Baphuon
An 11th-century pyramid temple with steep stairs, intricate bas-reliefs, and panoramic jungle views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Baphuon
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 11th-century pyramid temple with steep stairs, intricate bas-reliefs, and panoramic jungle views.
"Climbing to the top rewards you with beautiful panoramic views and a chance to admire the reclining Buddha."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is sandy and the climb is steep. Comfortable, grippy shoes are essential for safety and ease.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during hotter months. The climb can be arduous.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Approach
Causeway
A majestic raised sandstone walkway leading to the temple, offering a grand first impression.
Intricate Bas-Reliefs
Lower Terraces
Beautifully crafted scenes depicting military and religious life, especially those with animals.
Panoramic Terrace Views
Upper Level
Climb to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding jungle and temple complex.
The Reclining Buddha
Rear of the Temple
A partially completed giant reclining Buddha, a unique and serene sight at the temple's back.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Baphuon
Navigating Baphuon's Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What’s the best route to explore Angkor Wat efficiently by myself?
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is sandy and the climb is steep. Comfortable, grippy shoes are essential for safety and ease.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during hotter months. The climb can be arduous.
4 days in Siem Reap, how to tackle Angkor Wat & see as much as possible
Some advice for Angkor Wat?
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Pace
Baphuon is often less crowded than Angkor Wat, allowing for a more peaceful and immersive experience.
📸 Capture the Details
Don't miss the intricate bas-reliefs depicting ancient scenes; they are a highlight of the temple.
new to cambodia and siem reap. any tips and advice for my r days here?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is sandy and the climb is steep. Comfortable, grippy shoes are essential for safety and ease.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during hotter months. The climb can be arduous.
🚶♀️ Explore at Your Pace
Baphuon is often less crowded than Angkor Wat, allowing for a more peaceful and immersive experience.
📸 Capture the Details
Don't miss the intricate bas-reliefs depicting ancient scenes; they are a highlight of the temple.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Baphuon for its impressive scale, intricate bas-reliefs, and stunning panoramic views from the upper terrace. Many appreciate its relative tranquility compared to other Angkor temples, offering a more serene experience. However, the steep and sometimes slippery climb to the top can be challenging for some.
"It is a Hindu temple located within Angkor Thom. It is famous for its long corridor extending from the front, with beautifully crafted lower sections. Although I was not able to climb to the top level, the view from above was said to be quite spectacular."
HiDe86
"Impressive 5-tiered pyramid temple from the mid 11th century. Nice bas reliefs in vignettes, especially the ones showing animals. The terrain is sandy and unstable, giving the temple a long history of collapse. There is a half-finished giant reclining Buddha at the back."
A GV
"Baphuon Temple is an incredible architectural wonder within Angkor Thom. The raised sandstone walkway leading to the temple offers a majestic first impression, and the temple itself, once called the ‘world’s largest jigsaw puzzle’ due to its complex restoration, is both grand and peaceful. Climbing to the top rewards you with beautiful panoramic views and a chance to admire the reclining Buddha hidden at the back. It’s less crowded than Angkor Wat, making it a perfect place to enjoy the history and serenity of ancient Cambodia."
phich ratey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Baphuon is located within Angkor Thom. You can hire a tuk-tuk or a private car from Siem Reap to reach the Angkor Archaeological Park entrance. From there, it's a short ride to Angkor Thom, and Baphuon is easily accessible within the complex. Many visitors combine a visit to Baphuon with other temples in Angkor Thom.
Yes, Baphuon is a prominent temple within Angkor Thom and is well-signposted. It's often included in standard Angkor Thom tours, making it straightforward to locate.
Cycling is a popular way to explore the Angkor temples. If you're comfortable cycling longer distances, you can cycle from Siem Reap to Angkor Thom and then to Baphuon. Ensure you have a good map or GPS.
Inside Angkor Thom, you can walk, cycle, or use your hired tuk-tuk or car to move between the various temples, including Baphuon.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Baphuon Temple is part of the Angkor Archaeological Park. You will need a valid Angkor Pass to enter the park, which covers Baphuon and all other temples within Angkor Thom and the wider complex.
Baphuon, like most temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, is generally open from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily. It's always a good idea to check the official park hours before your visit.
Allocate at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate Baphuon, including climbing to the top and admiring the bas-reliefs. This allows time to soak in the history and views without rushing.
There is no separate entrance fee for Baphuon. Your Angkor Pass grants you access to all temples within the park, including Baphuon.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The climb involves steep and sometimes slippery sandstone stairs. While it can be arduous, it's manageable for most visitors with good mobility. Take your time and use handrails where available.
Key features include the impressive causeway, the detailed bas-reliefs depicting ancient scenes, the panoramic views from the upper terrace, and the partially completed reclining Buddha at the rear.
Children can visit Baphuon, but the steep climb might be challenging for very young ones. Adult supervision is recommended, especially on the stairs.
Official guides can be hired at the Angkor Archaeological Park entrance or through your tour operator. Hiring a guide can greatly enhance your understanding of the temple's history and significance.
This refers to the extensive restoration efforts undertaken by French archaeologists in the mid-20th century, where the temple was dismantled and reassembled piece by piece.
📸 📸 Photography
The causeway leading to the temple offers a dramatic perspective. The upper terrace provides stunning panoramic shots of the jungle. Don't forget to capture the intricate details of the bas-reliefs.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of Baphuon. However, always be respectful of the site and avoid using flash in enclosed or sensitive areas.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a warmer glow. The golden hour before sunset is particularly beautiful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the sense of discovery exploring an ancient structure can be captivating for kids. The panoramic views from the top are a great reward. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the immediate temple area are limited. It's a fantastic opportunity to introduce children to history in a tangible, awe-inspiring setting.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to save money on purchases within the park. While hiring a guide is beneficial, you can also explore Baphuon independently, using guidebooks or online resources to learn about its history and significance. The lesser crowds at Baphuon compared to Angkor Wat mean you can often enjoy its grandeur without additional tour fees.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Restoration of Baphuon
What makes the Baphuon particularly fascinating is its complex and lengthy restoration. In the mid-20th century, the temple had significantly deteriorated, leading to a massive deconstruction and reassembly project. This ambitious endeavor, often described as the 'world's largest jigsaw puzzle,' involved meticulously cataloging and rebuilding thousands of sandstone blocks. The process was fraught with challenges, including political instability and the sheer scale of the task, but it ultimately saved this architectural marvel for future generations.
Today, visitors can still see evidence of this restoration, with some blocks left in their original positions and others clearly marked. The temple's history is etched not only in its stones but also in the dedication of those who worked to preserve it. The Baphuon style of architecture, characterized by its grandeur and intricate detailing, is a testament to the artistic and engineering achievements of its era.
Exploring Baphuon: What to Expect
The climb to the upper terraces of Baphuon is a significant part of the experience. The stairs are steep and can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is highly recommended. As you ascend, you'll gain increasingly impressive views of the surrounding landscape. The panoramic terrace at the top provides a breathtaking 360-degree vista of the lush jungle and the sprawling Angkor Thom complex. It's a rewarding climb that offers a sense of accomplishment and a unique vantage point.
Don't miss the partially completed reclining Buddha located at the rear of the temple. This massive sculpture, added later, adds another layer of historical and artistic interest to Baphuon. The temple is often less crowded than its more famous neighbors like Angkor Wat, allowing for a more serene and personal exploration of its ancient wonders.
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