Temples & religious sites
Bayon
What It Is
Bayon is a Khmer temple at the center of Angkor Thom, constructed under King Jayavarman VII as the empire's principal shrine. The monument is known for stone towers carved with calm faces and bas-reliefs of historical battles and daily life. Structural additions by later kings showcase the layered architectural history of Angkor.
Getting There
Situated about 10 kilometers north of central Siem Reap, the site is reachable by tuk-tuk, car, or bicycle. The trip from town takes 20 to 30 minutes.
Time to Allow
Allow 1 to 1.5 hours to tour the inner galleries and explore the upper terrace.
When to Go
Visit during early morning or late afternoon for cooler air and better lighting on the stone faces. The temple gets crowded between mid-morning and early afternoon. The dry season runs from November to April, while the rainy season from May to October has fewer visitors.
What to Combine It With
You can easily reach several nearby sites on foot or via a short ride:
- Angkor Thom (0.2km): The royal city surrounding the temple.
- Baphuon (0.4km): A stepped temple mountain to the northwest.
- Terrace of the Elephants (0.5km): A ceremonial viewing terrace with stone carvings.
- Preah Palilay (0.6km): A quiet woodland sanctuary.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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