Best Time to Visit
November to February
Currency
US Dollar / Cambodian Riel
Language
Khmer, English
Timezone
ICT (UTC+7)
Discover Siem Reap
Siem Reap is far more than just a gateway to Angkor. While the sight of Angkor Wat's lotus-shaped towers emerging from the jungle at dawn is life-changing, the real magic lies in the layers you discover beyond. Wander the atmospheric corridors of Ta Prohm, where giant silk-cotton trees embrace ancient stones, then return to a town pulsing with life—from the sizzling woks of street food stalls to the contemporary galleries of the Wat Damnak area.
This is a place of profound contrasts, where you can spend the morning exploring the enigmatic faces of Bayon temple and the afternoon learning to cook Amok curry in a family-run kitchen. The rhythm of Siem Reap is dictated by temple bells and tuk-tuk horns, French colonial shutters and vibrant Apsara dance performances. It’s an affordable destination where luxury resorts sit alongside bustling local markets, all connected by the infectious warmth of Khmer hospitality.
Why Visit Siem Reap?
The Unparalleled Angkor Archaeological Park: Witness the architectural genius of the Khmer Empire, from the world's largest religious monument, Angkor Wat, to the jungle-smothered ruins of Ta Prohm and the 216 serene faces of Bayon. A three-day temple pass allows for deep exploration beyond the main circuit.
A Thriving, Accessible Arts and Culture Scene: Experience traditional Apsara dance at the Cambodian Cultural Village, explore contemporary Khmer art at the Made in Cambodia Market or McDermott Gallery, and see artisans at work at the Artisans Angkor workshops.
Incredible Value and Affordable Luxury: Enjoy world-class hospitality at a fraction of the cost, from $5 massage parlors and $2 draft beers on Pub Street to stunning boutique hotels and resort pools that offer exceptional value.
An Explosive and Delicious Food Culture: Dive into authentic Khmer cuisine, from savory Fish Amok and Lok Lak beef to crispy fried tarantulas at the Angkor Night Market. The town is also a hub for excellent cooking classes, like those at the Sala Bai Hotel School.
Vibrant Local Life Beyond the Temples: Take a boat trip to the stilted houses and floating markets of the Tonlé Sap lake communities like Kampong Phluk, or cycle through the surrounding rice paddies and villages for a glimpse of rural Cambodian life.
A Perfect Blend of Adventure and Relaxation: Balance temple trekking with poolside recovery, then explore the lively Pub Street area at night. For a unique perspective, take a sunrise hot air balloon ride or a guided quad bike tour through the countryside.
Siem Reap is Known For
Ready to explore Siem Reap?
Siem Reap Neighborhoods
Old French Quarter & Psar Chas Area
The historic heart of Siem Reap, characterized by charming, tree-lined streets, preserved French colonial villas, and the bustling Old Market (Psar Chas). This area has a relaxed, walkable vibe by day and transforms into a lively hub by the river at night.
Highlights:
Best for:
Pub Street & Night Market Area
The epicenter of Siem Reap's nightlife and tourist energy. Pub Street is a pedestrianized lane packed with bars, international restaurants, and street performers, while the surrounding alleys host the famous Angkor Night Market and countless massage parlors.
Highlights:
Best for:
Wat Damnak Village
A trendy, artsy neighborhood south of the river, known for its sophisticated cafes, boutique hotels, and cultural institutions. It's quieter than the Pub Street area but brimming with creative energy and excellent dining options.
Highlights:
Best for:
Charles de Gaulle Road & Airport Road
This major artery leading to the Angkor park is lined with large international hotels, resort-style accommodations, and expansive shopping centers. It's less about local charm and more about convenience and facilities for temple-goers.
Highlights:
Best for:
Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Buy your Angkor pass after 5 PM for a same-day sunset view—it becomes valid the next day, giving you an extra half-day.
- •For the iconic Angkor Wat sunrise, arrive by 5:15 AM and head to the left-hand pond for a reflection shot with fewer crowds.
- •Always carry small US dollar bills ($1, $5, $10). While Riel is the local currency, USD is widely accepted, and you'll often get change in a mix of both.
- •Negotiate tuk-tuk fares before you get in. A typical day touring the main Angkor temples should cost between $15-$25.
- •Dress respectfully for temples: cover shoulders and knees. Carry a sarong or scarf in your day bag to wrap up when needed.
- •Visit lesser-known temples like Banteay Srei (the 'Citadel of Women') in the late afternoon when the pink sandstone glows and tour groups have left.
- •Eat where the locals eat: For an authentic breakfast, find a street stall selling 'Kuy Teav' (noodle soup) or 'Bai Sach Chrouk' (pork and rice).
- •Bargain politely at markets. Start at about 50% of the asking price and meet somewhere in the middle, always with a smile.
- •Download the Grab or PassApp taxi-hailing apps for fixed-price, convenient rides around town, often cheaper than flagging a tuk-tuk.
- •Stay hydrated with sealed bottled water. Avoid ice in drinks from very basic street stalls, though it's generally safe in established restaurants.
Siem Reap Food Scene
Siem Reap's food scene is a delicious journey through fragrant, herb-forward Khmer cuisine, heavily influenced by neighboring Thailand and Vietnam but with its own distinct balance of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. From humble street carts to world-class fine dining, the city caters to every palate and budget.
Must-Try Dishes
Street Food & Markets
- • Angkor Night Market food stalls
- • Psar Chas (Old Market) morning noodles
- • Street-side Bai Sach Chrouk (pork & rice)
Look for stalls with a high turnover of locals for the freshest and most authentic options.
Traditional Khmer
- • Chanrey Tree (Mondulkiri red tree ant salad)
- • Cuisine Wat Damnak (tasting menus)
- • Mahob Khmer (Royal Khmer cuisine in a wooden house)
Many traditional restaurants offer set menus, which are a great way to sample a variety of dishes.
Contemporary & Fusion
- • Embassy Khmer Gastronomy (elevated Khmer)
- • JOMNO (modern Asian with a view)
- • Mie Cafe (Khmer-French fusion in a garden)
Book ahead for popular fine-dining spots, especially for dinner.
Cooking Classes
- • Sala Bai Hotel School
- • Cooking Class at a Local's Home
- • Le Tigre de Papier
Choose a class that includes a market tour to understand the ingredients at their source.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Siem Reap
Spring
March to May is the hot, dry season. Temperatures soar, often exceeding 35°C (95°F), with intense sun and minimal rainfall.
Pros:
- + Guaranteed dry weather for temple exploration
- + Fewer tourists than peak winter months
- + Clear skies for photography
Cons:
- - Extremely hot and humid, requiring frequent breaks
- - Landscape can look dry and dusty
- - Highest temperatures of the year
Summer
June to August marks the start of the rainy season. Days are hot and humid, with short, heavy afternoon downpours that bring the landscape to life.
Pros:
- + Lush, green scenery and full moats at Angkor
- + Dramatic skies and beautiful post-rain light
- + Lower accommodation prices
Cons:
- - Sudden rain showers can disrupt plans
- - High humidity
- - Some rural roads or paths may become muddy
Autumn
September to October is the peak of the wet season. Rainfall is frequent and can be prolonged, but it rarely rains all day.
Pros:
- + The temples and jungles are at their most vibrant and photogenic
- + Very few crowds
- + The Tonlé Sap lake is at its fullest, ideal for floating village visits
Cons:
- - Highest chance of prolonged rainfall
- - Potential for flooding in some areas
- - Some outdoor activities may be limited
Winter
November to February is the cool, dry peak season. Days are sunny and pleasant (around 28°C/82°F), with low humidity and cool evenings.
Pros:
- + The most comfortable weather for sightseeing
- + Ideal conditions for sunrise viewings and long temple days
- + Clear, blue skies
Cons:
- - Peak tourist crowds, especially December-January
- - Highest prices for flights and accommodation
- - Advanced bookings are essential
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Day Trips from Siem Reap
Kampong Phluk Floating Village
45-60 min by car/tuk-tuk, plus boat
Explore one of the most authentic stilted villages on the Tonlé Sap lake. The community lives in houses on towering stilts, adapting to the lake's dramatic seasonal changes. A boat tour takes you through flooded forests and out onto the vast lake.
Banteay Srei & Landmine Museum
1 hour by car/tuk-tuk
Journey to the 'Citadel of the Women,' a 10th-century temple renowned for its intricate pink sandstone carvings, considered the finest in Angkor. Combine it with a sobering yet inspiring visit to the Cambodia Landmine Museum.
Phnom Kulen National Park
1.5 hours by car (4x4 recommended)
Escape to the sacred mountain where the Angkorian empire was founded. This national park is a site of pilgrimage for Cambodians, featuring a giant reclining Buddha, hundreds of lingas carved into a riverbed, and beautiful waterfalls.
Siem Reap Budget Guide
Siem Reap is an exceptionally affordable destination, offering great value across all budget levels. Major expenses are the Angkor pass and internal transport, while food, accommodation, and activities are very reasonably priced.
Budget
$25-40 per day for hostels, street food, and temple pass分摊.
per day
Mid-Range
$60-120 per day for comfortable guesthouses, restaurant meals, guided tours, and private tuk-tuks.
per day
Luxury
$200+ per day for luxury resorts, fine dining, private car guides, and spa treatments.
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •The Angkor pass is a fixed cost: $37 for 1 day, $62 for 3 days, $72 for 7 days.
- •Tuk-tuks are cheap; negotiate a flat rate for a full day of temple touring.
- •Eat at local markets and street stalls for meals under $3.
- •Many museums and attractions offer discounted or free entry for Cambodians; check if your ticket price is the 'foreigner' rate.
- •Bottled water is cheap; buy a large refillable bottle from a supermarket to save money and plastic.
Siem Reap Hidden Gems
Theam's House Gallery
The studio and gallery of renowned Cambodian artist Lim Muy Theam, set in a traditional wooden house.
It's a living art space where you can watch artists create lacquerware and paintings, and purchase unique pieces directly in a serene, non-commercial setting.
Preah Dak Market (Red Earth Market)
A bustling local morning market about 15 minutes from Siem Reap, rarely visited by tourists.
Experience authentic local life without the souvenir stalls. It's a sensory overload of fresh produce, sizzling street food, and vibrant colors, perfect for photography.
Beng Mealea
A massive, unrestored jungle temple about 65km from Siem Reap, similar in style to Angkor Wat but largely swallowed by forest.
It offers a true 'Indiana Jones' experience. You can clamber over collapsed galleries and through root-choked doorways with far fewer visitors than the main park temples.
Kbal Spean (The River of a Thousand Lingas)
An archaeological site on the slopes of Phnom Kulen where Hindu lingas and deities are carved into the sandstone riverbed.
Combine a forest hike with the discovery of ancient, mystical carvings in a flowing stream. It's a peaceful and historically significant site away from the main temple crowds.
Senteurs d'Angkor Workshop
A charming shop and workshop producing traditional Cambodian handicrafts, spices, soaps, and candles.
Beyond shopping, you can take short, free workshops on how to fold lotus flowers or wrap a Krama (traditional scarf). It's a hands-on cultural experience in the heart of town.
Siem Reap Culture & Customs
Cambodian culture is deeply influenced by Theravada Buddhism and a profound sense of community and resilience. Respect for elders, monks, and social harmony is paramount. Siem Reap, while tourist-facing, retains this gentle and respectful core, where a smile ('sour sdey') is a universal greeting.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Always remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone's home.
- •Do not touch people on the head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body.
- •Use your right hand, or both hands, to give or receive items, especially money.
- •Dress modestly, especially at religious sites (cover shoulders and knees).
- •Show respect to monks; women should not touch them or hand objects directly to them.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Siem Reap
Do I need a visa for Cambodia?
Yes, most nationalities require a visa. You can obtain an e-Visa online before travel or a Visa on Arrival at Siem Reap Airport. The tourist visa costs $30 USD and requires one passport photo. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months' validity.
What is the best way to see the Angkor temples?
Hiring a tuk-tuk driver for the day is the most popular and flexible option. For the 'Grand Circuit' or distant temples like Banteay Srei, a private car with AC is recommended. Always start early to beat the heat and crowds, and consider a licensed guide for in-depth historical context.
Is Siem Reap safe for tourists?
Yes, Siem Reap is generally very safe for tourists. Petty theft like bag-snatching can occur in crowded areas, so be vigilant with belongings. Exercise normal precautions at night, especially when alone. Traffic can be chaotic, so cross roads carefully.
Can I use credit cards in Siem Reap?
Major hotels, upscale restaurants, and some larger shops accept credit cards, but cash (US Dollars) is king for most transactions, especially in markets, with tuk-tuks, and at local eateries. ATMs are widely available and dispense USD.
What should I pack for Siem Reap?
Pack light, breathable clothing for the heat, a hat, sunscreen, and strong insect repellent. Include a scarf or sarong for temple visits, comfortable walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a power adapter (sockets are mostly Type A/C, 220V).
Is it okay to give money or sweets to children?
No, it is strongly discouraged. Giving money or gifts encourages child begging and can disrupt their education. If you wish to help, consider donating to a reputable local charity or school instead.
How do I get a SIM card for data?
You can easily purchase a tourist SIM card at the airport or from countless shops in town. Providers like Smart, Cellcard, and Metfone offer affordable data packages (e.g., $5 for several GB). Ensure your phone is unlocked.
What is the tipping etiquette?
Tipping is not mandatory but is greatly appreciated, especially given low local wages. For good service in restaurants, 5-10% is fine. Tip your tuk-tuk driver a few dollars at the end of a long day, and hotel porters $1-2 per bag.
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