About Siem Reap
Siem Reap: A City of Charm, Culture, and Endless Possibilities
Siem Reap is a destination that caters to every traveler’s taste, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Despite its relatively small size and young history, this dynamic city on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake provides a remarkable variety of experiences in cuisine, accommodation, shopping, transportation, and activities.
The Temples of Angkor: A Global Icon
The centerpiece of Siem Reap’s appeal is the legendary Temples of Angkor, located just a short journey from the city center. However, Siem Reap is far more than a gateway to Angkor Wat. Visitors can sip coffee while people-watching, venture into the countryside on a quad bike, or browse vibrant markets offering silks, silver, and other treasures. Even when you’re “templed out,” the city’s lively atmosphere ensures there’s always something new to discover.
Central Siem Reap and Pub Street
Siem Reap’s bustling heart is near the Old Market, where the streets are lined with bars, boutiques, massage spas, and restaurants. The city transforms after sunset, especially in high season, as tuk-tuks and motorbikes navigate lively streets filled with locals and tourists.
The famous Pub Street is the epicenter of nightlife, home to popular spots like Temple Club and Angkor What? For a quieter vibe, explore the charming alleys nearby, filled with unique shops and cozy establishments that are delightful day or night.
For an authentic Cambodian experience, visit Psar Leu Market or venture down Khmer Pub Street to immerse yourself in local culture and nightlife.
Siem Reap International Airport
Traveling to and from Siem Reap is now more convenient than ever, thanks to the new Siem Reap International Airport, located 45 km from downtown. Opened on October 16, 2023, it offers connections across Asia. Overland travel is also accessible, with bus services linking Siem Reap to Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Local travel agencies can assist with booking transport, arranging visas, and planning excursions.
Best Time to Visit and Weather
The ideal time to visit Siem Reap is between November and February, when the weather is dry and cool (around 25°C), and the countryside is lush and vibrant. From March to May, temperatures rise, and the landscape becomes drier. The rainy season, from June to October, brings heavy downpours that can cause flooding but also transform the region into a lush paradise. The temple moats fill with water, offering stunning reflections, and waterfalls reach their peak flow.
Siem Reap’s Population and Lifestyle
Siem Reap province is home to approximately 900,000 people, many of whom live in rural areas and depend on rice farming for their livelihood. The city itself, with its luxury hotels and modern amenities, contrasts sharply with the simplicity of rural life, highlighting the region’s diverse socioeconomic fabric.
Beyond the City: Siem Reap Province
Beyond the city lies an abundance of natural and cultural treasures. The province borders the Tonle Sap Lake, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve teeming with rare wildlife. Just 60 km north of the city are the Kulen Mountains, offering stunning waterfalls, dense jungle, and hidden ruins—perfect for exploration and a favorite holiday spot for Cambodian families.
A Glimpse into History
Siem Reap’s rise began in the early 20th century when French explorers rediscovered the Angkor temples. At the time, it was a small village, part of a region long contested by Thailand and Cambodia. The name “Siem Reap,” meaning “Thailand defeated,” reflects this historic rivalry.
Tourism flourished in the early 1900s, but the Khmer Rouge era halted development. By the late 1990s, peace returned, and Siem Reap rapidly transformed into a major tourist hub. The release of Tomb Raider in 2001, filmed at Angkor Wat, brought global attention to the temples, fueling a tourism boom. Today, Siem Reap welcomes over 2 million visitors annually.
A Dynamic Destination
Siem Reap is a city that seamlessly blends its rich past with modern energy. Whether exploring ancient temples, indulging in its vibrant nightlife, or immersing yourself in local traditions, this city promises a captivating experience for every traveler.
