Naturally, the magnificent temples of Angkor are what draw millions of travellers to Cambodia each year. Built between the 9th and 15th centuries, these extraordinary structures once served as the capitals of the Khmer Empire. Today, the Angkor Archaeological Park stretches across roughly 400 square kilometres, with Angkor Wat standing proud as its most iconic temple. Beyond it, many lesser-known Khmer temples lie further afield, which are equally as beautiful and well worth visiting when you’re in Siem Reap.
Siem Reap offers something for just about every traveller: historical temple ruins, rich and fascinating history, delicious street food, electric nightlife, beautiful boutique hotels and memorable cultural experiences.
Just a stone’s throw from the awe-inspiring Angkor region, the city is best known as the gateway to the largest temple complex in the world.
For those who wish to travel a little further afield, venture out to Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and river system known as the Tonlé Sap. Here you can cruise past the stilted villages on the lake, like in the town of Kampong Phluk that soars above the water in the dry season and sits on top of the water in the rainy season. For an alternative experience to watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat, we recommend getting out on the lake early in the morning. This is when the village slowly wakes up and a blistering sun rises over the water before locals head off to work and children row themselves to school.
If you’re feeling a little templed out, there is much more to explore in and around the city. Hop on the back of a Vespa and weave through the streets with a local as they reveal some of the top local foodie spots like markets, bars and restaurants. Head out to the countryside and walk, cycle or even ride a quad bike through the backroads, passing villages, paddy fields and taking in a more peaceful side to the city. The land here is especially lovely and verdant just after the rainy season in October and November. To find out more about the ‘green season’, dive into our seasonal guide to Cambodia.
