Angkor Thom | Siem Reap

Angkor Thom – The Last Great Capital of the Khmer Empire

Angkor Thom, meaning "Great City", was the last and most enduring capital of the Khmer Empire. Built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, this vast walled city covers 9 square kilometers and contains some of the most impressive and iconic structures of the Angkor complex, including the Bayon Temple, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Victory Gate.

Unlike the earlier Angkor Wat, which was a Hindu temple, Angkor Thom was primarily a Buddhist city, reflecting the king’s devotion to Mahayana Buddhism. However, elements of Hindu architecture are still present throughout the city.

History of Angkor Thom

Before Jayavarman VII established Angkor Thom as his capital, earlier Khmer rulers built previous capitals in the same area. However, in the late 12th century, following a devastating Cham invasion (1177 AD), Jayavarman VII decided to construct a massive fortified city to secure the empire's power.

The city remained a political and religious center for several centuries until the decline of the Khmer Empire in the 15th century, after which it was largely abandoned and consumed by the jungle.

Architectural Features of Angkor Thom

1. The Enclosed City and Massive Gates

Angkor Thom is surrounded by an 8-meter-high (26 feet) wall and a 100-meter-wide moat, creating a nearly perfect square city. Each side of the square is about 3 km (1.8 miles) long.

There are five massive entrance gates, each 20 meters (66 feet) tall, adorned with giant stone faces and flanked by naga balustrades (serpent guardians). The five gates include:

• South Gate (most popular for visitors)
• North Gate
• East Gate (also called "Gate of the Dead")
• West Gate
• Victory Gate (leads to the Royal Palace area)

The causeways leading to the gates feature 54 stone figures on each side, representing Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons) in the Churning of the Ocean of Milk from Hindu mythology.

2. Bayon Temple – The Heart of Angkor Thom

At the center of Angkor Thom lies Bayon Temple, one of the most mystical and famous structures in Cambodia.

• Features 54 towers, each with four massive stone faces, believed to represent Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara or King Jayavarman VII himself.
• The temple is covered in intricate bas-reliefs, depicting Khmer history, mythology, and daily life.
• The central sanctuary once contained a giant Buddha statue, later destroyed when the empire reverted to Hinduism.

3. The Royal Palace and Phimeanakas

Though little remains of the Royal Palace (built of perishable materials like wood), its stone terraces and temples still stand.

• Phimeanakas: A pyramid-shaped temple, where legend says a golden serpent spirit lived, and the Khmer king was required to spend the night with her to ensure prosperity.
• The Royal Pool (Sra Srang) was used by the Khmer kings for bathing.

4. The Terrace of the Elephants

A 350-meter-long platform used for royal audiences, parades, and public ceremonies.

• Features life-sized carvings of elephants, as well as detailed battle and hunting scenes.
• It was likely used as a viewing platform for military processions.

5. The Terrace of the Leper King

Located near the Terrace of the Elephants, this platform features a mysterious statue of a naked figure, known as the Leper King.

• Some believe it represents King Yasovarman I, who was rumored to have leprosy.
• Others suggest it depicts Yama, the Hindu god of death.
• The terrace features hidden walls with intricate carvings of celestial beings and demons.

6. Preah Palilay – A Hidden Gem

Tucked away in the forest, Preah Palilay is a small, peaceful temple featuring a Buddha image and beautiful carvings. Unlike Bayon, it has a serene, jungle atmosphere, making it a perfect escape from the crowds.

Religious and Cultural Significance

Angkor Thom was not just a capital city but also a spiritual center. The fusion of Buddhist and Hindu elements in its architecture reflects Cambodia’s changing religious landscape over centuries.

• Initially a Mahayana Buddhist city under Jayavarman VII.
• Later Hindu rulers attempted to remove Buddhist imagery, but much remains intact.
• Today, Angkor Thom is a symbol of Cambodia’s rich heritage and resilience.

Visiting Angkor Thom

1. Best Time to Visit

• Early morning (before 9 AM) or late afternoon (after 3 PM) to avoid crowds.
• The golden hour before sunset creates a magical glow on the stone carvings.

2. Getting There

• Angkor Thom is located just north of Angkor Wat, about 10 km from Siem Reap.
• It can be explored on foot, by bicycle, tuk-tuk, or guided tour.

3. What to Expect

• Plenty of walking (comfortable shoes recommended).
• Stunning architecture, from massive gates to the mysterious smiling faces of Bayon.
• A mix of Hindu and Buddhist influences, offering a deep insight into Khmer history.

Conclusion

Angkor Thom is a spectacular fusion of architecture, spirituality, and history, showcasing the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. From the iconic Bayon Temple to the majestic city gates, Angkor Thom remains one of the most impressive and unforgettable sites in Cambodia. Whether you are fascinated by history, architecture, or culture, Angkor Thom is an absolute must-visit in the Angkor complex.