Religious Affiliation: Hinduism
Patron or King: Udayadityavarman VII
Artistic/Archeo. Style: Baphuon
Location: 12 kms west of Siem Reap Town
Duration of Visit: 1 hour plus transport
Time to Visit: Anytime.
Position:
Ruins of the central island temple of the West Baray. West Mebon is in poor shape, consisting primarily of a single wall displaying some carvings in fair condition. The carvings exhibit some of the first examples of carvings of animals in natural, non-mythological scenes, reminiscent of carving on Baphuon. West Mebon may have originally housed a renowned bronze Buddha statue which is now held at the National Museum in Phnom Penh. The West Baray, though ancient, is filled with water year round and has become a local recreational area. Take route #6 west from town. Turn right about 3 km past the airport turnoff. A short boat ride is necessary to visit the ruins.
