Things to Do at Angkor Thom
Complete Guide to Angkor Thom in Siem Reap
About Angkor Thom
What to See & Do
Bayon Temple
216 serene stone faces carved into 54 towers at the geographic center of Angkor Thom. The faces are thought to represent Avalokiteshvara - or King Jayavarman VII himself. Climb to the upper terrace to stand face-to-face with a 2-meter carved smile. The outer gallery bas-reliefs show everyday life: markets, fishing, cockfights, childbirth
South Gate Entrance
The most dramatic entrance to any temple in Southeast Asia. 54 gods (left) and 54 demons (right) line the causeway pulling a giant naga serpent. Many statues are headless reproductions (originals in museums), but the scale overwhelms. Your tuk-tuk drives through the face-topped gate with inches to spare on each side
Baphuon Temple
A massive pyramid temple that collapsed and was rebuilt from 300,000 numbered stones over 50 years by French archaeologists. Climb to the top for views over the jungle canopy. The western wall reveals a 70-meter reclining Buddha figure - walk around the back to see it. Most visitors miss this entirely
Terrace of the Elephants
A 350-meter carved platform where the king reviewed his army. Life-sized elephants in procession, garudas holding up the terrace, and hunting scenes. The detail improves as you walk south - the final section has elephants pulling out tree stumps with their trunks. Best photographed in afternoon light
Terrace of the Leper King
A hidden inner wall only discovered when the outer wall was removed for restoration. Seven tiers of carved nagas, garudas, and apsaras in extraordinary detail, protected from weathering for 800 years by the outer wall. Walk into the narrow corridor between the walls - it feels like entering a secret passage
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The gates tend to get busy around 8-9 AM when tour groups arrive, so earlier is generally better for both crowds and lighting.
Tickets & Pricing
Angkor Pass required: 1-day pass $37, 3-day pass $62, 7-day pass $72. You can buy tickets at the main entrance or online. The pass covers all Angkor Archaeological Park sites, so it's actually decent value if you're planning to see multiple temples.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning (6-8 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for the best light and fewer crowds. Dry season (November to March) is more comfortable weather-wise, though you'll encounter more tourists.
Suggested Duration
Allow 3-4 hours minimum to see the main highlights properly. You could easily spend a full day here if you're genuinely interested in the architecture and history.
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
The famous temple complex is just 10 minutes south and obviously the main draw for most visitors. If you're doing both in one day, Angkor Thom in the morning and Angkor Wat for sunset works well.
The 'Tomb Raider temple' where massive trees grow through the ruins. It's about 15 minutes east and makes for a nice contrast to Angkor Thom's more restored structures.
A sprawling temple complex that feels more like exploring ruins in the jungle. Less crowded than the main sites and you'll likely have sections to yourself.
Known as the 'Lady Temple' for its intricate pink sandstone carvings. It's about 30 minutes northeast but the detailed artistry is genuinely exceptional if you appreciate craftsmanship.