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Bayon Temple
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historical-site
The Bayon Temple is the mesmerizing centerpiece of the fortified city of Angkor Thom, erected in the late 12th century under King Jayavarman VII. It is best known for its 54 towers adorned with a total of over 200 smiling faces, whose enigmatic expression is often referred to as the 'Angkor Smile.' Originally designed as a Buddhist state temple, Bayon blends elements of Mahayana Buddhism with Hindu influences from later periods. The outer galleries display extraordinary bas-reliefs depicting historical battles against the Chams as well as animated scenes from the daily life of the Khmer people. The architecture is characterized by a dense arrangement of towers, giving the temple an almost bizarre, mountain-like appearance. Bayon is regarded as one of the most complex and architecturally original temples in the entire Angkor Park, marking the transition to a new artistic era in the Khmer Empire.
- Location: Cambodia
- Top sights: Bayon · Angkor Thom Terrace C1710236 · Wat Preah Se Ametrey
- Nearby: Kampong Phluk (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 29 | 31 | 31 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 16 | 46 | 75 | 140 | 168 | 197 | 195 | 231 | 138 | 37 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Bayon Temple is part of the Angkor Archaeological Park and open to visitors. You can admire the famous stone faces up close and explore the winding corridors.
Typical hours
Angkor Park is open daily from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm, with Bayon accessible within these hours. Sunrise is especially popular as the faces are softly lit.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the temple, but a tripod permit is required. The best shots of the faces are in late afternoon when light hits directly.
Time needed
Allow at least one hour to explore Bayon's central areas. Combined with other Angkor temples, plan a full day for the park.
Combine with
Combine Bayon with nearby Angkor Wat and the Terrace of the Elephants. The Angkor Thom complex with its gates and other temples is also within walking distance.
Getting there
Bayon Temple is in Angkor Thom, about 10 km north of Siem Reap. You can reach it by taxi, tuk-tuk, or bicycle; an Angkor Park entrance ticket is required.
Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning before the tourist crowds to enjoy the faces almost alone. Dress appropriately covering shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
Geography
Facts
- Built as the center of the new capital city, Angkor Thom.
- Features 54 towers, said to symbolize the provinces of the Khmer Empire.
- The bas-reliefs on the outer wall extend for 1.2 kilometers.
- The faces are often interpreted as Bodhisattva Lokeshvara or King Jayavarman VII.
- The temple underwent several structural changes and expansions over time.
- Located exactly at the geographic center of the square city of Angkor Thom.
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Sights in the town Bayon Temple (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes Bayon temple so special?
It is famous for the over 200 smiling stone faces carved on its towers.
Where is the temple located?
Exactly in the center of the ancient city of Angkor Thom.
When is the best light for photos?
Early morning or late afternoon when the low sun highlights the faces.
Are the passages narrow?
Yes, the temple layout is very compact with many narrow stairs and passages.
What do the reliefs depict?
They depict scenes from daily life and historic naval battles.
Bayon Temple: where is it located?
Bayon Temple is located in Cambodia.
Bayon Temple: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bayon, Angkor Thom Terrace C1710236, Wat Preah Se Ametrey.
Bayon Temple: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Bayon Temple: why is it worth visiting?
The Bayon Temple is the mesmerizing centerpiece of the fortified city of Angkor Thom, erected in the late 12th century under King Jayavarman VII.
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History & landmarks
Terrace of the Elephants
An impressive viewing terrace decorated with life-sized elephant reliefs, once used for royal ceremonies.
Baphuon
A massive three-tiered temple mountain in the heart of Angkor Thom, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.
Phimeanakas
A Hindu temple in the shape of a step pyramid, located within the royal palace enclosure of Angkor Thom.
Phnom Bakheng
A temple mountain in Angkor, famous for its breathtaking sunset views over Angkor Wat.
Thommanon
A small, well-preserved Hindu temple in Angkor, known for its detailed Devata carvings.
Ta Keo
An unfinished, massive sandstone temple mountain that stands out due to its simplicity and lack of external carvings.
Banteay Kdei
A fascinating Buddhist monastic complex in Angkor, whose ruins are peacefully shaded by tall trees today.
East Mebon
A monumental temple that once stood on an artificial island in the middle of the now-dry East Baray reservoir.
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