Bayon Temple: Towers of smiles in Angkor, Cambodia
Updated: Apr 8
Located in the heart of Angkor Thom, the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire, lies the mesmerizing Bayon Temple, a captivating monument known for its enigmatic smiles. Built in the late 12th or early 13th century by King Jayavarman VII, it stands as a testament to the king's creative genius and his dedication to Mahayana Buddhism.
A Temple Adorned with Smiles
The defining feature of Bayon Temple is undoubtedly its 54 towers, each adorned with colossal, enigmatic faces. These serene smiles, some believe, represent the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, the embodiment of compassion in Mahayana Buddhism. Others suggest they may depict King Jayavarman VII himself, reflecting his perceived divinity as a ruler.
Bayon Temple, along with the other magnificent temples of Angkor, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. It is considered one of the most significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia and continues to captivate visitors with its unique beauty, historical significance, and towers of smiles.
In this post, we show you our highlights from Bayon Temple, the history of Angkor and the Khmer Empire, ten interesting Bayon facts, all you need to know about how to get there, the best time to visit, and even ticket information!
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Book a sunrise temple tour of Angkor with Klook
● Witness a sunrise unlike any other at the beautiful Angkor Wat Temple, one of the largest religious monuments in the world
● Walk through Angkor Wat and marvel at the incredibly intricate carvings on its walls
● Also explore the beautiful Bayon Temple, known for the many mysterious faces engraved on its towers. Wander in awe at the beauty of the world-famous Ta Prohm Temple, surrounded by massive trees
● Convenient hotel transfers as well as expert commentary from your local tour guide
● Note that you will still be required to purchase the Angkor Archaeological Park Ticket
Our Bayon Temple highlights
Fresh off of our visit to Angkor Wat for the sunrise, we then made our way to Bayon, just a short Tuk-tuk ride away. We had actually caught a glimpse driving past it the previous day, and specifically requested our driver to take us there as we were so intrigued.
You can probably understand why we were curious; 216 faces gazing in all directions, from a beautiful collection of lotus towers. Plus the empty pillars that stretch across the front, standing tall despite the erosion of the canopy that they once held.
Heading to Bayon Temple at midday was not exactly the brightest of ideas, given the heat was heading north of 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit). Bayon does require some climbing, and although there are some shaded hallways, there is not much by way of blockage from the searing rays of the sun. Nonetheless we were keen to make the best of it, even with the thought of dunking in our pool back at our villa rattling around in our minds.
Beyond the captivating faces, the Bayon boasts a wealth of intricate details that offer a glimpse into the Khmer Empire's rich history and artistic mastery. We were really keen to see the incredible 1.2 kilometers of bas-reliefs adorned on the walls depicting scenes from everyday life, religious ceremonies, and even military battles fought by King Jayavarman VII.
These intricate carvings offer a window into the landscape of the Khmer Empire during its peak, and they are indeed everywhere. Easy to see where they get the kilometers from that's for sure. There is a lot to see here, and plenty of photo opportunities with the faces too. Especially Instagram ones!
That being said, this was the first temple that we got a little harassed by 'guides', borderline desperate to tell us the history and grab our cameras for the 'perfect shot'. We are fairly experienced with this kind of thing, but here it was particularly difficult to say no. As in no was not quite enough! It was a shame, as for the first 20 - 30 minutes we were here, we weren't left alone. It was okay after that, but we had seen much of what we could, so decided to head back out.
Bayon Temple is a fascinating one, certainly a standout alongside Angkor Wat in terms of its architectural brilliance and imposing nature. The faces do get most of the recognition but preservation is a big factor here too. It has been remarkably well-restored and huge credit has to be given for that! Despite the hawkers making it a bit difficult, we can totally see why this is one of the most popular temples in Angkor.
Read on for more on the history of Bayon Temple, some interesting facts, more about the Khmer Empire, entry information and some suggestions of other must-see temples nearby.
What was the Khmer Empire?
The Khmer Empire, which ruled from 802 to 1431 AD, was a powerful Hindu-Buddhist kingdom centered in Southeast Asia, primarily in what is now Cambodia. They were named after the Khmer people, the dominant ethnic group of the empire.
The Khmer were brilliant hydraulic engineers, constructing a complex network of canals, reservoirs, and moats to manage the mighty Mekong River and its seasonal flooding. This innovation allowed them to cultivate vast rice fields, fueling a thriving agricultural society.
The Khmer were also master builders. Their most famous achievement is the magnificent Angkor Wat complex, a testament to their architectural prowess and religious devotion. Throughout their reign, they constructed numerous temples, palaces, and cities, many adorned with intricate carvings depicting their way of life, mythology, and military victories.
The Khmer Empire became a major cultural and political force in Southeast Asia, influencing neighboring kingdoms with their art, architecture, and religious beliefs. Their legacy lives on not only in the awe-inspiring temples but also in the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia and the region.
The history of Angkor: The rise of the Khmer Empire
Angkor's history stretches back to the 9th century, marking the rise of the powerful Khmer Empire. King Jayavarman II declared himself a "universal monarch" in 802, establishing Angkor as the capital and kickstarting a golden age.
The city flourished under successive kings, becoming a center of religion, art, and hydraulic engineering. Grand temples like Angkor Wat, initially dedicated to Hinduism, were built as testaments to the kings' power and devotion. Trade thrived, and the empire's territory expanded, reaching its peak in the 12th and 13th centuries.
However, environmental changes, political instability, and conflicts with neighboring kingdoms gradually weakened the empire. By the 15th century, Angkor was largely abandoned, succumbing to the jungle's embrace.
Though rediscovered in the 19th century, it wasn't until the 20th century that extensive restoration efforts began, revealing the magnificent legacy of the Khmer civilization to the world. Today, Angkor stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors with its captivating temples, intricate carvings, and silent testament to a glorious past.
10 interesting facts about Bayon Temple
We have cherry-picked the best facts we could find, but feel free to reach out if you have a gem we could add to the list!
1. Smiling Faces, Enigmatic Origins
The Bayon's iconic feature is its 216 enigmatic faces, each gazing out from 54 towers. Theories suggest they represent the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (compassion) or King Jayavarman VII himself, reflecting his perceived divinity.
2. Everywhere You Look
These faces aren't just friendly; they're omnipresent. Each face gazes in all four directions, symbolizing the Bayon's role as the center of the Buddhist universe in Khmer belief.
3. A Story Carved in Stone
The Bayon isn't just about faces. Over 1.2 kilometers of intricate bas-reliefs adorn the walls, depicting daily life, religious ceremonies, and even King Jayavarman VII's military campaigns, offering a glimpse into the Khmer Empire's past.
4. Lost and Found Name
We don't actually know what the Khmer people called the temple during its time of use! The name "Bayon" is a 19th-century French adaptation, possibly derived from the Sanskrit word "paryanika" meaning "pedestal for sacred statues."
5. Royal City, Royal Temple
Unlike Angkor Wat, the Bayon wasn't surrounded by its own walls and moats. Instead, it shared the defensive structures of Angkor Thom, the royal city, highlighting its central role in the kingdom.
6. A King's Legacy
King Jayavarman VII built the Bayon during his reign (1181-1218), likely starting construction late in his life. The temple's three distinct levels reflect the different phases of construction, each undertaken as the previous one neared completion.
7. More Than Meets the Eye
The Bayon is a multi-level labyrinth. The central tower, originally cruciform, was later modified to create a circular shape, adding to the temple's unique and complex design.
8. Buddhist Transformation
Though built by a Buddhist king, the Bayon may have seen some Hindu influence. A large Buddha statue once resided in the central sanctuary, but was removed and destroyed during a later Hindu restoration.
9. A Modern Marvel
Despite centuries of weathering and even looting, the Bayon continues to stand tall. Ongoing restoration efforts ensure its preservation for future generations.
10. UNESCO Recognition
The Bayon, along with Angkor Wat and other temples, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, solidifying its significance as a cultural and historical treasure.
Tips for visiting Bayon Temple and the Angkor site
⪢ Start early
Bayon Temple is amongst the most popular temples in Angkor, and can be one of the hottest (depending on the season you visit). The public areas of the temple have cover in many of the open corridors, but being out in the open is inevitable as you explore. Try to avoid going during the middle of the day to avoid the peak of the sun.
⪢ Bring water
It can get hot in the Angkor region, so be sure to bring plenty of water with you and stay hydrated!
⪢ Bring bug spray
Mosquitos are prevalent here, especially during the hot season. If you are prone to bites, bringing repellent can make a big difference.
⪢ Wear comfortable shoes
You will be doing a lot of walking and climbing at Angkor, so wear comfortable shoes.
⪢ Be respectful
Bayon Temple is a sacred site, so be sure to be respectful of the temple and its surroundings.
⪢ Dress appropriately
When visiting Bayon Temple, both men and women should have their shoulders covered, and knees should be concealed by avoiding shorts or short skirts. Revealing or tight clothing should be avoided.
It's recommended to carry a scarf or shawl to cover shoulders or wrap around the waist if necessary. Access to certain areas could be restricted to those not following these guidelines.
Hats and sunglasses are acceptable for sun protection but should be removed when entering the temple. Adhering to these dress code guidelines shows respect for the religious and cultural significance of the site and helps preserve its historical importance.
⪢ Uneven floors
Good footwear is the recommendation here. Most of the floor surfaces are uneven, and there are many steps to ascend and descend. We understand the love for sandals, but this just does not seem like the right environment for them!
⪢ Be aware of sellers
With over 2 million visitors a year, Angkor is a vital source of income for the locals. There are many stalls and vendors who are very persistent in offering souvenirs and wares. Also you will often have people come up to you within the temple sites, telling history or offering to take photographs. Almost always they will expect money in return, although they will not mention this first.
⪢ Security
The temple security staff are very kind, but also be aware that if they offer to take photos, they are also looking for some cash too!
⪢ Bring cash
If you do intend on picking up a local guide, buying souvenirs or donating money, do remember to bring enough cash. ATM's are very scarce in this area, and often do not work with international cards. Most local food stands, stores and restaurants only take cash too, so be prepared.
Angkor Pass Tickets for Bayon Temple
The entry fee for Bayon Temple is included in the ticket for the Angkor Archaeological Park. All visitors to the Angkor site must present this pass, at various checkpoints throughout the site. There is no separate entrance fee to visit the temple.
The cost of the Angkor Archaeological Park Ticket varies depending on the length of your stay:
1-day pass: $37 USD / $49.93 CAD / £28.78 GBP
3-day pass: $62 USD / $83.87 CAD / £48.22 GBP
7-day pass: $72 USD / $97.40 CAD / £56.00 GBP
Children under 12 years old are admitted free.
Please note that prices and conversions shown are correct at time of writing (March 2024). See the ticket link below for up-to-date information. Feel free to get in touch if you spot a discrepancy so we can update!
You can buy your Angkor Archaeological Park ticket online or at the Official Ticket Center, which is around 4km away from the main site (map below).
Bayon Temple opening times & best time to visit
Bayon Temple is open everyday between 7.30am and 5.30pm, with last entry at around 5pm. The general rule of thumb is from sunrise to sunset, so these times can shift around a little throughout the course of the year.
The Angkor Archaeological park itself is open between 5am and 7pm.
⪢ Best time to visit Bayon Temple
The best time to visit Angkor weather-wise is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April.
⪢ Cool Season (November to February)
This is the peak tourist season in Cambodia. The weather is relatively mild, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. It's an excellent time to explore Bayon and other temples comfortably without being overwhelmed by the heat. However, do keep in mind that this is the busiest time for tourism, so expect larger crowds at popular sites.
⪢ Hot Season (March to April)
During these months, the weather starts getting hotter, and temperatures can soar, especially in April. While it's not as crowded as the cool season, the scorching heat might make outdoor exploration less comfortable for you. If you can tolerate the heat, visiting during this time could still be enjoyable, as the skies remain clear, and you can capture stunning photographs of Bayon in the golden sunlight.
We visited at the back-end of March, and it was extremely hot, averaging 40+ degrees Celsius (104F) daily. All of the temples in Angkor involve a lot of walking and climbing, with much of it not undercover. It is essential to consider your personal preferences and comfort levels when choosing the best time to come here. If you prefer fewer crowds and can handle hotter temperatures, the hot season might work well for you. The trade-off for milder weather is bigger crowds, so pick wisely!
We do recommend you avoid the rainy season, which typically spans from May to October. During this period, Cambodia experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity, which can make exploring the temple complex challenging due to muddy and slippery conditions. Moreover, some areas may be inaccessible, and the landscape won't be as picturesque as during the dry season.
How to get to Bayon Temple
Walking isn’t really an option at the Angkor site as the temples are huge, the distance between each is vast, and the sun is searingly hot. We used a local Tuk-tuk driver, who we booked for a week through our Airbnb, to show us around. He was full of information and also doubles up as a guide, alongside always being on hand with a cold drink after a temple visit! Here are some of the main options:
⪢ By tuk-tuk
Tuk-tuks are a popular way to get around Siem Reap and the surrounding area. They are relatively inexpensive and can take you to Angkor in about 20 minutes from the city center. As mentioned this is the option we chose, and we can recommend our very reliable and impressive driver if needed. Feel free to get in touch and we would be happy to share his details.
⪢ By bicycle
If you are feeling energetic, you can also cycle to Angkor. The ride is about 4 kilometers from the city centre and takes about 30 minutes. It is very hot however, so do remember to bring plenty of water and keep hydrated.
⪢ Consider taking a tour
There are many tour operators in Siem Reap that offer day trips to Angkor. This is a good option if you want to learn more about the temple and its history. We recommend using Klook, who offer a variety of different experiences with qualified tour guides and hotel pick up and drop off options. Take this tour four example:
● Visit the Angkor Thom complex where you will explore the fascinating beauty of Bayon Temple and the world-famous Ta Prohm Temple (Tomb-Raider Temple)
● Marvel at the enormous and beautiful Angkor Wat Temple, one of the largest religious monuments in the world
● The temples on this tour are among the biggest in the Angkor Complex
● Note that you will still be required to purchase the Angkor Archaeological Park Ticket.
Other must-see temples near Bayon
Take a peek at some of the other incredible temples in the vicinity of Bayon that we highly recommend:
⪢ Baphuon Temple
The Baphuon Temple is a significant historical and architectural monument located within the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It is a part of Angkor Thom, the great capital city of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to 15th centuries.
⪢ Angkor Wat
This is the most famous temple in Angkor and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is a massive temple complex that was built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II.
⪢ Ta Prohm
This temple is famed for the way large trees have intertwined with the ruins, creating a captivating blend of nature and history. The film "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider" brought global attention to Ta Prohm. It's not far from the Bayon temple.
Watch our Angkor Wat sunrise on YouTube
Angkor Wat is indeed a bucket list destination for many people being the largest spiritual grounds on earth! In this video we share with you some of our incredible sunrise footage from Angkor along with some tips on how to make your morning and day go a little smoother. We also show you where to pick up your temple day (or week) pass (you must be present as they take a photo and give you a tangible card).
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Explore Siem Reap with special offers from Klook
Klook offers a wide variety of tours to help you experience the best of Angkor. Whether you're looking for a sunrise tour of Angkor Wat, a private tour of the temples, or a day trip to other temples in the region, Klook has something to offer.
In addition to their wide selection of tours, Klook also offers great deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities. All tours are led by experienced guides who can help you learn about the history and culture of Siem Reap. Klook's tours are all-inclusive too, so you don't have to worry about anything but enjoying your experience.
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