Angkor Thom – The “Breath” of Ancient Era

Brief Information of Angkor Thom

Location: Just north of Angkor Wat, within the Angkor Archaeological Park, about 7–8 km from downtown Siem Reap.

Opening hours: Daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Entrance fee: Included in the Angkor Pass (valid for Angkor Thom, Angkor Wat, and other temples in the park):

• 1-day pass: $37 USD
• 3-day pass (valid over 10 days): $62 USD
• 7-day pass (valid over 1 month): $72 USD

How to get there:

• By tuk-tuk: Around 15–20 minutes from Siem Reap town.
• By bicycle or motorbike.

The Historical Background of Angkor Thom

In 1811 King Jayavarman VII, who was considered Angkor’s greatest king, recaptured the power of governing the Khmer capital from Cham. After this victory, he began to found his own new capital city by erecting a large number of buildings which created Angkor Thom - the last capital city of the Khmer temple.

Like other structures in the Angkor Archeological Site we know today, Angkor Thom was also built to represent the cosmology in ancient history and the religious symbol. Therefore, when you have a general view of the Angkor Thom, you can realize that it was erected on a square shape with the first layer being the moat surrounding the second layer, the stone wall. Bayon Temple was constructed inside the wall to symbolize Mount Meru, which is the home of God enclosed by the cosmic ocean.

Outstanding Features and Structures of Angkor Thom

The Gates

Unlike other structures, Angkor Thom has five gates instead of four. You can find the gates in the middle of each sides of the wall. Three gates were built in the North, West, South, respectively and two gates in the East. Built in Bayon style, the gates of Angkor Thom are also very special. They were built of sandstone with 23 meter high. The top of each gate was marked by 4 huge stone faces. Each of them faces each cardinal direction. Moreover, on the lower level, the gates are decorated with elephants whose trunks are used as pillars.

Nowadays, most visitors come inside the ancient capital through the South gate since it is the best well-deserved gate. The large causeway still remains statues of gods on its two sides, which brings the feeling like stepping back to the past for visitors when they first approach Angkor Thom although some of statues were damaged seriously. 

Bayon Temple

It can be said that Bayon temple is the most famous structure in Angkor Thom. Bayon Temple was erected in the middle of the capital in late 12th century. It is a perfect cooperation of Buddhist and Hinduism since it was built by King Jayavarman VII to dedicate Buddhist but it also represented the heaven and earth in the cosmic world in Hinduism. Bayon can be seen as the smaller capital in Angkor Thom. It also has three levels. The first and the second levels are walls marked with bas-reliefs which describe historical and religious events.

The last level leaves strong impression on visitors by its 54 towers in which each of them feature 4 mysterious smiling faces. Each face turns to each compass direction. Some people consume it as Buddha’s face because the purpose of the temple is to worship Buddhism. However, some say that it might be the King’s face since the stone face has similar feature with the statue of Jayavarman VII. Some other even consider the face is the combination of Buddha and King. However, the answer has not found yet.

Terrace of Elephants

The Terrace of Elephants was served as the large platform for King to observe the games and hold celebration. It has three level of staircase which was ornamented with elephants’ heads, lion statues on two sides. The wall was decorated with impressive bas-relief decorated with fighting scene between an elephant and a lions, sculptures of elephants, five-headed horses, dancers and warriors.

Beside Bayon temple and the Terrace of Elephants, there are some other must-see buildings. For example, Phimeanakas – the Hindu temple was built in the shape of three tier pyramid, Baphuon -  the temple orginally worshipped Shiva God but changed to dedicate Buddhist later or Prasat Suor Prat - a series of ruin towers, etc.

Baphuon Temple

Baphuon Temple is located north of Bayon Temple and is one of the main temples within Angkor Thom. Known for its unique architecture, Baphuon has been referred to as the "pyramid of Cambodia." One of its most striking features is a 70-meter-long reclining Buddha statue, constructed from thousands of stacked stone blocks.

The temple was built in the shape of a mountain and consists of three levels. Visitors enter through a grand walkway flanked by two large ponds. Baphuon was originally constructed as the state temple of King Udayadityavarman II. One of its most remarkable features is the upper-level terrace, which offers an excellent panoramic view of the surrounding area. From the west side of the temple, a signposted path leads to a side entrance of the Royal Palace and Phimeanakas Temple.

The Terrace of Leper King 

Together with the Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King is one of the most visited sites in the Angkor Archaeological Park. According to some travelers who have visited Angkor Thom multiple times, the name "Leper King" comes from the local belief that the statue resembles a person with leprosy. There is also a legend about King Yasovarman I, who is said to have suffered from the disease.

Tips for Visiting Angkor Thom

Start early in the morning

You should visit Angkor Thom as early as possible because this is the time when there are fewer visitors and it’s not too hot. The light in the early morning is also perfect for photos.

Visit the South gate first

Among the five gates, the South Gate is the most popular and photogenic, with towering stone faces and a dramatic causeway lined with gods and demons. It's the main entrance for most visitors and a great introduction to the site’s grandeur.

Wear comfortable shoes

The complex involves a lot of walking, including climbing steep stairs and exploring uneven stone paths. Walking shoes will be an optimum choice to help you feel comfortable.

Bring water and sun protection

Visitors are advised to bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses because there are few shaded areas within Angkor Thom.

Hire a guide

Angkor Thom has so many hidden stories and details for visitors to explore. Hiring a guide (available at the park entrance or via tour operators) can help you understand the symbolism, architecture, and history of the temple.

Respect the temples

Visitors should dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) when in such a sacred place. Additionally, you should avoid touching the artifacts and pay attention to the instructions at the site.

Best photography spots

Don’t miss the photo from the top of the East Gate during sunrise or from the west side of Bayon Temple in the afternoon light. The causeway leading to the South Gate is also an iconic photo location.

Explore Beyond Bayon

Many tourists only see Bayon, but Angkor Thom is vast. The Baphuon Temple and the Royal Palace area are quieter but equally beautiful. Take time to walk along the ancient walls or visit the hidden corner temples like Prasat Suor Prat.

Combine with a Mekong River Journey

If you're traveling between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, consider arriving in style with a river cruise by TopMekong Cruise. These scenic journeys along the Mekong offer a unique and relaxing way to connect the two cities, with onboard comforts and cultural stops along the way. It’s an unforgettable way to begin or end your Angkor adventure.

» Cambodia River Cruises absolutely can give your more unremakable experiences
» Contact us today to get the best offer for your expeditions.

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