Terrace of the Elephants
A majestic ancient platform adorned with life-sized elephant carvings, once used by kings for grand ceremonies and public addresses.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer people
Terrace of the Elephants
Best Time
Golden light, fewer people

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic ancient platform adorned with life-sized elephant carvings, once used by kings for grand ceremonies and public addresses.
"Magnificent experience visit all the temples of Angkor Thom. The elephant terrace is a small one, but very beautiful one."
🚶♀️ Watch for Elephant Poo
Be mindful of your surroundings; while the carvings are stunning, there might be elephant droppings on the ground.
☀️ Visit During Cooler Hours
Go early morning or late afternoon for the best light and to avoid the intense midday heat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Majestic Elephant Carvings
Main Terrace Facade
Marvel at the detailed bas-reliefs of elephants, gods, and mythical creatures, showcasing incredible Khmer craftsmanship.

King's Viewing Platform
Top of the Terrace
Imagine kings addressing the public and welcoming victorious armies from this elevated vantage point.

Intricate Bas-Reliefs
Terrace of the Leper King (adjacent)
Explore the detailed carvings of deities and demons in the adjacent Terrace of the Leper King.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Combine Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What’s the best route to explore Angkor Wat efficiently by myself?
🚶♀️ Watch for Elephant Poo
Be mindful of your surroundings; while the carvings are stunning, there might be elephant droppings on the ground.
☀️ Visit During Cooler Hours
Go early morning or late afternoon for the best light and to avoid the intense midday heat.
Arrived today in siem reap - looking for some info ASAP: Angkor wat advice, tips, guide recommendations and tuktuk driver suggestions, plus anything else appreciated!
4 days in Siem Reap, how to tackle Angkor Wat & see as much as possible
🗺️ Explore the Hidden Passageway
Don't miss the narrow corridor behind the main terrace for a closer look at more impressive carvings.
🐘 No Elephant Rides
While elephants were once used for rides, this practice has stopped to protect the animals.
Hire Sornham for temple tours!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Watch for Elephant Poo
Be mindful of your surroundings; while the carvings are stunning, there might be elephant droppings on the ground.
☀️ Visit During Cooler Hours
Go early morning or late afternoon for the best light and to avoid the intense midday heat.
🗺️ Explore the Hidden Passageway
Don't miss the narrow corridor behind the main terrace for a closer look at more impressive carvings.
🐘 No Elephant Rides
While elephants were once used for rides, this practice has stopped to protect the animals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the intricate carvings and historical significance of the Terrace of the Elephants, particularly the detailed elephant bas-reliefs. Many highlight its role as a ceremonial platform and appreciate the adjacent Terrace of the Leper King. Some note the presence of elephant droppings and advise visiting during cooler hours.
"Visiting the Terrace of the Leper King in Angkor Thom was one of the highlights of my trip to Siem Reap. This unique structure, adorned with intricate carvings and steeped in mystery, offers a captivating glimpse into Cambodia's ancient Khmer civilization.
What Makes It Special?
Stunning Bas-Reliefs: The terrace is covered in detailed carvings of gods, demons, and mythical creatures, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship of the Khmer Empire.
Historical Significance: Named after a legendary leper king, the site is shrouded in intriguing myths and legends.
Hidden Passageway: Don’t miss the narrow corridor behind the main terrace, where you can see even more impressive carvings up close.
-Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting.
-Combine it with nearby sites like the Elephant Terrace and Bayon Temple.
- A guide can help explain the rich symbolism in the carvings."
Blossoming Romduol
"Magnificent experience visit all the temples of Angkor Thom . The elephant terrace is a small one, but very beautiful one, and you can go up and see the view from there, there it was also the crematorium of kings."
Angelina
"10 out of 10 with the greenery and fresh air 🤍 This place is very refreshing 🤍 must-visit"
Thida Eng
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Terrace of the Elephants is located within Angkor Thom, near the entrance to the Bayon Temple. You can hire a tuk-tuk or a private car from Siem Reap to take you to the Angkor Archaeological Park, and then explore the various temples within Angkor Thom. Many visitors combine this with a sunrise visit to Angkor Wat.
Yes, the terrace is easily accessible as part of the Angkor Thom complex. It's a relatively flat area, making it manageable for most visitors. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking around the temple complex.
Tuk-tuks are a popular and convenient way to travel between the temples within Angkor Thom. You can hire a driver for the day. Bicycles are also an option for the more adventurous, but can be challenging in the heat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need an Angkor Pass to enter the Angkor Archaeological Park, which includes the Terrace of the Elephants. Passes are available for 1, 3, or 7 days. Purchase your pass at the official ticket office before heading to the temples.
The Angkor Archaeological Park, including the Terrace of the Elephants, is generally open from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. However, it's always a good idea to check the latest official hours before your visit.
Angkor Pass prices vary depending on the duration. A 1-day pass is typically around $37 USD, a 3-day pass around $62 USD, and a 7-day pass around $72 USD. Prices are subject to change, so verify with the official ticket vendor.
You can purchase your Angkor Pass online through the official Angkor Enterprise website, which can save you time at the ticket counter. However, you still need to collect your physical pass.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best photographic light, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The golden hour light beautifully highlights the intricate carvings and the grandeur of the terrace.
Generally, photography is allowed in most outdoor areas. However, be respectful and avoid using flash photography inside any enclosed structures or where signs indicate otherwise.
Focus on the detailed elephant carvings along the facade, the central platform where kings once stood, and the intricate bas-reliefs on the adjacent Terrace of the Leper King. The surrounding greenery also adds to the photographic appeal.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and bring water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Hiring a licensed guide can greatly enhance your experience by providing historical context and explaining the symbolism behind the intricate carvings. Many visitors find it invaluable for understanding the site's significance.
You can explore the Terrace of the Elephants itself in about 30-60 minutes. However, it's usually visited as part of a larger tour of Angkor Thom, so plan for at least half a day to see the surrounding temples as well.
Restrooms are available at various points within the Angkor Archaeological Park, including near major temple complexes. It's advisable to carry your own water bottle, as there are vendors selling drinks, but having your own is convenient.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for families, aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat. The open spaces around the terrace allow for some freedom of movement, but always supervise children closely. Combining the visit with the Bayon Temple, with its giant smiling faces, can also add to the wonder for younger visitors. The Terrace of the Elephants offers a unique blend of history and impressive artistry that can spark curiosity in children about ancient civilizations.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Focus on exploring the main highlights of Angkor Thom, including the Terrace of the Elephants, Bayon Temple, and the Terrace of the Leper King, to get the most out of your pass. While guides can be informative, consider downloading offline temple guides or using reputable online resources to learn about the history and significance of the sites to save on guide fees. The sheer visual impact of the Terrace of the Elephants is impressive even without a detailed explanation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grandeur of Angkor Thom
Visitors often remark on the sheer scale of Angkor Thom and the intricate details found on every surface. The Terrace of the Elephants, in particular, is renowned for its long, sculpted facade featuring rows of life-sized elephants, their trunks forming decorative elements. This terrace was historically used for royal ceremonies, public audiences, and as a vantage point for viewing processions and performances. The nearby Terrace of the Leper King adds another layer of mystery and artistic wonder with its enigmatic statue and detailed carvings of celestial beings and mythological figures.
Exploring Angkor Thom requires a good amount of time and energy, as the sites are spread out. Many travelers recommend dedicating at least a full day to fully appreciate the main attractions within the city, including the Bayon Temple with its enigmatic smiling faces, the Baphuon, and the Royal Palace grounds. The Terrace of the Elephants is a crucial stop that offers a glimpse into the ceremonial life and artistic achievements of the Khmer kings.
Artistry in Stone: The Carvings
Beyond the elephants, the terrace is adorned with other bas-reliefs depicting various figures, including dancers, warriors, and mythical creatures. These carvings offer invaluable insights into the culture, beliefs, and daily life of the Khmer people during the Angkorian period. The adjacent Terrace of the Leper King is equally impressive, featuring a more somber and mysterious collection of carvings, including depictions of gods, demons, and scenes from Hindu mythology. The enigmatic statue at the top of this terrace, believed to represent a leper king, adds to its allure.
Many visitors are captivated by the sheer volume and quality of the carvings. A guide can help decipher the stories and symbolism embedded within the stone, transforming a visual appreciation into a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural narratives. The preservation of these detailed artworks, despite centuries of exposure to the elements, is a testament to the enduring legacy of Khmer artistry.
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