Experience Southeast Asia's 'Mona Lisa' at this grand and beautiful temple.
Built in the late 12th or early 13th century as the official state temple of the Buddhist King Jayavarman VII, Bayon Temple stands at the centre of his walled capital and represents the intersection of heaven and earth. Following Jayavarman's death, it was modified by later Hindu and Buddhist kings in accordance with their religious beliefs. What remains today is a beautifully preserved temple whose grand architecture and stunning details symbolise an era.One of the Angkor Archaeological Park's must-see sights, it's smaller than Angkor Wat and less tiring to explore. And explore you must, to see the many serene and massive stone faces on the temple's towers with one facing outward and keeping watch at each compass point. The smiling image, thought by some to be a portrait of Jayavarman, has been dubbed the Mona Lisa of Southeast Asia. The temple is also known for two impressive long walls of bas-reliefs, which present mythological, historical, and more everyday scenes. There are more than 11,000 carved figures over the 1.2 kilometres of wall, and it is thought that they were originally painted and gilded, but this has long since faded.The temple has three levels like Angkor Wat but as it is smaller, the climb is not as tiring. It's advisable to take your time and pause to see how at some points at the temple, the faces all line up, making for some wonderful photographs. It's also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and a hat as many parts of Bayon Temple are open to the elements, including the strong sun.Bayon is located in the centre of Angkor Archaeological Park and is well-signposted. The tour guides that will approach you in Siem Reap and at the gates of the park are usually inexpensive. You can of course travel independently instead, or hire a bike or an elephant to get you around! One, three or seven-day passes are available at the entrance of the park.
