45. Thmar Bay Khaek

Date: 10th century; Religion: Sivaism; Reign: Yasovarman I; Style: Bakhen; Visit: 5mns; Best time: Morning.

Presently, Thma Bay Khaek, in the front of the Bei palace in difficult to observe. Only the brick of the base and the Linga still remain. During the restoration by the French, the local workers would eat their lunch in an area adjacent to the temple. After finishing their meal, they would scatter their remaining rice in the field. When the workers returned to work, the ravens would descend on the area and scavenge the remaining food. The sound of the birds could be heard through out the compound. Since the actual name of this palace remains unknown, the Cambodian unofficially name it Thma (stone) Bay (rice) Kaek (raven).