Siem Reap, Cambodia Destination Guide

Overview of Siem Reap Siem Reap lies on the northern shores of the Tonle Sap Lake. It's the main access city for Angkor's magnificent temples, and a popular launching pad for further travel into Cambodia and Thailand. Not just a headquarters for exploring neighbouring regions, it also boasts popular markets, craft shops, museums and Apsara dance performances. The Temple of Angkor Wat is Siem Reap's most famous feature. Situated just outside the city centre, the UNESCO World Heritage Site dates from the 12th century and is the largest religious monument in the world. Within the city, the Angkor National Museum provides a useful cultural and historical background for the Angkor Temples and the ancient Khmer civilisation. The Aki Ra Landmine Museum is also worthwhile as it gives tourists an understanding of the ongoing war Cambodia is still fighting against these buried weapons. Siem Reap has budget- and luxury guesthouses, and a host of fun bars and excellent restaurants. With so much in the way of amenities and attractions, the city is a great base from which to venture into other parts of this fascinating country. Visitors will find silk farms, rice paddies and fishing villages in the surrounding countryside, as well as a bird sanctuary near Tonle Sap Lake - one of Asia's largest freshwater lakes. The area is home to charming villages on stilts, built to accommodate monsoon flooding.

Key Facts

Language: Khmer is the official language. French is also spoken, but English is fast becoming popular with the younger generation. Passport/Visa: All visitors must have sufficient funds to cover their stay and documentation for onward travel. A visa can be issued on arrival for 30 days. For a visa to be issued on arrival one passport photo is required and an empty page in the passport is required, along with US$30 for a tourist visa or US$35 for a business visa. E-visas can be obtained before departure at https://www.evisa.gov.kh/. Extensions of visas are usually possible. Currency: Riel (KHR) is the official currency and is divided into 100 sen. Foreign currency can be difficult to exchange, with the exception of US Dollars. Most transactions require cash but credit card use is on the rise, especially in tourist-orientated hotels and restaurants in larger cities and towns. US Dollars and Thai Baht are accepted, although smaller transactions are usually done in Riel. A torn US Dollar note is useless. There are ATMs in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville but they shouldn't be relied upon as a source of money. Electricity: Local electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. The European round two-pin plug is standard. Travellers should be aware that power cuts are frequent and, outside the capital, electricity is generally only available in the evenings.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Travel to Siem Reap Climate for Siem Reap Siem Reap's climate is typical for Cambodia, and can be described as tropical with seasonal monsoons. The weather is warm year-round and temperatures do not range drastically. There are two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. Temperatures during the rainy season (June to October) average at about 93°F (34°C). Dry season high temperatures, from November to May, average slightly higher at 97°F (36°C). Visitors should bear in mind that roads can get very muddy and rain showers can disrupt activities during the rainy season. The city can be dusty and very hot when it's dry. The cooler winter months running from November to February may be the best time to visit Siem Reap.

Health Notes when travelling to Cambodia Malaria is common in Cambodia and malaria prophylaxis is recommended for all areas except Phnom Penh and around Lake Tonle Sap. Dengue fever, transmitted by mosquitoes, is also prevalent, especially in the heavily populated areas. Insect protection measures should be taken throughout the day. Travellers staying long-term, or for more than one month, and those who may engage in extensive outdoor activities, should be vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis. Vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid are recommended for all travellers. If you come from a yellow-fever-infected area then a yellow fever vaccination is required. Avoid swimming or paddling in fresh water as Bilharzia is present. Tap water is not suitable for drinking but bottled water is widely available. Avoid uncooked meat, unpeeled fruit, salads and food sold by street vendors, and don't drink beverages containing ice. Medical facilities are very limited in most of Cambodia, except for a few expensive private clinics in Phnom Penh. Treatment must be paid for with cash and health insurance is essential. Safety Notes when travelling to Cambodia Cambodia remains one of the most heavily land-mined countries in the world. When hiking or visiting rural areas, travel with a local guide and never stray off the main paths. It is not advisable to travel in rural areas at night. Caution should be taken in the capital, Phnom Penh, especially at night, as street crime is a problem, and popular tourist nightspots may be targeted. After dark there is also a risk of crime in Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. Visitors should be aware that bag snatching is becoming an increasing problem on tuk-tuks, motorcycle taxis, and while walking in the main towns. Due to the large numbers of tourists involved in road accidents on motorcycles, police in Siem Reap and other tourist centres have in the past banned rental outlets from hiring motorcycles to tourists - these bans are sporadic and may happen at any time. There is political tension, tourists should avoid large gatherings, demonstrations, and political meetings. Travellers are also advised to avoid the Cambodian-Thai border areas because of ongoing border disputes; the Preah Vihear temple area has become particularly dangerous. Customs in Cambodia Permission should be sought before taking pictures of people, particularly monks. Avoid touching someone on the head as it is considered the most sacred part of a person's body. When visiting religious sites, shoes should be removed, and shorts avoided; women in particular should dress modestly. A traditional greeting in Cambodia is a bow, bringing together the hands at chest level (similar to hand position for prayer). With foreigners Cambodians sometimes convert to the handshake. The simple rule is to respond with the same greeting you were given. Duty Free in Cambodia Travellers to Cambodia are allowed to enter the country with a reasonable amount of tobacco products and spirits for personal use: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 200g of tobacco; about 350ml of perfume; and two litres of alcohol. Cambodian customs authorities may enforce strict regulations on the import or export of drugs, firearms, antiquities, and ivory.

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Doing Business in Cambodia Developing a personal relationship in Cambodia is important before any business can be discussed, a process which might include shared meals and plenty of socialising. It is considered rude to cause any business associate to 'lose face' publically, so tact and politeness are important. On introduction, the most senior in the group will be introduced first, and visitors are advised to do likewise so that the hosts understand the hierarchy of the group; the highest-ranking person on both sides should greet each other first and perform the introductions. A light handshake is appropriate on introduction, after which business cards can be exchanged using both hands; it is considered impolite to put the card away without making a show of studying it for a short while. If men are dealing with women they should wait and see if they extend a hand before doing so. Eye contact should be kept to a minimum. In Cambodia people are addressed with the honorific title 'Lok' for a man and 'Lok Srey' for a woman followed with the first name or both the first and surname. Dress is conservative, but formal business suits will be out of place in the tropical heat; lightweight suits can be worn for formal meetings. Business hours are generally 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday, often with a long lunch from about 12pm till 2pm. Communication in Cambodia The international access code for Cambodia is +855. The outgoing code is 001 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 00144 for the United Kingdom). Phnom Penh's area code is (0)23; the code for Siem Reap is (0)63. Internet cafes provide a fast and inexpensive service in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and other main towns. Free wifi is available at restaurants, cafes, and hotels in most tourist centred areas. Local prepaid SIM cards can be purchased for a reasonable price to avoid expensive international roaming fees. Tipping in Cambodia Tips are not necessarily expected, but are welcomed in restaurants and hotels. Hotels often add a 10 percent service charge to the bill, but small amounts for personal services are appreciated, as salaries in the country are low. Tour guides should be tipped. Passport/Visa Note All visitors must have sufficient funds to cover their stay and documentation for onward travel. A visa can be issued on arrival for 30 days. For a visa to be issued on arrival one passport photo is required and an empty page in the passport is required, along with US$30 for a tourist visa or US$35 for a business visa. E-visas can be obtained before departure at https://www.evisa.gov.kh/. Extensions of visas are usually possible.

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Entry Requirements Entry requirements for Americans: US travellers must have a passport valid for at least six months from date of arrival, and a visa, which can be obtained on arrival for stays of up to 30 days. Alternatively, US nationals can obtain an e-visa before departure at www.evisa.gov.kh

Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian travellers must have a passport valid for at least six months from date of arrival, and a visa, which can be obtained on arrival for stays of up to 30 days. Alternatively, a visa can obtained online before departure at www.evisa.gov.kh

Entry requirements for UK nationals: UK travellers must have a passport valid for at least six months from date of arrival, and a visa, which can be obtained on arrival for stays of up to 30 days. Alternatively a visa can be obtained online before departure at www.evisa.gov.kh

Entry requirements for Australians: Australian travellers must have a passport valid for at least six months from date of arrival, and a visa, which can be obtained on arrival for stays of up to 30 days. Alternatively an e-visa can be obtained online before departure at /www.evisa.gov.kh

Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish travellers must have a passport valid for at least six months from date of arrival, and a visa, which can be obtained on arrival for stays of up to 30 days. Alternatively visitors can obtain an e-visa online before departure from www.evisa.gov.kh

Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand travellers must have a passport valid for at least six months from date of arrival, and a visa, which can be obtained on arrival for stays of up to 30 days. Alternatively visitors can obtain an e-visa online before departure from www.evisa.gov.kh

Entry requirements for South Africans: South African travellers must have a passport valid for at least six months from date of arrival, and a visa, which can be obtained on arrival for stays of up to 30 days. Alternatively visitors can obtain an e-visa online before departure from www.evisa.gov.kh

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Getting around in Siem Reap, Cambodia Siem Reap is small enough for most of its attractions to be within walking distance. Otherwise, visitors can choose between taxis, tuk-tuks, rental cars, and motorcycle taxis to get around the city. Scooter or bicycle rentals are also options, though motorcycle accidents involving tourists are common enough for Siem Reap's authorities to periodically ban rental outlets from servicing foreigners. The roads in and around Siem Reap are generally poor and Cambodia has one of the highest rates of traffic accidents in Southeast Asia. Wearing a helmet on scooters and motorcycles is compulsory (there are spot fines). Tourists mostly use tuk-tuks for travel within the city. Indeed, English-speaking tuk-tuk drivers can double as very effective and informative guides. It's important to negotiate rates with them before setting off.

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Attractions in Siem Reap, Cambodia Though there are plenty of things to experience in Siem Reap, many top attractions lie just outside the city. The famous Angkor Archaeological Park is the most notable sightseeing destination. Stretching over 150 square miles (400 sq km), it houses some of the most important archaeological sites in Asia. More specifically, the park contains the magnificent remains of several buildings and monuments from the ancient Khmer Empire (9th to 15th century). The most famous sites include the Temple of Angkor Wat and the Bayon Temple. Adventurous travellers may want to visit temples like Beng Mealea, which nestles in the jungle. The Angkor temples can easily occupy visitors for several days, particularly as the Angkor Archaeological Park's landscapes are magnificent in and of themselves. There are several notable tourist attractions within Siem Reap, including the Angkor National Museum, which is a useful complement to the archaeological wonders of the Angkor Temples. This modern museum is home to impressive galleries of artefacts taken from the temple complex. Another not-to-be-missed museum in Siem Reap is rather a different experience. Aki Ra's Landmine Museum lays out the modern strife of a country still struggling with landmines. Visitors must be sure to visit Psar Chaa (the Old Market), a bustling collection of merchant stalls. This is a good venue for shopping and experiencing daily life in Siem Reap.

Villages on Stilts Most tuk-tuk and moto drivers in Siem Reap will be only too happy to take you on a tour of one of the area's famous 'villages on stilts'. Many of the houses lining Tonle Sap Lake are built on ten foot (3m) poles, so that when the water rises - as it does every year during the monsoon - the homes are not flooded or washed away. There are three main floating villages around Siem Reap located around the Tonle Sap Lank. The closest floating village is situated in Chong Khneas, just an hour's drive from Siem Reap. Villages closer to Siem Reap tend to be touristy, while those further away are far more picturesque and authentic. A two-hour boat trip through Chong Khneas village costs about $8 per person or around $20 for a boatload. While the stilted homes are at their most practical during the wet season, the villages are most visually spectacular during the dry season, when their long stilts rise up eerily out of the mud or shallow water. Be aware that there have been tourist scams in the villages and that the poverty witnessed can be disturbing.

Tonlé Sap Lake Boeung Tonlé Sap is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia. Containing a rich and diverse ecosystem, it's home to a wide array of fauna such as crocodiles, turtles, macaques and otters. Villagers live in stilted or floating houses. The Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary in the Tonlé Sap Biosphere Reserve is home to ibis, stork, pelicans and fish eagles, all best viewed during the dry season. There is also a Tonlé Sap Exhibition in Siem Reap, showcasing Khmer heritage through a display of the local people's culture and environment. Boat tours on the lake are popular and an enthralling way to see the riverside villages and interact with the locals. It usually costs well under $20 to hire a boat and you can share it between a few people. Tips for the guides are also expected. Address: The lake is about nine miles (15km) south of Siem Reap

Temples of Angkor Opening time: Daily 5.30am-6pm. Admission: $37 for 1 day ticket, $62 for 3 day ticket, $72 for 7 day ticket. Free for children under 12. The magnificent Temples of Angkor are iconic symbols of Cambodia, the spectacular complex a vivid vestige of the ancient Khmer Empire. Built between the 9th and 13th centuries, more than 100 temples have been uncovered as evidence of this impressive ancient civilisation and one of the biggest cities of its time. The complex's ancient ruins, well-preserved temples and stone monuments take a few days to explore in its entirety. An impressive Hindu temple surrounded by a moat, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument ever built and acknowledged as one among the greatest marvels of humankind. The walled Royal City of Angkor Thom is home to the Bayon Temple and its huge stone faces, another fascinating attraction. If budget allows, visitors can see Angkor from the air in a hot air balloon or helicopter. It is particularly special to see the temple complex at sunrise and sunset, and it is best to avoid going during the midday heat. Also note that visitors are expected to dress respectfully and ticket vendors may refuse entry to those showing too much skin. Address: Three miles (5km) outside Siem Reap.

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Aki Ra's Landmine Museum Opening time: Open daily 7.30am-5pm. Admission: $5 adult, free for children, other concessions available. The Aki Ra Museum provides a jarring counterpoint to the ancient Khmer glories on display at Angkor Wat, instead showcasing the more recent horrors of Cambodia's political and social upheavals. Founded by a former Khmer Rouge child soldier, the museum provides a clear and compelling account of this troubled time, and the appalling legacy of landmines and unexploded ordinance that remain a blight on the lives of Cambodian people. Despite ongoing efforts to find and defuse these sleeping weapons, it is estimated that about five million still remain. The museum teaches visitors how to recognise mines and what to do should they encounter them. Address: Located four miles (6km) south of Banteay Srey Temple, within the Angkor Wat Archaeological Park. Telephone: +855 15 674 163 Website: www.cambodialandminemuseum.org

Psar Chaa (Old Market) Opening time: Daily 7am-8pm Psar Chaa, the Old Market, is Siem Reap's most popular shopping experience for visitors. Stalls sell all kinds of souvenirs including silk, carvings, stoneware and paintings, while fresh produce and seafood stalls can be found inside. In fact, the market presents an excellent opportunity to sample all kinds of authentic Khmer food, invariably served with the distinctive local prahok, a type of fermented fish paste. A good accompaniment is coconut milk drunk directly from the fruit. The ubiquity of baguettes and frog legs is a delicious legacy of the French colonial era. Haggling is normal. So be patient, good-natured and maintain your sense of humour and you can get wonderful deals. The Old Market is central and conveniently located close to the river and the popular Pub Street.

Beng Mealea Opening time: Daily 7am-5.30pm For those charmed by Ta Prom's jungle-clad stones within the Angkor Wat temple complex, it's well worth making the five-hour round trip to visit Beng Mealea, the ruins of an ancient town centre. This little-visited sandstone temple, whose name means 'lotus pond', has now almost completely fused with the surrounding jungle. Built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple but long since abandoned, this sprawling complex is built in a similar style and scale to Angkor Wat. If you prefer to travel off the beaten track then Beng Mealea, overgrown and largely unrestored, will captivate you with its mystique and the relative freedom to explore its nooks and crannies. Address: 45 miles (70km) from Siem Reap Telephone: +855 63 760 079

Angkor National Museum Opening time: Daily 8.30am-6.30pm Admission: $12 per person. The Angkor National Museum is an archaeological institution dedicated to the preservation and presentation of the Angkorian articles. A source of rich insight, it provides important historical, cultural and mythological context to the temple complex. Its fascinating treasures include the lion and demon heads missing from statues, Khmer artefacts predating the Angkor period and an enthralling collection of ancient Khmer and Sanskrit stone tablets. The museum also uses multimedia displays and various artefacts to evoke the golden age of Khmer culture. In addition to the entrance fee, and the optional extra cost for taking in a camera, visitors can pay for an educational audio tour. Address: No.968, Vithei Charles de Gaulle, Phoum Salakanseng, Khom Svaydangum, Siem Reap Telephone: +855 63 966 601 Website: www.angkornationalmuseum.com

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Events in Siem Reap, Cambodia Chaul Chnam Thmey Tuesday April 14, 2020 to Thursday April 16, 2020 (14-16 April 2020) Where: Angkor Wat A Cambodian event not to be missed is the Chaul Chnam Thmey (Khmer New Year), a three day festival held in April each year featuring colourful processions, music, dancing... and a lot of water and talcum powder bombs! People douse each other with water as a blessing, with coloured water signifying the wish for a colourful future. The local Khmer people make offerings and exchange gifts at the end of the harvesting season. Traditionally, houses are cleaned and decorated with flowers, streamers, and balloons and an altar is set up to welcome the spirit of new year. People wear new clothes for the celebrations and children give gifts of money, fruit, or other foods to their elders as a sign of respect. Many children also wash the feet of their parents or other elders to show their devotion and respect. Cambodians have many traditional games and these are played enthusiastically over the Cambodian New Year on street corners and in homes. Chaul Chnam Thmey marks the beginning of the new year but also the end of the busy harvesting season, when farmers give thanks and celebrate the fruits of their labour. It is a fun and exhilarating time to visit the country, particularly the Angkor Wat Temple complex, where celebrations reach their peak. Angkor Wat International Half Marathon Sunday December 06, 2020 (6 December 2020) Where: Krong Siem Reap The Angkor International Half Marathon attracts more than 8,000 runners annually, with nearly 78 countries represented in recent years. This 21km race through the magnificent Angkor temples has become increasingly popular. All funds raised are devoted to victims of landmine explosions and a number of other pressing issues in Cambodia including the education and prevention of HIV Aids. There is also an Angkor bike race which has three categories: the 100km race, the 30km race, and a fun family race event. The bike race usually takes place the day before the marathon. Participants can also choose to attend a number of related celebrations and events including a Gala Dinner Party at the Prasat Bei Temple which includes a traditional dance show.

worldsmarathons.com/marathon/angkor-wat-international-half-marathon

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Nightlife in Siem Reap, Cambodia

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Shopping in Siem Reap, Cambodia

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Dining in Siem Reap, Cambodia Siem Reap's variety of restaurants cater to every taste. Visitors will find traditional Cambodian (or Khmer) food as well as Western staples. The Old Market area boasts a wonderful assortment of restaurants, as do Wat Bo Road and Sivatha Street. Pub Street is a great favourite among tourists. Psar Chaa (Old Market) is home to a group of restaurants selling local food for foreign palates. Most restaurants stay open late and it's easy to find reasonable prices. Local markets, like the Old Market, are also exciting and wallet-friendly places to sample local cuisine. Regarding Khmer cuisine, visitors must try the national dish, Fish Amok, which is cooked with chillies, onion, spinach and coconut milk, and served with rice in banana leaves. The more adventurous should try exotic Khmer staples, like red tree ants and fried tarantulas.

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Airports in Siem Reap Siem Reap International Airport (REP) Siem Reap International Airport www.cambodia-airports.aero Location: Siem Reap The airport is three and a half miles (6km) west of Angkor Wat, half an hour's drive from Siem Reap city centre. Time: GMT +7 Contacts: Tel: +855 (0)63 761 261 Getting to the city: There are taxis available outside the airport terminal, and some hotels arrange private airport transfers if requested. Car rental: It is possible to rent a car at Siem Reap International. Airport Taxis: There are taxis available from outside the Siem Reap International Airport and the journey to the town centre takes about half an hour. Facilities: There are ATMs, duty-free shops, food vendors, restaurants, a smoking lounge, and a lost and found available to visitors at Siem Reap International Airport. Parking: Parking is available at the airport.

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Currency Riel (KHR) is the official currency and is divided into 100 sen. Foreign currency can be difficult to exchange, with the exception of US Dollars. Most transactions require cash but credit card use is on the rise, especially in tourist-orientated hotels and restaurants in larger cities and towns. US Dollars and Thai Baht are accepted, although smaller transactions are usually done in Riel. A torn US Dollar note is useless. There are ATMs in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville but they shouldn't be relied upon as a source of money.

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