Discover the "Pink Palace" and Search for the "Mona Lisa of the East" — The Millennia-Old Beauty of Banteay Srei, Angkor

Reported and photographed by Chen Hanyin / Cambodia

After walking past the rugged green-tiled walls of the grand Angkor ruins, you’ll arrive at Banteay Srei, hailed as the "Jewel of Khmer Art." Pink-hued bricks come into view, exuding a unique feminine charm. Banteay Srei, located near Phnom Kulen in Cambodia, is about 34 kilometers from downtown Siem Reap and takes roughly an hour to reach by car. The classic mural known as the "Mona Lisa of the East" is hidden within this temple.

▲ Constructed from red sandstone, Banteay Srei takes on a pinkish hue under the sunlight.

▲ The entire temple complex is not large, measuring approximately 200 feet in length and 100 meters in width.

▲ Pillars and stone carvings of Banteay Srei that were damaged during wartime.

Unlike other Angkor sites, Banteay Srei is built from red sandstone. The earthy red stones shimmer with a pink glow under Cambodia’s blazing sun. Winding through forest trails, the majestic temple reveals itself hidden beside a lotus pond. Though the entire site is compact—just a 15 to 20-minute walk—it features intricate reliefs and carvings that can captivate visitors for hours. With three layers of red stone walls and murals, the delicate femininity of this “temple for the goddess” compels travelers to pause and admire.

▲ Hidden deities nestled between stone pillars possess a unique charm.

▲ The exquisite craftsmanship and stonework leave visitors in awe.

▲ Banteay Srei is dedicated to Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction.

Built in 967 AD, Banteay Srei is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, one of the three principal deities of Brahmanism and the god of destruction. After enduring centuries of conflict and the passage of millennia, the ruins have revealed their most radiant splendor.

The crimson walls are adorned with ancient carvings depicting full-figured female forms, and the "Mona Lisa of the East," sought after by foreign tourists, is concealed within this pink-hued backdrop. Local guides note its distinguishing features—a unique hairstyle and a subtle light on the head—that require keen eyes to spot. Beyond the famed reliefs, unexpected treasures like monkey statues in corners or decapitated stone lions await discovery. Be a treasure hunter and uncover the millennia-old charm through your own lens.

▲ A small shrine corner within the temple dedicated to the gods.

▲ The mural painting known as the "Mona Lisa of the East."

*Cambodia Angkor Air operates a direct flight to Angkor every Saturday, taking just 3.5 hours. For details, please contact Coolidge Travel.