Terrace of the Elephants

The Elephant Terrace is a stone platform located in Angkor, Cambodia. It was built in the 12th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, one of the most important Khmer kings of the time. The terrace was used for official ceremonies and royal processions, as well as public entertainment shows.
The terrace is 300 meters long and statues of lions and elephants, which symbolize strength and royal power, adorn the steps and balustrades. There are also statues of devatas, or female deities, which decorate the exterior walls. There are detailed bas-reliefs that depict scenes from daily life, Hindu deities and battle scenes.
The Elephant Terrace is considered a remarkable example of Khmer architecture and art from the era of Jayavarman VII. It is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Architecture

The architecture of the Elephant Terrace in Angkor, Cambodia, is notable for its large size and detailed decor. The terrace is 300 meters long and is surrounded by exterior walls that are decorated with statues of lions and elephants, which symbolize strength and royal power, as well as statues of devatas or female deities. The steps and balustrades are also decorated with statues of lions and elephants.
There are also detailed bas-reliefs that depict scenes from daily life, Hindu deities and battle scenes. The terrace is divided into several sections which have different functions. The steps leading to the terrace are flanked by statues of lions and elephants, which symbolize strength and royal power.
The terrace was used for official ceremonies and royal processions, as well as public entertainment shows. It is considered an outstanding example of Khmer architecture and art from the era of Jayavarman VII.

Visit

The Elephant Terrace is an archaeological site located in Angkor, Cambodia. It was part of the royal complex of the city of Angkor Thom, which was the capital of the Khmer empire between the 9th and 15th centuries.
The terrace measures 300 meters long by 1.5 meters high and is decorated with sculptures of elephants, lions and garudas (mythical creatures with the head of an eagle and the body of a monkey). It served as a platform for royal ceremonies and as a parade ground for military troops.
The terrace is decorated with numerous elephant sculptures, hence its name. Elephants are depicted in different forms, some carrying seats for kings and dignitaries, others carrying balls, banners and urns. Elephants are also depicted bathing in pools, which is a rare example of such a scene in Khmer art.
Visitors can go up to the terrace to admire the sculptures and have a breathtaking view of the city of Angkor Thom. It is also possible to visit Bayon, the most famous temple of Angkor Thom which is located right next to the Elephant Terrace.
It is recommended to visit the Elephant Terrace early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lights for photos. It is also important to remember that this is an important archaeological site and to respect the rules and instructions of local guides.

Opening hours

Most temples are open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.

• Angkor Wat : 5h – 17h30
• Baphuon : 7h30 – 17h30
• Banteay Srei : 7h30 – 17h30
• Bayon : 7h30 – 17h30
• Bakheng : 5h – 19h
• Srah Srang : 5h – 17h30
• Pre Khan : 7h30 – 17h30
• Prè Rup : 5h – 19h
• Phnom Bakheng : 5h – 19h

Times given as an indication, but guides and tuk-tuks know them very well.

You will easily find restaurants and merchants that offer good meals with good Khmer recipes for your meals during your visit. On the site, you will also find where to stay during your stay in Cambodia.