Most people visiting Angkor Thom quickly pass its gates without stopping. However the ancient gates of Angkor Thom are worth exploring. Built by King Jayavarman VII, there are all together 5 gates into Angkor Thom, each crossed by an ancient causeway that is lined on either side by statues of dewas (gods) and asuras (demons), in a motion from the Hindu epic of Churning the Ocean of Milk.

The five gates are located on the north, south, east and west side of Angkor Thom, with the fifth, the Victory Gate, located at the approach to ... (more)