The Terrace of the Leper King is ornately carved

The Terrace of the Leper King is located on the way from the Bayon temple to the Dei Chhnang Gate on the left and north of Terrace of the Elephants. It was built in late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. The curious name of this terrace refers to a statue of the Leper King that is on the platform of the terrace .The naked figure is depicted in a seated position with his right knee raised. Today statue is a copy. The original is in the National Museum in Phnom Penh. Who was the Leper King? Mystery and uncertainty surround the origin of the name. The long-held Theory that King Jayavarman VII was a leper and that is why he built so many hospitals throughout the empire has no historical support whatsoever. Many people like it in Cambodia Tour.

Some historisns think the figure represents Kubera, god of wealth, or Yasocarman I, both of whom were allegedly lepers. Another idea is based on as inscription that appears on the statue in characters of the 14th or 15th centuries which maybe translated as the equivalent of the assessor of Yama, god of death or of judgment. Yet another theory suggests that the Leper King statue got it name because of the lichen which grown on it. The position of the hand, now messing, also suggests it was holding something.
The Terrace of The Leper King is ornately carved. The finest carvings are found on the eastern wall. The carvings feature deities with swords, parasols, and other figures. To view the hidden relief, you can climb down a flight of stairs in the southwest corner. The carvings are similar to those on the outer walls.