Temples & religious sites
Bayon
The Bayon Temple
Located at the center of Angkor Thom, the Bayon is a Khmer temple constructed in the late 12th century under King Jayavarman VII. Travelers visit this site primarily to see its unique architecture, characterized by numerous massive stone faces carved into the towers, and the detailed bas-reliefs depicting historical events and daily life in the Khmer Empire.
Getting There
The temple is located outside the main city center of Siem Reap. Most visitors reach the site via remork (tuk-tuk) or taxi. The journey typically takes 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic and the specific starting point within the city.
Time Allocation
Allow approximately 1.5 to 3 hours to explore the temple grounds. This provides enough time to navigate the multiple levels and examine the carvings on the outer and inner galleries.
Planning Your Visit
The site gets crowded, particularly during the mid-morning and early afternoon. Visiting in the early morning helps avoid the peak heat and the largest groups of tourists. The dry season is generally preferred for easier navigation of the temple grounds.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its central location within the ancient city, the temple is easily combined with other nearby sites:
- Angkor Thom: 0.2km
- Baphuon: 0.4km
- Terrace of the Elephants: 0.5km
- Phimeanakas: 0.6km
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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