Siem Reap, Cambodia: Destination Travel Guide

Angkor Archaeological Park:

The main draw is the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site covering over 400 square kilometers. It contains the magnificent remains of several capitals of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to 15th centuries. Key sites include:

• Angkor Wat: The world's largest religious monument and Cambodia's national symbol. Built in the early 12th century, famous for its five towers representing Mount Meru and extensive bas-reliefs. Sunrise views are iconic.
• Angkor Thom: The last capital city, featuring the central Bayon Temple with its 54 towers and over 200 massive, smiling stone faces. Its bas-reliefs depict historical events and daily life.
• Ta Prohm: Known for the giant tree roots intertwining with the stone structures, offering a dramatic visual of nature reclaiming the temple.

Beyond the Main Circuit:

• Banteay Srei: Located 25km northeast, famous for its exquisite pink sandstone carvings.
• Beng Mealea: A largely unrestored jungle temple 40km east, offering an adventurous exploration.
• Roluos Group: Some of the earliest major temples (Preah Ko, Bakong, Lolei), showing early Khmer architecture.
• Phnom Kulen National Park: The birthplace of the Khmer Empire, featuring river carvings, a reclining Buddha, and waterfalls.

Museums and Cultural Centers:

• Angkor National Museum: Provides context with thousands of Khmer artifacts.
• Artisans Angkor: Observe traditional craft-making (stone/wood carving, silk) and support local artisans.
• Cambodia Landmine Museum: Offers insight into Cambodia's recent history and demining efforts.

Siem Reap offers diverse accommodation options catering to all preferences and budgets, mostly concentrated in the town center which serves as the base for exploring Angkor.

Popular Regions:

• Old Market (Phsar Chas) / Pub Street Area: The most central and bustling hub, filled with restaurants, bars, markets, and shops. Offers a wide range of accommodation from budget to mid-range. Ideal for those wanting immediate access to nightlife and dining, but can be noisy.
• Wat Bo Area: Located across the Siem Reap River from the Old Market, this area is generally quieter while remaining accessible. It features many mid-range and boutique hotels, often with garden settings. Suitable for travelers seeking a balance between convenience and calm.
• National Road 6: This major road towards the airport and temples houses many larger hotels, including luxury resorts and international chains. Provides easy access for temple visits and airport transfers but requires transport to reach the town center. Best for those prioritizing resort amenities.

Accommodation Types:

• Budget options: Hostels and guesthouses ($5-15 USD/night) offer basic amenities, often fan-cooled rooms, and a social atmosphere. Found widely, particularly near the Old Market area.
• Mid-range hotels: ($40-80 USD/night) provide enhanced comfort with air-conditioning, pools, and often on-site restaurants. Includes local boutique hotels and some chains, often featuring Khmer design elements.
• Luxury resorts & hotels: ($150+ USD/night) feature premium services like spas, multiple dining venues, expansive pools, and often customized tours. Includes international brands and distinctive local properties.

Navigating Siem Reap and the surrounding Angkor complex is generally easy with several options:

• Tuk-tuks: The most popular mode for tourists. Expect to pay $2-3 for short trips within town. A full day exploring the main temple circuits (Small or Grand) typically costs $15-20. Always agree on the price beforehand.
• Motorbike Taxis (Motodops): A cheaper alternative for solo travelers, though less comfortable.
• Taxis (Cars): Air-conditioned cars offer more comfort, especially in the heat or rain, and can be hired for around $25-35 per day.
• Bicycles: Renting a bicycle ($2-5/day) is feasible for exploring the town and nearby temples like Angkor Wat, but less practical for distant sites or in hot weather.
• E-bikes: Electric bikes are increasingly available for rent, providing assistance for covering temple distances independently.

For arrival, Siem Reap International Airport (REP) serves the city, connecting regionally and internationally.

Siem Reap experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons affecting travel.

• Dry Season (November to April): Generally considered the best time. Offers comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall, ideal for temple exploration.
  • November - February: Peak season. Coolest temperatures (avg. 25°C), least rain. Expect larger crowds and higher prices.
  • March - April: Temperatures climb (highs 33-35°C), becoming very hot. Rainfall remains low. November and March are good shoulder months with fewer crowds than peak season.
• Wet Season (May to October): Characterized by higher humidity and afternoon downpours, though mornings are often clear.
  • May - October: Temperatures range 27-33°C. Rainfall is highest from June to October (200-300mm+/month). Benefits include lush green landscapes, full moats, fewer tourists, and lower prices. Late wet season (Aug-Oct) is best for visiting Tonlé Sap Lake.

Khmer cuisine, one of Southeast Asia's oldest, features subtle and complex flavors balancing sweet, sour, salty, and bitter elements, often using less spice than Thai food. Key ingredients include freshwater fish, rice, fresh herbs, and kroeung, an aromatic spice paste. Prahok (fermented fish paste) adds a distinctive umami flavor.

Popular Dishes:

• Amok: Often considered Cambodia's national dish; typically fish steamed in banana leaves with a creamy coconut milk and kroeung curry.
• Lok Lak: Stir-fried beef marinated in a savory sauce, served with fresh vegetables and a lime-pepper dipping sauce.
• Nom Banh Chok: 'Khmer noodles'; fresh rice noodles topped with a light green fish curry and fresh garnishes, popular for breakfast.
• Kuy Teav: Rice noodle soup, usually with pork or beef broth, herbs, and bean sprouts, another breakfast favorite.
• Grilled Skewers: Various marinated meats grilled over charcoal, commonly found at street stalls.

Dining Options:

• Warungs/Local Eateries: Found extensively around markets like Phsar Chas (Old Market), offering authentic dishes at very affordable prices ($2-5 USD/meal).
• Mid-range Restaurants: Numerous options in town serving good quality Khmer and international food ($8-15 USD/meal). Chanrey Tree is a popular example with riverside setting.
• Fine Dining: High-end establishments like Cuisine Wat Damnak offer contemporary takes on Khmer cuisine using seasonal ingredients ($30+ USD/meal).
• Training Restaurants: Places like Marum combine good food with supporting disadvantaged youth ($10-20 USD/meal).

Essential practical information for visiting Siem Reap:

• Visa Requirements and Entry Information: Most nationalities require a visa. Visa-on-arrival is available at Siem Reap airport (~$30 USD for tourist visa). E-Visas can be obtained online beforehand (~$36 USD). Passport must be valid for 6+ months. Check current rules before traveling.

• Health and Safety Considerations: Siem Reap is generally safe, but petty theft occurs; use hotel safes. Be cautious in traffic. Drink only bottled water and be careful with street food. Use mosquito repellent (dengue risk). Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Tetanus. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation is crucial, as local facilities are limited.

• Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) when visiting temples. Remove shoes before entering temples or homes. Avoid touching monks (especially women) or Buddha images. Maintain a calm demeanor; avoid public confrontation. Use the sampeah (palms together) for greetings. Be respectful when discussing Cambodia's recent history. Ask permission before photographing people.

• Money: The official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted and dispensed by ATMs. Small change may be given in Riel.

Siem Reap caters to various budgets:

• Accommodation Costs:

  • Budget: Hostels/guesthouses: $5-15 USD/night.
  • Mid-range: Hotels with A/C, pools: $40-80 USD/night.
  • Luxury: High-end resorts/hotels: $150+ USD/night.

• Food and Dining Expenses:

  • Local Eateries/Street Food: $2-5 USD per meal.
  • Mid-range Restaurants: $8-15 USD per meal.
  • High-end Dining: $30+ USD per meal.

• Transportation Costs:

  • Tuk-tuk (Town): $2-3 per short ride.
  • Tuk-tuk (Temple Day): $15-20.
  • Car Hire (Day): $25-35.
  • Bicycle Rental: $2-5 per day.

• Activities and Entrance Fees:

  • Angkor Pass: Significant expense (1-day ~$37, 3-day ~$62, 7-day ~$72 USD - Note: Prices subject to change).
  • Other Museums/Sites: Typically $5-15 USD entrance.
  • Phare Circus: ~$18-38 USD depending on seating.
  • Cooking Classes: ~$25-40 USD.

Daily Budget Estimates (excluding Angkor Pass): - Budget Traveler: $25-40 USD/day. - Mid-Range Traveler: $70-120 USD/day. - Luxury Traveler: $200+ USD/day.