Situated just north of the Terrace of Elephants in Angkor Thom, the Terrace of the Leper King features a platform adorned with large stone carvings. The terrace likely served as a royal viewing area overlooking open spaces used for public ceremonies, a grand view of the vast stretches of Angkor Thom. Its construction dates to the late 12th century during the rule of Jayavarman VII. The terrace takes its name from a nude statue of the “Leper King” discovered there in 1914. While its origins remain uncertain, theories suggest it depicts either Yama, the god of death, or an Angkorian king afflicted with leprosy. The moss growing on the statue over centuries may have made it appear diseased.

Today, the Terrace of the Leper King offers insight into the grand architectural designs within the royal city of Angkor Thom. Though its original function is unclear, the weathered carvings of parading elephants and royal processions suggest it was an important ceremonial platform. The large viewing terrace provides a glimpse into the rich symbolic world of the ancient Khmer empire. The Leper King sculpture remains one of Angkor Thom’s most curious and intriguing monuments.