Bayon is the richly decorated temple at the exact center of Angkor Thom, the walled royal city within the Angkor complex near Siem Reap, Cambodia. Built in the late 12th century as the state temple of King Jayavarman VII, it is famous for the more than 200 giant, serenely smiling stone faces that gaze out from its towers toward the cardinal directions - thought to depict either the king or the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. Together with Angkor Wat, it is a highlight of any Angkor visit.
Over 200 colossal smiling stone faces (each about 4m tall) on 37 towers, facing all four directions
Intricate bas-reliefs on the first two gallery levels depicting 12th-century battles, naval scenes, markets and daily life
Maze-like passages and steep stairways leading to the upper terrace where you meet the face towers up close
The dramatic South Gate of Angkor Thom, with a face tower and a causeway lined by figures from the Churning of the Sea of Milk myth
Late afternoon light catches the faces beautifully, and crowds thin once the tour buses leave
Good to know
SafetyTroops of wild macaques live around Bayon and the South Gate and have grown aggressive. They snatch food, water bottles, sunglasses and phones, so keep bags zipped, do not feed them, and keep your distance.
MannersThis is an active religious site with an enforced dress code. Both men and women must cover shoulders and knees with a proper shirt (a shawl alone is not enough), or you may be refused entry.
CautionRoadside 'ticket offices' other than the official one on Apsara Road are fake - they charge the real price but issue a counterfeit pass. Buy only at the official counter or online at ticket.angkorenterprise.gov.kh.
CautionChildren often crowd around selling postcards, bracelets or drinks at inflated prices, or beg citing 'school fees.' Buying or giving can encourage keeping kids out of school for begging, so decline politely.
SafetyAgree a full-day fare with your tuk-tuk driver in advance (typically $15-20). Some offer free or very cheap rides then vanish or later demand double; booking through your hotel is safer.
SeasonDuring the wet season (May-October) afternoon downpours are common, so mornings are better; the dry season (Nov-Feb) is most comfortable, but prepare for midday heat and strong sun with water, a hat and sunscreen.
Practical info
An Angkor Pass is required - roughly $37 for one day, $62 for three days, $72 for seven days (verify latest). The park is broadly open around 5:00am to 5:30pm (verify latest). Allow at least two hours to explore Bayon.
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