Cambodia, officially known as 'Kingdom of Cambodia', is a SE Asian Nation. Phnom Pheh is the Capital with Buddhism as its main religion.
In the country's NW are located the ruins of Angkor Wat, a huge and mesmerizing stone complex, built during the Khmer Empire.
The Bayon temple in the Angkor Wat Archaeological Park is one of the most famous tourist attraction, beautiful and intricately carved.
The temple is in a square shape
The stone faces of the temple are of Bodhisatva and Avalokiteshvara
It has been rebuilt several times by various kings who ruled over the kingdom.
History of Bayon Temple
The Bayon Temple was the state temple of King Jayavarman 7th, built at the end of the 12th century.
It is a symbol of Mount Meru which represents the Center of the Universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
The original name of Bayon was 'Jayagiri', which means 'mount of victory. The temple is related to Buddhism and gets its name Bayon, mispronounced from Banyan.
It was under this Banyan tree that Buddha attained enlightenment.
Architecture
The architecture of the Bayon is as fascinating as the temple itself which will definitely intrigue you.
Standing at the intersection of the walled city, is the temple of Bayon.
It is a beautiful, mesmerizing maze of galleries, towers and passageways on three levels.
It has outer gallery, inner gallery, upper terrace and central tower.
In Khymer Culture, rulers were considered to be equal with almighty.
According to legend, the face carvings can be a representation of King Jayavarman, himself.
In addition to the faces, (there are 216 of them), the other sculptural elements of the Bayon include extensive reliefs from inner and outer galleries which depict the daily life of King Jayavarman.
A Buddhist Monk inside the Bayon
Bayon is situated beside the Angkor Wat and Ta Prhom. It is protected by the city of Angkor Thom.
However it can be easily reached from all directions, as there are 4 roads from 4 entrance gopuras (entrance gate) leading directly to Bayon.
To get to the Angkor Site, you can hire a tuk-tuk, or a bicycle. You can ask your hotel or your travel consultant to arrange a vehicle.
The day typically starts with a sightseeing tour of the Angkor in the morning, then Bayon and other temples.
However if you want to give a miss to the crowds, you may visit in the afternoon or early morning. The temple looks mystical in the dark!!!
The Bayon Temple Pass
You need the Ankor Archaeological Temple Pass.
You can book directly through the main office at the Ankor Ticket Booth.
You can also book this with various travel consultants.
One day pass costs $37, three days' pass is of $62, and seven days' pass costs $72.
Timings: Mon to Sun - 5.00 am to 6 pm.
Things to Keep in Mind While Visiting Bayon
Keep your hands and shoulders fully covered.
No fancy dresses.
Avoid cacophony.
Maintain the decorum.
Strictly no alcohol or smoking.
The monks in the temple are highly respected. Do not point to them and always ask for permission for any photos.
The best time to visit Cambodia is between November to April when there is very little rain and clear skies. You will enjoy the soothing atmosphere of the coast.