Discover Siem Reap: Top Attractions and Activities
Famously known for Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is a blend between vibrant modern life and ancient wonders. Visiting Siem Reap, I was pleasantly surprised by the local’s friendliness, the delicious food and honestly a pretty good nightlife. I feel it is important to mention that although Google classes Cambodia as one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia, it personally didn’t feel like it. While hotels are very reasonable priced, going out for food and drinks feels closer to Western Europe prices. Of course, you can find cheap street food, but restaurants in Siem Reap are quite pricy, at least from my personal experience.
How to get to Siem Reap?
The easiest way to get to Siem Reap is by air, the airport is very well connected with other major airports in the area. Alternatively you can also cross the land border by bus from Vietnam or Thailand.
How many days should you spend?
Personally, I think you should add one extra day to the number of days you want to spend exploring Angkor Wat but spend at least 3 days.
Top Things To Do
1. Explore the Temples of Angkor
The Temples of Angkor will be the highlight of your Siem Reap trip. The Khmer Empire primarily built the temples from the 9th to the 13th century. The early Khmer Empire was heavily influenced by Hinduism, which came to Southeast Asia via Indian traders, priests, and scholars as early as the 1st century CE so if you’ve been to India before you will undoubtedly see the similarities in the temple’s architecture.
The archeological park contains over 70 temples with Angkor Wat and Bayon being the most famous.
Notable Temples:
Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is the biggest and the most famous temple. It was built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II and was originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu. I highly recommend going on a sunrise tour to see Angkor Wat and witness the magical reflection of the temple in the moat as the sun rises behind the temple.
Ta Prohm
Made famous by its appearance in Tomb Raider, Ta Prohm has a mystical vibe to it. It was built around 1186 AD, during the reign of King Jayavarman VII and it was dedicated to Buddhism. What’s unique about this temple is the way nature has overtaken the temple. Large silk-cotton trees and tamarind trees grow out of and around the ruins, with their roots wrapping around columns and walls.
Bayon
The Bayon Temple is known for its hundreds of smiling stone faces. The temple was built around the same time as the Ta Prohm temple during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. The enigmatic stone-carved faces are believed to convey messages of compassion and protection over the kingdom, showcasing the king’s desire for peace and harmony during his reign.
2. Pub Street
Pub Street is the most popular nightlife area in Siem Reap. Located in the heart of the city, it has everything from local cuisine to funky bars and night markets.
3. Preah Promh Rath Pagoda
The Pagoda was built in the 20th century and its name can be translated to “The Holy Place of the Royal Gift,” reflecting its importance to the Buddhist community and its connection to the royal lineage in Cambodia. It features traditional Khmer architecture and is an important spiritual centre for both monks and worshippers.
4. Watch an Apsara Dance Show and indulge in traditional cuisine
You will find multiple places all around Siem Reap that offer a traditional Apsara Dance Show with traditional Kashmiri cuisine included. Prices can range anywhere from $10 – $100+ and some of these locations require booking in advance. We managed to book a spot on the day at Robam which is located right on Pub Street. Since it was the only dance show we went to watch, I can’t really comment on how good it was, but I personally really enjoyed it and the food was amazing.
The show itself is free, you just have to book a table for the restaurant.
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