Angkor Thom South Gate

Angkor Thom has North as well as South gates. However, Angkor Thom South Gate is in better condition as compared to the North Gate. One can enter Angkor Thom South Gate using a causeway that runs across a 50 meters (164 feet) wide moat. There are fifty-four demons as well as fifty-four Gods' stone figures on both sides of the causeway. They depict the Hindu mythological story of Churning of the Ocean.

The Stone Figures in the Causeway

The Gods on the left side of the causeway pull the head of the stone figure of a serpent, while the demons on the right side of the causeway pull the tail of the serpent. According to the sculpture and architectural styles of Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple may represent the Mountain Meru.

The Central Tower of Angkor Thom South Gate

The central tower of the Angkor Thom South Gate, along with the three face towers, faces the four directions. If you move your eyes and look downwards, you will get to notice two sets of elephant statues at the base of the tower. God Indra is sitting on each elephant. He is carrying a thunderbolt and has Apsaras on both sides.

Central Tower of Angkor Thom South Gate

The Shape of Angkor Thom South Gate

The shape of the Angkor Thom South Gate resembles an upside-down "U" in the English alphabet. The gate takes the support of a corbel.

Controversy in the Functionality of Angkor Thom

Historians claim that the purpose of Angkor Thom is to defend sudden attacks by invaders. However, the archaeological style and structures do not support the idea. The walls and construction, designs, etc. were rather fragile and artistic, instead of being robust and sturdy. Hence, this shows that may be Angkor Thom was not a defensive capital.

How to Reach Angkor Thom South Gate?

The South Gate of Angkor Thom is around 7.2 km (23.6 feet) away from the Siem Reap. It is 1.7 km (5.6 feet) away from the entrance of the Angkor Wat complex. To reach the South Gate, you can either hire:

•  A motorbike
•  A cab
•  A tuk-tuk
•  Hotel transportation

We recommend you to hire a tuk-tuk driver. Ask to your hotel reception; they can prescribe a reliable driver, converse with him and arrange the cost. You will probably pay $18 for a day visit and $20 for the day if you wish to go ahead of schedule for the Angkor Wat sunrise. He will remain you until 6 pm when the park closes. If you locate a decent and accommodating driver, stay with him during your entire trip. It is difficult to deal with Cambodian tuk-tuk and cabbies, can be truly tiring.

Key Details of Angkor Thom South Gate

• Entry fees: $36.07
• Visiting hours: 5 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Visiting days: All days open
• Pro tip: Book the tickets one day in advance, thus you can get into the Angkor Thom South Gate in the morning early,  which will give you better experience to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as well as take more outstanding pictures. In addition, wear comfortable shoes for you must walk much there.

Somethings about Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom is the great walled city of Cambodia. It was one of the most prominent capitals of the Khmer empire. King Jayavarman VII established this capital city in the late twelfth century. There are several monuments inside, such as:

Terrace of the Elephants

•  Bayon
•  Baphuon
•  Mangalartha
•  Phimeanakas
•  Prasat Suor Prat
•  Prasat Chrung
•  Preah Pithu
•  Preah Palilay
•  Tep pranam
•  The Royal Palace
•  Terrace of the Leper King
•  Terrace of the Elephants

If you are in Cambodia, then you must visit Angkor Thom to enjoy its beauty aesthetic, spiritual, and natural. Focus on the Angkor Thom South Gate, and you will get to notice intricate architectural designs as well as mythological figures, inspired by Hindu mythology. You will never regret visiting this place ever in life.