ANGKOR ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK
Angkor Archaeological Park is the majestic heart of the Khmer Empire, where ancient stone temples rise from the jungle. It is a spiritual and architectural marvel that embodies the history and genius of Cambodia’s golden age.
This site is a UNESCO World Heritage treasure, drawing visitors into a world of incredible bas-reliefs, soaring towers, and mystical jungle-embraced ruins that have captivated travelers for centuries.
Most Popular Attractions
The Grand Three (Most Famous):
Angkor Wat: The world’s largest religious monument, a stunning microcosm of the universe in stone, famous for its five lotus-bud towers and extensive bas-reliefs.
Angkor Thom (The Great City): A sprawling, walled city built by King Jayavarman VII, containing numerous temples, including the famous Bayon.
Bayon Temple: Located at the center of Angkor Thom, famous for its 216 colossal, smiling faces carved into its 54 towers.
Temples Embraced by the Jungle:
Ta Prohm: Known as the ‘Tomb Raider Temple,’ where giant silk-cotton and strangler fig roots grip the stone ruins in a stunning battle between nature and architecture.
Preah Khan: A massive monastery and temple complex, one of the largest ensembles, featuring a compelling mix of decay and preservation.
Banteay Kdei: A Buddhist monastery in a ruinous state, famous for its four-faced towers and peaceful atmosphere.
Ta Som: A small, picturesque temple best known for the massive fig tree growing out of its eastern gopura (gateway).
Royal City of Angkor Thom Structures:
Phimeanakas: A three-tiered pyramid temple that once sat within the royal palace grounds.
Terrace of the Leper King: A retaining wall carved with rows of seated figures, believed to be the royal cremation area.
Terrace of the Elephants: An impressive 350-meter-long platform used as a reviewing stand for public ceremonies, adorned with elephant carvings.
Victory Gate: The easternmost gate of Angkor Thom, leading to the Royal Palace.
South Gate: The most famous and best-preserved gate of Angkor Thom, flanked by rows of gods and demons holding a giant Naga.
Sunrise & Sunset Temples:
Phnom Bakheng: A temple mountain offering one of the most classic and sought-after sunset views over Angkor Wat and the jungle.
Pre Rup: A pyramid-style brick temple mountain, popular for sunrise and sunset due to its high vantage point.
Srah Srang: A royal bathing pond, a tranquil spot perfect for a quiet sunrise reflection.
The Smaller, Intricate Gems:
Banteay Srei: Located slightly further away, renowned for its incredibly intricate and well-preserved pink sandstone carvings, considered the jewel of Khmer art.
Neak Pean: A unique island temple (a replica of a legendary Buddhist lake) set in the middle of a large artificial pond, surrounded by four smaller ponds.
Preah Palilay: A small, charming temple set deep in the forest of Angkor Thom, featuring a unique seated Buddha image.
Distant & Hydraulic Structures:
East Mebon: A 10th-century temple mountain built on a man-made island in the now-dry East Baray reservoir.
Bakong: The first great temple mountain of the Khmer Empire, located in the Roluos Group, southeast of the main park.
Lolei: A temple dedicated to Shiva, also part of the Roluos Group, built on an island in the former Lolei Baray.
West Baray: A massive, ancient reservoir (baray) that still holds water today, with a small temple (West Mebon) at its center.
Krol Ko: A small, flat temple with four gopuras, known for its fine carvings.
Activities & Experiences
Sunrise at Angkor Wat: Experience the iconic moment as the sun rises over the central towers of Angkor Wat, casting a breathtaking reflection in the surrounding moats.
Explore Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider Temple): Wander through the ruins where massive tree roots have intertwined with the stonework, creating a stunning, organic fusion of nature and architecture.
Marvel at the Faces of Bayon: Discover the enigmatic, smiling stone faces carved into the towers of the Bayon temple, located at the heart of the ancient city of Angkor Thom.
Cycle Through the Temple Complex: Rent a bicycle to explore the smaller circuit roads and lesser-visited temples (such as Ta Nei or Preah Khan), offering a more tranquil experience away from the crowds.
Sunset View from Phnom Bakheng: Climb the hill temple of Phnom Bakheng for a panoramic view of the Angkor complex and a classic temple sunset experience.
Visit Banteay Srei: Take a day trip to this “Citadel of Women,” famous for its intricate, well-preserved pink sandstone carvings, considered some of the finest in Khmer art.
Discover Beng Mealea: Explore this large, unrestored temple largely consumed by the jungle, offering a thrilling, Indiana Jones-style adventure as you clamber over collapsed stonework.
See the Landmine Museum: Learn about Cambodia’s tragic past and the ongoing humanitarian work of the Cambodian Self Help Demining (CSHD) organization.
Take a Khmer Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic Cambodian dishes like Amok (fish curry) or Lok Lak (stir-fried beef) in Siem Reap town.
Experience the Angkor National Museum: Gain a deeper historical and cultural context before visiting the temples by exploring the museum’s extensive collection of artifacts and displays.
Wander the Terrace of the Leper King and the Elephant Terrace: Explore the grand ceremonial walkways and richly carved walls within the ancient capital of Angkor Thom.
Stroll through the Artisans Angkor Workshop: Visit this organization dedicated to preserving traditional Khmer arts and crafts, where you can see stone carving, painting, and silk work being done.
Local Tips & Transport
Tuk-Tuk is the Go-To: For exploring the temples, the tuk-tuk is the most popular, convenient, and traditional mode of transport. Drivers are very knowledgeable and can be hired for the entire day or for multi-day itineraries (the ‘Small Circuit’ and ‘Grand Circuit’).
Hiring a Private Car/Taxi: For larger groups, longer distances (e.g., to Beng Mealea or Banteay Srei), or during the hot season, an air-conditioned car with a driver offers the most comfort and protection from the elements.
Biking/E-Bikes: The temple roads are mostly flat and well-paved, making cycling a great, independent option for fit travelers. Electric bicycles are becoming a popular choice for those who want to cover more ground with less effort.
Angkor Pass: The pass must be purchased before entering the park. The main ticket office is located away from the temples. You will need your physical pass to enter any temple complex. The passes are available for 1-day, 3-day, and 7-day visits.
Dress Code for Temples: Modesty is mandatory, particularly at Angkor Wat and other major religious sites. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Security guards enforce this rule, and you will be denied entry to certain sections (especially the central tower of Angkor Wat) if you are not dressed appropriately.
The Heat and Hydration: The weather is consistently hot and humid. Start your temple visits very early (for sunrise) and take a long break during the mid-day heat (11 am – 3 pm). Carry at least $2L$ of water per person at all times, and wear a hat.
Currency and Tipping: The Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the official currency, but the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted and essentially the parallel currency for all tourist transactions, hotels, and restaurants. Small Riel notes are used for change when the amount is less than a dollar. Tipping tuk-tuk drivers and restaurant staff is common and appreciated.
Respect the Monks: Monks are highly respected. Always ask permission before taking their photo. Women should not touch or hand anything directly to a monk.
Hidden Gems (Beyond the Big Three):
- Preah Khan: A massive, complex labyrinth of a temple that offers a quieter, more atmospheric jungle experience than Ta Prohm.
- Neak Pean: A beautiful and unique temple set on a circular island in the middle of a man-made lake (baray), accessible via a scenic wooden walkway.
- East Mebon: Located in the center of the Eastern Baray, this temple is known for its well-preserved, impressive stone elephant sculptures.
Siem Reap Town Center: When you’re not at the temples, explore the vibrant Pub Street area for dinner and nightlife, and the Old Market (Phsar Chas) for local handicrafts, silks, and souvenirs.
Top Restaurants
Khmer Kitchen Restaurant [$5-$15] – One of the most long-standing and well-known spots, popular for its authentic, reasonably priced Khmer dishes like Amok and Lok Lak.
The Sugar Palm [$15-$25] – A favorite of the late Anthony Bourdain, this restaurant serves home-style, traditional Khmer food in a lovely setting, famed for its authentic fish amok.
Marum [$15-$25] – Part of the Friends International training restaurant group, offering delicious and creative Khmer cuisine with a focus on social enterprise and training disadvantaged youth.
Mahob Buos [$15-$25] – A delightful local spot known for its refined take on Khmer cuisine, using fresh, local ingredients in a tranquil garden setting.
Chanrey Tree [$20-$35] – An elegant riverside setting for modern Khmer cuisine that strikes a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and salty flavors, known for its slow-braised beef and banana-blossom salad.
Khmer Grill [$10-$20] – Highly regarded by locals for authentic Khmer food, offering a massive menu of local delicacies and a great atmosphere, particularly for barbecue.
Khmer Taste [$10-$20] – A central, traditional Cambodian restaurant that receives excellent reviews for its classic Khmer dishes and value.
Kuthew Phnom Penh [$5-$15] – A great spot for traditional Cambodian noodles with pork and seafood broth, often served with cha-quai (fried bread).
Tevy’s [$5-$15] – A socially conscious restaurant near the riverside serving excellent Khmer cuisine while training and employing disadvantaged women.
Banlle Vegetarian [$10-$20] – A peaceful spot near the Old Market for delicious vegetarian and vegan Cambodian and European fusion, with fresh ingredients from an on-site garden.
Old Maison Eatery & Lounge [$15-$25] – Blends traditional Khmer flavors with a unique, vintage, and cozy atmosphere, a charming spot for a casual meal.
The Touich Restaurant Bar [$10-$20] – Known for reasonably priced local dishes and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere, a great non-touristy choice.
Genevieve’s Restaurant [$15-$25] – Famous for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent, hearty portions of Khmer and Western food, with profits supporting local charities.
Bôk Moen Siem Reap Restaurant [$10-$20] – Recommended by locals for those seeking a more unfamiliar and authentically strong taste of Cambodian food.
Socheata Restaurant [$10-$20] – A great spot near Pub Street to enjoy local delicacies like Prohok Ling (fermented fish paste dip) and traditional Khmer Curry.
Near Temple Food Stalls [$2-$5] – The vendors around the major temple complexes (often clustered in the new Parvis Complex) offer cheap, basic, but authentic meals like grilled chicken/fish, rice, and noodles.
Street Stalls by the River [$2-$5] – Found in the afternoon/evening near the Old Market, a great place for authentic, affordable street food and a local experience.
Preah Dak Village Food Stalls [$2-$5] – Located outside the main tourist zone near Angkor Wat, this village is a great place to try authentic, fire-roasted Khmer street food like BBQ pork ribs and chicken.
Grandma Rice Cake [$5-$10] – A small, local restaurant known specifically for its traditional Cambodian desserts, with a limited but high-quality menu of dishes.
Bakong My Village [$10-$20] – A cafe and restaurant located slightly away from the center, offering traditional Khmer dishes in a more relaxed setting.
Tavern [$10-$20] – Located by a serene lotus pond, this spot offers authentic Khmer dishes, including fresh sashimi (river fish), in a tranquil wooden hut setting.
Jomno Modern Khmer Cuisine [$20-$35] – Offers traditional Khmer dishes like Amok and Lok Lak but with an award-winning modern presentation and locally-sourced ingredients.
Lum Orng Restaurant [$20-$35] – A farm-to-fork Cambodian restaurant focusing on seasonal, local produce to create fresh, authentic dishes.
My Little Cafe [$10-$20] – A very clean and cute local/Western style restaurant, praised for its excellent local dishes like samlor machou ktis (coconut cream sour soup).
The Hashi [$10-$20] – A popular, affordable spot in Siem Reap for Japanese food (sushi, ramen) for when you need a break from Khmer cuisine, popular with locals and travelers.
Cuisine Wat Damnak [$40-$70] – The first Cambodian restaurant to be listed on Asia’s 50 Best, offering a bi-weekly set menu of refined, French-trained Khmer cuisine that highlights seasonal local produce.
Embassy Restaurant [$50-$80] – Specializing in Khmer Gastronomy, this is a fine dining experience led by female chefs, with a monthly set menu that re-imagines traditional flavors with artistic flair.
Abacus Garden Restaurant [$30-$50] – A hidden gem with a relaxed garden atmosphere, offering a blend of refined French and authentic Khmer cuisine.
HAVEN [$15-$25] – A training restaurant providing new life prospects for disadvantaged young adults, offering a delicious menu of Khmer and Western dishes in a beautiful, conscious setting.
Wild [$10-$20] – A simple but vibrant concept focusing on gourmet spring rolls with inventive fillings (like mango and feta or pork and lemongrass) and great cocktails in a shaded garden.
Pou Restaurant [$25-$40] – Known for its creative take on Khmer cuisine, using fresh, high-quality ingredients to put a new spin on classic flavors.
Kroya by Chef Chanrith [$40-$60] – Located in the Shinta Mani hotel, this restaurant offers a fresh perspective on traditional Khmer cuisine, often served as a set menu that tells a Cambodian story.
Sokkhak River Lounge [$25-$40] – A stunning, chic restaurant on the riverbanks offering a blend of traditional and refined Khmer and international cuisine in a beautiful setting.
Mesa Restaurant [$20-$35] – Part of the Temple Group, offering a mix of Khmer and international food with an often modern presentation.
The Mansion (at FCC Angkor by Avani) [$35-$50] – Offers a mix of exceptional Khmer, Asian, and International cuisine in an elegant setting, often with a traditional Apsara dance performance.
SAYA CUISINE (at Shintana Saya La Maison) [$40-$60] – Offers a love letter to Khmer heritage with a modern, elegant flair, crafted by Chef Sok San in a lofty glass-house setting.
Maybe Later [$15-$25] – A trendy spot for a fusion break, known for its Mexican-inspired tacos and playful atmosphere.
Malis Restaurant [$40-$70] – One of Siem Reap’s most well-known fine dining institutions, celebrating Living Khmer Cuisine with traditional dishes presented in an upscale, elegant setting.
The Dining Room (at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor) [$60-$90] – Offers a luxurious dining experience in a historic, grand hotel setting, specializing in refined Royal Khmer cuisine and international dishes.
The Little Red Fox Espresso Cafe [$5-$15] – A popular cafe known for its high-quality coffee and Western-style brunch and snacks.
Footprint Cafe [$5-$15] – A popular brunch and café spot that operates as a social enterprise, contributing profits to community initiatives.
Miss Wong Cocktail Bar [$10-$20] – A popular, sultry, Shanghai-inspired lounge known for its excellent cocktails and unique, sophisticated atmosphere.
The Village Bakery and Cafe [$5-$15] – Famous for its fresh pretzels, bagels, cinnamon rolls, and excellent Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich), serving great coffee.
Gelato Lab [$5-$10] – A favorite spot for high-quality, homemade Italian-style gelato in the heart of Siem Reap.
Scribe (at FCC Angkor by Avani) [$15-$30] – A stylish bar perfect for pre-dinner cocktails, known for its stronger, well-made drinks compared to typical tourist bars.
Crane [$10-$20] – An eclectic spot that functions as a store, bar, and café, known for its relaxed vibe and varied menu that changes regularly.
The Source Cafe [$10-$20] – A comfortable, air-conditioned cafe popular for brunch, offering larger portions of Western-style dishes like avocado toast and smoothie bowls.
Robam [$10-$20] – A spot on Pub Street that often includes traditional performance alongside food and drinks.
Paper Tiger [$10-$20] – A long-standing, relaxed spot on Pub Street that offers a mix of traditional Khmer, Western, and comfort food, often hosting cooking classes.
Bao Kandal [$5-$10] – A great place to find delicious, contemporary bao buns, a quick and satisfying snack or meal.
The Christa Restaurant [$10-$20] – A locally-loved spot known for its delicious and authentic Cambodian-style BBQ.
Long’s Bar [$5-$15] – A well-regarded local bar that offers simple, tasty food alongside its drinks.
Domo Coffee [$5-$10] – A cafe near Angkor Wat and Preah Dak Village known for its coffee and local snacks.
Circle [$15-$30] – Offers a mix of Asian, Cambodian, and International cuisine with vegetarian-friendly options.
Elia Greek Kitchen [$15-$25] – A highly-regarded restaurant offering a taste of familiar Western cuisine for those craving something different.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Miss Wong Cocktail Bar: A chic and atmospheric speakeasy, located slightly off Pub Street near the Old Market area, known for its elegant 1920s Shanghai décor, intimate setting, and classic cocktails.
The Red Piano: One of the most famous bars on Pub Street, this two-story venue is a must-visit. Its popularity soared after Angelina Jolie was a frequent patron while filming Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, and it’s famous for the ‘Tomb Raider’ cocktail.
FCC Angkor – Mansion Rooftop: Located in the elegant FCC Angkor by Avani hotel, this bar offers a sophisticated setting with views over the riverside and serves expertly crafted cocktails.
Asana Old Wooden House: A hidden gem in the Old Market area, this is one of Siem Reap’s few remaining traditional wooden Khmer houses. It offers a relaxed, chilled-out vibe and great drinks in a uniquely historic setting.
L’Annexe: A French-owned cocktail bar and bistro near the river, known for its extensive list of premium spirits and expertly mixed drinks, offering a quiet escape from the bustle of Pub Street.
Picasso Bar: Situated near the Old Market, this is a cozy, long-standing favorite with a Spanish/Cuban atmosphere, known for its friendly service, strong Mojitos, and a wall of scribbled patron messages.
Long’s Bar: A cozy, laid-back spot off the main thoroughfare, offering a good selection of cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere, often popular with a mix of expats and tourists looking for a quieter drink.
Le Tigre de Papier: A prominent fixture on the corner of Pub Street, this bar/restaurant is famous for its lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and people-watching opportunities right in the heart of the action.
Laundry Bar: Found on the riverside, this establishment offers a casual, artsy vibe and often hosts exhibitions and acoustic nights, making it a great place for a pre-dinner cocktail in a relaxed setting.
Mezcal Siem Reap: Located in the vibrant Kandal Village neighborhood, this specialty bar is dedicated to tequila and mezcal, offering unique and refreshing Mexican-inspired cocktails.
Pomme: An unassuming but highly-rated bar situated just off Pub Street, known for its creative house cocktails and quiet, conversational atmosphere, perfect for escaping the noise.
Bunker Club: More of a lounge than a typical bar, located in the Old Market area, it offers a sophisticated, dimly lit setting with a focus on electronic music and quality mixed drinks.
Georges Rhumerie: Situated a bit further out from the center, this unique spot specializes in house-made infused rums (rhums arrangés) and offers a fantastic taste of Caribbean-style cocktails with a Khmer twist.
Footprint Cafeteria: Located near the river, this is a social enterprise cafe/bar that funnels profits back into the community. It offers a selection of cocktails and a great place to relax with a good cause.
Soul Train Reggae Bar: Found close to Pub Street, this small, lively bar is known for its friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere, and excellent, strong cocktails, with reggae music as the main soundtrack.
Temple Club: Arguably the most famous club on Pub Street, it features a massive open-front bar, multiple dance floors, DJs playing commercial and house music, and late-night Khmer Apsara dance shows.
Angkor What? Bar: Located at the entrance of Pub Street, this is one of Siem Reap’s oldest and most iconic nightlife spots, known for its graffiti-covered walls, cheap buckets, and a non-stop party atmosphere until the early hours.
Hip Hop Club: A dedicated dance club just off the main Pub Street, playing commercial hip-hop, R&B, and EDM. It’s popular for its late hours and high-energy crowd.
Electric Garden: Situated near the Old Market, this club is a destination for electronic music enthusiasts, featuring international and local DJs spinning techno, house, and trance in a modern setting.
Sok San Road Clubs: This street running parallel to Pub Street hosts several smaller, late-night spots. Why Not? Bar and Cherry Bar are popular choices here for budget-friendly drinks and an all-night party vibe.
X-Bar: Located on Sivutha Boulevard, this multi-level establishment is unique for its rooftop area with a half-pipe for skateboarding. It hosts live music, DJ sets, and has a great atmosphere that runs late.
YOLO Bar: Standing for “You Only Live Once,” this lively venue is located directly on Pub Street and draws a young, energetic crowd with its loud music, drink specials, and central location.
Star Bar: Found near the Old Market, this is a popular late-night hangout known for its friendly bartenders and a good mix of party music, staying open well past midnight.
The Warehouse: A larger, dedicated nightclub located further from the main tourist area (best reached by Tuk Tuk), known for hosting big parties, themed nights, and playing a mix of international and Khmer pop/EDM.
Liquid: Another club situated near Pub Street, known for its vibrant lighting, dedicated dance floor, and a steady rotation of house and commercial DJs keeping the party going until closing.