Srah Srang

A spectacular place to watch the sunrise, the Srah Srang was described in inscriptions as a place to be used by all the creatures of the kingdom except for elephants, which were referred to as ‘the dike breakers!’ It continues to be used as a popular recreation area for local Cambodians, particularly children who enjoy swimming here around sunset.

Originally constructed by 10th century king Rajendravarman, the landing on the western bank of the pond was constructed by Jayavarman VII probably around the same time as Banteay Kdei, which lies to the west of the landing.

The landing, which features statues of lions, nagas, and garudas, is an ideal place to watch a sunrise before exploring Banteay Kdei or nearby Ta Phrom; there are even kids selling hot coffee before the sun comes up (a potent brew that you should bargain hard for). Otherwise, there are a number of restaurants opposite the northern bank that are good places to stop for lunch. Towards the end of the day you can wash off the dust by joining local children for an afternoon swim! A large number of people gather at Srah Srang towards the end of the day, as it is a particularly pretty place to watch the sun slowly sink behind the horizon; a vast range of colors sweep across the sky, perfectly mirrored in the water, to stunning effect.