Siem Reap province is located in northwest Cambodia. It is the major tourist hub in Cambodia, as it is the closest city to the world famous temples of Angkor (the Angkor temple complex is north of the city). The provincial capital is also called Siem Reap and is located in the South of the province on the shores of the Tonle Sap Lake, the greatest sweet water reserve in whole Southeast Asia. The name of the city literally means Siamese defeated, referring to the victory of the Khmer Empire over the army of the Thai kingdom in the 17th century.
At the turn of the millennium Siem Reap was a Cambodian provincial town with few facilities, minor surfaced roads and little in the way of nightlife. Tourism industry catered largely to hardy backpackers willing to brave the tortuous road from the Thai border on the tailgate of a local pick-up truck. There were a couple of large hotels and a handful of budget guesthouses. Tuk-tuks and taxis were non-existent and the trusty motodup was the chosen means of touring the temples of Angkor.
The proximity of the Angkorian ruins turned Siem Reap into a boomtown in less than half a decade. Huge, expensive hotels have sprung up everywhere and budget hotels have mushroomed. Property values have soared to European levels and tourism has become a vast, lucrative industry. The Siem Reap of today is barely recognizable from the Siem Reap of the year 2000.
Though some of the town's previous ramshackle charm may have been lost the developments of the last few years have brought livelihoods, if not significant wealth, to a good number of its citizens. This has been at a cost to the underprivileged people living within and beyond the town's limits that now pay inflated prices at the central markets and continue to survive on poorly paid subsistence farming and fishing. If Cambodia is a country of contrasts Siem Reap is the embodiment of those contrasts. Despite the massive shift in its economic fortunes, Siem Reap remains a safe, friendly and pleasant town. There is an endless choice of places to stay or dine and a host of possible activities awaiting the visitor.
Geography
Siem Reap province is 10,299 square kilometres big and definitely one of the most famous ones in Cambodia. It's located in the Northwest of the country bordering to the North with Oddor Meanchey, to the East with Preah Vihear and Kampong Thom, to the West with Banteay Meanchey and to the South with the biggest sweet water reserve in Southeast Asia, the huge Tonle Sap Lake.
The province in general, especially in the Southern part consists of the typical plain wet area for Cambodia, covering lots of rice fields and other agricultural plantations. The northern part is turning into an undulating area covered with some deeper, green forests. A quite distinguished mark of Siem Reap Province is the smaller, but important Siem Reap River. It rises from Phnom Kulen, meanders through the northern part of Siem Reap Province and eventually into the Tonle Sap Lake.
Population
The current population in this province is about 903,030 people or 6.3% of the country's total population (14,363,519 person in Cambodia, 2007, provincial government data), with 440,395 male and 462,635 female. The population density is therefore 87,7 people per square kilometre.
Climate
The country has a tropical climate - warm and humid. In the monsoon season, abundant rain allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops. This year-round tropical climate makes Cambodia ideal for developing tourism. Travellers need not to fear natural disasters such as erupting volcanoes or earthquakes, and the country is not directly affected by tropical storms.
Climate: Cambodia can be visited throughout the year. However, those plans to travel extensively by road should be avoided the last two months of the rainy season when some countryside roads may be impassable. The average temperature is about 27 degrees Celsius; the minimum temperature is about 16 degrees. December and January are the coolest months, whereas the hottest is April. General information about the provincial climate:- Cool season: November- March (23-29c)
- Hot season: March- May (27c -37c)
- Rainy season: May - October (24-33c, with humidity up to 90%.)
Economy
Generally spoken Siem Reap Province is all in all economically focusing on the foreign tourism due to the famous Angkor Temples. Since of the year 2000 the economical growth rate is gaining double-digits. It's all sub-sectors such as hotels, restaurants, bars, entertainment places and transportation to profit from the annual influx of tourists, which was in 2007 more than 1,000,000 people.
Except the tourism sector the provincial economy was and still is growing due to the enforced fishery. Thousands of tons are annually exported to other provinces within the country or outside Cambodia. Farming and fruit cropping has probably become a minor profitable sector, but is still done by the vast poor rural population, who are the underdogs regarding the annual provincial revenue.
Siem Reap province is located in northwest Cambodia. It is the major tourist hub in Cambodia, as it is the closest city to the world famous temples of Angkor (the Angkor temple complex is north of the city). The provincial capital is also called Siem Reap and is located in the South of the province on the shores of the Tonle Sap Lake, the greatest sweet water reserve in whole Southeast Asia. The name of the city literally means Siamese defeated, referring to the victory of the Khmer Empire over the army of the Thai kingdom in the 17th century.
At the turn of the millennium Siem Reap was a Cambodian provincial town with few facilities, minor surfaced roads and little in the way of nightlife. Tourism industry catered largely to hardy backpackers willing to brave the tortuous road from the Thai border on the tailgate of a local pick-up truck. There were a couple of large hotels and a handful of budget guesthouses. Tuk-tuks and taxis were non-existent and the trusty motodup was the chosen means of touring the temples of Angkor.
The proximity of the Angkorian ruins turned Siem Reap into a boomtown in less than half a decade. Huge, expensive hotels have sprung up everywhere and budget hotels have mushroomed. Property values have soared to European levels and tourism has become a vast, lucrative industry. The Siem Reap of today is barely recognizable from the Siem Reap of the year 2000.
Though some of the town's previous ramshackle charm may have been lost the developments of the last few years have brought livelihoods, if not significant wealth, to a good number of its citizens. This has been at a cost to the underprivileged people living within and beyond the town's limits that now pay inflated prices at the central markets and continue to survive on poorly paid subsistence farming and fishing. If Cambodia is a country of contrasts Siem Reap is the embodiment of those contrasts. Despite the massive shift in its economic fortunes, Siem Reap remains a safe, friendly and pleasant town. There is an endless choice of places to stay or dine and a host of possible activities awaiting the visitor.
Geography
Siem Reap province is 10,299 square kilometres big and definitely one of the most famous ones in Cambodia. It's located in the Northwest of the country bordering to the North with Oddor Meanchey, to the East with Preah Vihear and Kampong Thom, to the West with Banteay Meanchey and to the South with the biggest sweet water reserve in Southeast Asia, the huge Tonle Sap Lake.
The province in general, especially in the Southern part consists of the typical plain wet area for Cambodia, covering lots of rice fields and other agricultural plantations. The northern part is turning into an undulating area covered with some deeper, green forests. A quite distinguished mark of Siem Reap Province is the smaller, but important Siem Reap River. It rises from Phnom Kulen, meanders through the northern part of Siem Reap Province and eventually into the Tonle Sap Lake.
Population
The current population in this province is about 903,030 people or 6.3% of the country's total population (14,363,519 person in Cambodia, 2007, provincial government data), with 440,395 male and 462,635 female. The population density is therefore 87,7 people per square kilometre.
Climate
The country has a tropical climate - warm and humid. In the monsoon season, abundant rain allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops. This year-round tropical climate makes Cambodia ideal for developing tourism. Travellers need not to fear natural disasters such as erupting volcanoes or earthquakes, and the country is not directly affected by tropical storms.
Climate: Cambodia can be visited throughout the year. However, those plans to travel extensively by road should be avoided the last two months of the rainy season when some countryside roads may be impassable. The average temperature is about 27 degrees Celsius; the minimum temperature is about 16 degrees. December and January are the coolest months, whereas the hottest is April. General information about the provincial climate:- Cool season: November- March (23-29c)
- Hot season: March- May (27c -37c)
- Rainy season: May - October (24-33c, with humidity up to 90%.)
Economy
Generally spoken Siem Reap Province is all in all economically focusing on the foreign tourism due to the famous Angkor Temples. Since of the year 2000 the economical growth rate is gaining double-digits. It's all sub-sectors such as hotels, restaurants, bars, entertainment places and transportation to profit from the annual influx of tourists, which was in 2007 more than 1,000,000 people.
Except the tourism sector the provincial economy was and still is growing due to the enforced fishery. Thousands of tons are annually exported to other provinces within the country or outside Cambodia. Farming and fruit cropping has probably become a minor profitable sector, but is still done by the vast poor rural population, who are the underdogs regarding the annual provincial revenue.
The best things to do in Siem Reap shows that there’s more to this quaint town besides visiting the iconic Angkor Wat temple ruins. As Cambodia’s unofficial tourism capital, Siem Reap boasts hundreds of natural and manmade attractions such as breathtaking temples, well-preserved colonial buildings, unique museums, cultural theme parks, expansive lakes and verdant mountains.
History buffs will delight in the many well-preserved stone carvings found at Buddhist and Hindu temples while nature lovers can enjoy a wide range of activities, such as hiking, bird-watching, picnicking and swimming. For experiencing the local lifestyle, there’s a wide range of cultural dances and traditional performances within central Siem Reap.
Angkor Archaeological Park
Angkor Archaeological Park is where you can find Siem Reap’s iconic Angkor Wat as well as 50 Hindu and Buddhist temple sites that were constructed between the 9th and 12th centuries. Representing the pinnacle of ancient Khmer architecture, art and civilization, this park was once the largest pre-industrial city in the world and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992.
Another prominent sight here is the Terrace of the Elephants, a striking 300-metre-long wall decorated with fine sculptures of elephants, garudas, a 5-headed horse, Khmer dancers and warriors. Visitors looking to explore the entirety of Angkor Archaeological Park are encouraged to purchase the multi-day passes as there are so many sightseeing opportunities here.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 5am to 6pm
Angkor National Museum
Angkor National Museum houses 1,000 artefacts from the ancient Khmer empire. Located along Charles de Gaulle Boulevard, the expansive museum is divided into 8 galleries that are themed by era, religion and royalty. Displays include relics from the pre-Angkorian periods of the great Khmer kings Funan and Chenla, Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, stone pallets with ancient Khmer and Sanskrit inscriptions, as well as traditional costumes of former kings, queens, warriors, and Apsara dancers.
Visitors are advised to visit the Angkor National Museum prior to the temple site as there are many touchscreen displays, videos and informative commentary on the Khmer civilisation and the majesty of Angkor, helping you to better understand the amazing temple ruins.
Location: 968 Charles de Gaulle Blvd, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 8.30am to 6.30pm
Phone: +855 63 63 966 601
Angkor Silk Farm
Artisans d’Angkor Silk Farm was established by Artisans d’Angkor, a charitable business in Siem Reap, which aims for the revival and perpetuation of traditional sericulture in Cambodia. They provide training in silk production and use the silk created in their products.
A very interesting and informative guided tour of the farm includes all aspects of silk farming and production, from the raising of the silkworms to dying the silk to weaving the final product. Their free shuttle bus usually leaves at 8.30am and 1.30pm from Artisans d’Angkor in Siem Reap. The entire tour takes about 2 hours.
Location: Highway No. 6, Puok District, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 8am to 5pm
Phone: +855 63 963 330
Angkor Wat in Miniature
You can admire miniature replicas of Angkor's temples in this small museum in Siem Reap. Constructed in 1994 and 1995 by Dy Proeung, you can see that a lot of time and effort went into creating the miniature of Angkor Wat, Banteay Srey and other ancient temples.
Although it's quite small, it's worth a look for the effort that went into creating the detailed miniatures. The artist in charge doesn’t speak much English, but he will passionately show you around. The entrance fee is US$1.50. The museum is open 24 hours.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Phone: +855 87 267 253
Apsaras dance and dinner shows in Siem Reap
Several restaurants and hotels in Siem Reap present Apsara dance shows, and Apsara dance dinner shows are included in many tours. Shows durations average around 2 hours.
Most shows include the 4 genres of traditional Khmer dance: Apsara Dance, Masked Dance, Shadow Theatre, and Folk Dance. These are abbreviated dances for tourists, and unfortunately there's usually little or no explanation as to the origin and meaning of the dances as they are performed. They are still interesting and worthwhile seeing, though. Among the few venues showing these dances are Apsara Terrace at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Apsara Theatre & Restaurant at the Angkor Village Hotel in Wat Bo Village, and Koulen Restaurant on Sivutha Street.
Banteay Chhmar
Banteay Chhmar is slightly far to reach from Siem Reap, which simply means it's also very lightly touristed. The temple site was built under the reign of King Jayavarman VII during his monumental building programme and is dedicated to his son, who died in battle fighting the Cham. You can see various Khmer and Cham battle scenes shown in the many bas-reliefs here.
Location: Thma Puok District, Banteay Meanchey, Cambodia
Banteay Samre
Banteay Samre is a large, relatively low-rise temple built in the distinctive Angkor Wat-style of construction and art. It was built around the same time as Angkor Wat, and the influence can be seen in the towers and railings which strongly resemble those of its more famous cousin.
The temple also resembles the ancient Khmer temple of Phimai in Thailand. Most of the bas-relief carvings are in very good condition. The temple has been extensively restored by archaeologists by completely taking it apart and then reconstructing it.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre in Siem Reap
Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre (BBC) is one of the most visited tourist spots in the country and has one of the largest butterfly exhibitions in Southeast Asia. A visit to Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre is a great way to take a short break from the temple tours and spend some time in spectacular surroundings filled with rare and vivid butterflies.
The butterfly park is situated about 25 km from Siem Reap, and serves as a project with a difference. The centre also contributes to the welfare of the community by training local people to rear butterflies for sale locally and abroad.
Location: Banteay Srei, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 9am to 5pm
Phone: +855 97 852 7852
Baray Lakes and The Mebon Temples
The huge Baray lakes are among the most remarkable aspects of Angkor. They are immense ancient rectangular artificial reservoirs, with the 2 largest to the east and west of Angkor Thom. The East Baray is 14 sq km wide, while the West Baray is 16 sq km.
It had been assumed they were used for agriculture irrigation, but some scholars now say that the main purpose of the Barays was religious and ceremonial. There is a stone temple called a Mebon on an island in the middle of each lake. No matter what their original purpose was, they are truly amazing feats of engineering.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Cambodia Cultural Village
Cambodia Cultural Village is a 21-hectare theme park in Siem Reap that showcases the traditional Cambodian way of life and the local customs and practices of the various ethnic groups in the country.
The park first opened to the public in late 2003. It's now home to more than 10 villages, showing off the different cultures and characteristics of 19 Cambodian races. The shows include Apsara dances, traditional wedding ceremonies and circus acts.
Location: National Highway No. 6, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 9am to 9pm
Phone: +855 63 963 098
Cambodia Landmine Museum in Siem Reap
The Landmine Museum represents an agonising window into the realism of the country’s land mine situation. During Cambodia’s 3-decade-long conflict, approximately 6 million land mines were planted in the nation.
This museum was founded in 1997 by Aki Ra, with the objective of making the country safe through the removal of mines from wherever he could find them. Aki Ra was forced to work as a mine layer by the Khmer Rouge, planting land mines from an age as young as 5. Now he is working to remove them, and set up the museum to both showcase his efforts and educate visitors on the dangers faced every day by Cambodians.
Location: Angkor Wat Archeological Park, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 7.30am to 5.30pm
Phone: +855 15 674 163
Chau Say Tevoda
Chao Say Tevoda is a smallish, graceful Hindu temple built by King Suryavarman II between AD1120 and 1150. It has a central sanctuary, 2 libraries and 4 gopuras which are at the 4 cardinal points of the compass.
To the north is Thommanon Temple, which has a similar design and floor plan to Chau Say Tevoda. Centuries of wars, neglect, and the natural elements have taken their toll, and Chao Say Tevoda was in very bad shape. In 2000, restoration of the temple began and was completed in 2009. The restoration included newly manufactured sections which are not of equal artistic quality to the original sections, but visitor can still see the temple as it was originally constructed.
Location: Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Kbal Spean River
Kbal Spean is the famous river of a 1,000 lingas at Phnom Kulen. These lingas (phallic symbols) were evidently carved into the bedrock of the river so they could ‘fertilise’ the waters flowing to the fields of Angkor.
You can also find carvings of Buddha and Buddhist images in the rocks that were carved at a later date than the lingas. It's a fairly easy 45-minute walk uphill though the woods to get to the river.
Location: Banteay Srei, Cambodia
Open: Monday–Saturday from 8am to 5.30pm
North Khleangs
The North Khleangs is a collection of rectangular, sandstone buildings near Angkor Thom. One Khleang lies east of the Terrace of the Elephants, and the other is east of the Terrace of the Leper King. The North Khleang was constructed from wood by King Rajendravarman II and was later reconstructed in stone by King Jayavarman V. The North Khleang also has well-preserved carvings.
‘Khleang’ means ‘storeroom’ but it's not likely that they were actually used for that purpose. It's not known exactly what their function was, but carved inscriptions indicate that they may have been used for ceremonial purposes, or as accommodation for visiting dignitaries.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Peace Café Yoga Class
Peace Café is a great place to try Hatha Yoga, where classes are offered every Monday, Wednesday and Sunday. The times for the Monday and Wednesday classes are from 5.30pm to 7pm and Sunday classes are from 9am to 10.30am. There is a fee for the classes, and students must bring their own mats.
Location: #115, Trail Village, Boeung Daun Pa Village, Sangkat Slor Kram 17251, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 7.30am to 9pm
Phone: +855 63 965 210
Phimeanakas
Phimeanakas is a large, tiered pyramid of laterite and sandstone construction, and is the tallest climbable temple in Angkor Thom. From the top, it offers a good view of the surrounding area.
The stairway on the western (back) side of the temple affords the easiest way to climb to the top. Unfortunately, there's an absence of carvings, and this may make it uninteresting for some. It's still an impressive structure, and well worth exploring.
Location: Royal Palace, Angkor Thom, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Phnom Kulen National Park
Phnom Kulen National Park, about 45 km north of Siem Reap, is believed to be the nation’s most sacred mountain. The top of Kulen Mountain has over 55 ancient temple ruins while the summit houses a 16th-century Buddhist pagoda and an 8-metre-long sandstone statue of a reclining Buddha.
The admission fee is about US$20 per person and, while it’s a steep price compared to Angkor Archaeological Park, visitors can access the 2 impressive waterfalls that form the focal point of Phnom Kulen. Featuring multi-tiered rocks and cascading waters, the waterfalls are great for swimming, picnicking, and memorable photo opportunities.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Pre Rup
Pre Rup is a large temple-mountain which contains well-preserved carvings of fine detail. This architecturally and artistically excellent temple is located just south of the East Baray and is similar in construction to the East Mebon, which was built a few years earlier. The false doors on the upper level are of especially excellent quality.
Location: Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Preah Vihear Temple
The fabulous Preah Vihear Temple is one of the more far-flung temple sites of Angkor. You'll need to travel over 100 km north-east of Angkor, to the Thai border, to reach it. Preah Vihear Temple (or Prasat Phra Viharn) dates back to the beginning of the 11th century. It dominates the plain from its prominent position in the Dangrek Mountains at an altitude of more than 700 metres and was returned to Cambodia by a ruling of the International Court of Justice in The Hague in 1963 (it was previously in Thailand).
Location: Kantuot, Cambodia
Pub Street
Pub Street is a brash and colourful road that's lined with iconic bars, clubs and restaurants in Siem Reap. It’s such a popular attraction almost certainly for the US$0.50 draught beers that most of the bars offer. You can even find more bars along the nearby Alley West and The Lane.
On Pub Street, you’ll also find quaint cafés, souvenir shops, art galleries and more, making it more than just a bustling nightlife hub. Pub Street gets busy from soon after 5pm when it's closed to vehicles and becomes a pedestrianised zone. The party only stops at about 4am the next morning.
Location: Street 08, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap Crocodile Farm
Siem Reap Crocodile Farm is a commercial crocodile farm that's open to the public. They have over 1,000 South China crocodiles, ranging in age from 1 year to 50 years old. They also have a store selling leather handbags, wallets, belts, etc. made from crocodile, stingrays, and snakeskin.
Note that this is not a zoo, and the crocodiles are raised solely for their high-grade leather (their meat is considered a delicacy, too). Entry costs about US$0.50 for Cambodians and US$3 for foreigners.
Location: Road 63 to Tonle Sap Lake, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 7am to 7pm
Siem Reap Old Market
Visiting the Old Market – known locally as Psar Chas – is among the most popular things to do in Siem Reap town itself. The covered structure is centrally located, just west of the Siem Reap River, and it's as popular with locals as it is with tourists.
At its heart is a fresh market, selling a pungent combination of produce, seafood, meat and spices. Around that is an eclectic selection of souvenir stalls, with good prices for interesting curios. On the periphery of the market there are many good budget restaurants serving mostly Khmer dishes.
Location: 2 Thnou St, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 7am to 8pm
Siem Reap Shooting Range
Siem Reap Shooting Range is where you can enjoy a thrilling experience of shooting real firearms during your visit to this historical town. Located outside downtown Siem Reap, this outdoor shooting range can accommodate up to 20 people at a time and features numerous paper target at distances as far as 25 metres.
Choose from a wide range of rifles, machine guns, and handguns, including AK47s, M16s, M60s and .38 revolvers. The price varies according to the weapon and number of bullets you’ve chosen. The most popular option is the AK47, which costs US$50 to fire a full magazine of 30 bullets.
Location: National Road 6, Brasat Bakong, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 6am to 6.30pm
Phone: +855 78 777 908
Srah Srang
Srah Srang is a small but quite picturesque Baray (ancient reservoir) located to the east of Banteay Kdei. It was designed and constructed in the same manner as Pre Rup and was remodelled in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII as part of his building programme. There are landings at different levels on the western part of the Baray, and they are decorated with nagas and guardian lions.
In the dry season, when the water level is low, the remnants of a mebon or temple can be seen in the middle of the reservoir just sticking out above the water. Srah Srang is used as an alternate sunrise viewing location and is much less crowded than Angkor Wat.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Ta Keo
Ta Keo is a large temple-mountain style structure, constructed from huge sandstone blocks. It was built by 3 different kings: Jayavarman V, Jayaviravarman, and Suryavarman I. When Jayavarman V started the temple, it was his state temple but, unlike other state temples, it was built outside of the main capital area.
The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, and seems to have been topped with golden towers, as it was known in ancient times as the mountain with golden peaks.
Location: Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Terrace of the Leper King
The Terrace of the Leper King features carved nagas, demons and other mythical beings. You can find it at the north end of the Terrace of Elephants. The inner wall was built first and the outer wall was added later, covering the inner wall. Archaeologists excavated the inner wall in the late 1990s.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Roluos Group of Temples
The Roluos Group of Temples is the 9th-century group of temples named for the nearby town of Roluos. The site lies east of Siem Reap, along National Highway No. 6.
This group of ancient structures are what remains of Hariharalaya, the first important capital of the Khmer Empire. It was the Khmer capital for more than 70 years, under 4 kings.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Thommanon
Thommanon is a small, pretty-looking temple, constructed about the same time as Angkor Wat. Due to an extensive restoration in the 1960s, it remains in relatively excellent condition today.
The Angkor Wat style of architecture is evident in the temple's towers and carvings. The many carvings of Thommanon are also in very good condition, and in the rainy season, the colour of the wet sandstone makes them really stand out, offering good photographic opportunities.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Tonle Sap Lake
Tonlé Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, making it an important natural resource for the local population in terms of fishing and wetlands. There are over 300 species of freshwater fishes, snakes, crocodiles, tortoises, and otters as well as 100 varieties of water birds such as storks and pelicans.
The best time to visit is during the wet season (between June and November), when you can spot and photograph traditional floating villages around the expansive lake. Another must-visit at Tonlé Sap Lake is Prek Toal Biosphere Reserve, where you can enjoy a guided boat tour through the marshes and lake for about US$129. The lake is about 15 km south of Siem Reap.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
War Museum Cambodia
War Museum Cambodia features outdoor displays of old, rusted and broken-down military hardware taken from the battlefield. Equipment on display includes old tanks, artillery pieces, rocket launchers, anti-aircraft guns, small arms, mines and bombs.
There's also an old Shenyang J-6 jet fighter, an XU-814 Mil Mi-8T helicopter, and other military hardware in various conditions. The entrance fee is about US$5 per person, which includes a free guide who can help you learn about the history, explaining about the different mines and weapons, tell personal war stories, and let you hold some of the small arms like M16s, AK47s and rocket-propelled grenades.
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 8am to 5.30pm
Phone: +855 97 457 8666
Wat Damnak Pagoda
Wat Damnak Pagoda, set along Wat Bo Road, was originally a royal palace during the reign of King Sisowath. Today, it houses a school, 2 charities, and a sewing academy for young local women within its grounds.
The establishment is most popular for housing the Centre for Khmer Studies, an extensive library filled with over 11,000 books, journals, encyclopaedias, directories, maps, guidebooks and daily national newspapers in English, French and Khmer languages. Offering a tranquil retreat from the bustling town centre, you can enjoy some reading or stroll along the verdant garden courtyard here.
Location: Wat Bo Road, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 8am to 5.30pm
The best Siem Reap dishes can be enjoyed everywhere in the quaint town, from dingy roadside stalls and traditional markets to luxury hotels and high-end Khmer restaurants. Due to its close proximity to Tonle Sap Lake, freshwater fish is a common ingredient with noodles, soups, and curries, while grilled beef, pork, and chicken are paired with rice and salads. Siem Reap is also heavily influenced by the French, so traditional soups are often served with a baguette for breakfast.
Siem Reap cuisine is healthier than many other regional cuisines as its dishes contain a myriad of fresh vegetables and herbs such as lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime, and shallots. Not only are these dishes inexpensive (with prices sometimes as low as US$0.50 per serving), you can easily have them customised according to your dietary specifications. Start your Khmer culinary adventure with these 10 must-try dishes in Siem Reap.
Bai Sach Chrouk (Pork with Broken Rice)
Bai sach chrouk is sold by roadside food stalls and local markets in downtown Siem Reap for less than US$1. This simple yet popular Cambodian breakfast staple comprises juicy pork slices, scrambled eggs, and rice.
While the dish typically calls for raw pork that’s slow-cooked over a charcoal stove, there are several Khmer restaurants that marinate the meat with coconut milk or garlic for added flavour.
Once it’s cooked, the pork is thinly sliced and arranged atop a bowl of broken rice, sliced scrambled eggs, pickled cucumbers, and daikon radish. A bowl of chicken broth, scallions and fried onions are also served together with bai sach chrouk.
Fish Amok
Fish amok is freshwater fish fillet that’s steamed with curry and banana leaves, resulting in a soft mousse-like texture. Unlike most curries in Asia, it exudes a fragrant flavour rather than a spicy one due to the combination coconut milk and kroeung, a Khmer-style curry paste which contains garlic, lemongrass, turmeric root, Chinese ginger, kaffir lime, shallots, and galangal.
Fish amok is traditionally eaten during the Water Festival, but travellers can enjoy this classic dish (with a big plate of rice) any time of the day at local restaurants in Siem Reap.
Lok Lak (Stir-Fried Beef)
Lok lak or stir-fried beef varies from one cook to another, but it’s usually accompanied with fresh lettuce, tomato, red onion, and cucumber slices. To produce its distinctive flavour, the meat is marinated overnight with a unique combination of fish sauce, soy sauce, lemon, pepper, and oyster sauce.
If you’re not a fan of beef, most restaurants can easily substitute it with venison, pork, chicken or even tofu. As with most local dishes in Siem Reap, lok lak is served with rice, fried egg, tangy brown sauce, and a side of fresh lettuce leaves.
Khmer Red Curry
Khmer red curry, despite its striking colour, does not contain chilli, making it a much milder version of typical Thai and Indian curries. Ideal for those who can’t stand spicy food, this coconut milk-based dish utilises kroeung, which is a Khmer curry paste made with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime zest, and turmeric.
Traditionally served with a French baguette, it’s cooked together with meat slices (beef, chicken or fish), eggplant, green beans, and potatoes. The best place to enjoy Khmer red curry is at Khmer Kitchen Restaurant, though we highly recommend Malis Cambodian Restaurant’s Kampot rock crab red curry (US$22) for seafood lovers.
Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)
Nom banh chok, similar to Vietnam’s pho, is typically enjoyed as a quick and inexpensive breakfast. Available around markets in downtown Siem Reap, look out for local women carrying handwoven baskets with a shoulder pole.
A bowl of Khmer noodles costs between US$0.50 and US$1, consisting of rice noodles, mint leaves, bean sprouts, green beans, banana flower, and cucumbers in a fish-based green curry. On special occasions such as weddings and religious festivals, locals usually replace nom banh chok’s green gravy with red curry sauce.
Prahok Ktiss (Pork Dipping Sauce)
Prahok ktiss is a traditional condiment in Siem Reap which uses fermented fish paste as its main ingredient. While most prahok-based dishes have a very strong, pungent flavour, this dipping sauce is palatable to most visitors thanks to the addition of sliced pork belly or minced pork, eggplant, coconut milk, and kroeung (Khmer curry paste).
Served with plenty of freshly sliced vegetables such as carrot, cabbage, cucumber, and long beans, prahok ktiss is typically enjoyed as a snack or side dish to noodles or rice.
Samlor Machu Kroeung
Samlor machu kroeung is a filling, sweet and sour soup that’s usually enjoyed during dinnertime. Great for meat lovers, this dish contains diced beef ribs and succulent tripe that are stewed in kroeung paste, lemongrass, turmeric, morning glory, and coriander leaves.
Peanuts are sometimes added to the ensemble, resulting in a tangy and nutty flavour. As with most dishes in Siem Reap, restaurants serve samlor machu kroeung with a side of white rice and chilli flakes.
Samlor Machu Trey (Sweet And Sour Soup With Fish)
Samlor machu trey is popular among health-conscious diners thanks to its generous portions of fresh herbs, fish fillets, and vegetables, all cooked in a clear broth. Sweet and sour in taste, this one-pot dish is lightly seasoned with sugar, fish sauce, and salt and makes for a filling lunch or dinner.
Some of its ingredients include fish, water spinach, garlic, lemongrass, celery, tamarind juice, bean sprouts, and pineapple. Priced at US$0.75 onwards, eat like the locals by pilling fresh herbs and chilli peppers on top of your samlor machu trey.
Lap Khmer (Lime-Marinated Khmer Beef Salad)
Lap Khmer is the Cambodian version of Latin America’s ceviche, comprising raw beef slices marinated with lime juice, lemongrass, shallots, garlic, fish sauce, Asian basil, mint leaves, green beans, and green pepper.
Due to its contrasting flavours, this dish goes well with a plate of white rice and fresh chillies if you prefer it to be spicy. Most Khmer restaurants serve grilled beef slices to suit international visitors, so we highly recommend visiting Siem Reap’s local markets for the authentic lap Khmer salad.
Samlor Korko (Stirring Soup)
Samlor korko was originally a royal Khmer dish that was later adopted by the local population. It’s basically a spicy fish-based soup with lots of vegetables.
Locally known as stirring soup, both kroeung (curry paste) and prahok (fermented fish) are used in this dish along with pounded rice, pork or fish, and vegetables such as pumpkin, green papaya, green banana, long beans, eggplant, and bitter gourd leaves.
Samlor korko can also be tailored to vegetarian diners, with restaurateurs substituting the meat with coconut cream and vegetable stock.
Some of the best nightlife in Siem Reap are concentrated within Pub Street, a vibrant street filled with backpacker-friendly bars, international restaurants, massage parlours, and retail boutiques. Great for bar-hopping, these nightlife spots are easily accessible on foot and often stay open (and packed) until 4am. Alcohol is also cheap in Pub Street – expect to pay as little as $1 for beers during happy hours.
Some of Siem Reap’s most popular hotels have rooftop bars, lounges and pubs where affluent travellers can enjoy imported wines and liquors as well as authentic Khmer and international fare. From elegant colonial-era lounge bars to trendy nightclubs playing raucous dance tunes, read on to discover Siem Reap’s most popular nightlife spots.
Angkor What Bar
Angkor What? Bar, known as the first-ever bar in Pub Street, has been attracting a massive following of backpackers since 1998. You can easily distinguish it from the other bars along the same street thanks to its massive signage which reads ‘Promoting Irresponsible Drinking Since 1998’.
Also, prominent are Angkor What? Bar’s black walls filled with neon-coloured graffiti by previous patrons, as well as raucous pop hits and dance tunes. The bar offers the usual array of beers, cocktails, and shots. You get a free tee-shirt when you order 2 buckets of whiskey.
Location: Pub Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Sunday–Thursday from 2pm to 3am, Friday–Saturday from 2pm to 4am
Phone: +855 96 641 9002
Elephant Bar at Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor
Elephant Bar at Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor is arguably one of Siem Reap’s most iconic nightlife venues. Established in the 1960s, this elegant-looking bar features 1930s colonial architecture, dark wood furnishing, leather sofas, potted plants, and quaint elephant decorations at every corner. Compared to most bars in Siem Reap, prices at Elephant Bar are steep but reasonable thanks to its extensive alcohol and cigar offerings.
Drinks range from bourbon, cognacs and single malt whiskies to beers champagne and martinis cocktails. If you’re a cocktail lover, try the Airavata, a refreshing mix of rum, Malibu, banana cream, lime juice, sugar syrup and coconut juice, served in an elephant-shaped glass.
Location: Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor, 1 Vithei Charles de Gaulle, Khum Svay Dang Kum, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 4pm to midnight
Phone: +855 63 963 888
FCC Angkor
FCC Angkor at FCC Angkor Boutique Hotel Siem Reap features a full-service bar as well as an indoor dining area and terrace and poolside dining sections within a massive colonial-style building. Open daily, the restaurant serves authentic Khmer, Asian and international fare by day and a wide range of spirits, wines, beers and cocktails by night.
Due to the rather exclusive setting and location, FCC Angkor attracts a steady clientele that comprises affluent tourists and expats looking to enjoy a quiet evening in Siem Reap. You can often enjoy selected drinks at half price between 5pm and 7pm.
Location: Pokambor Ave, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 6am to midnight
Phone: +855 63 760 280
Laundry Bar
Laundry Bar is a rather funky late-night venue in Siem Reap. The bar is one among the long-established Siem Reap watering holes. You’ll find mostly expats here, and usually with only a few tourists around. The relaxed vibe makes it perfect for hanging out and having fun.
The main draw here is the vast music selection of 25,000 albums. While the music is great, it's not so loud that you can’t have a conversation. It has a laidback and convivial atmosphere. There are 2 pool tables if you fancy a game. You can find the bar east of the old market in Siem Reap.
Location: Street 9, Krousar Thmey Mondol Village, Siem Reap 17252, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 2.30am to 4pm
Phone: +855 95 707 233
Miss Wong Cocktail Bar
Miss Wong Cocktail Bar is a classy establishment just outside Pub Street, serving a wide range of cocktails with an Asian twist, infused gins, and imported beers. Tucked away from the bustling Pub Street, this 1920s Shanghainese bar is fitted with paper lanterns, black lacquer screens, tasteful antiques and cosy leather booths while instrumental music plays unobtrusively in the background.
Miss Wong Cocktail Bar’s signature concoctions include China White (jasmine tea syrup, lychees, Tanqueray gin and Cinzano Bianco), Indochine Martini (vodka, pineapple juice and ginger cognac liqueur), and Miss Wong Punch, served tall with soda float.
Location: The Lane, Pub Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 6pm to 1am
Phone: +855 92 428 332
Picasso Bar
Picasso Bar is a good option if you’re looking for a cool place to mingle with friendly expats during your holiday in Siem Reap. A dozen bar stools surround the compact, barrel-vaulted bar section while drinks specials are scribbled on suspended blackboards.
You usually get to enjoy 2-for-1 promos for Singha beers, cocktails, martinis, and sangrias from 5pm to 9pm. Standouts at Picasso bar include chocolate cake (Frangelico, vodka, sugared lime wedge), B53 (Kahlua, Bailey’s and absinthe) and Thong Slap. Located along Alley West, Picasso Bar is within a 2-minute walk of Pub Street.
Location: Alley West, Pub Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 2pm to 2am
Phone: +855 86 776 528
Pub Street
Pub Street is Siem Reap’s definitive nightlife hub, where you can find plenty of bars, nightclubs, pubs, and restaurants that cater to any budget and preference. The street is a 5-minute stroll from Angkor Night Market, and is very popular among budget travellers looking to party in Siem Reap.
Not only can you find a variety of local, Asian, and European cuisine along Pub Street, but imported beers and cocktails are relatively inexpensive. Perfect for a night of bar-hopping, Pub Street’s nightlife venues are within walking distance from each other, offering happy hour promos and great music until 4am.
Location: Angkor Night Market, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Silk Garden Bar & Restaurant
Silk Garden Bar & Restaurant is a good option if you prefer relaxing and drinking in a tropical garden setting. The acoustic at Silk Garden complements the garden atmosphere, and live bands provide great sounds several times a month. Expats, tourists, and Khmer regularly get together at Silk Garden for a fun time of good music paired with food and booze. Draft beers, cocktails, spirits, and aperitifs are all available. Happy hour at Silk Garden is usually held from 6pm to 8pm.
Location: Silk Garden Lane, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Monday–Saturday from 5pm to 12.30am (closed on Sundays)
Phone: +855 96 518 1908
Soul Train Reggae Bar
Soul Train Reggae Bar is relatively popular in Pub Street’s bar scene for its charming Caribbean setting and chilled-out ambience. Soul, funk, and reggae tunes are played regularly at the bar, though you can easily request your favourite songs to be played at this friendly establishment.
Happy hours are usually from 4pm until 8pm, with signature cocktails such as passion margarita priced for $1 or less. Set along New Street A in Siem Reap, Soul Train Reggae Bar is a 3-minute walk from Angkor What? Bar, another hotspot in the prime nightlife area.
Location: 35 New Street A, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 5pm to 3am
Phone: +855 86 430 740
Yokohama Restaurant & Bar
Yokohama Restaurant & Bar is on the same street as the Angkor Night Market. Its 1st floor has a bar with 2 huge fish tanks, while the 2nd is a rather minimalist sofa seating area. The highest level is the most imaginative, with a very colourful mix of silk drapery, pillows, raised seating areas, a huge bamboo birdcage to sit in, and subdued coloured lighting.
Yokohama Restaurant & Bar has a playlist that alternates between soul, jazz, and blues. The menu presents a selection of Japanese and Asian food, though many people come here for the ramen.
Location: Angkor Night Market Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Monday–Saturday from 6pm to 11pm (closed on Sundays)
Phone: +855 89 854 603
Asana Bar
Asana Bar occupies a wooden house on stilts just off The Lane at Pub Street, serving Khmer-style cocktails and light snacks until late. The only remaining traditional Khmer house in downtown Siem Reap, patrons can opt for the upstairs lounge that’s fitted with hammocks, daybeds, and beanbags or enjoy the evening breeze at the cosy garden area.
Usually, on the first Friday of each month, you can expect jazz, blues and BBQ nights held here between 7pm and 10pm. Asana Bar also hosts daily Khmer cocktail-making classes, where you get to learn how to recreate its signature concoctions and mix your very own cocktail.
Location: Street 07, Mondul 1 Village, 17252, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 11am to 2am
Phone: +855 12 508 248
Barrio Restaurant
Barrio is one of the oldest among the restaurants and bars in Siem Reap, where you can expect a very friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The owner, Patrick, is always behind the bar ready to chat with customers in French or English. A blend of Latin, French and reggae music provides the acoustic ambience. The menu features French cuisine as well as Khmer cooking, and dining is in the quiet and relaxing patio.
Location: 170 Wat Bo Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 11am to 11pm
Phone: +855 12 756 448
Easy Speaking Restaurant
Easy Speaking Restaurant is one of the long-established names along Siem Reap’s Pub Street. The dining and nightlife hotspot calls itself a cafe, pub and restaurant all in one. They serve Cambodian, Thai and western food, making it a good place to have a meal and watch the Pub Street crowd stroll by.
If it’s your first time experiencing Khmer cuisine, particularly a Cambodian barbecue, then Easy Speaking Restaurant is one of the best places to head to. The team of waiters usually help walk you through the process and explain the many different selections available and how to pick and serve for yourselves.
Location: #178, Pub Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 7am to midnight
Phone: +855 85 656 529
Mikey’s Night Bar
Mikey's Night Bar is one of the busiest and most popular late-night spots in Siem Reap. The bar serves draft beer, cocktails and spirits. The happy hour from 6pm to 10pm offers discounts on draft beer, frozen Margaritas, and 2 cocktails for the price of one. It's also popular among sports fans, as there are several TVs airing the latest sports events, such as tennis, football and basketball.
Location: Sok San Rd, Siem Reap 17252, Cambodia
Open: 24/7
Phone: +855 97 603 5548
Temple Food n Beverage
Temple Food n Beverage is a 2-storey bar within Pub Street, where budget-conscious travellers can watch traditional Apsara dance shows, catch the latest sports matches, play a game of pool, and enjoy a good selection of strong boozes that are offered at affordable prices.
Head up to the rooftop section for breezy chilled-out vibes which features plenty of plush beanbags, neon lighting and a full-service bar. You can also expect traditional dance performances held between 7.30pm and 9.30pm every day. Downstairs, Temple Bar in Beverage has leather booths, flat-screen TVs and pool tables. Resident DJs play song requests all night long.
Location: Street 8, Pub Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 7am to 2am
Phone: +855 96 799 0000
X Bar
X Bar is one of the hippest bars in Siem Reap, with a customer base that now seems to be about 50-50 between tourists and expats. The playlist is mostly hip-hop, rap and rock, and the potables include the usual bar liquids of cocktails, spirits, wine, and draft beer.
You can find 2 pool tables and a drumset in X Bar. The spot usually starts to get busy from around 1am or 2am. One thing that X Bar stands out for among the rest of the nightlife spots along Sok San Road is that it has a halfpipe on the roof for skaters to shred on.
Location: 102 Sok San Road, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Open: Daily from 4pm until 6am
Phone: +855 12 263 271