient Khmer empire.

Architecture

The architecture of Baksei Chamkrong Temple is similar to other Khmer temples of the same era, with thick sandstone walls, a central tower called a “prasat”, and galleries decorated with bas-reliefs and statues of Hindu deities . The central tower is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva and is decorated with bas-reliefs and statues that represent different incarnations of Shiva and other Hindu deities. The galleries are also decorated with bas-reliefs which represent scenes from daily life and mythological scenes.
The temple is built of sandstone, a strong and durable stone used for the construction of Khmer temples. The sandstone is precision cut to fit together perfectly, without the use of mortar or cement. This allowed the temple to withstand the elements for centuries.
Overall, the architecture of Baksei Chamkrong Temple is a remarkable example of Khmer technology, engineering and art of the time. It is a fascinating testimony to the architecture, history and culture of the ancient Khmer empire. Although it is smaller and less ornate than Angkor’s other famous temples, it is considered a hidden architectural gem for history and architecture buffs. It is also a testimony to the influence of foreign religions (Hinduism) on the Khmer Empire of the time.

Visit

Visiting Baksei Chamkrong Temple is a must-see experience for archeology and history lovers. It is located in the ancient city of Angkor, a few kilometers from the modern city of Siem Reap. It is generally accessible by car or tuk-tuk.
Once there, you can discover the different parts of the temple, such as the central tower dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva and surrounded by temples and shrines. You will also be able to admire the bas-reliefs and statues of Shiva and other Hindu deities which adorn the temples and sanctuaries. It is also interesting to walk through the temples to discover the scenes of daily life and the mythological scenes represented there.
In general, visiting Baksei Chamkrong Temple is a journey back in time to discover Khmer architecture, history and culture.

Opening hours

Most temples are open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.

• Angkor Wat : 5h – 17h30
• Baphuon : 7h30 – 17h30
• Banteay Srei : 7h30 – 17h30
• Bayon : 7h30 – 17h30
• Bakheng : 5h – 19h
• Srah Srang : 5h – 17h30
• Pre Khan : 7h30 – 17h30
• Prè Rup : 5h – 19h
• Phnom Bakheng : 5h – 19h

Times given as an indication, but guides and tuk-tuks know them very well.

You will easily find restaurants and merchants that offer good meals with good Khmer recipes for your meals during your visit.
On the site, you will also find where to stay during your stay in Cambodia.