Siem Reap tourist destinations with majestic structures and the magical beauty of natural works will definitely bring you many surprises! So, where to visit in Siem Reap? Let’s check out 10+ must visit places in Siem Reap in this article!
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Siem Reap, a city located in the heart of the red land of Cambodia, is a great destination for those who love history and culture. Going to Siem Reap tourist destinations is not only an opportunity for you to explore the world’s cultural heritage but also an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the traditional culture of the Khmer people.
Let’s join Living Nomads to learn in detail about the harmonious beauty between modernity and antiquity of this land!
Where to visit in Siem Reap: Angkor Wat – The Glorious Symbol of the Khmer Empire
Siem Reap: Angkor Wat 2-Day Tour with Sunrise and Sunset
Angkor Wat, located in Siem Reap, is the largest religious architectural complex in the world, a testament to the greatness of Khmer civilization. Built by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century, Angkor Wat was originally a temple to the Hindu god Vishnu, then converted into a Buddhist temple. Angkor Wat was recognized as a world cultural heritage by UNESCO in 1992.
The unique architecture of Angkor Wat is a sophisticated combination of sculpture and construction. Thousands of sandstone blocks are stacked on top of each other to create soaring towers, long corridors and solid walls. The meticulously carved Devata (goddess) and Apsara (dancing girl) sculptures demonstrate the pinnacle of ancient Khmer art.
Angkor Thom – The Last Capital of the Khmer Empire
Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, located in Siem Reap, is a massive architectural complex, taking you back in time to the golden age of Khmer civilization. Built by King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century, this vast city stands out with its unique cultural relics, not inferior to Angkor Wat.
3 Day Angkor Exploration Private Tour by Tuk-Tuk
The most impressive highlight of Angkor Thom is Bayon Temple, with 54 stone towers carved with 216 giant stone faces smiling mysteriously. The unique architecture and giant stone statues are a testament to the talent and creativity of the ancient Khmer people. Let’s explore Angkor Thom with us to immerse yourself in the mysterious and magnificent space of a bygone era.
Bayon Temple – Temple of Stone Faces
Built in the late 12th century and early 13th century under King Jayavarman VII, Bayon is famous for its giant smiling stone faces. The temple has 54 large and small towers, each carved with 4 stone faces, facing. The stone faces with mysterious smiles have become the typical image of Bayon. In addition, you will find elaborately carved reliefs depicting scenes of daily life, war and religion of the ancient Khmer people.
2 Day Angkor Exploration Private Tour by Tuk-Tuk
Ta Prohm Temple – The Temple Covered by Strange Tree Roots
Supposedly built at the same time as Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm Temple attracts visitors with the image of giant ancient tree roots, especially the banyan and kônia trees, wrapping and intertwining with the ruined towers and stone walls, creating a wild and strange scene. It is this unique beauty that turned Ta Prohm into the setting for the 2001 movie “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider”, contributing to the temple’s worldwide fame.
Kbal Spean – River of a Thousand Lingas
Located about 50km north of Angkor, the River of a Thousand Lingas (Stung Kbal Spean) is a place carved with thousands of Linga, Yoni symbols and Hindu deities. This project was initiated by King Suryavarman I around 1050, and was further completed under King Udayadityavarman II. The Thousand Linga River is a sacred place where ancient Khmer people performed prayer rituals.
Tonle Sap Lake – The Largest Freshwater Lake in Southeast Asia
Tonle Sap Lake (Great Lake), is a large freshwater lake located in northwestern Cambodia, formed by the complex interaction between the Mekong River and the area’s terrain. From Siem Reap, you can easily access Tonle Sap Lake by speedboat. Here, you will experience life on the water, explore the mangrove ecosystem and visit the Prek Toal bird sanctuary – an area recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve since 1997.
Tonle Sap Lake Floating Village Sunset Boat Tour By Jeep
Phnom Kulen National Park – The Cradle of the Khmer Empire
Phnom Kulen National Park in the Phnom Kulen mountain range is a sacred and mysterious land. This place is not only a nature reserve but also marks the beginning of the Khmer Empire in 802. With its sacred ancient temple, Kulen is an important pilgrimage site for Cambodian people. In addition, the wild beauty of nature and fresh air also attract tourists who love ecotourism to explore.
Kulen Mountain National Park and Waterfall Day Tour
Kampong Phluk Floating Village – The Village in the Mangrove Forest
Located on the banks of Tonle Sap Lake amidst lush mangrove forests, Kampong Phluk Floating Village attracts visitors from all over the world with its soaring stilt houses built on sturdy wooden pillars. Here, you will experience daily life on the water, join tours to meet the locals, enjoy local cuisine and explore the lush ecosystem.
Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour
Pub Street – Siem Reap Walking Street
Pub Street is a famous western street that attracts many international tourists. Compared to Bui Vien Western Street in Vietnam, Pub Street is no less vibrant and diverse in shops. This area is full of bars and restaurants serving luxury food. Open all day, but is most vibrant from 7pm to midnight. In addition, the surrounding area also sells souvenirs so you can freely choose souvenirs to bring back as gifts for your loved ones.
(Free eSIM) Night Market & Pub street Night life walking tour
Siem Reap Night Market – Nighttime Shopping and Entertainment Paradise
Siem Reap Night Market, open from 5pm to midnight, is a vibrant and vibrant world where you can explore stalls selling gold, silver, and gemstone jewelry, as well as traditional handicrafts such as scarves and pottery. Don’t forget to enjoy street food and Khmer specialties. This is a great destination to experience the bustling atmosphere, enjoy unique cuisine and shop for meaningful souvenirs.
Siem Reap Evening Food Tour – Inclusive 10 Local Tastings
Best Time to Visit Siem Reap
Siem Reap, the gateway to the mysterious Angkor temple complex, is an attractive destination all year round. However, the best time to explore Siem Reap depends on your interests and activities.
Dry season (November – March)
The dry season is the best time to visit Siem Reap. The weather is cool, dry, with little rain, very favorable for exploring Angkor temples and other outdoor attractions. However, this is also the peak tourist season, prices may increase and attractions may be crowded.
Rainy season (May – October)
The rainy season in Siem Reap can bring sudden showers, but usually does not last all day. At this time, there are fewer tourists, prices may be more reasonable. You should prepare umbrellas and raincoats, and some roads may be flooded.
Hot season (April – May)
The hot season in Siem Reap is hot, the temperature can reach up to 40°C. There is little rain, the hot dry air can be uncomfortable. The number of tourists is reduced, prices can be more reasonable. If you travel during this season, prepare sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and drink plenty of water.
Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap
When is the best time to travel to Siem Reap?
The best time to travel to Siem Reap is from November to March, when the weather is dry and cool. However, you can also go at other times of the year, but pay attention to the weather.
How to get around Siem Reap?
Tuk tuk is the most popular and convenient means of transportation in Siem Reap. In addition, you can also rent a bicycle, motorbike or car to travel.
What are the famous attractions in Siem Reap?
Famous attractions in Siem Reap include:
- Angkor Temple Complex (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm…)
- Tonle Sap Lake
- Siem Reap Night Market
- River of a Thousand Lingas.
- Phnom Kulen National Park
- Angkor National Museum
What is special about Siem Reap cuisine?
Siem Reap cuisine is diverse and rich, with many specialties such as: Amok (fish curry), Lok Lak (stir-fried beef), Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles), etc.
What should I keep in mind when visiting Angkor temples?
When visiting Angkor temples, you should note:
- Dress politely and modestly
- Respect the rules and signs
- Do not touch ancient artifacts
- Should hire a tour guide to get more information about the history and architecture of the temples
Discovering Siem Reap is a journey to immerse yourself in the historical beauty of the red land of Cambodia. Not only is it unique in its ancient monuments, but it is also rich in its culinary experiences.
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Siem Reap you can refer to
- Shared Bus Transfer between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh by Giant Ibis
- Shared Bus Transfer between Siem Reap and Bangkok by Giant Ibis
- Siem Reap Private Car Charter
- Angkor Temples Tour
- Angkor Temples Sunrise Tour
- Kompong Phluk Floating Village Half-Day Tour
- Classic Angkor Wat Full Day with Sunset Tour
- Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour with Monk Blessing
- Siem Reap Half Day City Tour
- Angkor Wat Private Tour by Tuk-Tuk
- Kulen Mountain National Park and Waterfall Day Tour
- Angkor Wat Sunset Tour
- Phare, The Cambodian Circus in Siem Reap
- Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour
- Angkor Temples Small Circuit Private Tour by Tuk-Tuk
Are you looking for more Siem Reap travel guide and top things to do in Siem Reap: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Siem Reap itinerary 4 days — What to do in Siem Reap in 4 days? And Siem Reap travel guide here.
