Several centuries before Leonardo DaVinci created the enigmatic smile of his Mona Lisa, hundreds of serene faces displaying equally enigmatic smiles were carved into the famous temple now known as Bayon. Bayon is in the heart of the ancient city of Angkor Thom, which was the symbolic center of the Khmer empire. Dedicated to Buddha by King Jayavarman VII, this state temple was originally called “Jayagiri” (which means “Victory Mountain”) but was renamed “Banyan Temple” sometime after the period of French occupancy. The Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment after a long period of meditation beneath a banyan tree. The religious significance of the banyan tree and the many banyan trees growing around the site made it an appropriate name. However, the local Khmer who worked on the restoration of the temple were responsible for its final name change. The workers mispronounced the name as “Bayon” instead of “Banyan” and the name stuck.
The tranquil stone faces of Bayon are some of the most recognizable images from the Angkor Archeological Park, and missing the opportunity to see them in person would be an absolute crime. In fact, Bayon is considered one of the “big three” sites that every visitor to Angkor should see – the other two being Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm. In addition to the multitude of giant stone faces smiling down at you from every direction, the site also includes an impressive array of well-preserved bas-relief carvings depicting an unusual combination of scenes from history, mythology, and everyday life.
Although Bayon is fairly compact compared to many of the other temples, you should allow at least two hours to wander through its complex maze of chambers, passages, and occasionally steep stairways. There is sufficient shade in Bayon to make it pleasant to visit at any time of day, but if you wish to avoid the crowds you should visit in the afternoon. There are unique photo opportunities everywhere you turn, and a guide can help point out where to get the best shots – including the popular composition of visitors facing “nose to nose” with one of the giant heads. The play of light changes dramatically throughout the day due to the complex structure of the temple and the shade from the surrounding trees. There is almost no direct sunlight in the hours just after sunrise and just before sunset.
Location and How to Get There
Bayon is located in the exact center of the Angkor Thom complex, precisely 1.5km from both the North and South gates, and can be entered from any point. Unlike many of the other Angkor temples, Bayon has no moats or surrounding walls. It is protected on all sides by the city of Angkor Thom itself. Part of the Small Circuit, Bayon is easily reached from any direction as it is surrounded by a road. Contact us to arrange for a safe and reliable tuk-tuk or taxi driver to show you around the park.
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