Siem Reap is a town in northwestern Cambodia, known as the entrance to the Angkor ruins, which were the heart of the Khmer empire from the 9th to 15th centuries. The Angkor complex includes Angkor Wat, the iconic temple featured on Cambodia’s flag. The Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom is famous for its large carved faces. Siem Reap is a relaxed yet modern base for visitors, with boutique hotels, resorts, galleries, and spas. The Angkor National Museum displays Khmer artifacts, including 1,000 Buddha statues. The Old Market and Angkor Night Market offer souvenirs, books, and spices, while the Old French Quarter has trendy restaurants offering both international and Cambodian cuisine.
places to visit in Siem Reap
Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is a vast temple complex surrounded by a wide moat, known for its detailed carvings. It is the largest religious site in the world, covering an area of 162.6 hectares. The temple is a symbol of Cambodia and is famous for its grandeur and historical significance.
Banteay Srei
Banteay Srei, built in the 10th century, is a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Located 25 km north-east of the main Angkor temples, it is known for its detailed red sandstone carvings. This temple stands out for its smaller size and intricate designs.
Beng Mealea
Beng Mealea is a temple from the Angkor period, located 40 km east of Angkor. It sits along an ancient royal highway and is surrounded by dense jungle, giving it a more mysterious and ruinous appearance compared to other temples in Angkor.
Terrace of the Leper King
The Terrace of the Leper King is in Angkor Thom’s Royal Square. It features a statue of the Hindu god Yama, the god of death, and is named for its intricate carvings. The site offers a glimpse into the artistic and religious significance of the Khmer Empire.
Angkor National Museum
The Angkor National Museum in Siem Reap preserves and displays artifacts from the Angkorian period. It focuses on educating visitors about Khmer art, culture, and the history of the Angkor civilization, with exhibits from the 9th to 14th centuries.
Siem Reap War Museum
The Siem Reap War Museum showcases military vehicles and weapons from Cambodia’s civil war. It also offers guided tours by former soldiers, providing insight into the country’s history during the conflict.
Angkor Thom
Angkor Thom was the final capital of the Khmer Empire, established in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. The city is known for its grand gates, temples, and impressive structures, with the Bayon Temple at its heart.
Ta Prohm
Ta Prohm is a temple in Siem Reap, built in the Bayon style during the late 12th and early 13th centuries. It was originally called Rajavihara and is famous for the trees growing out of its ruins, making it a popular spot for visitors.
Bayon
The Bayon Temple, built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th or early 13th century, is known for its massive stone faces. Located in Angkor Thom, it was the state temple of the king and is a stunning example of Khmer architecture.
Preah Khan
Preah Khan is a large temple built in the 12th century for King Jayavarman VII to honor his father. Located northeast of Angkor Thom, it was once a significant center of administration, housing thousands of officials and servants.
Best time to visit Siem Reap
The ideal time to visit Siem Reap is in December and January. These months offer dry and cooler weather, as they fall during the winter season. The temperatures are more comfortable for exploring outdoor attractions. It’s a great time for sightseeing without the intense heat and humidity.
