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Cambodia’s Siem Reap is a gateway to the world-famous Angkor Wat and a hub of history, culture, and adventure. This city offers a mix of ancient temples, vibrant markets, and exciting nightlife. Whether you are interested in history, food, or nature, Siem Reap has something for every traveller. The city is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions and experiencing Cambodian traditions. This guide will cover everything from places to visit, how to get there, where to stay, and other essential travel tips.
Location
Siem Reap is located in northwestern Cambodia, about 320 km from Phnom Penh’s capital. The city lies close to Tonle Sap Lake and is the main entry point for visiting the Angkor Archaeological Park. It is well-connected by road and air, making it accessible for travellers from different parts of the world.
How To Reach
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
By Air
Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI) is the city’s main airport. It has direct flights from major Asian cities like Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Kuala Lumpur. From the airport, you can take a taxi or tuk-tuk to the city centre in about 40 minutes.
By Bus
Buses from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap take around 5–6 hours. Various operators provide comfortable services, including Giant Ibis and Mekong Express. If you are coming from Thailand, buses from Bangkok take about 8–10 hours, depending on the border crossing time.
By Rail
There is no direct train service to Siem Reap. The closest rail connection is in Phnom Penh, from where you need to take a bus or taxi to reach the city.
Places To Visit In And Around Siem Reap
Explore the best places to visit in and around Siem Reap.
1. Angkor Wat
Photo: allPhoto Bangkok / Unsplash
Angkor Wat is the most famous temple in Cambodia and one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, it was originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu before becoming a Buddhist site. The central towers symbolise Mount Meru, sacred in Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. You can explore its long galleries with detailed carvings that show stories from Hindu mythology. The sunrise view here is very popular; many people take photos from the main entrance.
Timings: 5 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: 37,000 KHR / ₹750 for a one-day pass
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours
2. Bayon Temple
Bayon Temple is located in the heart of Angkor Thom and is known for its large stone faces carved into 54 towers. Historians believe these faces represent Avalokiteshvara, a Buddhist deity, or they may be modelled after King Jayavarman VII, who built the temple in the late 12th century. The temple has a maze of corridors with carvings showing scenes of daily life in ancient Cambodia, including market scenes, naval battles, and festivals.
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: Included in the Angkor Wat pass
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
3. Ta Prohm
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Photo: Daniel Lienert / Unsplash
Ta Prohm is different from other temples in Angkor because it has been left mostly the way it was found, with massive tree roots growing over the ruins. This temple was built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII and was originally a Buddhist monastery. The giant silk-cotton and strangler fig trees have grown into the temple walls, making it a unique sight. Many tourists recognise Ta Prohm from the Hollywood film Tomb Raider. Walking through the crumbling corridors and moss-covered stones feels like stepping back in time.
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: Included in the Angkor Wat pass
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
4. Tonle Sap Lake
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and an important source of food and water for millions of Cambodians. It changes size dramatically between the dry and wet seasons, making it unique. Floating villages on the lake, such as Chong Kneas and Kampong Phluk, are home to people who live in stilt houses. You can take a boat tour to see how locals fish, shop at floating markets, and visit schools and temples built on wooden platforms. The lake is also home to many bird species, making it a good place for birdwatching tours.
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: 40,000 KHR / ₹800 for a boat tour
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
5. Pub Street
Photo: Radek Kucharski / Wikimedia Commons
Pub Street is the main nightlife area in Siem Reap. It is filled with restaurants, bars, and street food stalls where visitors can try local dishes like Lok Lak and Amok. The street gets busy in the evening when bright neon lights, live music, and dance performances create a lively atmosphere. Many bars have happy hour deals, and some places offer free Apsara dance shows. The Night Market is nearby, where visitors can shop for souvenirs, clothes, and handmade crafts.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Where To Stay
Photo: Engin_Akyurt / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation options in Siem Reap range from budget hostels to luxury resorts. If you want to stay close to the temples, choose a hotel near the Angkor Wat area. For a lively atmosphere, the Old Market area offers mid-range hotels and guesthouses. Many hotels provide free airport pick-up and tuk-tuk services for exploring the city.
Where To Eat
Photo: Terje Sollie / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Siem Reap has many restaurants serving Cambodian, Thai, and international cuisine. The Old Market area is great for trying traditional dishes like Amok and Lok Lak. Street food stalls along Pub Street offer cheap and delicious options. For a fine dining experience, there are restaurants like Chanrey Tree and Malis.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: George Bakos / Unsplash
The best time to visit Siem Reap is between November and March, when the weather is cooler and dry. This period is ideal for temple visits and outdoor activities. April and May are the hottest months, while the rainy season from June to October brings lush greenery but makes temple exploration more challenging.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: allPhoto Bangkok / Unsplash
Average Cost Of Trip
The trip cost to Siem Reap depends on your travel style. A budget trip with hostel stays and street food costs around 250,000 KHR / ₹5,000 per day. Mid-range travellers spending on hotels and guided tours can expect to spend around 600,000 KHR / ₹12,000 daily. Luxury travel, including five-star hotels and private tours, can go up to 1,200,000 KHR / ₹24,000 per day.
Tips For Travellers
- Carry USD, as it is widely accepted in Siem Reap. Small transactions are done in Cambodian Riel.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as temple visits involve a lot of walking.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites—cover shoulders and knees.
- Bargain at markets, as initial prices are often high for tourists.
- Use tuk-tuks for short trips within the city; they are cheaper than taxis.
- Book Angkor Wat tickets a day in advance to avoid long queues.
Siem Reap is a must-visit destination for history lovers, food enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. From the majestic Angkor temples to the lively streets of Pub Street, the city offers a mix of culture and excitement. Plan your visit during the best time in Siem Reap to make the most of your trip. Ready to explore? Book your adventure with TripXL today!
Cover Photo: allPhoto Bangkok / Unsplash
