Bayon Temple

Tour starts: 9:00 AM: visit to Bayon Temple. Bayon is located in the center of Angkor Thom, the ancient capital city of the Khmer Empire. It was built by King Jayavarman VII and is dedicated to Lord Lokesvara, a savior god in Mahayana Buddhism. The Bayon Temple features 49 towers, each adorned with four smiling faces. This is why tourists often refer to Bayon as the "Most Beautiful Smiling Faces Temple" in the world. The four faces smile brightly in the four cardinal directions: East for Shiva, South for Brahma, West for Vishnu, and North for Indra. In terms of Buddhist significance, these four faces represent Lokesvara and King Jayavarman VII. They also symbolize the four well-known precepts of the Buddha: Lovingkindness, Compassion, Joy, and Sincerity. Some scholars suggest that Bayon serves as a gigantic stone map of Cambodia, representing the 54 provinces that existed during that time. The temple consists of 49 towers, along with five additional towers located in Angkor Thom.

Banteay Srei

Banteay Srei is renowned as the most beautiful pink sandstone temple, located approximately 37 kilometers. The name "Banteay Srei" translates to "Lady Temple," and the unique charm of this temple lies in its remarkable state of preservation, as well as its small size, which is complemented by exquisite decorations. Banteay Srei is often considered a true jewel of Khmer art. It’s celebrated for its fine and intricate carvings, leading some locals to believe that it must have been built by women, which is reflected in its name, "Lady Temple." The original name of this temple was Isvarapura, and it was constructed by King Rajendravarman II in the year 967, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visitors to Banteay Srei are often captivated by its stunning artistry and the serene atmosphere that surrounds this remarkable site. It stands as a testament to the skill and creativity of the Khmer artisans who crafted it, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of Cambodia.