🛕 Baphuon
បាពួន
Province
Siem Reap
Era
Classical Angkorian
Difficulty
🟡 Moderate
Crowds
👥 Moderate
Key Facts
Built: 11th century (1060s)
Built by: King Udayadityavarman II
Religion: Hindu
Entry Fee: Angkor Pass
Time Needed: 45 min–1 hour
UNESCO: ✅ World Heritage Site
A massive five-tiered temple mountain with a stunning 200-meter elevated causeway and the world's largest reclining Buddha puzzle.
The Baphuon is one of the most impressive and historically significant temples within Angkor Thom. Originally dedicated to Shiva, it was built as a representation of Mount Meru. A remarkable 200-meter-long elevated sandstone walkway on round pillars leads to the temple entrance. In the 15th or 16th century, the west wall was rearranged to form a massive 70-meter-long reclining Buddha — one of the largest in the world. The temple underwent one of the most complex archaeological restoration projects in history, led by the French EFEO. Dubbed "the world's largest 3D jigsaw puzzle," the restoration took 51 years (1960-2011), surviving the Khmer Rouge era during which the original cataloguing records were destroyed.
Highlights
- ✦ 200-meter elevated causeway
- ✦ 70-meter reclining Buddha on west wall
- ✦ Panoramic views from upper levels
- ✦ Bas-reliefs of hunting and battle scenes
- ✦ 51-year restoration story
Best Time to Visit
Midday when crowds thin (combine with Angkor Thom visit)
Visitor Tips
- 💡 Walk around to the west side to see the reclining Buddha outline
- 💡 The elevated causeway is a great photo opportunity
- 💡 Accessible from within the Angkor Thom complex
Nearby Temples
13.4441°N, 103.8589°E
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