Discover Angkor Thom, A Visitors Guide

Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom was the longest and most enduring capital of the Khmer Empire. Built-in the 1200’s, it merged with the original structure built in the 9th C. Comprised of many temples, city buildings, and structures spanning over 9KM many have not survived or are in various states of disrepair. There is still so much to explore throughout the sprawling complex. Surrounded by a man-made moat and border fence, there are four entrances on the Cardinal directions. At its height, it is estimated that 80-100K people lived within the capital city. Learn about the sights and how to plan your day visiting guide to Angkor Thom and get the most from your experience.

South Gate

Coming from Angkor Wat, you will enter Angkor Thom through this gate. Based on the story of “The Churning of Milk,” there are 54 devas (gods) on one side and on the other 54 asuras (demons). 

Baphuon

Built for the for God Shiva, in the first Capital city around @1050 C. Based on correspondence during the time, the temple is said to be crowned with bronze plating. During the 16th C., significant renovations of Baphuon took place in the conversion to Buddhism. One of the most massive restoration efforts to repair this temple took place from 1996 to 2011. 

Phimeanakas

Called the Celestial Temple. It was here that the King would meet with the Naga Queen during the first watch. If the Naga Queen did not show up, it was believed the King’s reign was to end soon. If the King did not show up, chaos and untold destruction would take place. 

Khleangs

Khleangs – there are two North and South thought to be used as a reception area or other unknown purposes. They are not in great shape but worth exploring as you walk through the grounds. 

The Terrace of the Leper King

The Terrace of the Leper King – Hindu God Yama, the god of death. believed to be called, discoloration and moss reminded people of leprosy. 

Elephant Terrace

This was the area for King Jayavarman VII to review the armies as they returned from battle. This attached to the Palace Phimeanakas. Stand Above the Elephants carved into the base and imagine what it’s like to be KIng. 

Prasat Suor Prat

Across from the Elephant Terrace, there are twelve narrow buildings in various states of disrepair. They are stretch across Victory Road and most people do not investigate them. The small structures similar in construction and design, their purpose remains unclear. Several theories have been shared, one, doctors would house sick patients to stop the spread of any illness. But the most popular –

“In front of the palace, there are twelve small stone towers. When two men dispute over some unknown matter, each of the contestants is forced to sit in one of them while the relatives stand watch at the base. After three or four days, he who is wrong shows it by suffering some illness – ulcers, or catarrh, or malignant fever – while the other remains in perfect health. Thus right or wrong is determined by what is called ‘divine judgement’…

“The Customs of Cambodia”, Zhou Daguan.

Tips for Visiting Angkor Thom

This is part of the small loop and after visiting Angkor Wat, this is the next logical stop on your adventure. Use this guide to Angkor Thom to plan your route around the area. All of these sites are within walking distance of each other, you should be able to accomplish in 4-5 hours. There is not a lot of shade and depending on the timing of the visit, there will be a lot of sunlight and heat; make sure you bring water, a hat, and sunblock.

Looking for further information on Angkor Wat? Check out our other posts on Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, and Siem Reap to help you plan your trip.

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