Wat Banan Tourism

Wat Banan, known as the 'mini-Angkor', is an ancient temple located near the city of Battambang in Cambodia. This historic site dates back to the 10th century and is thought to have been constructed by King Udayadityavarman II, who was also responsible for several other temples in the region, including the famous Angkor Wat. The temple sits atop a limestone hill and is accessible by a steep flight of over 350 stairs, which leads visitors to the stunning ruins and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Wat Banan is characterized by five towers arranged in a quincunx pattern, similar to the spires of Angkor Wat, though on a smaller scale. The temple has undergone some restoration work, but much of it remains in a state of ruin, providing a sense of ancient history and a less crowded alternative to its more famous counterpart. Visitors to Wat Banan can explore the area, which includes several smaller ruins and pagodas scattered around the main temple. The site is revered by locals and is often used for religious ceremonies and festivals.