part of the Bayon Temple, one of the most enigmatic and fascinating structures within the Angkor Archaeological Park.
The defining feature of Bayon is clearly visible here: the large stone towers carved with serene, smiling faces. These faces—thought to represent either the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara or King Jayavarman VII himself—look out in all four cardinal directions from the temple’s many towers. Over 200 of these faces were originally carved throughout the complex, giving visitors the eerie but awe-inspiring sensation of being watched from every angle.
Bayon sits at the heart of Angkor Thom, the last and most enduring capital of the Khmer Empire. Unlike Angkor Wat’s harmony and symmetry, Bayon feels more chaotic, almost like a labyrinth of passageways, steep staircases, and crumbling corridors—but that’s part of its charm. It’s a place of mystery, spiritual depth, and architectural complexity.
- Location: Near Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Built: Early 12th century
- Built by: King Suryavarman II
- Religion: Originally Hindu (dedicated to Vishnu), later converted to Buddhist
- Significance:
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and the crown jewel of the Angkor Archaeological Park, which spans over 400 square kilometers and contains dozens of ancient temples from the Khmer Empire (9th–15th century).
Known for its stunning towers, intricate carvings, and grand layout, Angkor Wat blends symmetry, symbolism, and spiritual meaning.
Its five central towers represent the peaks of Mount Meru, a sacred mountain in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Since 1992
Best Time to Visit:
- Early morning for sunrise views
- November to March for cooler, drier weather
Tips:
- Dress modestly (it’s a religious site)
- Bring water and sun protection
- Plan at least 2–3 days to explore the main temples (including Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm)
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Angkor Wat geographical position on Google Maps 📍
