THMA PUOK DISTRICT, Banteay Meanchey province - Flat but rather bumpy,
and so dusty that dirt clouds raised by speeding vehicles reduce visibility
almost nil, National Route 56 from Serei Saophoan leads straight to a moat
with sections of Angkorian wall still visible. The village of Banteay Chhmar Khang
Choeung is spread along the moat across from the 800-year-old Angkorian-era
monastery of Banteay Chhmar. Standing as it does today in a peaceful country setting,
Banteay Chhmar's four enclosures, imposing towers, sculpted arches and galleries
are invaded by tall trees and greenery, with only the occasional barking dog or
bird song breaking the silence inside the compound. For the most part this is the
way local authorities and villagers would like to keep it. though they are also looking
forward to a lot more visitors being attracted by the site's restoration, which was
launched last year.
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