Siem Reap is the best spot for those who want to visit Cambodia. It is situated in the north of Phnom Penh and is famous for being the location of the ancient city of Angkor.
Siem Reap, Cambodia is one of the most unique places I have ever visited. There is so much to do: from visiting an amazing temple complex (Angkor Wat), to the floating villages, to visiting the many markets. However, you should not attempt to visit Siem Reap without first getting an idea of the different things you can do while you are there. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your time, so you can make the most of your trip.
1. Angkor National Museum
Angkor National Museum
Angkor National Museum houses 1,000 artefacts from the ancient Khmer empire. Located along Charles de Gaulle Boulevard, the expansive museum is divided into 8 galleries that are themed by era, religion and royalty. Displays include relics from the pre-Angkorian periods of the great Khmer kings Funan and Chenla, Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, stone pallets with ancient Khmer and Sanskrit inscriptions, as well as traditional costumes of former kings, queens, warriors, and Apsara dancers. Visitors are advised to visit the Angkor National Museum prior to the temple site as there are many touchscreen displays, videos and informative commentary on the Khmer civilisation and the majesty of Angkor, helping you to better understand the amazing temple ruins.
2. Culture Village
Cambodian cultural village in Siem Reap
Cambodia Cultural Village is a 21-hectare theme park in Siem Reap that showcases the traditional Cambodian way of life and the local customs and practices of the various ethnic groups in the country. The park first opened to the public in late 2003. It’s now home to more than 10 villages, showing off the different cultures and characteristics of 19 Cambodian races. The shows include Apsara dances, traditional wedding ceremonies and circus acts.
Related: Top 5 Amazing Places to Visit in Cambodia
3. Peace coffee yoga class
Peace coffee yoga class in Siem Reap
Besides, culture, temple, or village Peace Café is a great place to try Hatha Yoga, where classes are offered every Monday, Wednesday and Sunday. The times for the Monday and Wednesday classes are from 5.30pm to 7pm and Sunday classes are from 9am to 10.30am. There is a fee for the classes, and students must bring their own mats.
4. Pub street
Pub street in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Pub Street is a brash and colourful road that’s lined with iconic bars, clubs and restaurants in Siem Reap. It’s such a popular attraction almost certainly for the US$0.50 draught beers that most of the bars offer. On Pub Street, you’ll also find quaint cafés, souvenir shops, art galleries and more, making it more than just a bustling nightlife hub. Pub Street gets busy from soon after 5pm when it’s closed to vehicles and becomes a pedestrianised zone. The party only stops at about 4am the next morning.
5. Siem Reap crocodile Farm
Siem Reap crocodile Farm
Siem Reap Crocodile Farm is a commercial crocodile farm that’s open to the public. They have over 1,000 South China crocodiles, ranging in age from 1 year to 50 years old. They also have a store selling leather handbags, wallets, belts, etc. made from crocodile, stingrays, and snakeskin. Note that this is not a zoo, and the crocodiles are raised solely for their high-grade leather (their meat is considered a delicacy, too). Entry costs about US$0.50 for Cambodians and US$3 for foreigners.
Related: Where should I stay in Cambodia?
Each year thousands of tourists visit the city of Siem Reap in Cambodia and stay for night in the beautiful resorts or hotels in the city. The city has hundreds of guest houses and hotels and resorts you can stay so, it will be easy to find a place to stay. But if you are planning for a trip to Cambodia your trip will be more successful if you plan in advance.