Bayon is the most stunning temple in the city of Angkor, Cambodia. It was built during the reign of Jayavarman VII at the end of 12th century. It was devoted to Lord Buddha, but it includes some elements of Hindu cosmology too. It was the only state temple in Angkor dedicated to the Buddha. It was the masterpiece of King Jayavarman, which served as an inspiration for several other temples in this area.

 

 

Bayon is located at the exact center of the ancient city of Angkor Thom and it is renowned for its massive statues. You can see 216 huge stone faces of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvare or Lokesvar on the towers of the temples. Some scholars believe that these statues are representations of Jayavarman himself.

 

Bayon temple is encircled by two walls, which feature an awesome collection of bas reliefs. These bas reliefs depict the legendary and historical events. You can find more than 11,000 carved figurines in the wall.

 

You can enter the Bayon temple through the east gate and enjoy viewing the carvings. The carved image of Linga (symbol of Lord Shiva) and worshippers bowing before the linga is an excellent piece of art. Some scenes of a naval battle were represented in another carved image. Jayavarman’s victory over the Champs and ordinary life images like a cockfight, a woman seeing fish etc were depicted in the carved images.

 

The scenes depicted in the inner gallery of the Bayon temple are totally different from that of the outer walls. The canvases in the inner gallery include scenes from Hindu mythology. You can see the figures of Lord Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, Ravana, Garuda and Apsaras (celestial dancers). Another scene shows a king fighting with a serpent with bare hands. The depictions in the north of the Western Gopura feature asuras and devas churning the sea of milk. The central sanctuary boasts of the primary deity Buddha. The statue of Buddha sitting in meditation and the serpent King Mucalinda shielding him is an inspiring one.

 

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