Why Visit Siem Reap: 9 Must-See Places for a Unique Experience

Siem Reap is Cambodia’s unforgettable gateway to Angkor Wat: Explore ancient temples, vibrant markets, rich culture and local cuisine

Why visit Siem Reap? When you think of Cambodia, the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor likely come to mind first – and for good reason. As the gateway to the Angkor Wat complex, Siem Reap draws travelers from around the world with its ancient charm, but there’s much more to discover. From vibrant markets and cultural performances to local cuisine and warm hospitality, Siem Reap offers something for every traveler. It’s no surprise that many Cambodia tours highlight this remarkable city as a must-visit destination. Here’s why Siem Reap should be on your travel list.

Overview of Siem Reap

Siem Reap is located in northwestern Cambodia and its name literally translates to ‘the defeat of Siam’. This historic reference dates back to a conflict in 1949 between the Khmer Kingdom and Siam (modern-day Thailand), which ended in a Khmer victory. To commemorate this triumph, King Ang Chan (who reigned from 1516 to 1566) gave the town the name ‘Siem Reap’.

Today, Siem Reap is best known as the gateway to the Angkor Wat complex, a breathtaking remnant of ancient Khmer civilization and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The magnificence of Angkor Wat, along with countless other Khmer temples and monuments in the area, has helped transform Siem Reap into the heart of Cambodia’s tourism industry, drawing millions of visitors from all over the world each year.

Reasons to visit Siem Reap

1. Explore the Marvel of Angkor Wat

No trip to Siem Reap, the land of the legendary Angkor temples, would be complete without exploring the majestic Angkor Wat architectural complex.

As Cambodia’s most iconic tourist attraction, Angkor Wat is not only a source of immense national pride but also holds the distinction of being one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Its distinctive layout, towering spires and intricately carved bas-reliefs tell vivid stories of ancient Khmer civilization, mythology and royal history. This masterpiece of spiritual and architectural brilliance continues to attract millions of visitors every year, including a growing number of Western travelers who are deeply passionate about heritage, history and cultural exploration. A visit to Angkor Wat is more than just sightseeing – it’s a profound journey into Southeast Asia’s glorious past.

2. Experience Unique Khmer Culture

Siem Reap is renowned not only for the awe-inspiring remnants of ancient Khmer civilization but also for offering travelers a deep and authentic cultural experience. Beyond the majestic temples, visitors can immerse themselves in the living culture of Cambodia – from graceful Apsara dance performances that reflect centuries-old traditions to vibrant street art and local shows that bring modern Khmer creativity to life. In Siem Reap, history and culture come together, allowing for a truly immersive and enriching journey.

Chol Chnam Thmay – Cambodian and Khmer New Year celebration

3. Tranquil and clean

Siem Reap is renowned for its tranquil, clean environment, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist hubs. The city’s peaceful atmosphere is accentuated by its well-kept streets, lush green spaces and the relaxed pace of daily life. Whether you’re wandering through vibrant local markets, enjoying a quiet moment in a riverside café or cycling past ancient ruins, you’ll immediately notice the sense of calm that defines the city. This serene setting not only enriches your travel experience but also allows for a more relaxed and meaningful exploration of Siem Reap’s cultural and historical treasures.

4. Pleasant Climate and Ideal Travel Period

Why visit Siem Reap? While Cambodia does have a rainy season, Siem Reap enjoys sunny weather for most of the year, making it a welcoming destination nearly any time. The best period to visit is from December to May, when the weather is dry, warm and perfect for outdoor exploration. This season is especially ideal for travelers looking to escape cold winters back home, as a trip to Siem Reap during these months offers a pleasant, comfortable climate – perfect for discovering temples, markets and the city’s rich cultural life.

5. Discover Nature at Tonle Sap

Tonle Sap, located just a few kilometers from Siem Reap, is one of the largest freshwater ecosystems in Southeast Asia. It not only provides life for many Khmer and Vietnamese communities but also serves as an ideal destination for nature lovers. Tourists can join boat tours, admire sunsets, and experience the peaceful life of fishing villages. It’s a unique and different experience compared to European destinations.

Tonle Sap

6. A Perfect Blend of History and Modernity

Siem Reap is a harmonious blend of past and present. Beyond its ancient temples, the city offers modern neighborhoods with restaurants, bars, and craft shops. It’s a place where you can enjoy international cuisine, shop for souvenirs, and embark on authentic off-the-beaten-track adventures. These adventures allow you to step back in time with visits to historical monuments, providing a unique experience that combines both contemporary and traditional worlds in a single trip.

7. Affordable Travel Costs

One of the reasons tourists should choose Siem Reap is that it offers hundreds of sightseeing opportunities at very reasonable travel costs. From airfare and hotels to meals and leisure activities, everything is affordably priced. This allows travelers to fully immerse themselves in the many attractions and experiences Siem Reap has to offer without worrying about the budget.

8. Unique and Rich Cuisine

Khmer cuisine is a must-try experience when visiting Siem Reap. With flavorful dishes like amok, lok lak, and enticing street food, French tourists will have the opportunity to discover new and exciting flavors. The combination of spices and refined cooking techniques will make your meal as memorable as a true culinary journey.

Read more: Cambodian Cuisine: Top 10 Unmissable Cambodian Food

Amok is one of the most famous delicacies and is considered the quintessence of Cambodian cuisine.

Best Time to Visit Siem Reap

Siem Reap’s climate is marked by two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Siem Reap can be visited at any time of the year, but the ideal period is from December to mid-May. This is the dry season, with sunny weather, perfect for tourist activities and explorations, making it also the peak tourist season in Cambodia.

From mid-May to November is the rainy season, with humid weather that can sometimes disrupt travel. However, this period offers lower prices for accommodation and tourist services compared to the peak season.

Must-See Attractions in Siem Reap

1. Visit Angkor Wat

A symbol of Cambodia, Angkor Wat is dedicated to the god Vishnu and is renowned as the best-preserved temple in the region while continuing to serve as an active religious center. For a convenient visit, consider using Cambodia car rental with driver services to explore this iconic site and more with ease.

The main temple at Angkor Wat

2. Visit Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom, another main temple in the Angkor complex, stands out with its mystery and antiquity, contrasting with the grandeur of Angkor Wat. It was the largest and oldest capital of the Angkor Empire.

Entering the Angkor Thom enclosure, you can admire impressive architectural monuments such as the Bayon Temple, Baphuon Temple, Phnom Bakheng Temple on the hill, and the Elephant Terrace, all showcasing the genius of the ancient Khmers.

3. Visit Bayon Temple

Located within the Angkor Thom enclosure, Bayon Temple is distinguished by its bas-reliefs depicting benevolent faces, intricately sculpted. This temple features a blend of ancient Buddhist architecture with unique Hindu elements, with 54 towers of varying sizes, each adorned with a face of the deity Avalokitesvara (Quan Âm), looking in the four directions of Cambodia, symbolizing the deity’s observation of the world.

4. Preah Khan Temple

Preah Khan Temple, standing for over 800 years, immediately captivates visitors with its ancient architecture – a harmonious blend of Hindu and early Buddhist elements that gives the temple a profoundly sacred and solemn aura. As you explore its worn stone corridors and detailed carvings, you’re not just witnessing architectural beauty, but also stepping into a place steeped in historical and spiritual significance.

Once a powerful religious and political center, Preah Khan also bears the weight of Cambodia’s turbulent past. It is believed to be the site where thousands of Khmer prisoners were executed and where a Cham king met his end, events that have led to its haunting nicknames: “Blood Lake” and “Sacred Sword.” This fusion of spiritual grandeur and tragic history makes Preah Khan a deeply moving and unforgettable stop within the Angkor complex.

Preah Khan Temple

5. Ta Prohm and Ta Som Temples

Ta Prohm and Ta Som are among the most enchanting temples in the Angkor architectural complex, famous for the twisted roots of giant trees that wrap around their crumbling stone structures. This striking fusion of nature and architecture creates a wild, mysterious and timeless atmosphere, captivating visitors with a true sense of ancient wonder.

6. Prasat Kravan

Prasat Kravan is one of the most distinctively Hindu temples within the Angkor Wat complex, built in 931 AD to honor the three principal deities of Hinduism: Shiva the Destroyer, Vishnu the Protector and Brahma the Creator. Its unique brick carvings and religious purity make it a standout among Angkor’s many monuments. In recognition of its cultural and historical significance, Prasat Kravan was officially designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

7. Koh Ker

Located 140 km east of Siem Reap, Koh Ker was the ancient capital of Angkor before Angkor Wat was built. Hidden in the forest for thousands of years, Koh Ker was discovered almost intact.

8. Elephant Terrace

Built around the 10th century, the Elephant Terrace is one of the notable ancient monuments within the Angkor complex. It still proudly showcases its finely sculpted stone walls and distinctive elephant-shaped columns, which continue to captivate and draw countless visitors with their artistic detail and historical significance.

9. Tonlé Sap

Tonlé Sap, located just 25 km from Siem Reap, is one of Cambodia’s most iconic natural attractions. This vast freshwater lake is not only a lifeline for the region but also home to vibrant Khmer and Vietnamese communities living in unique floating villages. With its diverse ecosystem, rich birdlife and scenic landscapes, Tonlé Sap offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse into local life and nature. The picturesque fishing villages, set against a backdrop of wild beauty, make it a perfect destination for those seeking authentic cultural encounters and peaceful immersion in Cambodia’s natural environment.

A fishing man on Tonlé Sap River at sunset

Why visit Siem Reap? Siem Reap is not only an attractive destination with its famous historical monuments but also a place offering a rich cultural and culinary experience. To make your memories of Siem Reap truly special, contact us to arrange a Cambodia tour.

Read more: Essential Travel Guides for First-time Travelers to Cambodia