Siem Reap

Siem Reap Travel Guide

The gateway city to Angkor Wat, where you can explore the magnificent ruins of the Khmer Empire. Sunrise at the world's largest religious monument Angkor Wat, the mystical smiles of the Bayon temple, and the fantastical tree-wrapped ruins of Ta Prohm are Siem Reap's three highlights. Lively nightlife on Pub Street and floating village tours on Tonle Sap Lake round out the offerings. Perfect for travelers who want to experience ancient ruins and Southeast Asian culture at once.

Essential Siem Reap Travel Info

Must-Visit Places in Siem Reap

★ 4.9

Angkor Wat

Built in the 12th century by Khmer king Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat is the world's largest religious monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally Hindu and later converted to Buddhism, it is celebrated as an architectural masterpiece for its intricate reliefs and perfect symmetry. The temple silhouetted at sunrise above its reflecting moat is the highlight of any Cambodia trip, while the third-level galleries vividly depict Hindu mythology. Angkor Pass: 1-day USD 37, 3-day USD 62, 7-day USD 72. About 15 minutes by tuk-tuk from Siem Reap town.

HoursDaily 05:00-17:30

LocationAngkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap

TipsArrive by 5 a.m. for sunrise. Buy an Angkor Pass (1/3/7-day) to visit the entire complex.

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★ 4.7

Angkor Thom

Built in the late 12th century by Jayavarman VII, Angkor Thom was the Khmer Empire's last capital - a 9 sq km walled city. At its heart, the Bayon temple's 216 colossal stone faces gaze in four directions, creating a mysterious atmosphere. The South Gate's naga balustrade with gods and demons depicts the Hindu creation myth of the Churning of the Ocean of Milk. Accessible with the Angkor Pass. About 10 minutes by tuk-tuk from Angkor Wat.

HoursDaily 07:30-17:30

LocationAngkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap

TipsPair with Angkor Wat in a single tour. Morning light is best for photographing the Bayon faces.

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★ 4.6

Ta Prohm

Built in 1186 by Jayavarman VII in honor of his mother, Ta Prohm is a Buddhist temple known for the massive spung and banyan tree roots that have engulfed its walls. This otherworldly fusion of nature and architecture gained global fame as a filming location for 'Tomb Raider' in 2001. It has been deliberately left largely unrestored, preserving the look it had at rediscovery. Accessible with the Angkor Pass. About 10 minutes by tuk-tuk from Angkor Thom.

HoursDaily 07:30-17:30

LocationAngkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap

TipsArrive early for thinner crowds and a stronger atmosphere. Look up the main 'tree root' photo spots ahead of time.

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★ 4.3

Tonle Sap Lake

Tonle Sap is Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake; in the wet season it expands to roughly six times its dry-season size (around 16,000 sq km). Boat tours of its floating villages reveal entire communities living on the water - schools, churches, and markets included. Kompong Phluk and Kompong Khleang are two notable villages where you can experience this unique aquatic way of life. Boat tour about USD 15-30 (varies by operator). About 30 minutes by tuk-tuk from Siem Reap town.

HoursBoat tours typically 07:00-17:00

LocationTonle Sap, Siem Reap

TipsVisit in the wet season (July-October) when the lake is largest and tours are most dramatic. Sunset boat tours are especially popular.

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★ 4.8

Bayon Temple

At the geometric center of Angkor Thom, the Bayon is a late-12th-century Buddhist temple commissioned by Jayavarman VII. Its 54 towers carry a total of 216 colossal stone faces — interpreted variously as the king himself or as the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara — that gaze in all four directions, creating a sense of being watched from every angle. The first-level bas-reliefs vividly depict naval battles with the Cham and daily life in the Khmer empire, giving it major historical importance. Accessible with the Angkor Pass. In central Angkor Thom.

HoursDaily 07:30-17:30

LocationAngkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap

TipsEarly morning light defines the face carvings beautifully for photos. Don't miss the detailed bas-reliefs in the galleries.

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★ 4.2

Old Market (Psar Chas)

Right in central Siem Reap and just steps from Pub Street, Old Market (Psar Chas) is a must on any tourist's list. The ground floor offers fresh fruit, vegetables, spices, and Cambodian groceries, while the upper level and outer stalls brim with Khmer silk, silverware, paintings, and souvenirs. The streets surrounding the market are lined with food stalls where you can sample amok or num banh chok cheaply. Free admission. A 3-minute walk from Pub Street.

HoursDaily 07:00-22:00

LocationOld Market Area, Siem Reap

TipsBargaining is expected — typically settle at 50-70% of the initial price. Evenings spill over into the nearby night market and Pub Street.

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★ 4.3

Pub Street

Pub Street is a roughly 100 m pedestrian-only stretch in central Siem Reap that transforms each evening from 7 pm as cars are blocked and the entire street comes alive with open-air bars, restaurants, and live music. 50-cent draft beer and dollar cocktails are standard, and Khmer traditional dance and street performances are frequent. Quieter bars and boutique cafes line the side alleys, and the nearby night market is great for souvenir shopping. Free. Right next to Old Market.

HoursTypically 17:00-02:00 (varies by venue)

LocationOld Market Area, Siem Reap

TipsTry adventurous bites like fried insects from street stalls. It gets livelier after 10 pm and many places stay open until 2 am.

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★ 4.7

Banteay Srei

Consecrated in 967 AD, Banteay Srei is a small but exquisite Hindu temple whose name means 'Citadel of the Women.' Unlike most Angkor monuments, it is built from a pinkish red sandstone, and its carvings are so delicate that legend says only a woman's hands could have made them. Lintels and pediments depicting Shiva and Vishnu myths, along with miniature shrine buildings, showcase the apex of Khmer sculpture. Accessible with the Angkor Pass. About 1 hour by tuk-tuk from Siem Reap (25 km north of Angkor Wat).

HoursDaily 07:30-17:00

LocationBanteay Srei District, Siem Reap

TipsFarther than Angkor Wat but unrivaled in carving detail — a must for photo lovers. Pair with the Cambodia Landmine Museum nearby.

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★ 4.6

Preah Khan

Built in the 12th century by Jayavarman VII in honor of his father, Preah Khan was a vast Buddhist temple that once doubled as a university and hospital. Located northeast of Angkor Thom, it retains striking features like tree-root-draped galleries and a unique two-story structure resembling Greek columns. Less crowded than Ta Prohm, it offers a quieter way to explore Angkor's ruins. Accessible with the Angkor Pass. About 10 minutes by tuk-tuk from Angkor Thom.

HoursDaily 07:30-17:30

LocationAngkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap

TipsEnter from the east gate and exit west to see the whole site efficiently. Late afternoon light is best for photos.

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★ 4.4

Neak Pean

Neak Pean is a Jayavarman VII-era temple built on a circular island at the center of the Jayatataka baray, named for the two naga serpent sculptures encircling it. The four small pools surrounding the central pond were believed to hold healing waters, drawing ancient pilgrims seeking cures. The reservoir looks especially mystical during the wet season. Accessible with the Angkor Pass. About 5 minutes by tuk-tuk from Preah Khan.

HoursDaily 07:30-17:30

LocationAngkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap

TipsVisit in the wet season (July-October) when the reservoir is full for the most atmospheric view. A wooden walkway leads out to the island.

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★ 4.5

Pre Rup

Consecrated in 961 as King Rajendravarman's state temple, Pre Rup is a pyramid-shaped temple mountain combining brick, laterite, and sandstone. The climb up its steep stairs is rewarded with a spectacular sunset view over the Angkor plain, making it a favorite among photographers. Its name, meaning 'turn the body,' is linked to theories about cremation rituals once performed here. Accessible with the Angkor Pass. About 20 minutes by tuk-tuk from Angkor Thom.

HoursDaily 07:30-17:30

LocationAngkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap

TipsArrive an hour before sunset to claim a good spot. The stairs are steep, so wear non-slip shoes.

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★ 4.4

East Mebon

Built by King Rajendravarman in the 10th century, East Mebon once stood on an artificial island in the middle of the vast (now dry) East Baray, reachable only by boat. Its architectural style closely mirrors Pre Rup, and it's especially known for the life-sized stone elephant statues guarding each corner. The intricate carvings remaining on its brick towers are also worth a look. Accessible with the Angkor Pass. A 5-minute walk from Pre Rup.

HoursDaily 07:30-17:30

LocationAngkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap

TipsPair it with Pre Rup for an efficient route. Don't miss photos with the corner elephant statues.

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★ 4.3

Angkor National Museum

The Angkor National Museum offers a comprehensive introduction to the history and culture of the Angkor ruins, displaying around 1,000 artifacts across eight galleries. The 'Gallery of a Thousand Buddhas' is a highlight, showcasing Buddha statues from various eras that trace the evolution of Khmer Buddhist art. Visiting before touring the temples deepens your appreciation of the sites. Admission about USD 12. In Siem Reap town, on the road to Angkor.

HoursDaily 08:30-18:00

LocationSiem Reap Town

TipsVisit the day before your temple tour to build context that makes the ruins easier to understand. Also a good air-conditioned escape from the heat.

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★ 4.5

Phnom Kulen

Phnom Kulen is the sacred mountain where King Jayavarman II proclaimed the Khmer Empire in 802 AD, making it a spiritual homeland for Khmer people. Highlights include the 'River of a Thousand Lingas,' where thousands of linga carvings dot the riverbed, a cool waterfall popular for swimming, and Preah Ang Thom temple with its giant reclining Buddha. Easily done as a day trip from Siem Reap. Admission about USD 20. About 1.5 hours by car from Siem Reap.

HoursDaily 08:00-17:00

LocationPhnom Kulen National Park, Siem Reap

TipsBring swimwear if you plan to swim at the falls. Leave early in the morning to beat the crowds.

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★ 4.6

Beng Mealea

Built in the 12th century, contemporaneous with Angkor Wat, Beng Mealea is a massive temple about 40km east of the main Angkor complex, and thus far less visited. Left largely unrestored, it retains a raw, tangled atmosphere of collapsed stone and tree roots — a true 'Indiana Jones' feel. Wooden boardwalks and narrow passages let you explore the ruins. Admission USD 5 (separate from the Angkor Pass). About 1 hour by car from Siem Reap.

HoursDaily 07:30-17:30

LocationBeng Mealea, Siem Reap

TipsHighly recommended if you want a wilder atmosphere than Ta Prohm. Pairs well with a Phnom Kulen day trip.

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★ 4.8

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Phare Circus features young performers trained at Phare Ponleu Selpak, a Cambodian arts school, presenting a contemporary circus that blends acrobatics, dance, music, and theater to tell stories drawn from Cambodian modern history and folklore. The school was founded by Khmer Rouge survivors who received art education in refugee camps, and proceeds fund arts education for underprivileged children. With no animals involved, it's a human-centered circus rich in both social meaning and artistry. Tickets about USD 18-38. Located in Siem Reap town.

HoursNightly show starts at 20:00

LocationSiem Reap Town

TipsBook tickets in advance. There's usually time to take photos with performers after the show.

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★ 4.4

Ta Som

Built in the late 12th century by Jayavarman VII, Ta Som is a small Buddhist temple located just east of Neak Pean. Though modest in scale, its eastern gate tower completely engulfed by a giant strangler fig root recalls Ta Prohm and is a favorite among photographers. With fewer crowds, it's a hidden gem for a relaxed visit. Accessible with the Angkor Pass. A 5-minute walk from Neak Pean.

HoursDaily 07:30-17:30

LocationAngkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap

TipsDon't miss the photo of the tree root engulfing the east gate. Pair with Neak Pean for an efficient route.

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★ 4.2

Srah Srang

Meaning 'royal bathing pond,' Srah Srang is a large reservoir first built in the 10th century and refurbished with sandstone steps and a terrace under Jayavarman VII in the 12th century. Located directly across from Banteay Kdei temple, its calm waters at sunrise make it one of Angkor's most beautiful (and less crowded) sunrise spots after Angkor Wat itself. Accessible with the Angkor Pass. Across from Banteay Kdei.

HoursDaily 05:00-17:30

LocationAngkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap

TipsIf you want to skip the Angkor Wat sunrise crowds, this is a great alternative. Combine with a visit to Banteay Kdei.

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Things to Do in Siem Reap

Tour

Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour

Depart at 4:30 am to watch the sun rise over Angkor Wat's reflecting moat. After the dawn shot, continue with a guide to Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm for a full day.

Price Tour USD 20-40 + Angkor Pass USD 37Duration About 8-10 hours

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Culture

Tonle Sap Floating Village Boat Tour

Boat tour to floating villages like Kompong Phluk on Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. Sunset departures offer magical golden-hour views.

Price USD 15-30Duration About 4-5 hours

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Culture

Khmer Cooking Class

Visit a market with a local chef to choose fresh ingredients, then cook signature dishes like amok, lok lak, and green mango salad — recipe book included.

Price USD 20-35Duration About 4 hours

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Adventure

Angkor Bicycle Tour

Rent a bike and ride the smaller temples and quieter routes of Angkor — a green way to experience temples and nature more deeply, with a guide.

Price USD 15-25 + Angkor Pass extraDuration About 5-6 hours

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Culture

Apsara Dance Dinner Show

Watch traditional Khmer Apsara dance while dining on Cambodian courses (amok, lok lak, shrimp tsai). The dancers' elegant hand movements and costumes are mesmerizing.

Price USD 12-25Duration About 2 hours

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Nature

Phnom Bakheng Sunset

Climb Phnom Bakheng, a small hill near Angkor Wat, to watch sunset from a 9th-century temple — distant Angkor Wat silhouette included. Visitor numbers are capped, so arrive early.

Price Included with Angkor PassDuration About 2-3 hours

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Must-Try Food in Siem Reap

Amok

🍱 Traditional

Amok: Cambodia's signature steamed fish curry made with coconut milk and aromatic spices. About USD 4-8 per serving. Available at restaurants near the Old Market and on Pub Street.

Num Banh Chok

🍢 Street Food

Num Banh Chok: a Cambodian rice-flour and coconut-milk pancake. About USD 1-3 per serving. Try it at morning stalls near the Old Market alongside locals.

Fried Tarantula

🍢 Street Food

Fried Tarantula: a crispy Cambodian snack deep-fried with garlic and salt - a challenge for adventurous travelers. About USD 1-2 each. Available at insect frying stalls near the Old Market.

Beef Lok Lak

🍱 Traditional

Cubed beef stir-fried with oyster sauce and Kampot pepper, served over rice — a Cambodian favorite. About USD 4-7 per serving. Pub Street restaurants serve authentic versions.

Angkor Beer

🍵 Drink

Cambodia's national lager — clean tasting and easy on the wallet. About USD 0.5-1.5 per glass. 50-cent happy hour drafts are everywhere on Pub Street.

Khmer Red Curry

🍱 Traditional

A Cambodian-style red curry simmered in coconut milk with chicken or beef and eggplant — milder and more aromatic than Thai versions. About USD 4-7 per serving. Khmer Kitchen on Pub Street is recommended.

Sticky Rice with Mango

🍰 Dessert

Ripe mango paired with coconut-milk sticky rice — a Southeast Asian classic. About USD 2-4 per serving. Freshest in mango season (April-June) at Old Market dessert stalls.

Siem Reap Travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Siem Reap?

The dry season (November-April) is best, especially the cooler months of December-February. The wet season (May-October) brings frequent rain but lush greenery.

How much does it cost to travel in Siem Reap?

Daily budget around $20-55 (lodging $10-30; food $7-15; transport and admissions $7-20; Angkor Pass extra).

How do I get around in Siem Reap?

From Siem Reap International Airport it's about 20 minutes by tuk-tuk to town. Tuk-tuks or hired cars are convenient for getting around the city and Angkor. SIM cards (Smart/Metfone) available at the airport (about USD 3-5/week). Both US dollars and Cambodian riel are accepted; cash is the main payment method. Tipping is optional but small tips for guides are common.

Do I need a visa to visit Siem Reap?

Korean passport holders can get an e-visa or visa on arrival (30 days). Applying for an e-visa in advance is most convenient.

Is Siem Reap safe for tourists?

Tourist areas are generally safe, but watch for pickpockets and aggressive touts. Avoid isolated areas late at night.

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