Close to Ta Phrom is another of Jayavarman VIIth temples, Banteay Kdei. It was a buddhist monastery (and has been used as such by monks over the centuries until the 1960s). The inscription stone was never found, so that we do not know to whom he dedicated it.  Banteay Kdei is not one of the important temples of Angkor, but nevertheless nice to visit because it is never crowded and always tranquil. 

It is similar in style to Ta Phrom, but smaller, and less overgrown with trees. Large parts of the temple are collapsed, but the structures that remain have some interesting carvings. Enter the temple and walk over the large terrace - it was identified as the place where ritual dances were probably performed - some friezes that survived show graceful dancing apsaras. 

The fronton of the door at the western side of the terrace (a picture is here)  is especially well preserved. Next, enter the temple proper. Modern Buddha statues that are still revered by the locals stand in the galleries. Walk around among the collapsed buildings and admire the beautifully carved statues in the niches of the tower.

Preah Rup

Preah Rup is another temple in the vicinity of Ta Phrom. It was built in the 10th century (under the reign of King Rajendravarman II, who also founded the Phimeanakas in Angkor Thom). It is located on the southern edge of the former East Baray (Yasodharatataka, a large artificial lake; it is now dry and filled with rice fields). Preah Rup was constructed as a temple mountain with several levels and the typical five towers arranged in quincunx (four in the corners, one in the middle) on the top platform. The building materials were brick and laterite and the shrines and towers were decorated with stucco, of which part is still visible. Enter Preah Rup via the east gopura and walk first around the entire temple to appreciate the overall design. Although (or maybe because?)  Preah Rup appears today largely undecorated. It creates a lasting impression of simple elegance, grandeur, and tastefulness, an effect that is achieved by the boldness and perfect balance of its proportions. Climb up as far as you dare (the staircases are, as usual, extremely steep, the ancient Khmers must have been good climbers!) The staircase of the east is safest. 

Historians believe that the temple was used for funerals (its name refers to ritual cremation). A rectangular basin or vat on the first platform is presumed to have been used as a dais for the coffins (nowadays it is filled with wild flowers that settled and grow there). From the highest platform you have a wonderful view of the Kulen hills and Phnom Book, as well as the towers of Angkor Wat.