Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom has the distinction of being the last capital city of the Khmer empire. The city was founded in the twelfth century by King Jayavarman VII. It spans 9 square kilometer area and has several notable monuments including the Bayon and Jayavarman’s state temple. It also serves as the home to the Terrace of Elephants and the Phimeanakas. The site of the city was rediscovered in the 19th century by French explorers. Angkor Thom is built in the Bayon style, which is characterized by the large scale construction and the use of laterite. It also features several naga carrying figures. The city of Angkor Thom is located on the west bank of the Siem Reap river. The walls of the city are flanked by a moat. The city also features a system of canals.
Angkor Thom also has a royal palace which predates the town. It also a long causeway, flanked by a row of 54 stone figures on each side. The one side is populated by the demons whereas the other side belongs to the gods. The city features five entry towers, where each tower is 75 feet high. It is crowned with four heads. At Angkor Thom, you can visit monuments 486 and 487, Preah Pithu Group and Tep Pranam. Each four corners of the wall surrounding the town have a small temple, known as Prasant Chrung. These temples were built during 12th and 13th century. The temples are decorated with sculptures of devatas and feature a cruciform floor plan.
Angkor Thom by night is simply remarkable. Private Sunset Cruise at Angkor Thom is one of the best choices to get into that special Siem Reap atmosphere.