A “baray” is a water reservoir built by the ancient Khmer people. The West Baray is the largest example of such a reservoir, and the only example that still holds water. Visitors to the baray are stunned by its enormity and natural appearance. It is difficult to believe that the West Baray is an artificial lake and not a congenital one. This gargantuan reservoir is navigable by boat, up to 5 meters deep in places, and even contains its own man-made island.
The West Baray is a baray, or reservoir, at Angkor, Cambodia, oriented east-west and located just west of the walled city Angkor Thom. Rectangular in shape and measuring approximately 7.8 by 2.1 kilometers, the West Baray is the largest baray at Angkor. Its waters are contained by tall earthen dikes. In the center of the baray is the West Mebon, a Hindu temple built on an artificial island.
Construction of the baray probably began in the 11th Century during the reign of King Suryavarman I. and was finished later under King Udayadityavarman II.
The Angkorian engineers who created the West Baray appear to have in places incorporated earlier construction. The east dike, for instance, appears to be largely a section of a dike that enclosed the capital city of King Yasovarman, which had the Phnom Bakheng temple at its center. In other places, the baray obliterated or submerged earlier human-made sites. The south dike, for instance, partially buried a brick pyramid temple, Ak Yum. And the western floor of the baray appears to have once been inhabited—archeological work has found wall bases, steps, and pottery shards there. An inscription stele discovered in the area, dating from 713 A.D., offers further evidence of earlier settlement, defining rice fields that were offered to a queen Jayadevi.
Early French experts believed the West Baray to have functioned as a vast holding tank for water that fed irrigation canals in dry times, allowing multiple crops of rice each year. Many later studies, however, theorize that the baray had mainly symbolic functions, serving as a vast earthly depiction of the Hindu Sea of Creation, with the West Mebon temple at its center.
West Baray Vladimir Ira.jpg
In modern times, an irrigation lock was built in the baray's southern dike, raising the water level and allowing provision of water to fields to the south. Today the baray retains water in its western end year-round. In the rainy season, water advances to the eastern dike.
With clear, still waters, the baray today is a popular place for swimming and boat rides by local residents. It has occasionally served as a landing site for seaplanes.
To construct the West Baray, the Khmer people erected four earthen dikes in an 8 km by 2 km rectangle. Once the dikes were completed, rainwater filled the baray. Originally, the West Baray blanketed 1760 hectares of land with an average depth of 7 meters. Today, only the western two-thirds of the baray is filled with water and the average depth is about 4 meters.
It is believed that King Suryavarman I ordered the construction of the West Baray sometime in the 11th Century. According to archeological theory, the project was completed under the rule of King Udayadityavarman II, who reigned until 1066.
Today, the West Baray is fed by a series of channels, delivering water from the moats around the ancient city of Angkor Thom. Native Cambodians use the baray and its nourishing channels for irrigation, transportation, and tourism. Although a boat ride across the West Baray is not one of the most popular tourist activities in Cambodia, it is certainly one of the most awe-inspiring.
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#557 Wat Bo Road, Groupe 12, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Best Seller!
The beautiful Maison 557 offers a relaxing retreat in Siem Reap. Nestled within a tropical garden, it also features 2 outdoor swimming pools and offers spa services. Wi-Fi is also available for free throughout the property.
The rooms in Maison 557 are tastefully decorated, featuring local art works, freshly laundered beddings and private terraces. They are bright and airy and come equipped with spacious, modern bathroom facilities. Free toiletries are provided for guests’ convenience.
A fresh fruit basket is provided on arrival. Guests are served with a delicious breakfast of fresh breads, muesli, yogurt and fruits daily. A selection of Asian foods can also be prepared for breakfast, upon request.
Centrally located, the bed and breakfast is just steps away from the popular Old Market and Pub Street. Angkor National museum and Royal Residence are a 10-minute walk away, while the spectacular Angkor Wat Temple is about 6 km away. An airport pick up service is available. Siem Reap International Airport is a 15-minute drive away.
This is our guests' favourite part of Siem Reap, according to independent reviews.
This property also has one of the best-rated locations in Siem Reap! Guests are happier about it compared to other properties in the area.
Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.7 for a two-person trip.
This property is also rated for the best value in Siem Reap! Guests are getting more for their money when compared to other properties in this city.
We speak your language!
Wat Bo Street, Khum Slokram, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Best for Traveller!
One of our bestsellers in Siem Reap!
Conveniently placed just a 2-minute walk to Resident Royal Palace, Borann, l’Auberge des Temples houses a salt water swimming pool and a restaurant. Guests will also enjoy free WiFi access at all areas.
Located just a 2-minute walk to Angkor National Museum, the property is also a 10-minute walk to Pub Street and the popular Old Market. Siem Reap International Airport is 8 km away. The property offers complimentary airport pickup services.
Featuring a balcony overlooking the poolside, Air-conditioned rooms are fitted with a writing desk, a seating area and a wardrobe. The en suite bathroom includes hot/cold shower facilities and free toiletries.
Getting around the city is easy with car and bicycle rentals. Guests can also enjoy complimentary use of the business centre. Other facilities include a 24-hour front desk and airport shuttle services at a surcharge.
Featuring an outdoor concept, Borann Restaurant will serve traditional Khmer and Western dishes.
This is our guests' favourite part of Siem Reap, according to independent reviews.
Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 8.8 for a two-person trip.
This property is also rated for the best value in Siem Reap! Guests are getting more for their money when compared to other properties in this city.
We speak your language!
Siem Reap City Centre, Oknha Oum Chhay Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Breakfast Included
Hotel Somadevi Angkor Boutique and Resort offers modern and comfortable accommodation in the heart of Siem Reap. It features an outdoor swimming pool and guests can enjoy meals at the in-house restaurant. Free WiFi is available in public areas.
It is 750 m to the vibrant Pub Street and Old Market, while Angkor Night Market is 800 m away. Angkor Wat is a 6.1 km drive from Hotel Somadevi Angkor Boutique and Resort. The nearest airport, Siem Reap International Airport is 8.5 km from the property. The property offers complimentary two-way transfers from the airport or bus station.
Elegantly furnished, air-conditioned rooms come with parquet flooring, ironing facilities, in-room safe and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. A minibar, refrigerator and electric kettle are also included. The en suite bathroom is equipped with hairdryer, bathrobes and free toiletries.
Guests can approach the 24-hour front desk for currency exchange, tour arrangements ticketing, concierge and laundry services. At Hotel Somadevi Angkor Boutique and Resort, guests may rent a bicycle, car or Tuk Tuk to explore the area. Alternatively, guests can indulge in spa treatments at Aloe Spa
Housing a restaurant and bar, the property serves a spread of local cuisine, Asian and Western dishes. Special diet meals can also be prepared upon request.
This is our guests' favourite part of Siem Reap, according to independent reviews.
This property also has one of the best-rated locations in Siem Reap! Guests are happier about it compared to other properties in the area.
Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.2 for a two-person trip.
We speak your language!
River road, Slarkram commune, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Best for Traveller!
One of our best sellers in Siem Reap!
A beautiful Khmer-style property with an outdoor swimming pool nestled within tropical gardens, Kafu Resort & Spa offers accommodations in Siem Reap. It is a 10-minute walk from Pub Street, the Old Market and several food options. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.
The rooms are fully air conditioned and tastefully decorated. They have large and bright interiors, as well as, a private balcony and a comfortable seating area. Views of the garden and pool can be enjoyed from all rooms.
The bungalow is located a 5-minute walk from the iconic Post Office, and just steps from the Resident Royal Palace and Angkor National Museum. Siem Reap International Airport is located 5 mi away, while Tonle Sap Ferry Dock is about 6.8 mi from Kafu Resort & Spa. The property offers complimentary airport pickups.
Relax in the salt-water swimming pool or organize for a day tour to popular tourist areas at the tour desk. The bungalow also provides car and bicycle rental services for guests’ convenience. Alternatively enjoy a relaxing massage at Kafu Resort & Spa.
Kafu Resort & Spa Restaurant serves both Khmer (local) and Western food daily. Other services available at the bungalow include laundry and airport shuttle services.
This is our guests' favorite part of Siem Reap, according to independent reviews.
Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 8.6 for a two-person trip.
This property is also rated for the best value in Siem Reap! Guests are getting more for their money when compared to other properties in this city.
We speak your language!
City Center, Sok San Road, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Best Seller!
Nestled within private gardens, Central Suite Residence offers accommodation amidst the hustle and bustle of Sok San Road in Siem Reap. It features an outdoor pool and guests can enjoy meals at the in-house restaurant. Free WiFi is available in public areas.
Pub Street is 200 m from the property, while Angkor Wat is 7 km from the property. The nearest airport is Siem Reap - Angkor International Airport, 8 km from Central Suite Residence. The property offers complimentary airport pickup services.
Rooms come with a flat-screen TV. Some rooms feature a seating area to relax in after a busy day. All rooms have a private bathroom equipped with a bath. For your comfort, you will find bath robes, slippers and free toiletries.
Guests can approach the 24-hour front desk for currency exchange, tour arrangements, ticketing and concierge services. Bicycle rentals are available for guests who wish to explore the surrounding area.
The Grand View Restaurant at Central Suite Residence serves up an array of authentic Khmer Cuisine as well as Asian and Western delights. Guests also have the option of al fresco dining with views overlooking the swimming pool.
This is our guests' favourite part of Siem Reap, according to independent reviews.
This property also has one of the best-rated locations in Siem Reap! Guests are happier about it compared to other properties in the area.
Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.7 for a two-person trip.
This property is also rated for the best value in Siem Reap! Guests are getting more for their money when compared to other properties in this city.
We speak your language!
Siem Reap City Center, Psar Kraoum Road, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Best Value!
Memoire Palace Resort & Spa offers guests relaxing accommodation in Siem Reap with private balcony overlooking the swimming pool and the garden. The resort features free WiFi access, freshwater and saltwater swimming pools and a fitness centre. Complimentary roundtrip airport transfer is available at the property.
Each suite is fitted with wooden flooring, a wardrobe, fruit basket, coffee/tea facilities and bottles of water. En suite bathroom comes with a hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers and free toiletries.
Guests can indulge in spa treatments and make use of a hot tub, sauna and yoga room. Speaking English, French, Chinese and Thai, staff at a 24-hour front desk can assist guests with practical travel information on the area.
A buffet breakfast is served each morning at the property. Guests can dine in at the in-house restaurant, which specialises in international and local cuisine and also offers dairy-free options.
Memoire Palace Resort & Spa is located just 5 minutes from the Siem Reap's city centre, 17 minutes from Siem Reap International Airport and 18 minutes from the Angkor Wat temples.
Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 8.4 for a two-person trip.
This property is also rated for the best value in Siem Reap! Guests are getting more for their money when compared to other properties in this city.
We speak your language!
Being the locals, we know the true value of our land. We always listen and arrange everything as your desire. Please kindly send us whatever about your trip,we will send you best offers quickly.
Guest Name: Mr. Zach Manthel
Country: Australia
City: perth
N.of Person: 3 pax
Travel date: 2025-03-29
Booked: Siem Reap Dirt Bike Day Tour
Tour Style: Tour Activities
Duration: Half-Day
