Terrace of the Elephants

Although most people come to Siem Reap to see Angkor Wat, in many respects it is Angkor Thom that is the more impressive temple. This is due to its vast scale and rich array of temples and structures, such as the Terrace of the Elephants. 

What is the Terrace of the Elephants?

This is a 300-metre long terrace that lies north of Bayon in the heart of Angkor Thom, constructed in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII and later added to in the 13th century by Jayavarman VIII. The terrace forms the east wall of the Royal enclosure, and at the northern end is the Terrace of the Leper King.

Along the length of the wall there are intricate carvings of elephants, going about their elephant life in ancient Khmer civilisation. There are three sets of staircases, one in the centre and one at each end, of them, the central staircase is the grandest.

What Was the Terrace of the Elephants Used For?

The terrace was a grandstand for public ceremonies, as well as the base for the Jayavarman VII’s grand audience hall. The king would sit here and view his army returning victorious from battle. For more information on the monument click here.

See also the Terrace of the Leper King which lies to the north, and Bayon to the south of the Elephant Terrace.

Where is the Terrace of Elephants?

The terrace is to the south of  the Terrace of the Leper King and to the north of Bayon temple in Angkor Thom.

How to Get to the Terrace of the Elephants?

Simply get a tuk tuk from Siem Reap, sit back and relax. Alternatively you can cycle to the site.

Photography Tip

As the wall faces to the east, it recieves the best sunlight for photography in the morning, after noon the wall is in shade.