Baphuon Temple Summit Panorama
Most visitors rush past Baphuon on their way to Bayon, which is exactly why you should linger. Climb the steep staircases of this colossal 11th-century temple-mountain and you'll be rewarded with one of the finest 360-degree panoramas in the entire Angkor Archaeological Park — jungle canopy in every direction, with the towers of Bayon rising above the treetops to the south.
The Grand Approach
Baphuon is approached from the east by a dramatic 200-metre elevated sandstone causeway supported on three rows of round columns — an architectural flourish almost unique in Khmer design. The causeway once stretched over a large baray (reservoir), and even today the view of the temple pyramid framed at the far end of the walkway is one of the most arresting compositions in Angkor Thom.
Built in the 11th century as the state temple of King Udayadityavarman II and originally dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, Baphuon predates the entire walled city of Angkor Thom that now surrounds it. It is a monument of immense scale — and a symbol of resilience, having been painstakingly reassembled by French archaeologists over several decades.
The Hidden Reclining Buddha
Most visitors who climb Baphuon miss its greatest secret: hidden on the west-facing section of the third enclosure wall is a giant reclining Buddha, assembled from the temple's own stones in the late 15th century when the site was converted to Buddhism. The figure is 9 metres tall and an astonishing 70 metres long — one of the largest Buddha images in Cambodia, hiding in plain sight.
To find it, walk around to the western side of the second level and step back far enough to let your eyes resolve the brickwork into a reclining form. The 'aha' moment when the image suddenly snaps into focus is one of the great small joys of visiting Angkor.
The Summit View
The climb to the top via the steep staircases is absolutely worth the effort. From the summit you get a genuine 360-degree panoramic view over the jungle canopy and the nearby Bayon, with the Royal Palace enclosure spread out below you to the north. Early morning is best — the air is cooler and the light is softer on the stone.
From the western side of Baphuon, a signposted path leads directly to the side entrance of the Royal Palace and Phimeanakas, making a natural loop without retracing your steps.
Baphuon Temple Summit Panorama on video
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