Bayon Temple
Bayon Temple things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIDescription
Ratings
Posts
The Bayon Temple is one of the more famous, popular and beautiful of the structures in the Angkor Wat Archaeological Park. Situated just to the north of Angkor Wat itself, the temple was once at the centre of the ancient city of Angkor Thom. It's sometimes called Jayavarman's Temple, in honour of the Khmer king who ordered its construction. It's best known for its many towers with gently smiling faces on each side.There are some 50 towers around the ruined temple, with over 200 faces showing varying degrees of erosion and wear. Each face is 4 metres high and is facing one of the cardinal directions of the compass. They all have the same serene smile, with eyes closed, representing the all-knowing state of inner peace, and perhaps even a state of Nirvana. There are also many complicated and exquisite bas-reliefs around the temple, with scenes depicting land and naval warfare, market scenes and even the construction of the temple itself. Smile along with the smiling faces – built during early 13th century, Bayon Temple is a centrepiece of Angkor Thom. This Buddhist temple was a state temple during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, whose delusional grandeur is evident in 216 giant smiling faces which adorn the towers of the Bayon. The temple’s architecture signalled a definite shift from Hinduism to Buddhism. As you enter the giant complex, you cannot miss the smiling faces greeting you from the top of the entrance. The entry bridge, flanked with 54 stone warriors tugging at a snake is quite a sight. Once you are inside the temple complex, you will find smiling faces towering over everywhere. The faces are believed to resemble the king himself. Another theory emphasises that these composed humanly faces are of Lokesvara, a compassionate Bodhisattva. The walls of Bayon temple are richly decorated with more than 10,000 bas reliefs, including apsaras. Walk around the Bayon Temple and get lost in its exotic interiors. The smiling faces will leave you wondering the purpose behind creating such a unique masterpiece!
kaushik majumderkaushik majumder
10
Bayon Temple is stunning. It is quite large and surrounded by a beautiful moat (at least during rainy season). It is one of the easiest temples to find, as it occurs at the intersection of the main north/south and east/west roads in Angkor Thom. And it is certainly one of the most impressive. This temple is best known for all the faces, of which there are too many to count. This temple has many towers, large and small, and at the top of each one is four faces, each facing one of the cardinal directions. It is such a unique and awesome piece of architecture. And the carvings along the walls that depict Angkorian history are incredibly impressive and detailed, rivaled only by Angkor Wat itself. Unfortunately, the top levels are under restoration and have been for at least the last 8 months. That means they are closed and you can no longer access the top of the temple and the beautiful views (and also that spot where throngs of tourists stand in line, sometimes not patiently, so they can get a picture of them pretending to kiss one of the faces). The closure is a shame because the views are great up there, but it is good that they are working to preserve this incredible temple for another 800 years. There are other areas of the temple that are also under restoration, and although they will affect the authenticity of your photographs, they won't affect your ability to see the rest of the temple. If you have time to see only 3 temples during your visit to Angkor, this should absolutely be one of the three. Choosing a favorite between this, Angkor Wat, and Ta Phrom is nearly impossible, as they are all so incredible in their own way. But one thing is for sure, if you visit Siem Reap and don't go visit Bayon, you need to have your head examined. Absolutely worth the price of admission by itself.
Gunnar CayaGunnar Caya
10
The example of amazing craftsmanship. The temple is divided into two folds where one for buddhist and another part for hindu under same complex. The king of that time assumed that ppl of these two religions may fall into fight, so he made it like this so that ppl of both religions can perform their worship peacefully. The wall has blocks (see photo) where their life style is crafted nicely. That will give clear idea regarding cambodia’s rich history of civilization. There are multiple sculptures to teach ppl regarding intercourse or how it works to give birth. One funny spot is there where you can take pictures in a way that you are kissing buddha. My guide showed it to me. Picture attached. Just outside the arena there was set up of engineering tool made of bamboo to make ppl understand how these heavy blocks were used to build this temple. You must try it.
Fazal Mahmud RoniFazal Mahmud Roni
00
This was the first temple on our Small Tour offered by our hotel. Like most of the temples,the detailing ,carvings and intricacies of workmanship is just phenomenal. To portray life at the time, their values, and creating these temples that still stand, is remarkable. Granted, after almost a thousand years, restoration is needed, and it’s good to see various countries contributing to this. We saw monks visiting in their orange robes which was a privilege. Recommend buying tickets online if starting early, however, you can purchase on the day. Just present ticket when entering temple area. Keeping it on your mobile is fine. Be prepared for steep stairs. It’s hot, so bring hat, glasses, water and good walking shoes. Women cover shoulders.
Moana RuleMoana Rule
30
Big Bayon. How many faces can you count? Jayavarman VII's face can be seen at all angles in this former capital city. A slight, benevolent smile from a benevolent king who connected the Angkor empire through multiple road networks, rest-houses, and hospitals. The galleries here are less impressive than Angkor in terms of quality. However, they contrast nicely as Jayavarman VII helped transition the empire from Hinduism to Buddhism. A more laid-back daily life aspect fills the galleries here as well as scenes of serenity. War is still featured, but is much less common. Inside, the temple is like a maze at points and not so easy to get around. Monkeys prowl the outskirts of Bayon, looking for their next snack.
Ben RBen R
00
Bayon Temple, nestled in the heart of Angkor Thom, Cambodia, is a mesmerizing testament to Khmer architecture and spirituality. Built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, this enigmatic temple is renowned for its iconic stone faces that adorn its towers. The intricate bas-reliefs depict scenes from daily life and Hindu mythology, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into ancient Khmer civilization. Navigating through the labyrinthine corridors, one encounters a sense of mystique and historical richness. The temple's unique blend of religious significance and architectural grandeur makes it a must-visit destination, providing an unforgettable journey into Cambodia's rich cultural tapestry.
ajleeblogajleeblog
00
Nearby Attractions Of Bayon Temple
Bayon Temple
Terrace of the Elephants
Baphuon
Baphuon Temple
Preah Ponlea Sdach Komlong (Terrace Of The Leper King)
Phimeanakas
Prasat Preah Palilay
Suor Prat Tower
Preah Pithu
Prasat Khleang Khang Cheung (Prasat North Khleang)
Bayon Temple
4.8
(3.9K)Click for details
Terrace of the Elephants
4.5
(1K)Click for details
Baphuon
4.7
(913)Click for details
Baphuon Temple
4.7
(889)Click for details
Reviews
Overview
4.8
(5.1K reviews)
Phone
+855 63 765 577
Call
Website
apsaraauthority.gov.kh
Visit
Deep Dive
A deep dive into Bayon Temple