Young Buddhist monks inadvertently formed a postcard-perfect scene as they walked single-file through the doorway of an ancient temple.

Footage captured the religious devotees in striking orange robes making their way through the carved sandstone entrances of the 10th century Banteay Srei site in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Some were intrigued by the smartphone recording them, while others gave playful thumbs-up salutes.

The filmer said: 'I was exploring the temple and noticed that there was a group of young monks. I recorded them as they walked through the door and it made a lovely scene. They were all friendly.'

Banteay Srei is regarded as the crown jewel of Khmer temples, with intricate carvings dating to the 900s in the mystical Angkor region. It is dedicated to the Hindu gods Shiva and Parvati.

At the height of its powers, the mighty Khmer Empire encompassed much of Southeast Asia, including almost all of what is now modern-day Thailand, as well as Laos and Parts of Champa, now Vietnam.

However, a combination of draughts, defeats in wars, a strengthening Siamese Empire and the rise of maritime trade forced a retreat south to what is now Phnom Penh.