South Gate of Angkor Thom, Siem Reap
The South Gate of Angkor Thom stands as the most renowned city gate and serves as an emblematic representation of the grandeur of this ancient city. A must-see for every visitor to Angkor, the South Gate lies along the main road connecting Angkor Wat to another popular destination, the Bayon temple.
The causeway leading to the South Gate is a sight to behold, characterized by its exquisite stone causeway that spans the expansive 100-meter-wide moat of Angkor Thom. The railing on either side of the causeway is adorned with world-famous rows of giant sculptures, each holding a Naga, a multi-headed serpent, on their knees. These sculptures were once present at each of Angkor Thom's five city gates, but today, only the South Gate retains an almost complete set.
The eastern railing is adorned with 54 ferocious-looking Ashura demons, easily recognizable by their grimacing expressions. While some of the original heads have been moved to museums, the missing ones have been replaced with cement replicas, albeit of a brighter color. On the other side, the row of 54 Devas (gods) appears less well-preserved, with more heads missing. Both rows of sculptures are connected by a serpent-like rope held in their hands, creating a three-dimensional representation of the famous "Churning of the Milk Ocean" myth.
The "Churning of the Milk Ocean" is a revered narrative from Vishnu mythology, where Vishnu appeared as the turtle Kurma to assist in producing the elixir of immortality, the Amrita, for the gods. The story tells of the Devas and Ashuras, who united their forces to churn the Sea of Milk jointly, using Mount Mandara as the pivot, represented by the Bayon temple. The churning process led to the creation of various celestial treasures, including Apsaras (celestial dancers), the goddess Lakshmi, and the three-headed elephant Airavata, culminating in the discovery of the Amrita elixir.
The South Gate of Angkor Thom is not only a historical treasure but also a breathtaking representation of the region's myths and legends. Its impressive architecture and intricate sculptures captivate visitors, transporting them back in time to the ancient world of Angkor. The morning is recommended for a visit, as the faces of the demons are illuminated from the side, creating a unique play of light and shadow.
The causeway leading to the South Gate is a sight to behold, characterized by its exquisite stone causeway that spans the expansive 100-meter-wide moat of Angkor Thom. The railing on either side of the causeway is adorned with world-famous rows of giant sculptures, each holding a Naga, a multi-headed serpent, on their knees. These sculptures were once present at each of Angkor Thom's five city gates, but today, only the South Gate retains an almost complete set.
The eastern railing is adorned with 54 ferocious-looking Ashura demons, easily recognizable by their grimacing expressions. While some of the original heads have been moved to museums, the missing ones have been replaced with cement replicas, albeit of a brighter color. On the other side, the row of 54 Devas (gods) appears less well-preserved, with more heads missing. Both rows of sculptures are connected by a serpent-like rope held in their hands, creating a three-dimensional representation of the famous "Churning of the Milk Ocean" myth.
The "Churning of the Milk Ocean" is a revered narrative from Vishnu mythology, where Vishnu appeared as the turtle Kurma to assist in producing the elixir of immortality, the Amrita, for the gods. The story tells of the Devas and Ashuras, who united their forces to churn the Sea of Milk jointly, using Mount Mandara as the pivot, represented by the Bayon temple. The churning process led to the creation of various celestial treasures, including Apsaras (celestial dancers), the goddess Lakshmi, and the three-headed elephant Airavata, culminating in the discovery of the Amrita elixir.
The South Gate of Angkor Thom is not only a historical treasure but also a breathtaking representation of the region's myths and legends. Its impressive architecture and intricate sculptures captivate visitors, transporting them back in time to the ancient world of Angkor. The morning is recommended for a visit, as the faces of the demons are illuminated from the side, creating a unique play of light and shadow.
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South Gate of Angkor Thom on Map
Sight Name: South Gate of Angkor Thom
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Create Your Own Walk in Siem Reap
Creating your own self-guided walk in Siem Reap is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Angkor Thom Walking Tour
Nestled within the sprawling landscape of Siem Reap, Angkor Thom stands as a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and artistic expression. Built during the late 12th century by the Khmer King Jayavarman VII, this expansive city served as the capital of the Khmer Empire. Jayavarman VII's vision was to create a city that embodied the spiritual and cultural essence of the empire. Enclosed... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles
Siem Reap Introduction Walking Tour
As the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap holds within its bounds an extraordinary blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles