Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple (2011, Mar 15)

There are many temple ruins in the Siem Reap area, many of the most significant within the Angkor Archeological Park just north of the city. Stretching over 400km2, including forested area, the park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century.

I had only one day to visit Angkor. My itinerary began in the morning with the South Gate of Angkor Thom and Bayon. As it is within walking distance of Bayon, my visit could include central Angkor Thom with its artistically terraces and massive temple-mountains, Baphuon and Phimeanakas, Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King. Due to lighting conditions, I saved Angkor Wat for the last in order to capture sunset in the afternoon. 

The South Gate

The Line of Fierce-looking Demons

 The South Gate is a wonderful introduction to Angkor Thom , with well-restored statues of asuras (demons) and gods lining the bridge. The figures on the left, expressing serene expression, are the gods, while those on the right, grimaced, with fierce-looking heads, are the asuras (demons).

The Asuras

The Gods

The Gods

The South Gate

The South Gate

The South Gate provides the most common access route to Angkor Thom, predominantly because it sits on the path between the two great Angkor complexes.