Bayon Temple Travel Guide: History, Highlights, and Visitor Tips

As a tour guide, I’ve seen many travelers become speechless the moment they step into Bayon Temple. Located at the heart of Angkor Thom in Cambodia, Bayon is a temple unlike any other—a mystical maze of stone towers, each carved with giant, serene faces. It's both spiritually haunting and artistically mesmerizing, standing as one of the finest achievements of the Khmer Empire.
 

📍 Where is Bayon Temple?

Location: Central Angkor Thom, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia

Within: Angkor Archaeological Park

GPS Coordinates: 13.4413° N, 103.8590° E

🏛️ A Brief History of Bayon Temple

Bayon Temple was built in the late 12th to early 13th century by King Jayavarman VII, one of the most powerful rulers of the Khmer Empire. It served as the official state temple of Mahayana Buddhism.

Religion: Originally Mahayana Buddhist, later influenced by Hindu and Theravāda Buddhist traditions

Unique Feature: Over 200 gigantic stone faces on 54 towers

Symbolism: Faces believed to represent Avalokiteshvara (Bodhisattva of compassion) or the king himself

Bayon is unique for its combination of spiritual symbolism and political propaganda, where divine authority and royal power merge in stone.

🔍 What Makes Bayon Temple Unique?

🧱 1. The Smiling Faces

Perhaps the most iconic aspect of Bayon is its massive stone-carved faces, each about 4 meters tall.

They look out in all four cardinal directions and exude a calm, almost divine expression.

Theories suggest they represent Avalokiteshvara, or even a deified King Jayavarman VII.

🏞️ 2. Location at the Heart of Angkor Thom

Bayon is literally the center of Angkor Thom, a walled city built by Jayavarman VII.

Symbolically, it represents the axis mundi, or the cosmic center of the universe in Khmer cosmology.

🧩 3. Complex Architecture

A multi-level structure with narrow corridors, steep stairs, and hidden corners.

Composed of three main levels: the outer gallery, the inner gallery, and the central sanctuary tower.

🎨 4. The Bas-Reliefs

Two sets of intricate bas-reliefs (carvings) cover over 1.2 kilometers of walls.

They depict scenes of:

Khmer daily life (markets, cockfighting, childbirth)

Naval battles with the Cham

Mythological events

🧭 Highlights of Bayon Temple

📸 The Central Tower

The highest point of the temple, offering panoramic views and surrounded by four serene faces.

🗿 Southern Gallery Bas-Reliefs

Depict daily life and historical events like battles with the Chams.

🌀 The Inner Sanctuary

The spiritual heart of Bayon; once held important religious statues.

🛐 Shrine to the Buddha

A large seated Buddha was once central here but was removed and later restored during conservation efforts.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Bayon Temple

☀️ Dry Season (November – March)

Clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and ideal for photography

Most popular season, so expect more crowds

🌧️ Wet Season (May – October)

Lush greenery and fewer tourists

Bring rain gear and non-slip shoes

🕐 Time of Day

Early morning (7–8 AM): Beat the crowds and enjoy soft light on the faces

Late afternoon (4–5 PM): Golden light enhances the carvings

🧳 What to Bring

Lightweight, respectful clothing (shoulders and knees covered)

Sunscreen and hat

Camera with wide-angle lens

Water bottle

Bug spray

Small flashlight (for dim corridors)

🚶 How to Explore Bayon Temple

Bayon is not a temple to rush through. Here's a suggested route:

Enter from the East Gate

Start at the outer bas-reliefs

Move to the Inner Gallery

Examine the mythological scenes

Climb to the Central Terrace

Observe the massive faces from close proximity

Exit through the West

Ideal for photography if visiting in the afternoon

A licensed local guide is highly recommended to interpret the carvings and share historical context.

🎟️ Entrance Fees & Access

Access via Angkor Pass

1-day pass: $37

3-day pass: $62

7-day pass: $72

The Angkor Pass covers Bayon and all major temples including Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei.

🚖 Getting There

From Siem Reap: 20–30 minutes by tuk-tuk, bike, or taxi

Bayon is often part of the “Small Circuit” tour, which also includes:

Angkor Wat

Ta Prohm

Baphuon

Terrace of the Elephants

🛏️ Where to Stay in Siem Reap

Phnom Penh is the capital, but Siem Reap is the gateway to Angkor.

Budget Options

Onederz Hostel – Friendly, social, great rooftop pool

Lub D Siem Reap – Clean, modern, ideal for solo travelers

Mid-Range

The Aviary Hotel – Beautiful boutique hotel with bird-themed decor

Viroth’s Hotel – Stylish, great location, excellent service

Luxury

Shinta Mani Angkor – Designed by Bill Bensley, known for luxury and charity efforts

Anantara Angkor Resort – Elegant and peaceful, with tuk-tuk service included

🍜 What to Eat Near Bayon

While Bayon Temple itself doesn't have restaurants, Siem Reap offers fantastic Khmer cuisine.

Top Dishes to Try

Amok Trey: Steamed fish in coconut curry

Lok Lak: Stir-fried beef with pepper-lime sauce

Nom Banh Chok: Traditional Khmer noodle soup

Sticky rice with mango

Recommended Restaurants

Haven – Run as a social enterprise supporting young adults

Marum – Part of the Friends International group, delicious food with a purpose

Chanrey Tree – Upscale Khmer cuisine in a beautiful setting

🛍️ Souvenirs & Handicrafts

Buy from artisan markets and NGOs to support local communities.

Artisans Angkor – Workshops and handmade silk, wood, and stone crafts

Made in Cambodia Market – Open-air market with ethical, local goods

🌱 Responsible Travel Tips

Avoid touching carvings or climbing on fragile stonework

Refill your water bottle—don’t buy single-use plastic

Dress modestly

Tip your guide and tuk-tuk driver fairly

Learn a few Khmer phrases like:

“Hello” – Sous-dey

“Thank you” – Or-kun

📖 Fun Facts About Bayon Temple

Bayon was one of the last stone temples built during the Angkor period.

It was originally Buddhist but was altered multiple times to reflect the prevailing religion.

The number of towers and faces has changed over the centuries due to destruction and restoration.

📸 Photography Tips

Use a wide-angle lens to capture full towers with faces

Visit early or late for soft light and fewer crowds

Bring a tripod if visiting during off-peak hours and want long exposure shots

📌 Sample Half-Day Itinerary Including Bayon

Morning Tour (Best in Dry Season)

7:00 AM: Depart from Siem Reap

7:30 AM: Visit Angkor Wat

9:00 AM: Explore Bayon Temple

10:30 AM: Continue to Terrace of the Elephants and Baphuon

12:00 PM: Return to town for lunch

✨ Final Thoughts: Why You Must Visit Bayon Temple

Bayon Temple isn't just an architectural wonder—it’s a deeply spiritual and symbolic centerpiece of Cambodia’s rich history. The calm, enigmatic faces that look out over the ancient city of Angkor Thom leave a lasting impression on every traveler. Whether you're fascinated by ancient empires, art, religion, or photography, Bayon is an essential stop on any Cambodian adventure.