🌿 The Smiling Stones: Solo Trip to Bayon Temple, Angkor Thom! 🗿

#asiabudgetchallenge ### **📍 Destination:** **Bayon Temple** (Angkor Thom Complex, Cambodia) – The iconic **"Face Temple"** with 216 mysterious stone faces smiling at you from every angle. A masterpiece of Khmer architecture! --- ### **💰 Budget Breakdown (USD – Half-Day Trip from Siem Reap):** - **Angkor Pass:** Already covered if visiting Angkor Wat (1-Day: $37 | 3-Day: $62) - **Transport:** - **Tuk-tuk from Siem Reap:** ~$15-20 (round trip, includes wait time) - **Bicycle Rental:** ~$5 (if staying nearby) - **Food/Water:** - Coconut water (temple stalls): $1 - Packed lunch/snacks: $3-5 - **Extras:** - Local guide (optional): $10-15 - Donation for incense: $1 **📌 Total Cost:** ~$20-$40** (excluding Angkor pass) --- ### **💡 Solo Traveler Tips:** ✅ **Best Time to Visit:** **7-9 AM** (soft light, fewer crowds) or **3-5 PM** (golden hour glow). ✅ **Getting There:** Enter through Angkor Thom’s **South Gate** (photo-worthy giant statues!) → 5-min walk to Bayon. ✅ **Must-See Spots:** - **Upper Terrace:** Close-up of the iconic faces (perfect for portraits!). - **Bas-Reliefs:** Hidden stories of Khmer history carved on walls. - **Quiet Corners:** Explore side galleries for solitude. ✅ **Photography Tips:** - Use a **wide-angle lens** for face towers. - Play with shadows at noon for dramatic shots. ✅ **Dress Code:** Light, breathable clothes (no bare shoulders/knees). ✅ **Avoid Crowds:** Skip midday tours – visit **Ta Prohm or Baphuon** instead, then return to Bayon later. --- ### **📸 Instagram Hashtags:** #bayontemple #angkorthom #cambodia #solotravel #lostcity #khmerempire #stonefaces #templevibes #wanderlust #ancientwonders --- **🌞 Ready to Meet the Smiling Giants?** Follow the whispers of history, and let Bayon’s enigmatic faces guide your journey! ✨ *(No icons, clean & minimal!)*