April is normally the dry season in Cambodia, but this year feels different. From December 2024 through February 2025, the weather remained cool and pleasant, lasting longer than usual. And surprisingly, even April brought a heavy rainstorm—an unusual but welcome refreshment.
A Morning Full of Calm
Thanks to this extended cool season and recent rain, Srah Srang’s water level is still high—rare for this time of year. The calm, reflective reservoir creates a perfect setting for sunrise or sunset photography and peaceful morning walks.
Visiting Srah Srang early in the morning, I felt the quiet beauty of the scene. The water shimmered with the soft light of dawn. Birds flew low across the surface, searching for breakfast. The eastern bank of the reservoir revealed a miniature world full of life.
Armed with my camera and a 55–250mm lens, I set out to capture some of the tiny wonders living around the edge of the ancient baray.
Tiny Nature at Srah Srang – Photo Gallery
One of the smallest butterflies you can spot here. Delicate and fast-moving, it was a joy to capture it in the morning light.
Red Dragonfly at Srah Srang
With its vibrant red wings, the dragonfly added a flash of color and movement to the peaceful scene.
Baby Green Grasshopper at Srah Srang
A vibrant, young grasshopper blends perfectly with its environment—a symbol of new life after the recent rain.
Deep Blue Bug at Srah Srang (Possibly Altica species)
This deep blue insect stood out vividly—small but eye-catching, especially with sunlight reflecting off its shell.
Long-toed Grass Frog
Quick and shy, this frog represents the hidden life teeming in Srah Srang’s wetlands.
Asian Swamp Eel
Silent and sleek, this eel was an unexpected find during the morning walk.
Lindernia anagallis
Delicate and low to the soil, this native bloom quietly colors the muddy path near the water.
Ludwigia perennis
Thriving near the reservoir’s edge, this leafy green species added rich texture to the environment.
Marsilea crenata (Water Clover)
You’ll find it spreading out across shallow areas—it gives a soft and peaceful feeling underfoot.
Gomphrena celosioides (White Grass Floret)
This tiny floret, often overlooked, adds a gentle touch to the eastern bank’s ground cover.
Seasonal Treasures Around the Reservoir
Lagerstroemia speciosa
Bright purple blooms are in full swing this month, lining the temple path and offering wonderful contrasts to the stone architecture.
Wild Mangoes (Svay Prey)
The ground around the eastern side of Srah Srang is scattered with fallen Svay Prey—their sweet scent fills the morning air.
Travel Tips
Best time to visit: Arrive before 6:00 AM for sunrise, or come back in the late afternoon for sunset.
- Bring a zoom lens: For macro nature shots, a 55–250mm lens is perfect.
- Stay quiet and move slowly: You’ll spot more wildlife this way.
- Respect the space: Don’t disturb wildlife, and avoid stepping into muddy, plant-rich zones.
Why Srah Srang Is Special in April
Even though April usually means heat and dryness, 2025 brought rain, life, and a refreshing change. The full reservoir, the blooming plants, and the hidden world of tiny insects make this place more than just a temple pond—it becomes a living story.
Srah Srang is one of the best places in the Angkor area not only for sunrise and sunset—but also for those who love slow travel, nature observation, and peaceful reflection.
Note on Insect and Plant Names
All insects and plant species mentioned in this post are identified based on visual observation during my visit. I’m not a biologist—just a traveler and nature enthusiast sharing what I see. Some names may not be 100% accurate, but I hope they inspire you to look closer at the small wonders around us.
20 April 2025 – Siem Reap, Cambodia
Gallery
Photo by Sathya Moth
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