This late 12th – early 13th century Buddhist temple is located in the northwest corner of Cambodia's Banteay Meanchay province and only 20km from the Thai border. It is one of the largest temple-city complexes built by a Khmer king. The temple is in a bad state of preservation as no restoration efforts were conducted here in the 20th century. The layout resembles Angkor Thom and other structures attributed to Jayavarman VII. The outer gallery is carved with bas-relief depicting military engagements and daily life scenes very similar to the well known ones in Bayon.
Travelling to Banteay Chhmar takes a little effort but this should not deter you. The temple sees very few visitors mainly due to its remote location and this will earn you the well deserved bragging explorer's rights.