Srah Srang & Kandal Srah Srang

Srah Srang (Khmer: ស្រះស្រង់) is a reservoir at Angkor, Cambodia, located south of the East Baray and east of Banteay Kdei. Srah Srang measures 700 by 350 m, lined by laterite blocks capped with sandstone featuring a landing stage/terrace on its western side and an island temple at its center.

It is cruciform, flanked by naga balustrades which end with the upright fan of six naga heads, surrounding a garuda atop the body of a naga with three more heads. These naga balustrades are quite beautiful examples and, double-sided. The steps that lead down to the water are flanked on either side by guardian lions.

The landing stage, opposite the entrance to Banteay Kdei, is a popular site for viewing the sunrise whilst the eastern side of the reservoir is also a nice spot to watch the sunset.

A 1600 sq. meter cemetery was discovered at the northwest corner of the reservoir. Mortuary jars containing cremated remains and other artifacts dating from the reign of Udayadityavarman II were excavated by B.P. Groslier.

History
Sras Srang is believed to have been dug in the mid-10th century and modified around the early 13th century by Jayavarman VII, who added the terrace/landing stage (more to come).

Kandal Srah Srang

At the center of Srah Srang is Kandal Srah Srang a small temple built in the 10th century and renovated between the 12th and 13th centuries. It has recently been restored by APSARA and opened to the public (October 2021). Interestingly, during restoration works two ancient turtle sculptures were found. One of the turtle sculptures was opened and found to contain a white crystal dragon and a trident both of which are now held in the Preah Norodom Sihanouk Angkor Museum for further study.