Terrace of the Elephants

Overview

The Terrace of the Elephants is a 350-metre-long stone platform within Angkor Thom, used by King Jayavarman VII as a reviewing stand for royal ceremonies, military parades, and public audiences. Its walls are decorated with dramatic carvings of elephants, garudas, and mythical figures.

Highlights

• Elephant Bas-Reliefs: Life-sized carved elephants depicted in hunting scenes and processions along the terrace walls.
• Five-Headed Horse: A carving of the sacred five-headed horse Balaha on the northern section.
• Ceremonial Scale: The sheer length of the terrace conveys the grandeur of Khmer royal pageantry.

History

Built in the late 12th century by Jayavarman VII, the terrace formed the eastern boundary of the royal palace complex. Wooden pavilions once stood atop the stone platform, where the king would have watched elephants being selected for war and ceremonies conducted in the grand plaza below.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Walk along the base of the wall to see the carvings at eye level — the hidden wall sections are especially detailed.
• Tip 2: Combine with the adjacent Terrace of the Leper King, just a few steps north.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.