Phnom Bakheng, South Gate and Bayon

Why go

This Angkor outing links a hilltop temple, a monumental city entrance and Bayon's carved towers. Begin at Phnom Bakheng and allow time for its uphill approach. Continue to Angkor Thom South Gate to see the sculpted causeway, then go on to Bayon Temple for its faces and gallery reliefs. If current access to Angkor Wat's upper sanctuary is confirmed, you can visit Bakan first; otherwise start at Phnom Bakheng. The Bakan addition makes the day longer, so keep it optional and check conditions before leaving. Leave time for the hill and exposed paths.

The route, stop by stop

World itinerary estimate: 190–350 min

1. 01

   Optional · 45–75 min

   Angkor Wat Bakan Sanctuary

   The Bakan is Angkor Wat’s central sanctuary on the upper level, a distinct interior stop within the main temple. Its central tower rises above the axial galleries of the wider complex.

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2. Walk · 30 min · Estimated

   02

   Main stop · 45–70 min

   Phnom Bakheng

   Climb Phnom Bakheng for a hilltop temple and a broad view toward Angkor Wat and the surrounding forest. Its stepped summit temple places the view within an Angkorian monument, not just a lookout.

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3. Walk · 10 min · Estimated

   03

   Main stop · 25–40 min

   Angkor Thom South Gate

   Angkor Thom’s South Gate is approached over a causeway lined with devas and asuras pulling a naga. Its sculpted bridge and face tower together stage the entrance to the walled city.

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4. Walk · 27 min · Estimated

   04

   Main stop · 75–75 min

   Bayon Temple

   Bayon is known for its face towers and gallery reliefs depicting historical and everyday scenes. The faces above and the storytelling below create two complementary ways to read the site.

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