Srah Srang ‘the royal bath’ in Siem Reap.
It was perhaps a chapel to Kama, God of Love. The spot would suit the temper of the strange power, terribly strong and yet terribly tender, and of that passion which carries away kingdoms, empires and whole worlds. Love could occupy this quiet nest embedded in water, which gave the impression that love had come one day and had left there, when he went away, a part of his spirit.
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.
In the middle of the Srah Srang, the remains of an island temple can be seen peaking above the waterline. In the wet season, the island temple is completely swallowed by Cambodia’s immense rainfall.
On the west end of Srah Srang, there is a multi-tiered sandstone terrace. The terrace is gorgeously adorned with lion carvings, naga balustrades, and other Khmer carvings. The sunrise is best viewed from atop this terrace.
The best time to arrive at Srah Srang is in the early morning hours, before the sun rises. Find a good place on the terrace to relax, and wait… wait for the sunbeams to pry apart the trees at the far end of the baray. Watch the sun’s pink and yellow rays bounce off the smooth-as-glass water. And don’t forget your camera.
Every Angkor itinerary should include a visit to Srah Srang.
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