Srah Srang is a 900-year-old baray (man-made lake) located opposite the eastern entrance of Banteay Kdei. This gorgeous reservoir still holds water, making for a breathtaking view of the Cambodian sunrise.
Kavindrarimathana, the 10th century architect of Pre Rup and Prasat Bat Chum, was responsible for the original design and construction of Srah Srang. Sometime in the late 12th century, as a part of King Jayavarman VII’s colossal construction campaign, Srah Srang was remodeled. Visit Srah Srang Lake Cambodia with Indochina travel Cambodia
The lake, whose dimensions were 750 by 350 meters, was initially for the use of all creatures, as the earliest inscriptions found at the site have stated. In the late 12th century, under Jayavarman VII, the base was lined with sandstone, and the banks of the baray were modified and an impressive landing stage with guardian lions facing out toward the lake and naga balustrades was constructed. Today this lake is a very popular location due to the fact that the water is still retained in the reservoir, and is still used to this day for bathing. Srah Srang is also a fantastic spot to see the sunrise; the reflection over the water is very impressive. Travel to Cambodia
Srah Srang is a large lake with elegant landing terrace of superb proportion and scale. This lake has a majestic platform (landing stage) with leads to the pond. It is built of laterite with sandstone molding. The platform is in the shape of a cross with serpent balustrades flanked by two lions. At the front there is an enormous Garuda riding a three-headed serpent. At the back there is a mythical creature comprising a three-headed serpent, the lower portion of a Garuda and a stylized tail decorated with small serpent heads. The body of the serpent rests on a dais supported by mythical monsters.
The best time to arrive at Srah Srang is in the early morning hours, before the sun rises. The landing stage, opposite to Banteay Kdei, is a popular site for viewing the sunrise. And for sunset, you can also choose between 34 different sunset points in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
The Indochina Voyages team.
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