Angkor Thom
Step into the ancient Khmer capital of Angkor Thom, a vast walled city famed for the enigmatic smiling faces of Bayon Temple and grand royal terraces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Angkor Thom
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the ancient Khmer capital of Angkor Thom, a vast walled city famed for the enigmatic smiling faces of Bayon Temple and grand royal terraces.
"The smiling faces of Bayon Temple are truly mesmerizing and a must-see!"
Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees for temple entry. Lightweight fabrics are key! :dress:
Hire a Tuk-Tuk
Best way to explore the vast Angkor Thom complex, especially with family. :oncoming_taxi:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bayon Temple Faces
Center of Angkor Thom
Marvel at the enigmatic, smiling stone faces that adorn the towers of the Bayon Temple. A truly iconic sight.
Terrace of the Elephants
North of Bayon Temple
Walk along this impressive platform, once used for royal ceremonies, adorned with detailed elephant carvings.
Terrace of the Leper King
Northwest of Terrace of the Elephants
Discover the intricate bas-reliefs depicting mythical figures and the mysterious statue of the Leper King.
Angkor Thom South Gate
Southern entrance to Angkor Thom
Enter the ancient city through this grand gate, flanked by rows of gods and demons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code Matters
Plan Your Angkor Thom Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees for temple entry. Lightweight fabrics are key! :dress:
Hire a Tuk-Tuk
Best way to explore the vast Angkor Thom complex, especially with family. :oncoming_taxi:
Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during the hot season. Buy from local vendors. :droplet:
Sunrise/Sunset Views
While Angkor Wat is famous, the light over Angkor Thom is also magical. :sunriseovermountains:
Tips
from all over the internet
Respectful Attire
Cover shoulders & knees for temple entry. Lightweight fabrics are key! :dress:
Hire a Tuk-Tuk
Best way to explore the vast Angkor Thom complex, especially with family. :oncoming_taxi:
Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during the hot season. Buy from local vendors. :droplet:
Sunrise/Sunset Views
While Angkor Wat is famous, the light over Angkor Thom is also magical. :sunriseovermountains:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the sheer scale and intricate artistry of Angkor Thom, particularly the enigmatic faces of the Bayon Temple. The historical significance and architectural grandeur are major draws, though navigating the vast complex and managing the heat can be challenging for some.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Angkor Thom is located within the Angkor Archaeological Park, near Siem Reap. You can hire a tuk-tuk, taxi, or join a guided tour from Siem Reap. Many visitors combine a visit to Angkor Thom with Angkor Wat.
While they are part of the same complex, Angkor Thom is a significant distance from Angkor Wat. It's best to use a tuk-tuk or bicycle to travel between them to save time and energy.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to explore Angkor Thom, especially if you're fit. However, the complex is large, so consider your stamina and the heat.
Hiring a tuk-tuk for the day is highly recommended for navigating the vastness of Angkor Thom, especially if you have companions who cannot cycle or walk long distances.
Angkor Thom is part of the Angkor Archaeological Park, so you'll need a valid Angkor Pass to enter. The pass covers all temples within the park, including Angkor Thom.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Angkor Thom is included in the Angkor Archaeological Park pass. You can purchase 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day passes.
The Angkor Archaeological Park, including Angkor Thom, is generally open from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Some temples may have slightly different hours.
Yes, a respectful dress code is enforced. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the temple areas. Lightweight, long clothing is recommended.
Yes, you can purchase your Angkor Pass online in advance through the official Angkor Enterprise website, which can save you time upon arrival.
Photography is generally allowed, but please be respectful and avoid taking photos of monks or in restricted areas. Some areas may have specific signage.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the iconic Bayon Temple with its smiling faces, the Terrace of the Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King, and the various gates like the South Gate.
To truly appreciate Angkor Thom, allocate at least half a day. If you're combining it with other temples, a full day is recommended.
Yes, licensed guides can be hired at the entrance to the Angkor Archaeological Park. They can provide historical context and enhance your visit.
While some areas are accessible, Angkor Thom involves uneven terrain and stairs. Hiring a tuk-tuk to get around and taking breaks is advisable.
There are basic facilities like restrooms and small stalls selling water and snacks. It's best to carry your own essentials.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
There are food stalls and small restaurants just outside the main temple complexes and near the park entrances. For more options, head back to Siem Reap.
Yes, you can bring your own water and snacks. It's highly recommended to stay hydrated, especially during the hotter months.
You'll find local Khmer dishes, fresh fruit, and refreshing drinks at the stalls. Expect simple, quick meals.
No, there are no formal restaurants inside the main temple areas of Angkor Thom. Food options are limited to small stalls outside the immediate temple zones.
Prices at the stalls are generally reasonable, but it's always good to have small denominations of USD or Cambodian Riel for purchases.
📸 📸 Photography
The smiling faces of Bayon Temple, the elephant carvings on the Terrace of the Elephants, and the intricate details of the Leper King Terrace are prime photo opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. Avoid midday sun.
Drone usage is generally restricted within the Angkor Archaeological Park to preserve the site and for safety reasons. Check current regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the temples, while a zoom lens can help with details. A polarizing filter can reduce glare.
Some tour operators offer specialized photography tours that can help you find unique angles and capture the best light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure children are dressed respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) to enter temple areas. The open spaces can be fun for them to explore, but always keep a close eye. Many guides are adept at making history engaging for kids, so consider hiring one if your budget allows.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to save money on purchases within the park. Look for local eateries outside the main temple areas for more affordable meal options. Focus on the key highlights like Bayon and the terraces to maximize your time and energy.
couples
Explore the Bayon Temple hand-in-hand, marveling at the ancient faces together. The Terrace of the Elephants provides a grand backdrop for memorable moments. Enjoy the tranquility of the less crowded areas and soak in the ancient ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enigmatic Faces of Bayon
Exploring the Bayon involves navigating a labyrinth of corridors and courtyards, each revealing more of these captivating sculptures. The play of light and shadow throughout the day dramatically alters the mood of the temple, making it a rewarding subject for photographers and history enthusiasts alike. The intricate bas-reliefs on the lower levels also tell stories of daily life, battles, and mythology, offering a deeper glimpse into the Khmer Empire.
Many visitors find the Bayon to be a deeply spiritual and awe-inspiring place. The quiet contemplation it inspires, combined with the visual spectacle, makes it a highlight of any visit to Angkor Thom. Remember to dress respectfully, as this is an active religious site.
Navigating Angkor Thom's Grand Gates
Each gate is topped by a large, serene face, similar to those found at the Bayon, adding to the mystical aura of the city. The Tonle Om Gate is another notable entrance, leading towards the Royal Palace area. These gates are not just entry points but are architectural marvels in themselves, showcasing the engineering prowess and artistic vision of the Khmer Empire.
When planning your visit, consider which gate you'd like to enter from, as it can influence your initial exploration route. Hiring a tuk-tuk driver who is familiar with the best entry and exit points can streamline your experience and ensure you don't miss these impressive gateways.
The Royal Palace and Terraces
The Terrace of the Elephants is a vast, elevated platform adorned with detailed carvings of elephants, warriors, and mythical creatures. It served as a grand viewing gallery for royal ceremonies and public audiences. Standing on this terrace, one can imagine the vibrant spectacles that once took place here, with the king presiding over his kingdom.
Nearby, the Terrace of the Leper King features intricate bas-reliefs depicting a rich tapestry of figures and scenes. The statue of the Leper King at the center is shrouded in legend, adding an element of mystery to this fascinating site. Exploring these terraces offers a tangible connection to the administrative and ceremonial heart of the ancient Khmer Empire.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit