Siem Reap serves as the gateway to Angkor, which is recognized as one of the most significant archaeological sites in all of Southeast Asia. In addition to exploring the incredible temples, visitors to the city can enjoy vibrant and bustling markets, immerse themselves in the rich and diverse local culture, experience warm and welcoming hospitality from the residents, and encounter a unique blend of both ancient traditions and modern attractions.
✈️ Getting Siem Reap
- By Air:
- Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI) (opened Oct 2023)
- Direct flights from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi
- By Bus/Van:
- From Phnom Penh (~6 hrs), Bangkok (~8–10 hrs), Battambang (~3 hrs)
🛂 Visa & Entry Requirements
- Visa on Arrival: Available for most countries – $30 USD (valid 30 days)
- e-Visa: Apply online at evisa.gov.kh
- Documents Needed: Passport (6 months validity), one passport photo, cash in USD
Local Transport Service
🛕 Angkor Wat Small Circuit Tour
Includes: Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm (main temples)
| Transport | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk | $15–20 | Most popular; fits 2–3 pax |
| Private Car | $35–45 | AC sedan; fits 2–3 pax |
| Van (Mini Van) | $50–60 | AC van; fits 4–10 pax |
| Bus (Coaster/Coach) | $90–120 | For large tour groups; fits 20–35 pax |
🛕 Angkor Wat Grand Circuit Tour
Includes: Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, Banteay Kdei
| Transport | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk | $20–25 | Whole day |
| Private Car | $40–50 | Comfortable, ideal in hot weather |
| Van | $60–70 | Better for groups 4+ |
| Bus | $100–140 | Must pre-book for large groups |
🧭 Banteay Srei + Angkor Tour (Far temples)
Banteay Srei is 35 km away
| Transport | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk | $30–35 | Long ride; dusty road |
| Private Car | $50–60 | Best for comfort |
| Van | $70–80 | For 4–10 people |
| Bus | $120+ | For tour groups only |
🌅 Angkor Sunrise Tour
4:30am start – Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm
| Transport | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk | $18–22 | Includes waiting at sunrise |
| Private Car | $40–50 | More comfortable early morning |
| Van | $60–70 | Great for families/groups |
🌿 Kulen Mountain Tour (Day Trip)
65 km from town – waterfalls, reclining Buddha
| Transport | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk | Not recommended | Too far & steep road |
| Private Car | $60–70 | Best option |
| Van | $80–100 | Larger group option |
| Bus | $150+ | Rarely used unless big group |
🛶 Tonlé Sap Floating Village Tour
Visit Kampong Phluk or Chong Kneas
| Transport | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk | $18–25 | Includes wait time |
| Private Car | $35–45 | Better comfort, AC |
| Van | $50–60 | Shared or private group |
| Boat Ticket | $20–25/person | Separate from land transport |
🎭 Phare Circus / Night Market / Dinner Transfer
Evening round trip
| Transport | Price (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk | $4–7 (round trip) | Local city only |
| Private Car | $10–15 | AC car for 2–3 pax |
| Van | $20+ | For small groups |
🚌 Transport Between Cities (if needed)
| Route | Bus | Van | Private Car |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siem Reap ↔ Phnom Penh | $10–15 (bus) | $12–20 (van) | $80–120 (private) |
| Siem Reap ↔ Battambang | $6–10 (bus) | $10–15 (van) | $60–80 (private) |
| Siem Reap ↔ Bangkok | $25–35 (bus) | $30–45 (van) | $160–200 (private) |
📝 Notes:
- Tuk-tuks are great for short/temple trips and local nightlife
- Cars are ideal for sunrise, longer trips, or hot weather comfort
- Vans suit families or groups of 4–10
- Buses mostly for large tour groups, not typically needed in local day tours
- Prices include driver, but not entrance tickets or guide fees
💰 Currency & Budget
- Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US Dollar (USD) is widely used
- Tipping: Not mandatory, but appreciated (1–2 USD for good service)
- Typical Costs:
- Hostel: $5–15
- Hotel: $25–80
- Meal: $2–10
- Tuk-tuk Day Tour: $15–25
- Temple Pass: $37 (1 day), $62 (3 days), $72 (7 days)
🏛️ Top Things to See & Do
🛕 Temple Highlights (Angkor Archaeological Park)
- Angkor Wat: Go for sunrise (~5:00 am); largest religious monument in the world
- Bayon Temple: Iconic for its 200+ stone faces
- Ta Prohm: Known for massive tree roots overtaking ruins
- Banteay Srei: Small pink temple with intricate carvings
- Preah Khan & Neak Pean: Less crowded, mystical ruins
Tip: Hire a local guide (or audio guide app) to understand the stories and symbolism.
🏞️ Beyond the Temples
- Tonlé Sap Lake: Boat trip to see floating villages like Kampong Phluk
- Phare Cambodian Circus: Acrobatic storytelling by local youth (evening shows)
- Angkor National Museum: Learn Khmer history before visiting temples
- Pub Street & Night Market: Street food, bars, shops, massages
- Artisans Angkor: Local silk, wood, stone craft – ethical shopping & workshops
- Kulen Mountain: Waterfalls, jungle hike, sacred reclining Buddha
- Cambodian Landmine Museum: Educational and emotional experience
🍲 Food & Drink
Must-Try Khmer Dishes:
- Fish Amok: Steamed fish curry in banana leaf
- Lok Lak: Stir-fried beef with pepper-lime sauce
- Nom Banh Chok: Rice noodle soup with herbs
- Khmer BBQ: Grilled meats on your table
- Sticky rice with mango, coconut-based desserts
Drink tip: Ice is generally safe in tourist restaurants. Avoid tap water; use bottled or filtered.
🛏️ Where to Stay
Popular Areas:
- Old Market / Pub Street: Central, walkable, nightlife, food
- Wat Bo Road: Quiet, more upscale hotels and cafes
- Sivutha Blvd: Good mid-range hotels, near markets
Recommended:
- Budget: Onederz Hostel, Lub d Siem Reap
- Mid-range: Khmer Mansion, Central Suite Residence
- Luxury: Zannier Phum Baitang, Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor
🚕 Getting Around
- Tuk-Tuk: Most common, negotiate fare
- Bicycle: Rent for ~$2/day – great for exploring temples
- Motorbike: Not allowed inside Angkor Park, but usable outside
- Private Driver/Car: Ideal for sunrise tours or day trips with AC comfort
🔒 Travel Safety Tips
- Siem Reap is safe and tourist-friendly
- Beware of scams like overpriced tuk-tuks or street beggars
- Avoid flashy jewelry and keep belongings secure
- Carry small change and USD
- Be respectful at temples: dress modestly, no hats inside shrines
✅ Practical Travel Tips
- Temple Etiquette: Cover shoulders/knees, no loud voices, don’t climb ruins
- Start Early: Beat the crowds and heat by beginning your day around 5–6 AM
- Stay Hydrated: It gets hot—carry water and wear sunscreen
- Local SIM Card: Get one at the airport or town (~$5–10 for data)
- ATMs Available: But many have a $5 fee; bring cash for rural areas
- Language: Basic English is widely spoken in tourism areas
- Cultural Respect: Smile often, avoid touching heads, use two hands when giving
🕐 Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Weather | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cool/Dry | Nov – Feb | 20–30°C | Best weather, peak season |
| Hot | Mar – May | 35–40°C | Fewer tourists, intense heat |
| Wet | Jun – Oct | 25–35°C | Rainy but green and less crowded |