The best things to do in Siem Reap are visiting the ancient temples of Angkor, exploring the charming old market, and experiencing the local culture.
Visit the ancient temples of Angkor
The ancient temples of Angkor are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Siem Reap. These temples were built between the 9th and 15th centuries by the Khmer Empire and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The most famous temple is Angkor Wat, which is the largest religious monument in the world. Other popular temples to visit include Ta Prohm, Bayon, and Banteay Srei.
Explore the charming old market
The old market, also known as Psar Chaa, is a charming market located in the heart of Siem Reap. This market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, textiles, and local handicrafts. You can also find a wide variety of food stalls selling traditional Cambodian dishes. The market is also a great place to experience local culture and interact with the friendly locals.
Experience the local culture
Siem Reap is a great place to experience the local culture. One of the best ways to do this is to take a tour of a traditional Cambodian village. You can learn about the customs, traditions, and daily life of the local people. Another great way to experience local culture is to attend a traditional Cambodian dance performance. These performances usually take place in the evening and showcase the traditional dances of the Khmer people.
Take a boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake
Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and is located just a short distance from Siem Reap. Taking a boat ride on the lake is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area and see the floating villages that are home to many of the local people. You can also visit the Chong Khneas floating village, which is the largest of its kind on the lake.
Relax at a rooftop bar
After a day of sightseeing, a relaxing evening at a rooftop bar is a great way to end the day. There are many rooftop bars in Siem Reap, offering great views of the city and the nearby temples. Some popular bars include Sugar Palm, Miss Wong, and Temple Club.
Visit the Cambodian Cultural Village
The Cambodian Cultural Village is a cultural theme park located just outside of Siem Reap. The park features replicas of traditional Cambodian houses and buildings, as well as exhibits on Cambodian culture and history. Visitors can also watch traditional dances and performances, and learn about the customs and traditions of the Cambodian people.
Take a cooking class
Cambodian cuisine is known for its unique blend of flavors and spices. Taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about the local cuisine and how to make traditional Cambodian dishes. Many cooking schools in Siem Reap offer classes that include a visit to the local market to buy ingredients.
Visit the Landmine Museum
The Landmine Museum is located just outside of Siem Reap and is dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of landmines on Cambodian society. The museum was founded by a Cambodian deminer and features exhibits on the history of landmines in Cambodia and the work being done to remove them. The museum also provides education and vocational training for landmine survivors.
Overall, Siem Reap is a great destinationfor travelers looking to experience a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. The ancient temples of Angkor are a must-see for any visitor, but there is also plenty to do and see beyond the temples. Exploring the charming old market, experiencing the local culture, and taking a boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake are just a few examples of the many things you can do in Siem Reap. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just relaxing, there is something for everyone in this vibrant and welcoming city.
