Siem Reap travel - Cambodia, Asia

Overview of Siem Reap

History & Culture Influence

Siem Reap's rich history, spanning over a millennium, has deeply influenced its cultural identity and character. First settled around 802 AD, the city rose to prominence during the Khmer Empire, serving as a key stopover for pilgrims and traders visiting the grand temples of Angkor. Following the fall of Angkor to Ayutthaya in 1431, Siem Reap went through periods of decline before coming under French control in 1907. The rediscovery of Angkor by French explorers reignited global interest, leading to the restoration of the temples and the development of colonial-era infrastructure, such as the iconic Grand Hotel d'Angkor.

Siem Reap's cultural fabric is a blend of ancient Khmer heritage, French colonial influence, and modern development. Its architecture reflects this mix, while its religious and artistic significance shines through in its temples and traditional Apsara dance performances. Despite suffering under the Khmer Rouge regime, the city has experienced rapid growth since the 1990s, driven by tourism. Today, Siem Reap remains a multicultural hub, attracting visitors from all over the world and continuing its role as a center for cultural preservation and education.

Interaction with The Locals

When you visit Siem Reap, you’ll find the locals to be incredibly warm and welcoming, with the vast majority being Khmer. The province is home to around a million people, and Khmer culture is at the heart of everyday life. In tourist areas, many locals speak English, so communication is generally easy, but you’ll still experience their genuine hospitality. There’s a strong sense of pride in the city’s rich history, particularly surrounding Angkor Wat and other ancient temples, and locals are often eager to share their heritage with visitors. While tourism plays a big role in the economy, it’s important to be mindful of the traditional customs, especially when visiting sacred sites. You’ll also notice the contrast between bustling tourist areas and the more modest lifestyles of some residents, reminding visitors of the realities many locals face.

Top attractions in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is home to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument, and the enchanting Ta Prohm temple, famous for its giant tree roots intertwined with ancient ruins. Visitors can also explore the vibrant nightlife of Pub Street, the floating villages of Tonlé Sap Lake, and the intricate pink sandstone carvings of Banteay Srei.

Angkor Wat

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park, about 5.5 km north of Siem Reap

A must-see for any visitor to Cambodia, Angkor Wat is the crown jewel of Khmer architecture and the largest religious monument in the world. Built in the 12th century, this majestic temple complex is famous for its stunning bas-reliefs and enormous moat. The five iconic towers, representing Mount Meru from Hindu mythology, are instantly recognizable and symbolize the cosmic center of the universe. Exploring the temple’s intricate carvings and grand design, visitors will be immersed in a journey through ancient history and spirituality.

Ta Prohm

Location: Angkor Archaeological Park, about 1 km east of Angkor Thom

If you're looking for something straight out of a movie, Ta Prohm is the place to visit. Known for its appearance in "Tomb Raider", this 12th-century Buddhist temple is famous for the enormous tree roots that have woven themselves through the ruins. The sight of giant trees embracing the ancient stones creates a breathtaking blend of nature and human craftsmanship, making Ta Prohm one of the most unique and photogenic temples in the Angkor complex.

Tonlé Sap Lake

Location: About 15 km south of Siem Reap

For a glimpse into local life and Cambodia's natural beauty, head to Tonlé Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to floating villages, where local communities live in harmony with the water. A boat tour will take you through the unique stilted houses and give you the chance to observe the rich biodiversity of the area, including a variety of bird species. It’s a peaceful, immersive experience that connects visitors to the daily rhythms of Cambodian life.

Pub Street

Location: Central Siem Reap

When the sun sets in Siem Reap, Pub Street comes alive as the heart of the city’s nightlife. Lined with vibrant bars, restaurants, and shops, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring temples. Whether you're in the mood to try local Khmer cuisine, enjoy live music, or shop for souvenirs, Pub Street offers a lively, fun atmosphere where locals and tourists alike gather to experience Siem Reap’s energetic spirit.

Banteay Srei

Location: About 25 km northeast of Siem Reap

Known as the "Citadel of Women," Banteay Srei is a 10th-century temple renowned for its exquisite pink sandstone carvings. Smaller than some of the other temples, Banteay Srei is often considered one of the finest examples of classical Khmer art, with intricate, delicate carvings that have been remarkably well-preserved. The temple’s detailed sculptures, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, make it a must-see for anyone interested in Khmer craftsmanship and history.

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Location: Phare Circus Ring Road, south of Sok San Road, Siem Reap

For a truly unique cultural experience, don’t miss a performance by Phare, The Cambodian Circus. This captivating show combines theater, music, dance, and acrobatics to tell powerful stories of Cambodian history and folklore. More than just entertainment, Phare supports local youth by providing them with training in the performing arts, making it a great way to engage with Cambodia’s vibrant arts scene while supporting a meaningful cause.

Must-Try Dishes in Siem Reap

When in Siem Reap, don’t miss the chance to try Fish Amok, a creamy, coconut-based fish curry that’s a true icon of Khmer cuisine. Another must-try is Lok Lak, a flavorful stir-fried beef dish with French influences, served with rice and a tangy lime-pepper sauce. For the adventurous, chili fried insects offer a crunchy, protein-packed street food experience that showcases Cambodia’s unique culinary traditions.

Fish Amok

A must-try when visiting Siem Reap, Fish Amok is one of Cambodia’s most beloved dishes. This creamy fish curry is delicately steamed in banana leaves, giving it a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Made with freshwater fish, coconut milk, and the fragrant kroeung spice blend, it embodies the essence of Khmer cuisine. The balance of flavors—mildly sweet, slightly tangy, and aromatic—makes it a cultural icon, offering a true taste of Cambodia’s culinary heritage.

Nom Banh Chok

Known as "Khmer noodles," Nom Banh Chok is a popular breakfast staple across Cambodia. This light yet flavorful dish consists of rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry sauce and fresh vegetables like cucumber, banana blossom, and herbs. It highlights the importance of rice and fish in Cambodian cuisine, reflecting the everyday eating habits of the locals in Siem Reap. Whether enjoyed in a market or at a street food stall, it's a refreshing way to start the day.

Lok Lak

A flavorful stir-fried beef dish, Lok Lak is a perfect blend of Cambodian and French influences. The tender beef cubes are marinated in a savory sauce and served with rice, a fried egg, and a lime-pepper dipping sauce that adds a zesty kick. Its origins date back to the French colonial period, and today it remains a favorite dish in Siem Reap’s restaurants, showcasing the fusion of cultures that has shaped Cambodia’s food scene.

Prahok

An essential part of Cambodian cuisine, Prahok is a fermented fish paste often referred to as "Cambodian cheese." While it may have a strong aroma, its rich, salty flavor is key to many traditional dishes. Prahok speaks to Cambodia’s long-standing fish preservation techniques and the significance of fish in everyday life. Its widespread use in Siem Reap’s kitchens gives visitors a deep insight into the country’s culinary roots.

Chili Fried Insects

For adventurous eaters, chili fried insects are a fun and unique street food experience in Siem Reap. Crickets, silkworms, and grasshoppers, stir-fried with chili and spices, offer a crispy, protein-packed snack. Once eaten out of necessity, these insects have become a local delicacy and a cultural curiosity for tourists, representing Cambodia’s resourceful approach to cuisine.

Siem Reap's weather and climate

Climate

Siem Reap has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a dry season and a rainy season.

Dry Season (November to April)

• Average temperatures: 24-32°C (75-90°F)
• Little rainfall, generally below 55mm per month
• Humidity below 70%
• April is one of the hottest months, with temperatures up to 35°C (95°F) or higher

Rainy Season (May to October)

• Average temperatures: 25-32°C (77-90°F)
• Higher rainfall, 180-260mm per month
• 15-22 rainy days per month
• Humidity over 70%

Temperature

• Annual average temperature: 27.7°C (81.9°F)
• Hottest months: April and May, with average highs around 35°C (95°F)
• Coolest months: December and January, with average lows around 21-22°C (70-72°F)

Rainfall

• Wettest months: September and October, with up to 273mm of rain
• Driest months: December to February, with as little as 10mm of rain

Best Time to Travel

While Siem Reap can be visited year-round, the dry season from November to April offers the most favorable conditions for exploring its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Events and festivals happening in Siem Reap

Water Festival (Bon Om Touk)

Scheduled for March 16-17, 2024, this festival celebrates the unique phenomenon of the Tonle Sap River reversing its flow. The festivities include boat races, fireworks, and cultural performances along the Siem Reap River and Pub Street. The event features traditional ceremonies such as Loy Pratip (illuminating boats), Sampeas Preah Khe (saluting the moon), and Auk Ambok (sharing a traditional rice dish).

Khmer New Year (Chol Chnam Thmei)

Typically celebrated from April 13-15, this is the largest festival in Cambodia. It marks the beginning of the new solar year with parades, music, feasting, and traditional games. Siem Reap becomes vibrant with activities, and it's a great time to experience local customs and celebrations .

Visak Bochea

Celebrated in May, this Buddhist holiday commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. It often includes candlelight processions and ceremonies at Angkor Wat and other temples, providing a spiritual experience for visitors .

Pchum Ben

This festival occurs around September to October and involves visiting pagodas to honor deceased ancestors. The last three days are particularly festive, with offerings and ceremonies at temples, including those in the Angkor area .

Cambodia Beer Fest

Held in January, this modern festival features local breweries and entertainment, showcasing Cambodia's growing craft beer scene

Shopping for local crafts and souvenirs in Siem Reap

1. Old Market (Psar Chas): Located in the heart of town, this traditional market offers a wide variety of goods including silverware, silks, handicrafts, spices, and stone carvings. It's great for both shopping and experiencing local culture.
2. Night Market: With over 240 vendors selling handmade Cambodian crafts, this is an excellent place for unique souvenirs. It's open late and offers items like handmade tapestries, paintings, and wood or stone carvings.
3. Kandal Village: This emerging shopping district features upscale boutiques and cafés. Notable shops include Louise Loubatieres for ceramics and jewelry, and Sirivan for designer clothing.
4. Artisans Angkor: Offering a wide selection of high-quality Cambodian arts and crafts, accessories, and silverware. They employ over 800 craftspeople throughout the country.
5. The Passage: A lively pedestrian street in the Old Market District lined with restaurants, pubs, hotels, and galleries.
6. Trunkh: A unique concept store on Hap Guan Street, offering distinctively Cambodian objects and quirky souvenirs.
7. Angkor Handicraft Association: While not specifically mentioned in the results, this is likely a good place for authentic local crafts.
8. Senteurs d'Angkor: Specializes in traditional Cambodian spices and herbs transformed into cosmetics and food products.
9. Theam's Gallery: An art gallery offering unique lacquerware designs, polychrome paintings, and traditional wood-carved Buddha statues.
10. Made in Cambodia Market: Mentioned as a place for handcrafted gifts.

Culture Etiquette in Siem Reap

Greetings and Gestures

When greeting locals in Cambodia, it’s customary to use the Sampeah, a traditional gesture where you press your palms together in front of your chest and bow slightly. The higher your hands and the deeper your bow, the more respect you show, especially to elders or authority figures. It’s important to always return a Sampeah, as not doing so can be seen as impolite. Avoid physical contact, like hugging or kissing, particularly with people you've just met.

Respect for Religion and Sacred Sites

When visiting temples, modest clothing is essential—make sure your shoulders and knees are covered. Always remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s home, and avoid touching or pointing at Buddha images. It's also important to never turn your back to a Buddha statue, and women should avoid touching monks or their robes.

General Etiquette

Politeness is highly valued in Cambodian culture. Use formal language, especially when addressing elders or those of higher status. Never touch someone’s head, as it’s considered the most sacred part of the body. Similarly, don’t point with your feet, as they’re regarded as the lowest part of the body. If offered food or drink, it’s polite to accept as a sign of gratitude, even if you don’t plan to consume it.

Dining Customs

When dining, wait for the eldest or most senior person at the table to begin eating before you start. A spoon and fork are typically used, with the fork being used to push food onto the spoon. If using chopsticks, don’t leave them standing upright in your rice bowl. It’s also considered polite to sample a little bit of everything that’s offered.

Dress Code

Modesty is key in Cambodia, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Even in tourist zones, overly revealing clothing should be avoided to show respect for local customs.

Temple Etiquette

Refrain from climbing on temple structures or touching the intricate carvings. Keep your voice low and be respectful of those praying. If you wish to photograph monks or worshippers, always ask for permission first.

Environmental Awareness

Help preserve Cambodia’s natural beauty by respecting conservation efforts. Be mindful of water usage, as Siem Reap often faces shortages, and always dispose of litter properly to keep the environment clean.

Essential Travel Information

Airport Transfers

For getting from Siem Reap Airport to the city, there are several convenient options:

• Official Airport Shuttle Bus: At just $8 per person, this is the most affordable option, with drop-offs at three locations: Makro Market, CDF Angkor Duty-Free Store, and Angkor Supermarket. However, the schedule is limited to four daily departures at 9:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:00 PM, and 8:00 PM.
• Official Airport Taxis/Minivans: For more flexibility, you can take a taxi or minivan. A taxi for up to 4 people costs $35, while a minivan for 5-14 passengers is $40. Available from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM, these options provide a direct drop-off in downtown Siem Reap.
• Private Transfer Services: Companies like Welcome Pickups offer pre-booked private transfers starting at $15-18 for a sedan, providing a more personalized and hassle-free experience.
• Cambodia Post Shuttle (Starting November 2023): For $8 per person, this new service offers 7 daily scheduled trips. Reservations are recommended for this cost-effective option.

Getting Around the City

Once in Siem Reap, there are plenty of ways to explore:

• Tuk-tuks: These are a popular choice for short trips around town. Always negotiate the fare in advance, with typical rides costing $2-5.
• PassApp/Grab: Ride-hailing apps like PassApp and Grab make it easy to book tuk-tuks or cars with set fares, providing convenience for travelers.
• Bicycle Rentals: Many hotels offer bike rentals, which are a great way to explore the compact city center at your own pace.
• Motorbike Rentals: Available for those seeking a bit more adventure, though not recommended for those inexperienced with riding in busy city traffic.
• Walking: Siem Reap’s city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore the streets on foot.

ATM and Banking Services

ATMs are easily accessible throughout Siem Reap, especially in tourist areas and urban spots. Major local banks such as ABA Bank, Acleda Bank, Canadia Bank, Sathapana Bank, J Trust Royal Bank, and Union Commercial Bank offer ATM services. Most ATMs dispense US dollars, which are widely accepted in Cambodia alongside the local currency, the Riel.

When using ATMs, keep in mind the potential fees, such as withdrawal and foreign transaction charges. To minimize costs, it's wise to withdraw larger amounts less frequently. For added security, opt for ATMs located inside bank premises. International cards, including VISA and Mastercard, are accepted at most machines. Always be cautious of your surroundings, check for skimming devices, and have your bank’s emergency contact information handy in case of issues.

Accommodation Choices

Siem Reap offers a variety of accommodation options, ensuring that every traveler finds something that suits their needs and budget:

• Luxury Hotels: For those seeking a high-end experience, you'll find numerous international hotel chains and upscale resorts, particularly near major tourist sites like Angkor Wat.
• Mid-range Hotels: Centrally located and close to popular attractions, mid-range hotels provide comfort and convenience at a reasonable price.
• Budget Accommodations: Backpackers and budget travelers can choose from a wide range of affordable hostels and guesthouses throughout the city.
• Boutique Hotels: If you're looking for something more unique, Siem Reap’s boutique hotels offer charming, locally-owned properties with personalized service.
• Homestays: For an authentic cultural experience, consider staying in a homestay, where you can immerse yourself in local life and customs.