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At Bayon Temple, visitors should explore the iconic smiling faces of the many stone towers, walk around the central courtyard to view the detailed bas-reliefs, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this historical site. The temple offers a chance to delve into both Khmer architecture and history.
Bayon Temple, located in the heart of Angkor Thom , stands 1,500 meters from each of the four city gates. Its facade faces east, representing victory and prosperity. It is surrounded by a cloister measuring 156 meters long and 141 meters wide. The cloister walls are decorated with relief carvings, with the most elaborate on the east-south section and the south-east section.
The complexity of Bayon's architecture and the intensity of its symbolism have made it one of the world's most mysterious and fascinating religious sites, after Angkor transitioned from Hinduism to Buddhism. As the national temple, Bayon underwent numerous architectural changes, resulting in the jungle towers we see today.
Bayon Temple is the most essential part of the center of Angkor. Here you can not only find the famous " Khmer Smile " , but also appreciate the rich and vivid reliefs on the corridors.
Siem Reap is located in a low-latitude area and has a tropical climate. May to October is summer, with temperatures hovering around 33°C; November to April is winter in Siem Reap, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C, making it the best tourist season.
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
Entrance fee is included in the Angkor Wat pass
One-day tour: $ 37 / Three-day tour : $ 62 / Seven-day tour : $ 72
6:00-17:00
Bayon Temple was built in the late 12th or early 13th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. Located at the center of Angkor Thom, it is famous for its massive stone faces that represent Avalokiteshvara, as well as its extensive bas-reliefs depicting daily life in the Khmer Empire. The temple is an important symbol of Cambodian heritage and architecture.
Bayon Temple is located within the Angkor Archaeological Park, in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It can be easily reached by taxi or tuk-tuk from Siem Reap town. The temple is part of the Angkor complex, and there are shuttle services and guided tours available for visitors.
Bayon Temple is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and large crowds, as well as to catch the temple in beautiful natural lighting.
The entrance fee to the Angkor Archaeological Park, which includes Bayon Temple, is approximately $37 USD for a one-day pass, with multi-day passes available at higher prices. Tickets can be purchased online or at the official ticket center in Siem Reap.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. Visitors can buy tickets on the day of the visit at the ticket office in Siem Reap. However, during peak tourist seasons, it is recommended to arrive early to avoid long lines.
To fully explore Bayon Temple, including taking time for photography and enjoying the detailed bas-reliefs, visitors should plan for at least 1-2 hours.
The must-see highlights of Bayon Temple are the iconic faces on the towers, the intricately carved bas-reliefs depicting historical events, and the central sanctuary. Visitors should also check out the surrounding views of Angkor Thom.
Yes, guided tours are available, and audio guides can be rented at the entrance. Tours are available in several languages, including English, French, and Japanese.
The best photography spots are around the central tower to capture the iconic faces, as well as from the upper levels, where you can get a panoramic view of the temple complex and Angkor Thom. Early morning or late afternoon light enhances the beauty of the temple.
It’s recommended to start by exploring the central courtyard and main towers, then walk around the perimeter to view the bas-reliefs. A clockwise route will lead you through the temple in a systematic manner, allowing you to appreciate each section of the temple.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Bayon Temple. The temple is typically closed in the evening, though visitors can enjoy a magical atmosphere at sunrise or sunset.
Bayon Temple can be crowded, especially during midday and on weekends. The least crowded times are early in the morning, right when the temple opens, or late in the afternoon before closing.
There are basic facilities available near the temple, including toilets, food stalls, and water vendors. However, for more extensive options, visitors may want to head back to Siem Reap or the nearby Angkor Park areas.
The temple’s terrain, with many steps and uneven paths, may make it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children should be accompanied by adults while navigating the temple’s areas, especially the upper levels.
Cash is primarily needed for ticket purchases, food, and small souvenirs. Mobile payments are not commonly accepted inside the temple, but cards may be accepted in Siem Reap at larger businesses.
Nearby, there are a few simple restaurants and cafes offering Cambodian and international cuisine. For more options, Siem Reap town, about 10 km away, offers a wide variety of dining choices.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options can be found in restaurants around Siem Reap, though these may be limited near the temple itself.
Nearby accommodations include luxury hotels like the Belmond La Résidence d'Angkor and mid-range hotels like the Tara Angkor Hotel. Budget options are also available closer to Siem Reap.
Nearby attractions include Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and the Elephant Terrace. These are all part of the Angkor Archaeological Park and can easily be combined in a day trip with Bayon Temple.
There are souvenir shops near the temple selling local handicrafts, including carved stone replicas, textiles, and small Buddha statues. Typical souvenirs include traditional Cambodian crafts and jewelry.
The best transportation options are taxis or tuk-tuks, which are available at the temple exit. These can take visitors to other nearby temples or back to Siem Reap town.
