Banteay Chhmar's community tourism project
At Banteay Chhmar, a remote Angkorian temple in northwest Cambodia, a community tourism project offers homestays, local guides and village experiences.
In this guide
Banteay Chhmar is a vast temple complex built under Jayavarman VII in the late 12th or early 13th century, in what is now Banteay Meanchey province near the Thai border. It's remote and rarely crowded, and visits are organised in part by a community-based tourism project that lets local families benefit from the temple's visitors.
The temple
Banteay Chhmar is one of the largest temple complexes of the Angkorian period outside Angkor itself. It features:
- face towers like those at the Bayon
- remarkable bas-reliefs, including scenes of battles and multi-armed Avalokiteshvara figures
- collapsed galleries and forest-covered ruins
- a large moat and smaller satellite temples
Conservation work has stabilised parts of the site. Some of its carvings were looted in the past, and a few have since been returned.
The community project
The community-based tourism project at Banteay Chhmar offers:
- Homestays: stay with local families in simple homes.
- Local guides: villagers trained to explain the temple.
- Meals: home-cooked Khmer food.
- Activities: ox-cart rides, cycling, silk weaving and village visits.
- Cultural performances: sometimes arranged for groups.
Income supports families and community projects.
Getting there
Banteay Chhmar is a few hours' drive from Siem Reap, via Sisophon. Most visitors travel by private car or tour. Staying overnight lets you see the temple in quiet morning light.
When to visit
The dry season, from November to April, is easiest for travel. The temple is atmospheric year-round.
Tips
- Book homestays and guides through the community-based tourism office.
- Bring cash.
- Dress respectfully and follow homestay customs.
- Allow time to explore slowly; the site is large.
Why it matters
Banteay Chhmar shows how heritage tourism can benefit rural communities while protecting a remarkable site.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I stay?
One night lets you see the main temple in the quiet early morning and late afternoon. Two nights gives time for satellite temples, village activities and a slower pace.
Do I need a guide?
The site is large and confusing, with collapsed galleries. A local guide helps you find the best carvings and explains the history, and their fee supports the community.
Can I combine it with other sites?
Yes. Banteay Chhmar can be visited on a route between Siem Reap and Battambang, sometimes with a stop at Sisophon or other smaller temples nearby.