Bayon temple in Angkor Thom, tours from Siem Reap

Bayon overview

Bayon temple is definitely one of the main events of visiting Angkor ruins, along with Angkor Wat.

Bayon is a temple located in Angkor Thom, Cambodia, and is one of the most famous and recognizable temples in the Angkor Wat temple complex. Bayon was built in the late 12th or early 13th century, during the reign of the Khmer King Jayavarman VII, and is known for its unique architectural style and the many enigmatic stone faces that adorn its towers.

The temple is characterized by its pyramid-shaped structure, which is comprised of several levels and adorned with intricate carvings and bas-relief sculptures. One of the most distinctive features of Bayon is the hundreds of stone faces that are carved into its towers. These faces are believed to depict the king himself, and are thought to symbolize his power and authority over the Khmer Empire.

In addition to the stone faces, Bayon is also famous for its many elaborate carvings and sculptures, which depict scenes from everyday life, Hindu mythology, and scenes from the battles and victories of King Jayavarman VII.

Today, Bayon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cambodia, and attracts visitors from around the world who are interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Khmer Empire. Despite its age and the many centuries of neglect and exposure to the elements, much of the temple's intricate carvings and sculptures remain well-preserved and offer a unique window into the past.

Photos of Bayon were taken from the northwest corner, not the east or south where tourists come and go. If you shoot from here, you won't be able to see too many tourists.

When you enter the Bayon temple, there are many wonderful statues and reliefs. The charm of Bayon is not limited to its large forest of towers. This is a dynamic relief.

And a relief of Devata (goddess). It looks like a girl who seems to be around there.

Detailed reliefs can be seen here and there in the Bayon temple. Like Angkor Wat in particular, the first corridor is painted with a series of reliefs.

Going around the Bayon temple is an atmosphere of exploration. What discovery is next?

Also such a beautiful dancer.

As you approach the center of Bayon, you will come out onto the second corridor, and the face of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva will come closer. It has a somewhat Khmer look rather than Indian.

バA view of the central part of Bayon.

Bayon tours

These tours include the visit to Bayon. To see the full list of Bayon tours, click here.