Things to do in Siem Reap

What are the best things to do in Siem Reap?

The best things to do in Siem Reap reveal that this charming town offers much more than just the iconic Angkor Wat temple ruins. As Cambodia’s unofficial tourism capital, Siem Reap is home to an array of natural and manmade attractions, including breathtaking temples, well-preserved colonial buildings, unique museums, cultural theme parks, expansive lakes, and lush mountains.

History enthusiasts will revel in the numerous well-preserved stone carvings at Buddhist and Hindu temples, while nature lovers can indulge in activities like hiking, bird-watching, picnicking, and swimming. To experience the local lifestyle, visitors can enjoy a variety of cultural dances and traditional performances within central Siem Reap. From exploring the ancient city of Angkor Thom with its enigmatic Bayon Temple to visiting the atmospheric Ta Prohm intertwined with giant trees, Siem Reap offers a perfect blend of historical exploration, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. The lively Pub Street offers bars, restaurants, and night markets with local cuisine and entertainment, while the Phare, The Cambodian Circus, showcases captivating performances of theater, music, dance, and acrobatics. For a more educational experience, the Cambodian Landmine Museum and Angkor National Museum provide insights into the region’s history and efforts to clear landmines. The exquisite carvings of Banteay Srei and the traditional crafts at Artisans Angkor round out the diverse experiences in this must-visit destination.

Activities

Kampong Khleang

Plan Your Trip Kampong Kleang Kompong Khleang is another dwelling on the magnificent Tonlé Sap lake, and one of the Siem Reap attractions that should not be missed as part of a trip out to the great lake. Kompong Khleang is a traditional stilted village community found living high above the lake’s waters and the village provides homes for some 20,000 residents – it is teh largest single community on the fringes of the lake. Life here has existed for centuries before us, the residents living naturally in harmony above the Tonle Sap making their livings from the ecosystem...

Chong Kneas

Plan Your Trip Chong Kneas Tonle Sap is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, providing livelihoods for over 10% of Cambodia’s population. Its water level varies considerably and the inhabitants of six of the seven villages at Chong Kneas live in houseboats that need to be moved with the changing levels. As with other fishing communities in the flooded area of the Tonle Sap, the way of life for the 5,000 or so inhabitants is strongly tied to the seasonal rise and fall of water. In the dry season, the floating villages anchor in a small inlet at the edge of...

Landmine Akira

Plan Your Trip Akira Landmine HistoryTourists began hearing stories about a young Khmer man, Aki Ra, who cleared landmines with a stick and had a house full of defused ordnance. Ra began charging a dollar to see his collection, using the money to help further his activities. Thus began the Cambodia Landmine Museum. In 2007 the Cambodian government ordered Aki Ra’s museum closed. He was allowed to move it to a new location 40 kilometers from Siem Reap, near Banteay Srey Temple, inside the Angkor National Park. A Canadian NGO, the Cambodia Landmine Museum Relief Fund, founded by documentary film...

Mechrey Floating Village

Plan Your Trip Mechrey Floating Village Mechrey Floating Village: A Unique Experience in Siem Reap, CambodiaMechrey Floating Village, located on the Tonle Sap Lake near Siem Reap, Cambodia, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of local communities who live and work on the water. Accessible by a scenic boat ride, the village features houses, schools, and markets all built on stilts or floating platforms. Visitors can observe daily activities such as fishing and trading, gaining insight into the unique lifestyle sustained by the lake. Mechrey Floating Village provides an authentic cultural experience, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of its...

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Market

Old Market

Plan Your Trip Old Market Old Market on the west side of Siem Reap River is where the local population head in the early mornings to shop for a wide array of fresh vegetables, seafood, and meat as well as household items. Locally known as Psar Chas, it’s the oldest Khmer market in Siem Reap and a must-visit for those looking to experience the local lifestyle. The open-air market is covered by a massive roof, offering ample shade from the sun if you’re here on a scorching afternoon. While the stalls aren’t as refined as the ones you might find...

Angkor Night Market

Plan Your Trip Angkor Night Market Angkor Night Market: A Must-Visit Destination in Siem Reap, CambodiaAngkor Night Market, located in the heart of Siem Reap, Cambodia, is a vibrant and bustling hub that has been attracting locals and tourists since its establishment in 2007. This market offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination. Shopping ExtravaganzaThe market is a shopper’s paradise with numerous stalls and shops selling a diverse range of goods. Visitors can find traditional Khmer handicrafts, silk scarves, handmade jewelry, and unique artworks. Each item reflects the rich craftsmanship and...

Pshar Leu Market

Plan Your Trip Pshar Leu Market OverviewPshar Leu Market, often referred to simply as the Old Market or Psar Chas, is one of the oldest and most popular markets in Siem Reap. It serves as a hub for locals and tourists alike, offering a wide range of products, from fresh produce and local delicacies to handicrafts, souvenirs, clothing, and electronics. HistoryDating back to the French colonial era, Pshar Leu Market has been a central trading place in Siem Reap for over a century. Originally built to cater to the needs of locals, it has evolved into a major tourist attraction...

Ta Phrom Temple

Plan Your Trip Taphrom Temple Nestled within the Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap, Cambodia, Ta Prohm Temple stands as a mesmerizing testament to the interplay between nature and ancient architecture. Constructed in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, this Mahayana Buddhist monastery and university exudes a timeless, mystical charm. Unlike many other restored temples in Angkor, Ta Prohm has been left in a largely unrestored state, allowing the jungle to reclaim its space. Towering trees and their sprawling roots weave through the crumbling stone structures, creating a unique and photogenic landscape that has captivated visitors from around...

Banteay Srei Temple

Plan Your Trip Banteay Srei When Banteay Srei was first rediscovered it was thought to date back to the 13th or 14th century due to its refined carvings. However, inscriptions later found at the site place its consecration very precisely on 22nd of April, 967 A.D. It is the only major temple not to be built by a King. The construction is attributed to Yajnavaraha, a courtier and King’s counsellor. The temple was expanded and further built upon in later years and remained in use until at least the 14th century. The temple was rediscovered in 1914 but the site...

Bayon Temple

Plan Your Trip Bayon Temple Bayon is in the heart of the ancient city of Angkor Thom, which was the symbolic center of the Khmer empire. Dedicated to Buddha by King Jayavarman VII, this state temple was originally called “Jayagiri” (which means “Victory Mountain”) but was renamed “Banyan Temple” sometime after the period of French occupancy. ArchitectureThe architectural style of Bayon is distinctly different from Angkor Wat and other temples in the Angkor complex and it has undergone numerous modifications and additions during its history. Unlike the magnificent façade of Angkor Wat, Bayon doesn’t look terribly impressive from a distance....

Angkor Wat

Plan Your Trip Angkor Wat Angkor Wat, one of the largest religious monuments in the world, was constructed during the reign of King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, from 1113 to 1150 AD. Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, this temple was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Its construction required thousands of laborers and artisans, using sandstone as the primary material. The complex is renowned for its grand scale, intricate bas-reliefs, and distinct Khmer architecture, reflecting the height of the Khmer Empire’s engineering and artistic achievements. Over the centuries, Angkor Wat transitioned from a Hindu temple to...

Street food Old...

Plan Your Trip STREET FOOD OLD MARKET $ – $$ Cambodia The Old Market (Psar Chaa) in Siem Reap is a bustling hub of activity where locals and tourists alike come to enjoy a variety of traditional Cambodian street food. Vendors line the market, offering dishes like: Lok Lak,Amok Trey, Bai Sach Chrouk, Nom Banh Chok, Spring Rolls, Fruit Shakes. The market’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with the aromatic scents of cooking food, makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Cambodian cuisine at affordable prices. Open: 05:00 – 00:00Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, DrinksLocation: Pokambor Ave, Krong Siem Reap...

Cafe Indochine

Plan Your Trip CAFE INDOCHINE $$ – $$$ Asian, Cambodia Enjoy traditional Khmer cuisine in a cosy and enchanting environment. Café Indochine is one of the oldest running restaurants in the city and serves delicious Khmer dishes.The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner so you can sample some delicious Cambodian food during your stay in temple town.Café Indochine is renowned for its hospitality, friendly service, and great food. Open: 10:30 – 14:00 | 17:00 – 22:30Meals: Lunch, DinnerSpecial diets: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free OptionsLocation: 44 Sivatha Street, Siem Reap Cambodia Gallery Map SIMILAR RESTAURANT Sokkhak River Restaurant...

Kroya by Chef...

Plan Your Trip KROYA $$ – $$$$ Asian, Cambodia Kroya by Chef Chanrith is Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas unique restaurant inspired by Shinta Mani’s heritage. Kroya means “food” in the Khmer Royal language and Kroya which means “food” in the Khmer Royal language blends international as well as local products, combining fresh ingredients, native herbs and spices to create innovative, palette pleasing flavours. For those seeking an unforgettable modern Cambodian cuisine culinary experience, join Chef and his team to savour the authentic taste of traditional cuisine with our set Cambodian set menus which follow the seasons...

Malis Siem Reap

Plan Your Trip MALIS RESTAURANT $$ – $$$$ Asian, Cambodia Overlooking the Siem Reap River, diners are treated to a delightful ambiance with a stunning garden, water pond and area for apsara dance performances. The beautiful interiors are inspired by the temples of Angkor boasting high ceilings, grey stone and a sense of space. Cambodian art and handicrafts feature throughout, embracing the local culture.The new restaurant will feature a dining area, bar and lounge downstairs with private dining rooms. Open: 06:30 – 22:00Location: Siem Reap Gallery Map SIMILAR RESTAURANT Embassy Restaurant Plan Your Trip EMBASSY KHMER GASTRONOMY $$ – $$$$...

Angkor Palace Resort...

Plan Your Trip WELCOME TO ANGKOR PALACE RESPRT & SPA Experience the heart of ultimate luxury and bask in the splendor of elegance at Angkor Palace Resort & Spa, the perfect base to explore the legendary Angkor Temples and undiscovered treasures in Cambodia. The only international 5-star resort designed and built by a Cambodian architect, its décor and furnishing reflect the finest in Cambodian architecture, befitting royalties and dignitaries. Nestled invitingly within a spacious 11-hectare estate, the lush resort offers you the serenity of a secluded retreat whilst ensuring you are provided with every possible convenience. HOTEL AMENITIES Free parking...

Grand Bayon Hotel

Plan Your Trip WELCOME TO GRAND BAYON HOTEL SIEM REAP The Grand Bayon is located in the heart of town and just a short distance from all the popular areas in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Our hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant and bar which serves a range of local and international drinks and food, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, tours, transport, and tickets. HOTEL AMENITIES Free parking Wifi Restaurant Front desk 24h Room service Hygiene Plus Swimming pool Bar Deluxe Twin Our Deluxe Twin City View Room features offers stunning views over the...

Amber Angkor Villa...

Plan Your Trip WELCOME TO AMBER ANGKOR VILLA HOTEL & SPA Amber Angkor Villa Hotel & Spa Hotel is designed and developed in Khmer contemporary art concept, epitomizes the Cambodian culture and charm. The design, from facade to interior, every corners gracefully decorated with different art piece to mesmerize your mind in the garden of desire surrounded by heavenly greenery nature outdoor salted water swimming pool is one of the special inventiveness to form up Amber Angkor Villa Hotel & Spa , envision offering trendiest relaxation of your comfortable stay HOTEL AMENITIES Free parking Wifi Restaurant Swimming pool Meeting room...

Hotel Somadevi Angkor...

Plan Your Trip WELCOME TO HOTEL SOMADEVI ANGKOR RESORT & SPA Located in Downtown Siem Reap neighborhood, Hotel Somadevi Angkor Resort & Spa is connected to a shopping center. Angkor Wat is a notable landmark, and travelers looking to shop may want to visit Pub Street and Angkor Night Market. Traveling with kids? Consider Khmer Ceramics & Fine Arts Centre and Cambodian Cultural Village. Practice your golf swing with lessons and a golf course nearby, or enjoy other activities in the great outdoors, such as hiking/biking trails and horse riding in the area. HOTEL AMENITIES Free parking Wifi Restaurant Spa...

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Things to do in Siem Reap

What are the best things to do in Siem Reap?

Activities

Market

Temples

Dining

Accommodation

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