Ultimate Travel Guide to Siem Reap: Gateway to Angkor Wat

As a tour guide, I’ve seen countless faces light up the moment they step into Siem Reap, the enchanting gateway to Angkor Wat—the largest religious monument in the world. But Siem Reap is so much more than temples. It’s a lively city with soul, where ancient tradition meets modern creativity, and travelers from all walks of life come together to explore Cambodia’s history, spirituality, and hospitality.
 

Whether you're here for history, food, nature, or nightlife, Siem Reap delivers a rich and rewarding experience.

📍 Where Is Siem Reap?

Location: Northwestern Cambodia

Province: Siem Reap Province

Distance from Phnom Penh: ~320 km (by road or flight)

Nearby Landmark: Angkor Archaeological Park (~6 km away)

✈️ How to Get to Siem Reap

By Air:

Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI)

Direct flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phnom Penh

By Road:

Buses and minivans connect from Phnom Penh, Battambang, and Sihanoukville

Private taxis or car hires available

Scenic boat rides from Phnom Penh via Tonle Sap Lake (seasonal)

🛕 Top Attractions in Siem Reap

1. Angkor Wat

Cambodia’s national symbol

Sunrise visit is a must!

Built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II

2. Bayon Temple (Angkor Thom)

Famous for its smiling stone faces

Intricate carvings and historical significance

3. Ta Prohm

“Tomb Raider Temple” wrapped in massive tree roots

A mystical, photogenic spot

4. Angkor National Museum

Interactive exhibits showcasing Khmer civilization and relics

Great introduction before visiting the temples

5. Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Social enterprise supporting young performers

A mix of theatre, acrobatics, and traditional storytelling

6. Kulen Mountain (Phnom Kulen)

Sacred mountain with waterfalls and reclining Buddha

Birthplace of the Khmer Empire

7. Tonle Sap Lake & Floating Villages

Authentic rural experience

Boat tours to Kampong Phluk or Chong Khneas

🌆 Things to Do in Siem Reap (Besides Temples)

🎨 Explore the Creative Scene

Made in Cambodia Market – Artisan products and crafts

Artisans Angkor – Silk weaving and stone carving workshops

🍜 Take a Cooking Class

Learn to make Khmer classics like amok trey, loc lac, and green mango salad

🛍️ Shop Local

Old Market (Psar Chas) for souvenirs and spices

Angkor Night Market for clothing, handmade goods, and snacks

🚲 Bike Around the Countryside

Guided bike tours through rice paddies, villages, and lotus farms

Quiet roads and local encounters

💆‍♀️ Get a Traditional Khmer Massage

Affordable and relaxing

Try at local spas or upscale wellness centers

🍛 What to Eat in Siem Reap

Cambodian cuisine is full of rich flavors and fresh ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes:

Fish Amok – Steamed fish curry with coconut and lemongrass

Lok Lak – Stir-fried beef with lime dipping sauce

Num Banh Chok – Rice noodles with fish gravy (local breakfast staple)

Prahok Ktis – Creamy fermented fish dip

Sticky rice with mango or palm sugar desserts

Popular Restaurants:

Chanrey Tree – Upscale Khmer cuisine

Marum – Social enterprise restaurant run by former street youth

Haven – Delicious fusion with a great cause

Blue Pumpkin – Air-conditioned bakery/café perfect for midday breaks

🍹 Nightlife in Siem Reap

Siem Reap has a surprisingly vibrant nightlife, centered around Pub Street.

Top Spots:

Angkor What? Bar – Iconic and energetic

Temple Club – Late-night dancing and rooftop views

Miss Wong Cocktail Bar – Chic speakeasy with 1930s Shanghai vibes

X Bar – Rooftop bar with live DJs and a half-pipe skate ramp

For something quieter:

Riverside bars, garden lounges, and cultural dance performances at local hotels

🛏️ Where to Stay in Siem Reap

From hostels to high-end resorts, Siem Reap has it all.

Budget (Under $20 USD)

Onederz Hostel – Clean, social, central

Lub d Cambodia – Stylish hostel with pool and activities

The Siem Reap Chilled Backpacker – Affordable and relaxed

Mid-Range ($30–$70 USD)

Villa Um Theara – Boutique with Khmer charm

Sarai Resort & Spa – Luxury on a budget

Central Suite Residence – Modern comfort near Pub Street

Luxury ($100+ USD)

Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor – Riverside oasis

Jaya House River Park – 5-star with a sustainability focus

Heritage Suites Hotel – Colonial elegance with spa services

🧳 What to Pack for Siem Reap

Lightweight clothing (it’s hot year-round)

Modest attire for temples (shoulders/knees covered)

Sunscreen and bug repellent

Reusable water bottle

Comfortable walking shoes or sandals

Raincoat/poncho (especially May–October)

📅 Best Time to Visit Siem Reap

Dry Season (Nov–Mar)

Best weather, cooler evenings

Peak tourist season

Green Season (May–Oct)

Lush landscapes and fewer crowds

Afternoon rain showers common

Tip: April is the hottest month but also home to Khmer New Year, a water-fighting street festival similar to Songkran in Thailand!

🧭 Travel Tips

Temple Pass required for Angkor Park (1, 3, or 7-day options)

Hire a licensed tour guide for in-depth history

Tuk-tuks are common and negotiable—agree on price before riding

Support ethical tourism (no orphanage visits, respect sacred sites)

USD is widely accepted; ATMs are available throughout the city

🌿 Responsible Tourism in Siem Reap

Avoid riding elephants or giving money to child beggars

Support eco-friendly hotels and businesses

Carry a refillable water bottle (refill stations are available)

Learn a few Khmer phrases—it’s appreciated!

🔁 Sample 3-Day Itinerary in Siem Reap

Day 1: Temples of Angkor

Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Visit Bayon and Ta Prohm

Sunset at Pre Rup

Dinner and drinks on Pub Street

Day 2: Culture & Cuisine

Visit Angkor National Museum

Cambodian cooking class

Explore Old Market

Phare Circus in the evening

Day 3: Nature & Villages

Morning visit to Tonle Sap Lake (Kampong Phluk)

Bike ride through the countryside

Relaxing massage and farewell dinner

✅ Final Thoughts: Is Siem Reap Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Siem Reap is the crown jewel of Cambodia’s tourism. It’s where ancient wonder and youthful energy meet. From the haunting beauty of Angkor Wat to the warmth of its people and the richness of its traditions, Siem Reap offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that stays with you long after you leave.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a history buff, a foodie, or a family on a cultural journey—Siem Reap welcomes you with open arms.