East Baray - bangka island, indonesia
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East Baray

4.6
·491k reviews·Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia

Vast ancient reservoir offering serene landscapes and stunning sunset views, with the historical East Mebon temple nearby.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
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East Baray - bangka island, indonesia

East Baray

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vast ancient reservoir offering serene landscapes and stunning sunset views, with the historical East Mebon temple nearby.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience breathtaking sunsets over the expansive waters of the East Baray, a truly magical sight."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Sunset Magic

Catch the sunset over the East Baray for stunning views. Bring your camera!

🚲 Explore by Bike

Rent a bike in Siem Reap to explore the East Baray and surrounding temples at your own pace.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

East Mebon Temple

East Mebon Temple

On an island within the former East Baray

A 10th-century temple dedicated to Shiva, once central to the vast East Baray reservoir.

Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Along the East Baray

Experience breathtaking sunsets over the expansive waters of the East Baray, a truly magical sight.

Tranquil Reservoir Landscape

Tranquil Reservoir Landscape

Surrounding East Baray

Enjoy the peaceful, expansive landscape of the ancient reservoir, a serene escape from bustling temples.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your East Baray Visit

The East Baray is a vast ancient reservoir, best explored during the cooler parts of the day. Early mornings offer fewer crowds and softer light for photos. Consider visiting after the main temple rush to enjoy a more serene experience.

Navigating the East Baray Area

While the East Baray itself is a large body of water, its surrounding areas and nearby temples are best accessed by tuk-tuk or bicycle. Plan your route to include key temples like East Mebon, which sits on an island within the former reservoir.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Go to Nick Restaurant and tell them I sent you 🇰🇭❤️ #cambodia #cambodian #khmer #khmer🇰🇭 #travel #siemreap #siemreapcambodia🇰🇭 #khmertiktok🇰🇭 #khmerfunny #cambodia🇰🇭 #fypシ #cambodiatiktok #fyp #foryoupage #traveltiktok #traveltiktok #travelbucketlist #khmerfood #cambodianfood
@travelwithchris
34.4K likes • 348.2K views

🌅 Sunset Magic

Catch the sunset over the East Baray for stunning views. Bring your camera! Instagram

🚲 Explore by Bike

Rent a bike in Siem Reap to explore the East Baray and surrounding temples at your own pace. Instagram

We fell in love with this beautiful hidden restaurant in Siem Reap 🪷 📍Aaraama Restautant Siem Reap The view is unique and very traditional, the service and food is amazing, perfect for a quiet and relaxing date 🤍
@melia.cstn
23.8K likes • 220.3K views
📍Angkor, Cambodia 🇰🇭 Осмотр лучше начать с большого круга, встретить рассвет возле Srah Srang, затем поехать до Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Baray, Prae Roup, Banteay Kdei Temple, Prasat Bat Chum, Prasat Kravan. На территории много кафе, но они часто с откатом для туктукеров, цены сильно выше. Норм кафе Chita's cafe
surfgrib
44 likes • 618 views

💧 Water Levels Vary

The East Baray's water levels can change. Check local conditions before planning boat trips. Instagram

🏛️ Temple Adjacent

Visit East Mebon temple, located on an island within the former East Baray. Instagram+1

Ta Prohm is a temple located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, approximately one kilometer east of Angkor Thom and on the southern edge of the East Baray. Go There from Siem Reap to Ta Prohm temple 🕶 Easy Tuk-Tuk: 21 min 🏍 Motorbike: 21 min 🚴‍♂️ Bicycle: 1 hr 55 min 🚶‍♂️ Jog: 2 hr 23 min 💚 Reposted from @travelmonster.nl 🎯 Tag @siemreapnet to be featured #TaProhmTemple #SiemReap #Cambodia #TombRai...
siemreapnet
694 likes • 16.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Magic

Catch the sunset over the East Baray for stunning views. Bring your camera! Instagram

🚲 Explore by Bike

Rent a bike in Siem Reap to explore the East Baray and surrounding temples at your own pace. Instagram

💧 Water Levels Vary

The East Baray's water levels can change. Check local conditions before planning boat trips. Instagram

🏛️ Temple Adjacent

Visit East Mebon temple, located on an island within the former East Baray. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the serene and expansive landscape of the East Baray, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling temples. The opportunity to witness stunning sunsets and explore historical sites like East Mebon are highlights. Some find the water levels can vary, impacting boat trip possibilities.

What People Like

Peaceful reservoir landscape
Beautiful sunset views
Historical East Mebon temple

What People Dislike

Variable water levels

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The East Baray is accessible from Siem Reap by tuk-tuk or bicycle. Many visitors combine a visit to the East Baray with nearby temples like Ta Prohm and East Mebon. A tuk-tuk ride to Ta Prohm, which is on the southern edge of the East Baray, takes about 21 minutes. Instagram

Tuk-tuks are readily available in Siem Reap and can be hired for a day to explore the East Baray and surrounding temple complex. Cycling is also a popular option for those who enjoy active exploration. Instagram

Boat trips on the East Baray are possible, especially during times when water levels are sufficient. It offers a unique perspective of the reservoir and its surroundings. Instagram

For a comprehensive experience, consider renting a bicycle in Siem Reap to explore the East Baray and its adjacent temples at your own pace. Instagram

Many Angkor Wat tours can be customized to include the East Baray and its associated temples. It's worth inquiring with local tour operators for tailored itineraries. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the East Baray itself is a natural landscape, you will need an Angkor Pass to visit the temples located within or around it, such as East Mebon. Purchase your Angkor Pass at the official visitor center before heading out. Instagram

The East Baray is an open landscape and does not have specific opening hours. However, the temples in the vicinity, like East Mebon, generally follow the Angkor archaeological park's hours, typically from sunrise to sunset. Instagram

Angkor Pass prices vary depending on the duration of your visit (1, 3, or 7 days). It's recommended to check the official Angkor Enterprise website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Instagram

Angkor Passes, which are required for entry to temples near the East Baray, can be purchased online through the official Angkor Enterprise portal or at the designated ticket office. Instagram

No special entry requirements exist for the East Baray itself. However, ensure you have your valid Angkor Pass when visiting any temples within the archaeological park. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The East Baray offers a vast, serene landscape. You can explore the East Mebon temple, enjoy sunset views, and appreciate the historical significance of this ancient reservoir. Instagram+2

Absolutely! The East Baray provides stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. The ancient temples nearby also offer incredible shots. Instagram

While the East Baray itself is a natural area, you'll find cafes and restrooms near the major temples like East Mebon. Some cafes might have slightly higher prices due to their location. Instagram

Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, as you will be visiting temples. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the area. Instagram

Allocate at least half a day to explore the East Baray and its adjacent temples, allowing time for travel, exploration, and enjoying the scenery. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are restaurants and cafes located near the temples surrounding the East Baray, such as East Mebon. Some offer traditional Khmer cuisine. TikTok+2

You can find a variety of local Khmer dishes and some international options at the restaurants and cafes in the vicinity of the East Baray. TikTok+1

While some cafes near the temples might be pricier, exploring slightly further afield or looking for local eateries can offer more budget-friendly choices. TikTok

Bringing your own water and snacks is a good idea, especially if you plan to spend an extended period exploring. Remember to dispose of any waste responsibly. Instagram

Travelers have recommended places like Nick Restaurant and Aaraama Restaurant for their unique views and good food in the Siem Reap area, which could be combined with a visit to the East Baray. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The East Baray itself offers beautiful wide-angle shots, especially during sunrise and sunset. The East Mebon temple provides unique architectural details and historical context for photos. Instagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for photography at the East Baray, offering softer light and fewer crowds. The golden hour before sunset is particularly stunning. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted within the Angkor Archaeological Park. It's best to check the latest regulations with the Apsara Authority before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape of the East Baray. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the East Mebon temple. Instagram

While specific photography tours for the East Baray might be less common, many Angkor Wat photography tours can be customized to include this area and its surrounding temples. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Exploring the East Baray can be an adventure for families, especially when combined with visits to nearby temples. Renting bicycles offers a fun way for older children to engage with the historical sites. Consider a tuk-tuk for younger children or if the heat is a concern. The open spaces around the baray can be great for kids to stretch their legs, but always supervise them closely. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities can be sparse. Instagram

🚶 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, exploring the East Baray is very accessible. Renting a bicycle is the most economical way to get around and see the sights. While some cafes near temples might be pricier, packing your own food and water can save money. Focus on the natural beauty and historical significance rather than expensive tours. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The East Baray offers incredible photographic opportunities, particularly at sunrise and sunset. The vastness of the reservoir and the ancient East Mebon temple provide diverse subjects. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for temple details. Arriving early or staying late will reward you with the best light and fewer crowds. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of East Baray

The East Baray was one of the largest ancient reservoirs in the Khmer Empire, constructed in the 10th century. Its primary purpose was to store water for irrigation, crucial for supporting the vast agricultural needs of the Angkorian civilization. The sheer scale of the baray, measuring approximately 7 kilometers long and 1.8 kilometers wide, is a testament to the engineering prowess of the Khmer people. It played a vital role in the prosperity and expansion of the empire, enabling multiple rice harvests per year.

Within the East Baray, an artificial island was created, upon which the East Mebon temple was built. This temple, completed in 953 AD, was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and served as a symbolic representation of Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu cosmology. The temple's architecture, with its tiered platform and elephant sculptures, reflects the grandeur and religious devotion of the era. The East Baray's existence was intrinsically linked to the religious and agricultural practices of the time, making it a cornerstone of Angkorian society.

Today, much of the East Baray is dry, revealing its immense dimensions and the remnants of its past glory. Visiting the area offers a glimpse into the sophisticated water management systems and the profound connection between nature, religion, and daily life in ancient Cambodia. The historical context adds a layer of appreciation to the serene landscape that remains. Instagram+1

Exploring the East Baray by Bicycle

Renting a bicycle in Siem Reap is a fantastic way to explore the East Baray and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. This method of transport allows for flexibility, enabling you to stop whenever a view captures your eye or to explore smaller, less-visited paths. The relatively flat terrain around the baray makes cycling enjoyable, though it can get hot, so starting early is advisable. Instagram

When cycling, you can easily combine a visit to the East Baray with nearby temples such as East Mebon, Ta Prohm, and Preah Khan. This offers a comprehensive experience of the Angkorian landscape beyond the main temple complexes. Remember to carry plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and use a bike lock when you dismount to explore. The freedom of cycling allows for spontaneous discoveries and a more intimate connection with the historical sites. Instagram+1

Sunset and Photography at East Baray

The East Baray is renowned for its spectacular sunset views. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky often ignites with vibrant colors, reflecting beautifully on the remaining water bodies. This makes it a prime location for photographers and anyone seeking a moment of natural beauty and tranquility. Instagram

For the best photographic results, aim to arrive in the late afternoon. The soft, warm light of the 'golden hour' enhances the landscape and the ancient structures. While the East Baray itself offers expansive vistas, the nearby East Mebon temple provides a striking silhouette against the sunset sky. Remember to bring your camera and perhaps a tripod for stable shots in low light conditions. Instagram+1

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