Terrace of the Elephants
Historic Site in Siem Reap
The Terrace of the Elephants is located within the walled city of Angkor Thom, a historic temple complex in Cambodia.
Description
This terrace was used by King Jayavarman VII of Angkor as a platform to observe the triumphant return of his army. It was connected to the Phimeanakas Palace (Khmer: ប្រាសាទភិមានអាកាស), of which only a few remnants remain. Much of the original structure was constructed from organic materials, which have since eroded, leaving behind only the foundation platforms of the complex. The terrace is named for the elephant carvings that adorn its eastern face.
Bas-Relief on the Terrace of the Elephants
Stretching 350 meters, the Terrace of the Elephants functioned as a grand viewing platform for public ceremonies and served as the base for the king’s royal audience hall. It features five extensions extending toward the Central Square—three at the center and one at each end. The middle section of the retaining wall is adorned with life-size depictions of garudas and lions. At either end, there are representations of an iconic elephant procession, complete with Khmer mahouts.
The Terrace of the Elephants appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Siem Reap!
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Visiting Terrace of the Elephants
Nearby Attractions
- Terrace of the Leper King (0.2) km
Historic Site in Siem Reap - Phimeanakas (0.3) km
Temple in Siem Reap - Baphuon (0.3) km
Temple in Siem Reap - Bayon Temple (0.5) km
Temple in Siem Reap - Preah Palilay (0.5) km
Temple in Siem Reap - Victory Gate of Angkor Thom (1.5) km
City Gate in Siem Reap - Kmoch Gate (Gate of the Dead) (1.6) km
City Gate in Siem Reap - Thommanon (2.0) km
Temple in Siem Reap - South Gate of Angkor Thom (2.0) km
City Gate in Siem Reap - Angkor Thom North Gate (1.1) km
City Gate in Siem Reap
