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Siem Reap is the capital of Cambodia's Siem Reap Province. The ancient temples of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom are located in its northern suburbs. The Siem Reap River flows through the city, lined with numerous star-rated hotels. Siem Reap has a population of approximately 140,000, the majority of whom are Buddhists.
Compared to the bustling Phnom Penh, this small town is quiet and inconspicuous. What attracts tourists from all over the world to Siem Reap is Angkor Wat, which is listed as a World Cultural Heritage and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
When you first see Beng Mealea, a temple that has not yet been fully excavated and renovated, you can fully understand the surprise and shock of the Frenchman who discovered Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is the general name for the Angkor complex, a complete city consisting of palaces, temples, gardens, and castles, and the capital of the ancient Khmer Empire.
Siem Reap is located in a low-latitude area and has a tropical climate. May to October is summer, with temperatures hovering around 33°C; November to April is winter in Siem Reap, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C, making it the best tourist season.
Angkor Wat
The largest and best-preserved Angkor ruins, it is regarded as the representative of the Angkor archaeological complex.
Bengmilie
Many buildings have been destroyed. This is the filming location of the movie "Two Brothers".
Queen's Palace
The Red Palace, with its exquisite carvings and lifelike statues, is known as the "Pearl of Angkor Archaeological Sites" and the "Diamond of Angkor Art".
Ta Prohm Temple
The filming location of the movie "Tomb Raider", where huge tree roots embrace the entire building wall
Recommended play time: 4-5 days
Siem Reap is the gateway to the Angkor temples, the heart of the Khmer Empire (9th–15th century). Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest religious monuments in the world, reflecting Cambodia’s architectural and spiritual heritage.
Siem Reap is in northwestern Cambodia. It is accessible via Siem Reap International Airport, buses from Phnom Penh or Bangkok, and private cars. Within the city, tuk-tuks, bicycles, and taxis are common for getting around.
Angkor temples open daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the dry season (November–March) for cooler weather and clearer skies.
1-day pass: $37 USD, 3-day pass: $62 USD, 7-day pass: $72 USD. Tickets can be purchased at official ticket counters or online through the APSARA Authority website.
It’s recommended to buy tickets a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to avoid queues at the main entrance.
3–4 days are ideal to explore the main Angkor temples and nearby attractions, with extra time for museums, markets, and Tonle Sap excursions.
Yes. Guided tours and audio guides are available in English, French, Chinese, German, and Japanese. Local guides offer in-depth cultural and historical explanations.
Day 1: Angkor Wat sunrise, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Baphuon. Day 2: Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, Neak Pean. Day 3: Banteay Srei and countryside exploration.
Night visits of temples are limited, but cultural performances, night markets, and Apsara dance shows are available in the evenings.
Peak crowds occur November–March and during sunrise at Angkor Wat. Visit early mornings, weekdays, or during the rainy season (May–October) for fewer tourists.
Facilities include restrooms, small restaurants, snack stalls, souvenir shops, and shaded rest areas within temple complexes and surrounding visitor centers.
Some temples have uneven stone steps and rough terrain, making access challenging. Main temple entrances have ramps, but full accessibility is limited.
Cash (USD or Cambodian Riel) is preferred for temples and markets. Major hotels and restaurants accept cards, but small vendors may not.
Yes, many restaurants and cafes in Siem Reap cater to vegetarian, vegan, and halal diets, especially around tourist areas.
