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Siem Reap travel guide

Cambodia

Basics

CountryCambodia

Time zoneAsia/Phnom_Penh

CurrencyKHR

Official language(s)Khmer

Using tuk-tuks for city travel can be cost-effective.

Places to visit

Phnom Kulen National Park

A popular nature destination for a day trip from Siem Reap. It combines waterfalls, forest scenery, and religious sites.

LocationPhnom Kulen, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia

HoursUsually open during daytime

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipRoad conditions can vary in the rainy season, so allow extra time for travel.

War Museum Cambodia

An outdoor museum displaying Cambodia's war history and military equipment. It is popular with travelers interested in modern history.

LocationKaksekam Village, Sra Ngae Commune, Siem Reap, Cambodia

HoursDaily 08:00–18:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipMuch of the exhibit is outdoors, so visiting outside the hottest part of the day is more comfortable.

Preah Khan Kompong Svay

A large Khmer temple complex outside Siem Reap. It is much less crowded than the main Angkor sites and offers a quieter historical atmosphere.

LocationKompong Svay, Siem Reap Province, Cambodia

HoursUsually sunrise to sunset

AdmissionUsually a small fee or varies by area

Travel tipAllow plenty of time for transport, as it is far from the city center.

Angkor Archaeological Park

A vast heritage area covering Angkor and surrounding ruins. Because the temples are spread out, a car or guided tour is more comfortable than a scooter.

LocationKrong Siem Reap, Cambodia

HoursDaily 5:00–18:00

AdmissionPaid (Angkor Pass required)

Travel tipYou cannot see it all in one day, so prioritize the temples you most want to visit and plan your route.

Old Market (Psar Chas)

Siem Reap’s classic market for souvenirs, textiles, spices, and fruit. It is a good place for a quick stroll and local atmosphere.

LocationPsar Chas, Siem Reap, Cambodia

HoursUsually daily 7:00–20:00

AdmissionFree

Travel tipBargaining is common, so compare prices and carry small cash.

Angkor Thom South Gate area

The iconic gateway into Angkor Thom, with a striking moat and massive stone faces. It is a great spot to feel the atmosphere of the ancient temple city.

LocationAngkor Thom South Gate, Siem Reap, Cambodia

HoursDaily 5:00–18:00

AdmissionPaid (Angkor Pass required)

Travel tipVisit in the morning or late afternoon for softer light and better photos.

Tonle Sap Lake

The largest lake in Cambodia, rich in aquatic life and culture.

HoursNone

AdmissionVaries depending on circumstances

Travel tipIt's good to explore the floating villages around the lake.

Angkor Wat

The largest religious monument in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Hours5:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission$37 (1-day ticket)

Travel tipIt's best to visit early to see the sunrise.

Angkor National Museum

A museum showcasing the ancient history and culture of Cambodia.

Hours8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission$12

Travel tipUtilize the audio guides available within the museum.

Bayon Temple

Famous for its 72 stone faces, located in the Angkor area.

Hours7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Admission$37 (includes 1-day ticket)

Travel tipHaving a guide can help you understand the historical background better.

Ta Prohm Temple

A temple where nature and history blend, famous for being featured in 'Tomb Raider'.

Hours7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Admission$37 (includes 1-day ticket)

Travel tipExplore along the well-maintained paths within the temple.

Food to try

Night Market

Offers a variety of street food; a great place to experience local dining.

Hours5:00 PM - 12:00 AM

AdmissionVaries by item

Travel tipTry different options to find the tastiest food.

Events

Khmer New Year

Cambodia's major New Year celebration. Water festivities, traditional games, and temple visits make the city feel especially lively.

WhenEvery year in mid-April

LocationSiem Reap, Cambodia

HoursAll day during the festival

AdmissionFree

Travel tipBook accommodation and transport early, as availability can fill up quickly during the holiday.

Apsara dance performances

A signature performance program where you can watch traditional Khmer dance. It is often offered as a dinner-and-show package.

WhenYear-round

LocationSiem Reap, Cambodia

HoursEvening performances

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipPopular time slots can sell out quickly, so advance booking helps.

Phchum Ben Festival

One of Cambodia's most significant festivals, involving various water-related activities.

WhenEvery mid-April

Travel tipDuring the festival, temples can be crowded, so arrive early to participate.

Basic travel phrases (English)

Hello

Hello · Greeting

Thank you

Thank you · Thanks

Nice to meet you

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Have a great day

Have a great day · Wishing a good day

Welcome

Welcome · Welcome

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