Banteay Samre is one of the most complete complexes in Angkor due to restoration using the anasthylosis method. Unfortunately, the lack of maintenance in the last 20 years is evident.

Samre's name refers to an ethnic group of mountain people, who inhabited the regions at the base of Phnom Kulen and were probably related to the Khmers. No inscriptions were found for this temple, but the style of most of the architecture is of the classic art of the middle period similar to Angkor Wat. The monument probably dates from the same period, or perhaps a little later, though there are additions attributed to the Bayon style.

The proportions of Banteay Samre are presented. A unique feature is an internal moat with laterite pavement, which when filled with water must have given an ethereal atmosphere to the temple. All the buildings around the moat are in a raised base with horizontal frames, decorated in some areas with figures framed by lotus buds.

Large temple, comparatively flat, displaying an architecture and an Angkor Wat style art. The temple underwent an extensive restoration in this century by archaeologists using the method of anastilosis. Banteay Samre was built at the same time as Angkor Wat. The style of the towers and balustrades bears a strong resemblance to the towers of Angkor Wat and even more so with the Khmer temple of Phimai in Thailand. Many of the sculptures are in excellent condition. Banteay Samre is slightly off the Grand Circuit, near the southeast corner of East Baray. The trip is a small and pleasant 3 km excursion through villages and fields. Combine a visit to Banteay Srey with a stop at Banteay Samre on the way back.