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Bayon Temple: The Enigmatic Faces of Angkor Thom

Discover the serene faces of Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, a mesmerizing journey through Khmer history and artistry.

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Located in the heart of Angkor Thom, Cambodia, the Bayon Temple is famed for its massive stone faces that adorn its many towers. Built in the late 12th or early 13th century by King Jayavarman VII, it stands as a unique testament to Khmer architecture and Mahayana Buddhist beliefs.

A brief summary to Bayon Temple

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience a more mystical atmosphere.
  • Purchase an Angkor Pass in advance to save time.
  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it is a sacred site.
  • Allow at least one to two hours to explore the temple's intricate details.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-tuk

    From Siem Reap town, hire a tuk-tuk for a 20-30 minute ride to Angkor Thom. Enter through the South Gate and continue north for approximately 1.6 kilometers. The Bayon Temple is located in the center of Angkor Thom. A tuk-tuk for the day typically costs between $15-$20 USD.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Siem Reap to Bayon Temple offers a comfortable, air-conditioned journey. The trip takes about 20-30 minutes. Expect to pay around $30-$40 USD for a full-day hire.

  • Bicycle

    For an eco-friendly option, rent a bicycle in Siem Reap and cycle to Angkor Thom. The ride is approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Once inside Angkor Thom, cycle north from the South Gate for about 1.6 km. Bicycle rentals typically cost around $2 USD per day.

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Discover more about Bayon Temple

The Bayon Temple, a captivating centerpiece of the ancient city of Angkor Thom, distinguishes itself with its multitude of serene, smiling stone faces. Constructed in the late 12th to early 13th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, it served as the state temple and reflects a transition from Hinduism to Buddhism. Unlike other Khmer temples, the Bayon lacks enclosing walls and a moat, integrating instead with the fortifications of Angkor Thom. The temple's design represents Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology. Its most striking feature is the over 200 faces that gaze out from the 37 remaining towers, inspiring awe and curiosity. These faces are believed to represent either King Jayavarman VII himself or Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. The temple complex is structured on three levels, showcasing a maze of galleries, passages, and chambers adorned with intricate bas-reliefs. These carvings depict scenes from Khmer history, mythology, and daily life, providing a rich tapestry of the era. The bas-reliefs offer insight into battles, religious practices, and the everyday routines of the Angkorian people. Over the centuries, the Bayon Temple underwent several modifications under different rulers, reflecting shifts in religious dominance from Hinduism back to Theravada Buddhism. Despite these changes and the test of time, the Bayon Temple remains a remarkable monument, inviting visitors to explore its artistic and historical significance.

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