Planning Your Trip to Siem Reap
Siem Reap has many beautiful Asian-style architectural works that pull people from all around the corner. If you are a first-time visitor then know this traveller gets an unforgettable experience. Nestled in Cambodia, this city has well blended in ancient wonders along with modern charm. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, foodie, or nature lover, Siem Reap has something for everyone.
11 things to plan your trip:
1. Marvel at Angkor Wat
No trip to Siem Reap is complete without visiting Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning masterpiece of Khmer architecture, surrounded by a serene moat and lush greenery. Arrive early to witness the magical sunrise over the temple—a sight that will leave you in awe. Explore the intricate carvings and learn about its rich history, which dates back to the 12th century.
Note: Save yourself Direct flights to Siem Reap as early as possible so that you can have a budget-friendly trip.
2. Explore Angkor Archaeological Park
Beyond Angkor Wat, the Angkor Archaeological Park is home to countless other temples, each with its unique charm:
- Bayon Temple: Famous for its 216 serene stone faces.
- Ta Prohm: Known as the "Tomb Raider Temple," where nature intertwines with ruins.
- Banteay Srei: A smaller yet exquisitely detailed pink sandstone temple.
Hire a local guide or rent a bicycle to navigate the vast park and uncover its hidden gems.
3. Visit the Angkor National Museum
To deepen your understanding of the Angkor temples and Cambodian history, visit the Angkor National Museum. This modern museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including sculptures, jewelry, and ancient inscriptions. The interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations make it an educational and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
4. Experience the Floating Villages
Discover the unique way of life in Cambodia by visiting the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake. Villages like Kampong Phluk and Chong Kneas are built on stilts, offering a fascinating glimpse into the local culture and traditions. Take a boat tour to explore these communities, where you’ll see floating houses, schools, and markets. Sunset cruises provide a particularly picturesque experience.
5. Enjoy the Phare, The Cambodian Circus
Phare, The Cambodian Circus, is a must-see evening entertainment that combines acrobatics, theater, and live music. Performed by young Cambodian artists, the show narrates captivating stories of Cambodian culture and history. Proceeds support the Phare Ponleu Selpak, a nonprofit organization helping underprivileged youth through arts and education.
6. Explore Local Markets
- Siem Reap’s markets are a haven for shopaholics and foodies alike. Visit the Old Market (Psar Chaa) for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Khmer items. For a more vibrant atmosphere, head to the Angkor Night Market, where you can find unique gifts, street food, and local delicacies. Bargaining is common, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for the best prices.
- A must-buy is handcrafted silk scarves and garments, often found at the Angkor Night Market or Artisans Angkor, where you can witness the intricate weaving process. Cambodian spices, such as lemongrass, amok spices, and Kampot pepper, make for excellent culinary souvenirs, allowing you to bring the flavors of Cambodia home. For art lovers, explore galleries showcasing local artists’ work or purchase intricately carved wooden and stone statues inspired by Angkorian temples. Jewelry made from silver or eco-friendly materials is another popular option, often sold in boutique stores around the Old Market area.
- Last but not least don’t miss out on Krama, the traditional Cambodian checkered scarf, a versatile and cultural keepsake. Siem Reap’s markets also abound with quirky items like recycled crafts made from repurposed materials, adding an eco-conscious twist to your shopping spree.Bargaining is a common practice, especially in the bustling Psar Chaa (Old Market), where you’ll find everything from vibrant fabrics to handmade trinkets. Shopping in Siem Reap not only offers unique treasures but also supports local artisans and communities, making it a rewarding part of your visit.
7. Take a Cooking Class
Immerse yourself in Khmer culture by learning to cook traditional Cambodian dishes. Many cooking schools in Siem Reap offer hands-on classes, starting with a market visit to source fresh ingredients. Learn to make dishes like amok trey (fish curry) or banh chhev (savory pancakes), and enjoy your creations at the end of the session. It is not like everyday one comes to this iconic place, so enjoy this activity to know the culture more closely and their lifestyle as well, isn’t that great?
8. Discover the Kulen Mountain Waterfalls
Escape the city and embark on a day trip to Phnom Kulen National Park, home to stunning waterfalls, ancient ruins, and the sacred River of a Thousand Lingas. Swim in the refreshing pools beneath the waterfalls or hike through the lush forest to explore the area. The park also houses a massive reclining Buddha statue, a revered pilgrimage site. One can meditate and have a moment of silence.
9. Visit the Landmine Museum
Learn about Cambodia’s recent history at the Cambodia Landmine Museum. Founded by Aki Ra, a former child soldier turned deminer, the museum showcases the impact of landmines on the country and the ongoing efforts to clear them. It’s a poignant and eye-opening experience that highlights the resilience of the Cambodian people.
10. Tonle Sap Lake Boat Ride
Visit floating villages like Kompong Phluk and take a boat trip of Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. You can see how the residents of the lake go about their daily lives.
11. Cycle Through the Countryside
When slow, things seem more close and connected. The same goes for cycling as well. For a change of pace, rent a bicycle and explore the picturesque countryside around Siem Reap. Pedal through rice paddies, small villages, and lotus farms to experience the rural charm of Cambodia. Many tour operators offer guided cycling tours that include visits to local homes and workshops, providing a deeper connection with the community.
Click pictures to make the most of your trip. Before getting into the flight bookings, let’s first know about the most suitable time to visit Siem Reap. Although it depends on your choices, the dry season, which runs from November to May, is usually seen to be the ideal time to visit Siem Reap, Cambodia. The most popular time to go is during the chilly season, which runs from November to February. However, now that the hot season is going to take place sometime sooner. Look through the items that one can do. They are as follows:
Lovely Things To Enjoy During Hot Season in Siem Reap
- Visit the temple: Enjoy the sunrise at Angkor Wat and beat the heat around. The architecture in itself is all because of which travelers come to Cambodia.
- Farm Visit of Silk: Watch through the silk-making process at the famous Angkor Silk Farm. Here, the craftsman works with concentration and makes sure that one gets good and high-quality silk products.
- Khmer Tasting: If you are non-vegetarian, then know that amok (fish curry) and lok lak (stir-fried beef), along with some fresh smoothies, are good to enjoy the weather. Know that you will be in love with this place as the food adds to the factor of liking Siem Reap some more.
How do I get direct flight to Siem Reap?
To get a direct flight to Siem Reap, follow these steps:
Check Major Airlines -Several airlines offer direct flights to Siem Reap International Airport (REP) from select cities, especially in Asia. Some popular options include:
- Bangkok Airways (from Bangkok)
- Vietnam Airlines (from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City)
- Thai AirAsia (from Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur)
- Singapore Airlines (via SilkAir or Scoot from Singapore)
If you're traveling from outside Asia, you may need to connect through regional hubs like Bangkok, Singapore, or Ho Chi Minh City.
Siem Reap attracts seasonal direct flights during high travel periods (November–February). Airlines often increase direct routes during this time to accommodate demand.
Book in Advance -Direct flights can be limited, so booking several weeks or months in advance ensures you secure your seat and potentially save on airfare.
Conclusion
Siem Reap is a destination that captivates travelers with its blend of ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. There will be no dull moment for you. By planning your trip carefully and including these top things to do and see, you can create unforgettable memories in this remarkable city. Whether you’re exploring the iconic temples, indulging in local cuisine, or connecting with the local community, Siem Reap promises an enriching and inspiring adventure.
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