About Place
- "Gateway to the Angkor Temples."
- "Charming blend of old and new."
- "Bustling markets and serene countryside."
Reasons to Visit
Angkor Wat :
- One of the largest religious monuments in the world.
- UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Intricate carvings and historical significance.
Blend of Architecture :
- Colonial and Chinese-style buildings.
- Rich cultural tapestry reflected in the Old Market and Pub Street.
Floating Villages on Tonle Sap Lake :
- Traditional way of life with stilt houses.
- Unique glimpse into local communities' livelihoods.
Visa
Visa Required for Most Nationalities :
- Available on arrival at Siem Reap International Airport.
- Cost: Approximately $30 USD.
- Valid for 30 days.
E-Visa Option :
- Apply online before travel.
Exemptions for ASEAN Countries :
- No visa required for stays ranging from 14 to 30 days.
- Applicable to passport holders from Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and other ASEAN nations.
Recommendations :
- Check the latest visa policies before traveling, as requirements can change.
Travel Expenses
1.Travel to & from destination :
- Estimated airfare for a round trip from a major city like Bangkok to Siem Reap : $150 per person.
- Total for 2 people : $300.
2. Hotel cost :
- Average hotel cost per night : $70.
- Total for 4 nights : $280.
- For 2 people, total cost : $280.
3. Food cost :
- Average cost per meal per person : $10.
- Total meals (8 lunches, 8 dinners) : $160 per person.
- Total for 2 people : $320.
4. Activity cost :
- Angkor Wat pass (3-day) : $62 per person.
- Additional activities and performances : $50 per person.
- Total for 2 people : $224.
5. Near destination travel cost :
- Estimated cost for tuk-tuk and car rentals for 5 days : $100.
- Total for 2 people : $100.
Total estimated cost : $1,224.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and Evening Exploration
Arrive in Siem Reap and check into your hotel, then take a stroll through the charming city center. Visit the Angkor National Museum to get an overview of the region's history and artifacts. For lunch, try the local dish Amok at the Chanrey Tree restaurant. In the evening, head to Pub Street for a vibrant atmosphere, street food, and music. Enjoy dinner at the Red Piano, famous for its Khmer and Western cuisine. End the night with a visit to the Night Market to shop for souvenirs and experience the local nightlife.
Day 2 : Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom
Start early to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, exploring this iconic temple complex until mid-morning. Head back to town for lunch at Haven, a social enterprise restaurant supporting local youths. In the afternoon, visit the ancient city of Angkor Thom, including the Bayon Temple with its enigmatic faces, and the Terrace of the Elephants. Dinner will be at Malis, a restaurant that offers traditional Khmer cuisine in an elegant setting. If energy permits, take a tuk-tuk ride around the city to soak in the evening ambiance.
Day 3 : Ta Prohm and Banteay Srei
Begin the day with a visit to Ta Prohm, known for the trees growing out of its ruins, which was featured in the Tomb Raider movie. For lunch, head to the Sugar Palm for authentic Cambodian dishes. In the afternoon, travel to Banteay Srei, the "Citadel of Women," noted for its detailed carvings. Return to Siem Reap and enjoy dinner at Mahob Khmer, where you can savor farm-to-table Cambodian food. Conclude the day with a traditional Apsara dance performance at the Angkor Village Theatre.
Day 4 : Tonle Sap Lake and Floating Villages
Take a morning trip to Tonle Sap Lake to visit the floating villages and learn about the unique way of life on the water. Lunch can be enjoyed at Khmer Kitchen, offering a range of local dishes. Spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring any sites you might have missed. For your final dinner in Siem Reap, try the Cuisine Wat Damnak, renowned for its innovative use of Cambodian ingredients. Spend the night exploring the quieter parts of the city or enjoying a leisurely walk along the river.
Day 5 : Departure
Spend the morning at leisure, perhaps visiting Artisans Angkor to see local artisans at work and purchase unique handicrafts. Have lunch at Sister Srey Café, a popular spot for travelers, before heading to the airport for your departure.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your passport and visa.
- Avoid walking alone at night.
- Be cautious with street food.
- Use reputable transportation.
- Keep your belongings secure.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly.
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Avoid excessive displays of wealth.
- Have travel insurance.
Flights
- AirAsia : $120 - 1.5 hours (Bangkok to Siem Reap)
- Thai Airways : $150 - 1 hour (Bangkok to Siem Reap)
- Cambodia Angkor Air : $140 - 1 hour (Bangkok to Siem Reap)
Hotels
- Golden Temple Hotel
- Shinta Mani Shack
- Memoire d'Angkor Boutique Hotel
- Jaya House River Park
- The Privilege Floor by BOREI
Contacts
- Indian Embassy : +855 23 210 912
- Police : 117
- Ambulance : 119
- Firefighters : 118
Country
Closet Airport
Siem Reap International Airport (REP)
Nearest City
Phnom Penh
Heritage Sites
Angkor Wat
Airlines
AirAsia
Thai Airways
Cambodia Angkor Air
Bangkok Airways
Vietnam Airlines
Currency
Cambodian Riel (KHR)
US Dollar (USD)
Languages Spoken
Khmer
Real Story
The Story of Angkor Wat's Rediscovery
In the mid-19th century, a French explorer named Henri Mouhot set out on an expedition through Southeast Asia, largely driven by curiosity and a sense of adventure. During his travels in 1860, he stumbled upon the overgrown ruins of Angkor Wat, hidden deep within the Cambodian jungle. This momentous discovery reignited global interest in the Khmer Empire and its architectural marvels, which had been largely forgotten by the Western world.
Mouhot's detailed descriptions and sketches of Angkor Wat, published posthumously in his travel journals, captivated the imaginations of scholars, historians, and adventurers. His writings painted a vivid picture of the temple complex, with its grand scale, intricate carvings, and the sheer beauty of its design. Mouhot marveled at the sophistication of the Khmer civilization, comparing Angkor Wat to the ancient wonders of Greece and Rome.
The rediscovery of Angkor Wat marked the beginning of a new era of archaeological exploration and preservation in Cambodia. Researchers and explorers from around the world flocked to Siem Reap, eager to uncover the secrets of the Khmer Empire and to study the art and architecture that had been lost to time. Their efforts culminated in the extensive restoration and conservation projects that continue to this day, ensuring that Angkor Wat remains a testament to the ingenuity and grandeur of ancient Khmer culture.
Mouhot's rediscovery also had a profound impact on Cambodia itself, eventually leading to the recognition of Angkor Wat as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today, Angkor Wat stands not only as a symbol of Cambodia's historical and cultural heritage but also as a testament to the enduring legacy of exploration and the pursuit of knowledge.
Cuisine
Siem Reap offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the rich flavors of Cambodian cuisine. Key dishes include :
- Amok : A traditional Khmer dish made with fish, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, steamed in banana leaves.
- Lok Lak : Stir-fried beef served with a tangy lime and pepper sauce, often accompanied by rice and a fried egg.
- Bai Sach Chrouk : Grilled pork served with rice, pickled vegetables, and a rich broth.
These dishes reflect the local use of fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors, creating a unique and memorable dining experience.
Culture and History
Siem Reap is a city steeped in history, culture, and tradition. The heart of its cultural identity lies in its connection to the Angkor temples, a symbol of Khmer heritage and national pride. The architecture of these temples, especially Angkor Wat, reflects the artistic zenith of the Khmer Empire, with intricate bas-reliefs and majestic towers designed to resemble Mount Meru, the home of the gods in Hindu mythology. Buddhism plays a significant role in the daily lives of the locals, evident in the numerous pagodas and the presence of monks in saffron robes.
The cultural landscape of Siem Reap is a blend of old and new. Traditional Apsara dance performances, which tell stories through graceful movements and elaborate costumes, are a must-see for visitors. These dances are often performed at local theaters and some upscale restaurants, providing an insight into the classical art forms of Cambodia.
Siem Reap also celebrates several vibrant festivals, such as the Khmer New Year in April and the Water Festival in November. These events are marked by colorful parades, traditional music, and dance, offering a glimpse into the communal spirit and traditions of the Cambodian people.
The local cuisine is another cultural highlight, with dishes like Amok, a fragrant coconut milk curry, and Lok Lak, a stir-fried beef dish served with a tangy lime and pepper sauce. Street food stalls and local markets offer an array of exotic fruits, snacks, and sweets that tantalize the taste buds and showcase the diversity of Cambodian flavors.
Siem Reap’s modern side is seen in its bustling markets, chic cafes, and vibrant nightlife. The Old Market area is a hive of activity where one can find everything from handmade crafts to fresh produce. Pub Street, in the heart of the city, transforms into a lively hub in the evenings, with restaurants, bars, and nightclubs offering entertainment well into the night.