Siem Reap, or Krong Siem Reap, is a beautiful city in Cambodia. Here, Krong means city or town, and it is an important destination due to its proximity to the magnificent Angkor Wat and other archaeological sites. As the gateway to the ancient Khmer Empire, Siem Reap attracts millions of tourists each year who come to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat (Angkor Archaeological Park). The park includes over a thousand temples, with Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm being the most famous.

Beyond the temples, Siem Reap has a lively cultural side. The city hosts the Angkor Night Market, where visitors can shop for souvenirs and enjoy traditional Cambodian performances. The bustling night market is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, street food, and local crafts. The Old Market (Psar Chaa) is another must-visit spot, offering a mix of local goods and food. Whether exploring ancient temples, enjoying local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Siem Reap offers a unique and enriching travel experience.

How to reach Siem Reap?

• By air: Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI) is approximately 45 kilometres from the city's central area. The airport welcomes flights from various international and domestic destinations. Airlines offer connections to Siem Reap, making finding a flight that fits your budget and travel preferences easy.
• By road: While Siem Reap isn't directly accessible by road from India, visitors can travel overland from neighbouring countries. Depending on your starting point, this route typically involves travelling through countries like Thailand, Laos, or Vietnam. Remember that border crossings, visa requirements, and lengthy travel times are to be expected.
• Getting around/local transport in Siem Reap: Embrace the local experience by hopping on a tuk-tuk, a beautiful open-air vehicle. Negotiate fares beforehand and enjoy the breeze while navigating the lively streets. Taxis are readily available in Siem Reap, offering a comfortable and convenient mode of transportation, especially for longer journeys within the city.

  Metered taxis offer fair pricing, but always confirm the fare before setting off. For the independent traveller, renting a scooter offers flexibility and allows you to explore at your own pace. Remember to acquire a valid international driver's license before hitting the road, and prioritise safety by wearing a helmet.

The markets in Siem Reap make perfect spots to experience the local culture, purchase unique souvenirs, and enjoy the community atmosphere. Some of the best shopping places in Siem Reap are listed below.

• Old Market (Psar Chas): Dive into the heart of Siem Reap's local life at the Old Market, also known as Psar Chas. This lively marketplace offers a sensory overload of sights and smells. Wander through a maze of stalls overflowing with fresh produce, from exotic fruits and beautiful vegetables to fragrant spices and local delicacies. Don't forget to explore the sections brimming with handcrafted souvenirs, silk scarves, and unique Cambodian textiles – perfect for picking up gifts or a piece of Siem Reap for yourself. Be prepared to bargain for the best prices!
• Angkor Night Market: As the sun sets, Siem Reap transforms, and the Angkor Night Market comes alive. This beautiful market is a haven for shopaholics and souvenir hunters. Explore rows upon rows of stalls overflowing with an incredible variety of goods. Find everything from handcrafted jewellery and colourful Khmer scarves to silk paintings and intricate wood carvings. Don't miss the chance to try your hand at bargaining and snag a unique treasure to commemorate your trip.
• Made in Cambodia Market: Support local artisans and ethically sourced products at the Made in Cambodia Market. This social enterprise market showcases the talents of Cambodian artisans and designers. Browse through a curated selection of handcrafted souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and homeware, all made using traditional techniques and high-quality materials. You're guaranteed to find beautiful, unique pieces that benefit local communities directly.
• Phsar Samaki Vegetable & Fruit Market: Experience the local way of life and immerse yourself in the beautiful energy at Phsar Samaki Vegetable & Fruit Market. This market caters primarily to locals, offering a dazzling array of fresh produce at incredibly affordable prices. Pile your basket high with exotic fruits you've never seen before, witness the beautiful colours of fresh vegetables, and soak up the lively atmosphere as locals go about their daily shopping routines.

There is so much more to do and see in Siem Reap. A visit to this city is incomplete without experiencing the following.

• Explore the Cambodian countryside: Escape the temple crowds and explore Cambodian life with a countryside adventure. Explore beautiful rice paddies stretching towards the horizon, witness the traditional way of life in rural villages, and bike through picturesque landscapes. You can even visit a local farm and learn about sustainable farming practices.
• Visit the Cambodian Circus: Prepare to be amazed by Phare, the Cambodian Circus. This unique performance troupe combines breathtaking acrobatics, traditional dance, and storytelling to showcase Cambodian culture and history. The talented young performers utilise theatre, music, and stunning visuals to create a captivating experience that will leave you spellbound.
• Discover Cambodian art at Artisan Angkor: Immerse yourself in the beautiful world of Cambodian art at Artisan Angkor. This workshop and showroom showcases the talents of local artisans, from skilled woodcarvers and stone sculptors to delicate silk weavers and lacquerware artists. Witness traditional craftsmanship firsthand, learn about the symbolism behind the art forms, and pick up a unique and beautiful piece to cherish as a reminder of your trip.
• Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat: Witness a spectacle that will stay with you forever – the sunrise over Angkor Wat. Arrive before dawn and witness the majestic temple complex come alive as the first rays of sunlight illuminate its ancient stones. The sky explodes with beautiful colours, casting a magical glow over the temple and creating an unforgettable experience.
• Take a boat ride and see the floating villages of Tonle Sap: Take a boat trip on Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Discover the unique way of life of the communities that live in floating villages on the lake. These villages shift with the changing water levels, and their inhabitants rely on the lake for their livelihood. Witness traditional fishing practices, learn about the lake's ecological importance, and gain a deeper understanding of Cambodian life beyond the temples.