CAMBODIA: Angkor Archaeological Park Are Important Archaeological Sites. Disturbing Rapes Happen After Dark In Secluded Temples

Angkor Archaeological Park, located in northern Cambodia, is one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia.

Stretching over some 400 square kilometres, including forested area, Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of several capitals of the Khmer Empire of the 9th to the 15th centuries, including the largest pre-industrial city in the world.

The most famous are the Temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations .

Angkor Archaeological Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992. At the same time, it was also placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger due to looting, a declining water table, and unsustainable tourism.

UNESCO has now set up a wide-ranging programme to safeguard this symbolic site and its surroundings.

Angkor itself has no accommodation and few facilities; the nearby town of Siem Reap, just 6km south, is the tourist hub for the area.

The temples of Angkor are highly symbolic structures. The foremost Hindu concept is the temple-mountain, where the temple is built as a representation of the mythical Mount Meru.

Thiat is why so many temples, including Angkor Wat itself, are surrounded by moats, built in a mountain-like pyramidal shape and topped by precisely five towers, representing the five peaks of Mount Meru.

The linga, representing the god Shiva, was also critical and while the lingas themselves have largely gone, linga stands - carved, table-like blocks of stone, can be found in many if not most rooms in the temples. There was also a political element to it all: most kings wanted to build their own state temples to symbolize their kingdom and their rule.

While early Angkor temples were built as Hindu temples, Jayavarman VII converted to Mahayana Buddhism c. 1200 and embarked on a prodigious building spree, building the new capital city of Angkor Thom including Bayon, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan and many more as Buddhist structures.

However, his successor Jayavarman VIII returned to Hinduism and embarked on an equally massive spree of destruction, systematically defacing Buddhist images and even crudely altering some to be Hindu again. Hinduism eventually lost out to Buddhism again, but the few Buddha images in the temples today are later Theraveda additions.

One element that continues to mystify archaeologists is the baray, or water reservoir, built in a grand scale around Angkor: for example, the West Baray is a mind-boggling 8km by 2.3km in size. While it has long been assumed that they were used for irrigation, some historians argue that their primary function was political or religious.

Not a single outlet has been found, either by eye or by NASA imaging. The moat around Angkor and the West Baray still contains water, but the rest have dried up.

As you tour the temples, you will see certain mythical figures and other motifs cropping up repeatedly.

Bas-Relief Apsaras
Apsara, Celestial nymphs, always bare-breasted and usually dancing, representing an ideal of female beauty.

Kala, Monstrous face without a lower jaw, often found on temple gateways, meant to guard against evil.

Naga, Many-headed mythical serpent. The most famous Nagas' in Angkor can be found on the guardrails of each entrance to Angkor Thom.

Angkor is hot and sticky throughout the year, but the peak visitor season is November to February, when the weather is dry and temperatures are coolest (25-30°C). The flip side is that the temples are packed, especially around Christmas/New Year, and hotel rates are at their highest.

March to May is brutally hot, with temperatures reaching 40°C. June to October is the rainy season, and outlying temples and the roads leading to them can turn into quagmires of mud.

However, this is also when the temples are at their quietest, and it's still often possible to do a good half-day round of sightseeing before the rains start in the afternoon.

Angkor is located about 20 minutes to the north, by car or motorbike, from central Siem Reap. See the Siem Reap article for details on getting there.

For those interested in researching Angkor Wat prior to their arrival, several excellent books are available. Ancient Angkor by Michael Freeman provides detailed maps, suggested itineraries, and helpful information about all of the temples in the Angkor region.

Angkor by Michael D. Coe offers an insightful history in the Khmer Empire. Temple of a Thousand Faces by John Shors is a wonderful work of historical fiction that brings Angkor Wat to vivid life, offering readers a glimpse into this legendary temple.

Tour buses feature guided, air-conditioned comfort but also are subject to large crowds and lack of options. Be sure you know which temples are being visited as some of the larger buses only go to the 2 or 3 main tourist attractions, and leave out important secondary sights. The cost is about USD25-70/day including driver and guide.

Cars with drivers can be hired for single or multiple days. While all drivers are familiar with the area and happy to suggest good routes, most speak little English and are not tour guides.

For a licensed tour guide, the charge varies from US$45 per day to USD50 for a driver and English speaking guide. It is customary for the drivers to ask for USD5-10 extra for trips to further temples such as the those of the Big Circuit, Banteay Srey and more for remote sites like Beng Mealea.

Taxis booked from the airport booth to central Siem Reap charged a fixed price of USD7 and included fliers advertising cars and drivers for Angkor Wat at USD30/day.

Motorbikes with drivers can be arranged through any guesthouse for about USD6-8/day. Again, drivers might ask for more to visit remote ruins. Some drivers can speak a bit of English, and can give you information about Angkor and Cambodian life.

Drivers are required to be licensed and must wear their grey numbered vest while travelling within the confines of the Angkor park. Motorbikes can be rented by foreigners at USD10-15 / day. It is recommended to carry a map with you in case of renting a motorbike.

Tuk tuks can be arranged through guesthouses, offering space for one or two travellers. Figure on USD12 for the main Angkor temples, and more for outlying temples. Like the motorbike drivers, they must be licensed, may speak some English, and must wear grey numbered vests while travelling within the park.

Add USD3 extra fee if you would like to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Extra fee is for the tuk tuk driver to start the tour at 05:00 instead of 08:00.

It is strongly advised to use a tuk tuk recommended by the hotel, otherwise you can be scammed badly.

Bicycles are a very convenient option to visit Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, the little circuit or even the big circuit - depending on time you have and how big fan of Khmer temples you are.

Renting a bike in Siem Reap is easy and cheap at USD1 per day, in most of places you don't even have to leave passport, locks for bikes are provided, check the bike before and ask for some amendments if needed, eg, pumping air, oiling the chain.

It is about 6km from the city to Angkor Wat if you go first time, make sure you go by the Visitors Centre which is the only place where you can buy passes.

In the little circuit most places are at most 15 minutes away from each other by bike, so it is actually not a problem for a regular tourist without much biking experience to visit Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and spots on the little circuit in one day.

If you are willing to get up early and start your trip 06:00, it is not uncommon to see a bike rentals open from 04:30 it won't be a problem to visit all above plus the big circuit where spots are 30 minutes away each other by bike in one day.

Take into account your shape and visiting preferences. If you bike a lot at home - you can easily get around much quicker. If you enjoy Khmer architecture more than the regular Angkor visitor, it is recommended you reserve at least 3 days for the trip and it doesn't matter if you go by tuk-tuk or by bike.

It is a good idea to take a lot of water with you rent a bike with a basket, but not a big problem if you run out of it during your trip. Around every temple in Angkor park you can buy some food and drinks it's just more expensive than in the city, around US$2 per big bottle of water in the Park.

Cycling in Angkor Park is safe as traffic is low, pleasant nice views and a lot of trees providing shadows in sunny days and, last but not least, it saves you a lot of hassle of dealing with tuk-tuk drivers.

There are also guided bicycle tours available. One operator is KKO tours minimum donation per person: USD20, an NGO arranging a mostly off-road mountain bike trip through the park with a good mix of well-known and rarely-seen temples and ruins. In wet season this is a muddy adventure.

You can also participate in the annual Angkor Wat Bike4Kids Event, a charitable cycle adventure around the ruins of Angkor Wat. It happens on the first weekend of December each year.

Horse carriages and even elephants are also available within the park, but only from specific points. For example, elephants travel the route between Bayon and the nearest gate of Angkor Thom It is highly discouraged to ride elephants; their backs are injured by the many rides, and elephants have died of heat exhaustion in recent years Elephant Death.

Electric cars will take you to certain areas for a round-trip price of only USD2. They can be found in front of Angkor Wat and the Terrace of the Elephants.

Helicopter flights are another way of seeing Angkor Archaeological Park. You can also visit outlying temples like Banteay Chhmar, Boeng Mealea, Koh Ker, Rolous Group, Phnom Bok & Tonle Sap floating village. Helistar Cambodia have prices starting from USD90 per person for the basic Bangkeng Mountain, Angkor Wat. Sras Srang, Pre Rup, Eastern Mebon & Ta Som 8 minutes tour.

Flights depart daily from the Military Apron, Siem Reap International Airport. Bookings essential and can be made through hotels or travel/tour agents.

Hot air balloon flights This is a tethered balloon; it only goes up and down. This is due to flight restrictions over Angkor Wat, so it is unlikely you can find a proper, free-flying balloon ride. It costs USD20 per person, takes about 4 minutes to load the carriage, and you are in the air about 6-10 minutes, going up to about 200m.

The carriage can hold 8-9 people and is on the road from the airport to Angkor Wat. Sunrise around 06:10 is a popular time to go. There is another road besides the one going through the ticket gate, so you do not have to pay an Angkor entrance fee, it is outside of the park itself. Their number is +851 252 0810, limited English is spoken, but enough to tell you if the weather is allowing them to go.

Angkor Wat Temple Visits is the only private operator to offer mixed cycling and Land Cruiser tours with their mountain bike racks mounts at the back of their 4x4s. Especially useful for all the remote Angkorian temples such as Banteay Srei, Beng Melea, Koh Ker, Preah Vihear, Banteay Chhmar, Preah Khan Kampong Svay, Sambor Pre Kuk.

You can also get around the complex if booking an additional attraction within the park. Flight of the Gibbon for example is a zipline canopy tour located on the North East corner of Angkor Thom and provides transportation for certain packages to Ta Phrom temple as part of their tour

Passes are required to enter the Angkor area. They are no longer for sale at the front gate. Instead you will need to purchase them at the Ticket counter that is 7 km away.

You will be turned away at the Temple if you arrive without tickets. Ticket Counter Location: 13.376825, 103.880151 Hours of operation are 5:00AM- 6:00Pm in low season (Sept.- May) and 5:00AM - 6:30PM in high season) for 1-day (USD37), 3-day (>USD60), or 7-day (formerly USD60) durations (children under 12 enter for free after showing a passport). The 3-day pass is valid for any 3 days within a week, while the 7-day pass is valid for any 7 days within a month.

If you plan on using your 3 or 7 day pass on non consecutive days, make sure to get the newer version, otherwise you may be given an old one that must be used immediately. Cambodians can enter for free — you shouldn't need to buy a pass for your guide or your driver.

If you buy a pass in the evening, you can enter the park after 17:00 to view the sunset without it counting as use of a day on your pass. The passes are non-transferable.

You will have a photograph taken and printed on your pass to make sure they are non-transferable. Regular checks for the pass are performed at almost all sites within the park, so carry your pass with you at all times, and be certain to buy the passes only from the official Apsara Authority counters, not from other vendors, and definitely not second-hand.

If you are booking attractions within the park such as Flight of the Gibbon, the pass is inclusive of the cost of the tour. Flight of the Gibbon is no longer in operation.

New entrance ticket fees are going to increase from 1st February 2017: one-day ticket: USD37, three-day ticket: USD62(valid for 10 days), seven-day ticket: US72 valid for a month.

Guides can be hired for about USD20 a day and are available for most major languages. Hiring a guide for at least the first day can help you get orientated to the temples and are particularly useful for finding and explaining the bas-reliefs, which can otherwise be rather overwhelming and/or difficult to understand.

Ancient Angkor, the guidebook that is hawked at every temple, is surprisingly good. Particularly if you are interested in the carvings on the walls and towers, the book will keep you occupied for hours. If you don't want to pay money to hear a local tell you about the temples in broken English this is a good option.

Authored by Michael Freeman and Claude Jacques, the cover price is USD 27.95 at book shops, and is sold by some at much lower prices. For example, the book shop at the international airport is selling it for USD 20. Vendors located within and outside Angkor Wat sell duplicate copies of the book, for as little as 1 USD, if you haggle, or it's the end of the day.

Another excellent source of material on Angkor Wat is Temple of a Thousand Faces by John Shors. This best selling novel is a work of historical fiction, and brings ancient Angkor Wat back to life, as well as the celebrates the Khmer culture.

Be sure and get to the temples early. You can enter the park beginning at 05:00; the temples open at sunrise. There are fewer visitors early in the morning, and the sun isn't at full force. Arriving at the temples at 08:00 instead of 09:00 can make all the difference in staying one step ahead of the crowds.

The temples can broadly be categorized into five groups:

- Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, the grandest temple of all and the ancient capital next to it

- Little Circuit or Le Petit Circuit, taking in major sites to the east of Angkor Thom

- Big Circuit or Le Grand Circuit, taking in major sites north and further out east

- Roluos group, 15km east from Siem Reap along National Highway 6

- Outlying temples, located over 20km from Angkor Wat

You can, of course, mix and match freely, but as distances are fairly long, it makes sense to plan ahead and pick sites connected by road. Most car, tuk-tuk or moto drivers will have an itinerary ready if you don't have one in mind, and their expertise may come in handy for arriving at sites a step ahead of the big tour groups.

Angkor Wat. Located six kilometre north of Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is one of the largest of Khmer monuments. Built around the first half of 12th century by King Suryavarman II, the temple's balance, composition and beauty make it one of the finest monuments in the world.

Though 'Wat' is the Khmer or Cambodian word for temple, the westward orientation of the structure is atypical of temples. Scholars believe that the architecture and sculptures are that of a temple where Lord Vishnu was worshipped but it was also built as a mausoleum for the king after his death.

Do your homework first. To enjoy the ruins, read articles on the sites, not just the history but also the spatial relationships and the hierarchy of importance of the ruins. The JASA Office (Japan Apsara Safeguarding Authority) - a Japanese government agency has an information office, the Bayon Information Centre in Siem Reap along Sivatha Blvd.

At the back of Hotel Le Meridien Angkor, provides a bird's eye view of the story of Angkor Wat via DVD screenings and display storyboards in English for USD2 and for another USD5, a handy, concise and very enlightening graphic booklet in color and perfect professional-level English is available.

The size of the monuments makes it look overwhelming when one encounters it for the first time. The following is one of the suggested plan to explore Angkor Wat. Enter through the west entrance. When you reach the entry tower, walk to the right to get a glimpse of all the five towering gopuras.

Passing the tower and the libraries on both sides of the walkway, climb down the steps towards the left side and get to the water basin. You can catch a glimpse of the temple and its reflection in the water. Go past the basin and reach the left end of the temple.

You would by now have reached the starting point of the famous bas reliefs depicting scenes from various mythological stories and historic events.

Walking from left to right you will come across scenes from battle of Ramayana, battle of Mahabharata, army of Suryavarman II, scenes from judgement by Yama the supreme judge, churning of ocean by demons and gods to get Amrita — the nectar of immortality, Vishnu's victory over demons, victory of Krishna over Bana and other scenes of battle between gods and demons.

Climb the steps to reach the second tier. One can reach the third tier and the central courtyard within by climbing the steps oriented towards any of the four cardinal points. However, it is suggested that the steps on the south right be taken, as these have now been fitted with a handrail — particularly useful when descending.

The temple at Angkor Wat is a bit unusual in that it was built to face due West, most have been built to face the rising sun. As a result, the iconic image of the Temple has the sun rising behind it from the East. There are just two times a year when this is possible; during the vernal and autumnal equinoxes around March 20th and September 22 each year.

This does not mean that amazing images aren't possible at other times of the year, just that if you want to have the sun rising over the spires of the complex, a date near an equinox is best.

You can also expect a lot of people to join you in your photographic adventure. It is not unusual to see tour buses lined up at the check in points well before sunrise. Make sure you have a flashlight as you have to cross a long bridge with little in the way of railing an no artificial lighting.

Just in front of the Temple is a large pond that is often seen in photos reflecting the structure and the rising sun. However, this pond is frequently filled with water lilies that may obstruct its mirror qualities. Once the sun is up you will find many amazing things to shoot.

Buddhist monks wearing saffron robes are frequently seen among the ruins, as are monkeys and, of course, loads of tourists. Locals will sometimes pose for you, but they often ask for money in exchange, usually a dollar or two.

The sight of the grand monument towering over the landscape is breath-taking at any time of day. However, to maximise the effect it is suggested that the first trip to Angkor Wat be made in optimal lighting conditions, usually around 13:00~14:00.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat is a also great sight to witness. Hence most of the tourists tend to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat, then explore other ruins in the morning and then return to Angkor Wat later in the afternoon. The sun rises behind Angkor Wat and the best colours are seen just before the sun climbs into view.

As the position of the sun as it rises varies according to the time of year, do position yourself accordingly. For example, in November-December time when you are facing Angkor Wat, the sun rises on your right hand side.

Hence grab a place to the extreme left of the entry tower to see the sunrise. Sunset at Angkor Wat is best viewed either on the top tier or outside the main temple structure.

If you visit the temple at sunrise or sundown, you are advised to bring a torch since there is no lighting, and since the temple has many steps, puddles and other obstacles you can't see at night that could make you trip.

Angkor Thom - Bayon. Built in the latter part of the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, Bayon is one of the most widely recognised temples in Siem Reap because of the giant stone faces that adorn the towers of Bayon. There are 54 towers of four faces each, totalling 216 faces.

There is still a debate as to who is being depicted in the faces. It could be Avalokiteshvara, Mahayana Buddhism's compassionate Bodhisattva, or perhaps a combination of King Jayavarman VII and Buddha.

Bayon's plan can be divided into three levels — the first two are bas-reliefs and the uppermost consists of the central sanctuary. The outer gallery depicts scenes from everyday life and historical events, while the second inner gallery depicts mythical figures and stories. In total, there are more than 1km of bas-reliefs to be viewed in the Bayon.

Enter Bayon from the east. The outer gallery comes into view first. The second gallery is on the next higher level. The third level is where you will encounter many of the famous faces and tourists. The fact that these stones are exposed to direct light makes it easy to shoot pictures throughout the day, though mid-day sun eliminates shadows.

You will find fewer tourists too during this time of day. Elephants are also available to take you from the gate into Bayon for $10 per person seats are limited and often already pre-booked by the tour groups.

The surrounding and the tall towers makes Bayon a bit dark and flat for study and photography near sunrise and sunset. Hence, it is best to visit Bayon when there is plenty of light. 10:00 in the morning to around 16:00 in the afternoon is the most popular.

Baphuon: Located to the northwest of the Bayon, the Baphuon is supposed to represent Mount Meru sacred to Hinduism, and was one of the largest and grandest structures in Angkor. Built into the western face of the Baphuon is a giant reclining Buddha, added in the 16th century after the region converted from Hinduism to Buddhism.

Archaeologists had dismantled the Baphuon to perform renovation when they were interrupted by the civil war; the records for piecing the temple back together were subsequently lost or destroyed. Today the reconstruction work is done, so visitors can now walk up to the top tier.

The Bayon and Baphuon temples form only part of what was formerly the giant city of Angkor Thom, once thought to hold a population of one million.

In addition to the Bayon and Baphuon temples, the ancient city of Angkor Thom holds a number of other sites of interest:

- The Elephant Terrace.

- The Terrace of the Leper King.

- Five entrance gates, one at each ordinal compass point and the Victory Gate in the east wall. The western and the northern gate are free from tourists, and climatic. Each of the gates is topped by the face of Avalokitesvara.

There is a path on top of the walls, and one along the outside wall, that can be followed to walk from gate to gate. The total distance is around 13km, about 3.5 hours long. As of March 2012, the path has been closed due to collapses in the walls.

- Phnom Bakheng. The first temple-mountain constructed in Angkor, with a commanding hilltop location, presently under renovation as shown by the cranes hauling piece by piece the stones out from the structure. Extremely popular and crowded spot for sunsets: allow half an hour for the sweaty hike to the top, and leave early or bring a torch for the way back.

The final climb to the top of the temple is steep and dangerous at dark. Elephants will carry you to the hilltop for $20 per person, but you still have to climb the temple stairs on your own. Note that the sun does not set over Angkor if seen from here, and any visible temples are in fact quite far away.

Also note that you are NOT allowed to climb Phnom Bakheng after 17.30 - hence make sure you arrive earlier. An elephant ride back down the hill will cost $15 per person.

Little Circuit. In clockwise order, exiting Angkor Thom by the Victory Gate:

- Ta Keo. An incomplete, largely undecorated temple built by Jayavarman V. The stairs at the east side of the monument are least steep and the easiest way to reach the top level.

- Ta Prohm. Built during the time of king Jayavarman VII and is best known as the temple where trees have been left intertwined with the stonework, much as it was uncovered from the jungle. It might be considered in a state of disrepair but there is a strange beauty in the marvelous strangler fig trees which provide a stunning display of the embrace between nature and the human handiwork.

This is one of the most popular temples after Angkor Wat and the Bayon because of the beautiful combinations of wood and stone. Black and white film photographers especially love this site because of this and most of the stunning postcard shots of Angkor's trees come from here; pop culture fans, on the other hand, may recognise a few scenes from Angelina Jolie's Tomb Raider.

While the temple is very popular, most visitors follow a central route and the sides of the complex can be surprisingly quiet. Note that large sections of the temple are unstable rubble and have been cordoned off, as they are in real danger of collapse. As of 2010, authorities have started to restore Ta Prohm.

All the plants and shrubs have been cleared from the site and some of trees are also getting removed. A crane has been erected and a large amount of building work is underway to rebuild the temple, much of it seemingly from scratch. Wooden walkways now block some of the previously famous postcard photos.

People that want to take a pretty picture of a building overgrown by a huge tree without the crowds, walkways, cranes etc. might want to check out the gatehouse in the back of the Ta Som complex instead.

- Banteay Kdei. Sprawling monastic complex in the style of Ta Prohm. In poor shape, but slowly being restored.

- Sras Srang. Terrace leading to a pond. Located right across the road from Banteay Kdei.

- Prasat Kravan. A little temple to end the little circuit. An inscription incised on doorways here indicates that this temple of five red, symmetrical, brick towers was dedicated to Vishnu in 921CE.

The removal of the encroaching jungle was organised by Henri Marchal and Georges Trouve in the 1930s and a spurt of restoration followed 30 years later with the new bricks being added marked with "CA" Conservation Angkor. The interior has large bas-reliefs of Vishnu and Lakshmi carved into the walls of a type rare in Khmer structures.

Big Circuit

In clockwise order, exiting Angkor Thom by the North Gate:

- Preah Khan. Jayavarman VII's first capital, before the completion of Angkor Wat. Large and atmospheric, yet somewhat overshadowed by Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm, this temple is partly in disrepair with strangler figs crawling up the walls, but has some excellent carvings and fewer visitors, and is well worth a visit. The temple is some 3 kilometres north of Angkor Thom.

- Neak Pean. Not really a temple, this is an interesting quick stop. It consists of four ponds surrounding a large pond that has a tower in the middle. This tower is accessible on a causeway that cuts across the pond.

- Ta Som.

- East Mebon. Located on what was an island in the now dry East Baray, this is a large, three-story temple-mountain crowned by five towers, like a miniature Angkor Wat. Originally built by Rajendravarman II in the 10th century, many structures are in poor shape, but the temple is best known for its massive restored elephant statues.

- Pre Rup. A temple-mountain close to and quite similar in style to East Mebon, and built a decade later. A favorite spot for viewing the sun set into the jungles and rice paddies of the Cambodian countryside.

Pre Rup, one of the many temple ruins within the Angkor Archaeological Park

Roluos group. The ruins here are from the ancient capital of Hariharalaya, dating from the late 9th century and thus pre-dating Angkor itself.

- Bakong. A five-terraced pyramid in the mountain-temple style.

- Lolei. An island temple constructed in a baray, now dry.

- Preah Ko. The first temple to be built here, dating from the 9th century.

Outlying temples

- Banteay Srei, 37km north of Angkor Wat. This red coloured temple is well known for its intricate carvings, and is worth a half day trip on its own, since it is a bit further from Siem Reap than the main Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat areas. Car and motorcycle drivers will charge a bit extra (USD10) to take you to the temple.

- Kbal Spean. 13km north of Banteay Srei. After the man-made monuments of the temples, it can be nice to get back to nature for a while. Also known as the site of a thousand Lingas, the numerous submerged carvings on the rocky river bed may fall short of that number, but it makes for a pleasant walk along the river to a small but attractive waterfall. Don't expect a big temple at the top, just some unlabelled carvings.

The 1.5km walk through rain forest past, precariously perched boulders and creeping vines is not too hard but requires a modicum of fitness and care, especially if wet weather has made the steeper sections slippery. Drier weather means less water and easier viewing of the carvings. Best combined with a trip out to Banteay Srei.

Beng Mealea, 80km east of Siem Reap. Along with Ta Phrom and others, this is a temple which has been left to nature, but unlike Ta Phrom only a few trees have been removed. The result is the visitor clambering over ruined walls exactly the sort of thing you are asked not to do at other ruins and through windows to get access to areas where nature is running riot.

Lots of trees growing out of walls, and creepers hanging over ruined buildings, and consequently great for some atmospheric photos. Much of the standard walk is along wooden decking for those who don't want to clamber. This can be taken in as part of a trip to the Roluos Group, or a long day trip with Banteay Srei and Kbal Spean, though this will entail about 5 hours travelling in total on some very rough roads.

There is a $5 entry fee to Beng Mealea. Though you may want to cast a wary eye toward custodians bearing Äspara Authority armbands and local children following you in an attempt to extract guide fees, there are, in contrast to other temple sites, almost no vendors here.

Phnom Krom, 12km southwest of Siem Reap. This hilltop temple was built at the end of the 9th century, during the reign of King Yasovarman. The gloomy atmosphere of the temple and the view over the Tonle Sap lake make the climb to the hill worth while.

A visit to the site can be conveniently combined with a boat trip to the lake. The Angkor passport is needed to enter the temple so do not forget to bring your passport along when heading to Tonle Sap.

Visiting the temples on your own, without a tour guide.

A few temples have steep steps which you can climb to the top. If you plan to do so, and you visit Angkor early, ask the driver to bring you to those temples first, while the heat is still tolerable.

Some temples are very large, and while it is not possible to get lost completely there always would be people around, it is easy to get disoriented and walk into the wrong exit. Compass is very useful when visiting the large temples.

Always ask the driver where he is going to wait for you,such as west entrance and write it down. Don't rely on your memory, you can spend an hour in a temple and forget whether the driver said east entrance or west entrance, especially after hearing it several times a day.

If the driver says right here or on the other side always ask which entrance it is. Several temples have multiple entrances, and they could be several kilometres apart and look the same to you until you get all the way to the exit, so you can spend an hour just trying to find your driver all while walking in the scorching heat.

Some temples are through, so the driver will wait for you on the other side, but after taking several turns inside the temple it would be difficult for you to figure out which side is the other side, so it is important to know which exit the driver is waiting for you at.

Temple maps are not very useful, particularly because it is difficult to find your position on a map unless you literally track your every turn. There are no navigation signs inside the temples, and the landmarks are of a little help.

Souvenirs are also sold in front of all temples. Bargain, but not too hard: many souvenir sellers live within the park and, being banned from farming on their own land, have to resort to this to make a living. Please do not encourage children who pester tourists in the temples themselves to give money or buy postcards.

There are several decent souvenir shops around the old market. One of the shops called Black Garuda has some original key holders and mobile straps and they donate some of your purchase to land mine victims.

Despite a ban on development and commercial activity, dozens of small noodle and snack shops have sprung up near the major attractions of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. Some shopkeepers may be willing to bargain during summer low season, you can bring the price of a good lunch down to as low as USD1 for a dish and US$0.50 for a drink.

Their flocks of five year old emissaries aren't likely to hold price-cutting authority. You'll also find some local people selling fresh pineapples and mangoes that are beautifully cut for about USD1 a piece.

Also try the seasonal toddy palm fruit – a hollow sack as soft as jelly at 4 pieces for $US1 sold at the roadside to Bantay Samre and at temple refreshment stalls.

The modern Angkor Cafe lies just outside Angkor Wat's main entrance, and also doubles as a crafts shop, with fine works from the Artisans d'Angkor shop, where they train locals in the arts. Their prices are on the high side for Cambodia but very reasonable for Western pockets mainly USD3-5 with excellent food, nice décor and air conditioning.

Chez Sophea lies just outside Angkor Wat's main entrance. It is a favourite among expatriates and by many rated as the best restaurant in Siem Reap. Food prices are a bit higher than the cheapest places, USD8-15, but the standard is also much higher. Excellent place for lunch and or a coffee/wine break. Or for a romantic dinner.

The owner Mathieu, a French UNESCO photographer who came to Cambodia in 1998, and the only foreigner living within the temple compound.

There are numbers of small restaurants located on north side of Srah Srang pond or reservoir, on the road between Banteay Kdei and Pre Rup. The restaurants sell Cambodian dishes such as amok, lok lak etc. These restaurants are popular for lunch stop among tourist that renting tuk-tuk to explore Angkor.

Soft drinks are sold at stalls in front of most temples. As you might expect, prices are inflated: USD1 for a can of soft drink or a cold 1.5 litre plastic bottle of water is more or less standard, although this can easily be bargained down to half or less.

Some local drink vendors in Angkor temples might also offering fresh coconut water, at the time of October 2016 the cheapest cold coconut water was KHR3000 around the temples, ice sticks was 2 for USD1.

The area has seen a large increase of hotels and guest houses in 2003, with many new 3 to 4 star places opening up on the road between the airport and Siem Reap. See Siem Reap for hotels and hostels. Camping is not allowed.

Anantara Angkor Resort, National Road no. 6, Khum Svay Dangkom,Siem Reap, Kingdom of Cambodia. Anantara Angkor Resort is located in Seam Reap in Cambodia. Tourists can visit ancient Cambodian tombs while engaging in various activities in the resort, Such as traditional Khmer cooking classes & Bicycle tours to city centre and Angkor Wat. USD 205.

By local regulation, motorcycle and tuk-tuk drivers must at all times wear a numbered vest when on the job, which goes a long way towards preventing hassles and scams. This, unfortunately, is not enforced, and you will see a fair number of drivers without vests.

However, a disturbing number of rapes continue to happen, especially after dark and in the more secluded temples, so it's not advised for women or men to travel alone.

Whilst visiting the temples, beware of off-duty police officers, who are in uniform, that start walking beside you and start showing you around the temples. At this point either say that you would like to see the temples yourself, or agree on a price at the start.

Several people have been asked for a fee of over USD10 at the end of the temple tour and you are not going to argue with a member of the police force. The official wage for a police officer is very low, so they can easily double their salary by being tourist guides.

Whilst at the temple beware of anyone offering you incense. They will hand you the incense and then teach you a blessing. They will then ask for a donation of about USD10 for the monks and the upkeep of the temple.

None of the funds will make it to either of these causes, so it's best just to say a quick no thank you when they try to give you the incense in the first place.

Tourists mulling over whether to rent a tour bike have no fear. Parking is never a problem and not in the warden’s wildest dream that a bike parked besides an attraction will get lost or stolen, locked or not. In small temples it surely is easy to park and leave.

But what about big sites such as Angkor Wat? Just do it! Bikes are parked across the west entrance and vendors will even compete for your attention to babysit your bike.

During biking trip be aware of children standing by the roads in Angkor Park and raising their hands to give you high fives. Stay on a safe side and just wave your hand, as sometimes they try to take out a ring off your fingers when you give them a high five.

Be prepared for vast numbers of peddlers who linger around temples. It may feel difficult or rude to ignore the constant come-ons to buy souvenirs, photocopied guidebooks, t-shirts and assorted junk, but it can be necessary in order to enjoy your visit in peace.

Early in the morning, when it is popular for people to take pictures of the sunrise at Angkor Wat, off-duty park employees may attempt to restrict you from accessing the third top level inside the main temple. They will insist that you pay them extra money for the privilege of climbing up here.

They can become very aggressive towards tourists who attempt to climb the stairs without paying. Your daily pass already gives you access to this and all other public areas inside the park. One day a week, the third level IS closed in observance. However, the area is then closed to EVERYONE on this day.

Touring the temples is a hot and sweaty job, so bring sunblock and keep yourself well hydrated. Some of the temples, notably the uppermost level of Angkor Wat, require climbs up very steep staircases and are best avoided if you suffer from vertigo or are not fully confident of being able to keep your footing.

Malaria is not endemic around the temple complex; however, it is recommended to seek medical advice before you travel as conditions may change.

Don't feed or approach the monkeys who lurk around some sites: many are ill-tempered and will bite at the slightest provocation.

Guests are required to remove their shoes before going inside certain areas of Angkor Wat devoted to active worship like all temples in Asia. There may not be a shoe bin on hand so you will have to carry your shoes and socks with you.

Some of Angkor's sites were originally built as Hindu temples, while some were built as Buddhist temples, and yet others were converted over the years.

Today, most of Angkor's major temples house at least a few Buddha statues nearly all added later and draw a steady stream of monks and worshippers. You may be approached for donations, but you are under no obligation to pay unless you actually choose to accept incense sticks or other offerings.

Because these are still holy spaces for Cambodians, it is best to follow the dress code of long trousers or skirt, and covered shoulders. A skirt or shorts which cover the knees are also acceptable. This is the dress code that the Cambodians follow when visiting any temple or holy space.

This dress code is strictly enforced in only two places: the top level of Angkor Wat, and the Phnom Bakheng temple-mountain; the required dress code there is covered knees and shoulders, no hats covered shoulders refers to covered with a T-shirt or long sleeve top.

Scarves and wraps are prohibited to be worn on top of items such as singlets to pass as a clothing item and this is strictly enforced. Most Khmers are non-confrontational so this rule is not really enforced with the exceptions mentioned above but wearing inappropriate clothing sends a message of disrespect.

A good rule of thumb is Would I wear this to my own house of worship? If not, it may be poor etiquette to wear it to someone else's holy site.

As an added benefit, long trousers and covered shoulders provide better protection from the sun, insects and brambles when walking around and between the sites.


Tourism Observer

CAMBODIA: Tour Historical Temples But Immigration And Customs Staff Are The Unfriendliest Cambodians

The town of Siem Reap in northern Cambodia is the primary gateway for the Angkor Archaeological Park.

The name Siem Reap literally means Siam Defeated. These days, however, the only rampaging hordes are the tourists heading to the Angkor Archaeological Park. This once quaint village has become the largest boom town and construction site in Cambodia.

It's quite laid-back and a pleasant place to stay while touring the temples and a nice compromise between observing Cambodian life and enjoying the amenities of modern services and entertainment, thanks to a large expatriate community.

Since Siem Reap is a major tourist destination, prices in many instances are higher than elsewhere in Cambodia. Expect to receive almost constant offers for motodop and tuk-tuk rides, along with everything else which drivers may be able to offer to you.

Be sure to pick up your free Siem Reap Angkor Visitors Guide and the equally free and useful Siem Reap Pocket Guide from your hotel/guesthouse. It contains lots of info on Siem Reap and the Angkor Archaeological Park, including hotel/bar/restaurant/shop info, travel info, and maps.

For the eco-sensitive tourist, check out Stay Another Day: Cambodia, a detailed guide with local spots that support the environment and community.

Another address is the ConCERT tourist office, a local NGO committed to raising the standards of responsible tourism and ecotourism activities and providing information on the causes and effects of poverty in Cambodia, volunteering opportunities and ecotours.

APSARA or Authority for the Protection and Management of Angkor and the Region of Siem Reap and also the Sanskrit for a female spirit of the clouds and waters in Hindu and Buddhist mythology has a very informative website detailing the history and architecture in 6 languages and endorsed by the recently deceased King of Cambodia.

The International departure tax of US$25 fee is included in the ticket price. The $6 Domestic departure tax fee is also included in the ticket price.

Siem Reap International Airport is the second largest airport in Cambodia. Its modern architecture is based on the traditional Khmer style. Its facilities are limited. There are separate terminals for international and domestic flights.

The airport is served by:

- AirAsia (Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok)

- Air Seoul (Seoul-Incheon)

- Bangkok Airways (Bangkok)

- Cambodia Angkor Air (Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Bangkok)

- Cathay Dragon (Hong Kong)

- Cebu Pacific Air (Manila, Philippines)

- China Eastern Airlines (Kunming, Shanghai)

- Southern Airlines (Guangzhou)

- DragonAir (Hong Kong)

- Hong Kong Express (Hong Kong)

- JC Airlines (Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Macau)

- Jetstar Asia (Singapore)

- Malaysia Airlines (Kuala Lumpur)

- Silk Air (Da Nang, Singapore)

- THAI Smile Airways (Bangkok)

- Vietnam Airlines (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Luang Prabang)

You can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. Bring US dollars to pay for it, as proffering other currencies will result in a large conversion fee. Bring a passport-sized photo also.

Immigration and Customs staff are possibly the unfriendliest Cambodians you will meet on your trip: grin and bear it, as entry procedures don't take long. You may be asked for a tip by Immigration staff. Politely decline: you will be allowed in regardless.

Fingerprinting is now in operation at the airport for International visitors arriving from outside of Cambodia.

During festive seasons such as Chinese New Year, immigration officers may demand for red packet money when they stamp your passport. This may be meant as a joke and they may point to a pile of USD on their counter. However, politely decline and do not give in.

The airport is around 7 km from the town centre. Prepaid taxis cost US$12, see the prepaid booth just outside the terminal. Prepaid tuktuk rides are also available for $9. Thrill seeking solo travellers without much baggage can save a few dollars by opting for back of a motodop for US$5.

Most hotels offer a free airport pick-up if you've booked in advance.

Major companies include Phnom Penh Sorya Transport, Capitol Tours, Giant Ibis and GST Express. Mekong Express comes highly recommended for its safety record and because the staff checks your ticket before giving you your luggage back, preventing theft.

Beware of direct buses from Bangkok to Siem Reap. They are part of a multi-stage scam, where visitors are tricked into paying extra for the visa, and exchanging their money at a poor rate. They contain many delays, making the trip last for as much as fifteen hours.

If you find yourself in one of these scams, cut your losses and find your own way throught the border and Siem Reap via minibus.

The shuttle bus from right after the border, and even the bus station it leads to, is all a part of the scam. Part of the scam is the stop before the border at a restaurant, where they bring people to an office individually, asking for 1600 THB to process the Cambodian tourist visa.

Be assertive and tell them you will get it yourself at the border. They won't be happy, but will take you early ahead of the others. Visa was $30 USD, plus 100 THB if you don't have 2 passport photos. Very painless, only took us an extra 10-15 minutes.

However, a new company NATTAKAN (Cambodia) CO., LTD started operating a direct bus from Siem Reap to Bangkok for $28 including pick up from the hotel.

You still need to get off the bus at the border, go through customs and get the visa but it is a lot smoother and scam-free as compared to the options in the past, you ride the same bus from Siem Reap to Bangkok. The bus departs from their office along Sivatha Road near KFC restaurant where tickets can be purchased.

Try to book at least the day before travel. Travel agents and guest houses will do this for a US$1-2 fee. Buses tend to leave in the morning or early afternoon. There are also night buses on some routes.

Now tickets can also be purchased online via direct websites of some of the bus companies and also from BookMeBus and CamboTicket.com, online bus ticketing portals. Payment can be made securely via credit/debit cards (MasterCard/Visa), WING money transfer and also Cash on delivery (within Phnom Penh).

Most buses terminate at an out of town bus station to the east of Siem Reap, from where tuk-tuks are needed to get into the town.

Mekong Express also drops you at an out of town bus depot but, if there are local Cambodians on your bus, they will provide a shuttle bus into town which drops you direct at your hotel and only costs $1.

They will try to dissuade foreigners from using this by saying the bus ticket is $5. However, it is only $1. A tuk tuk into town costs about $3 to $4.

If arriving from the west, your bus will probably by-pass Siem Reap and still drop you off at the bus station to the east of town.

Phnom Penh $7-$15 taking 7-8 hours long stretches of the highway are being repaired or widened as it's a slow journey at present.

Kompong Thom $7 taking 3.5 hours buses to Phnom Penh will drop you off in Kompong Thom, but you have to pay the full fare to Phnom Penh

Kampong Cham $9 taking 7 hours

Battambang (US$3.75)

Sisophon (US$3.75)

Poipet for Aranyaprathet, the main route into Thailand (US$3.75)

Anlong Veng for Ban Pakard in Thailand (US$4)

Koh Kong via Phnom Penh, a long journey

Sihanoukville Direct Sleeper Bus, be aware of scam about Hotel Bus for US16$ as people said they not only weren't with WiFi and toilet, but with changes of bus from sleeper to regular seats. Should cost US13$ with free pickup from hostel/guesthouse.

International Bus services

Laos

Pakse (US$30)

Don Det in the 4,000 Islands region (US$35)

Be wary of the sleeper bus from Siem Reap to Vientiane. A second payment may be sought for travel onward after stopping for the border crossing.

Unscheduled trip delays and an unexpected change to a different service may occur en-route. Be alert to issues of personal security and be watchful concerning your possessions and luggage, especially whilst sleeping.

Thailand

To Bangkok: The ticket is valid for the whole journey but you will change buses in Poipet (US$8)

From Bangkok: Agents in Kao San Road offer tickets to Siem Reap from 300 THB. These are often part of a scam, and the journey can take more than twelve hours.

To/from Bangkok there is a direct bus run by Nattakarn Bus Company that leaves Mo Chit bus station at 8am. You do not change buses in Poipet, but must alight to go through border formalities. The cost is around 900฿ ($28) Arrival and departures in Siem Reap are from outside KFC on Sivatha Rd, where the company maintains an office.

Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City (US$18-US$25)

Boat Services

A more expensive and more time consuming option from Phnom Penh ($35, 6 hr) or Battambang (US$20-25, 5 hr) is to take a Soviet style Hydrofoil across the Tonle Sap lake.

These can be fantastic trips giving you the opportunity to view life on the lake, floating houses, working fishermen, and to get a sun-tan if you choose to sit on the roof of the boat. However, the trip can be ruined due to bad weather.

Remember to use sunscreen and take a waterproof jacket. You will not be always able to access your luggage during the journey sometimes the baggage is available, sometimes it is not. If you have the time, it is better to visit the floating villages as day trips from Siem Reap than to see them from the boat.

Train Services

There is a railway line from Phnom Penh to Poipet - Sisophon being the nearest station to Siem Reap, but no trains currently run in Cambodia. The train to AranyaPrathet from Bangkok leaves twice a day and costs only 48฿ in 3rd class. Thai citizens travel free which means the train is often crowded and sometimes late.

Once again, be aware of promised direct bus because some of them stop in Phnom Phen in the middle of the night where you have to change for another one.

Shared Taxi Service

The quickest method of getting from the Poipet border to Siem Reap is a shared car. A four seater car costs US$25-45, depending on your bargaining prowess, and takes 2-3 hr. Even if you're travelling solo, it shouldn't be too hard to find others to share the expense.

Helicopter Services

Helicopters can be chartered to go nearly anywhere in the country. They seat 5-6 people. Prices start at US$1,000 for trips to some of the temples north of Angkor Wat. Companies include Helicopters Cambodia and Helistar Cambodia.

Battambang (US$1600/helicopter)

Phnom Penh (US$4700/helicopter)

Travel to and around the Angkor Archaeological Park is extensively covered in its own article. The following is a discussion of travel within Siem Reap.

The city centre is fairly compact and flat.

The White Bicycles. Well maintained bicycles can be hired through various guest houses affiliated with this local charity that uses hire proceeds to fund youth education and clean drinking water projects in villages around Siem Reap. The website lists locations where the bikes are available. US$2/day.

Many guest houses will lend you bicycles either for free or cheaply (US$1-3).

Mountain bikes start from US3$ you need to look for a couple of renting shops before finding this price as many charge far more.

Green E-bikes can be found throughout the city. $10 per 24 hours, open 7-7. There are designated charge points within the small and big tour sections of Angkor. One hour charge gives you 5 km. Full charge is 42km. They will need your passport

Motodops or motorbike taxi abound and will make sure you know where they are. Rides within town should only cost US$0.50 or 2,000 riel, although prices can double at night or during bad weather.

Agree a price first. Full day can be arranged for ~US$10. Helmets for passengers are rare though may materialize if requested in advance.

Renting a motorbike was prohibited for foreign visitors to Siem Reap until recently, however since 2016 only few shops started renting them again (US$10). Motorbikes rented elsewhere are permitted, naturally if you rent in Phnom Penh, you can even get the deal of US$3 per day.

Petrol stations vary from first world forecourts to roadside stalls selling fuel of dubious quality in old drinks bottles.

Tuk-tuks, like motodops, will call to tourists from nearly any street corner. On your first few days, they will continually pester you to use them but after that they will recognise you and generally leave you alone.

A trip within Siem Reap should cost US$1 regardless of how many people pile on, though some drivers may test your gullibility for $2. Most tuk-tuks can convey four people comfortably though the extra weight can make the low-powered bikes laboriously slow.

Ensure both you and the driver are in crystal clear agreement on the destination and total fare before departure. Payment is made on arrival and doesn't increase if the driver got lost or had to take a circuitous route. Many drivers are honest though a few do try to overcharge.

Short trips; try to pay with $1 bills or a $5 bill. They rarely have change for anything larger. It is recommended to have a business card of your hotel / destination written in Khmer language as many drivers are lost with English street names. They work for little money so will appreciate any tip.

Cars with drivers can be hired for single or multiple days. While all drivers are familiar with the area and happy to suggest good routes, most speak little English and are not actual tour guides.

Licensed tour guides mosly in English charge US$40-US$50 per day and for English speaking driver with car charges $ 35 to $ 40 a day inner Angkor area .

Drivers will likely ask for US$5-US$10 to $ 30 extra for trips to further temples such as the those of the Big Circuit, Banteay Srey and more for remote sites like Beng Mealea.

The taxis US$7 fixed cost from the airport to Siem Reap proper may provide a full day of touring for US$25-30. If you need to take the taxi around the grand circle tour, it will be costed 40$ and to Banteay Stei Temple is 50$.

Beware of airport taxi drivers talking you into a tour, as they tend to charge you a much higher price. Do not assume that the official counter at the airport makes them better as the quality of drivers varies a lot. Only book a driver and a car through your hotel to avoid scam.

PassApp and Grab are good alternative to book your car or tuk tuk with fair price. Local number is required for registration.

Most people come to visit Angkor Archaeological Park. The town itself has some worthwhile attractions and a number of beautiful modern Buddhist temples.

Angkor National Museum, 968 Charles de Gaulle Blvd. Daily 8:30-18:00. While the website states that the museum opens at 8:30, it may actually open at 9:00. Exhibits covering the history of the Angkor complex as well as Khmer culture and clothing using high tech displays and video screens.

Some say the 1,000 Buddhas room is as impressive as it sounds. Exhibits cover Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom rather well, however the museum does not function as primer to the whole Angkor Archaeological Park. US$12.

Angkor Silk Farm, Artisans Angkor, Puok District, National Road 6, 20 minute drive from the centre. 8am-5pm. Close to Siem Reap centre yet located in the lush and charming countryside, Angkor Silk Farm is a great place to go to when you want to take a break from visiting the Angkorian temples.

Discover at Angkor Silk Farm how incredible the silk-making process is: from a silk worm to a cocoon, from a simple thread to a high-quality fabric, you will go through all those different stages by understanding the traditional Cambodian weaving techniques.

Free shuttle buses depart at 09.30 and 13.30 from Artisans Angkor's main center in Thmey Street 2 minute walk from the Old Market. The visit is free. 0$.

Angkor Handicraft Association, Road 60, Trang village, Sangkat Slorkram. Workshops, demonstrations and a wide range of authentic handicraft products.

AHA is an NGO working with the artisans from the rural areas of Siem Reap Province, promoting only authentic and certified handicrafts. Friendly staff and lots of interesting traditional items and activities to see.

McDermott Gallery, FCC Angkor, Pokambor Avenue On the river next to the Royal Residence. 10am-10pm. The exhibition by legendary photographer John McDermott shows photographs of the temples of Angkor before crowds of tourists arrived.

For those of us who came too late to see the temples in solitary splendor, this is a chance to go back in time. The visit is free and the staff is friendly and helpful. Gifts and cards also for sale.

Senteurs d'Angkor Workshop, Airport road, 3km from Caltex Station, airport direction on the National 6. 7:30 am - 6:00 pm. This visit introduces the different workshops where around 100 artisans are working in the middle of a tropical garden.

A provided guide will welcome you at the entrance, she will explain to you all the manufacturing steps of the Senteurs d’Angkor product range. From the eco friendly boxes made from palm tree leaves to handmade soaps, natural cosmetics, candles and incense.

You will also discover how to mix local spices to obtain the traditional Curry or Amok. Do not leave without a free tasting of Rattanakiri coffee or flavored tea! There is also a shop there to buy the products. You can get a free tuk tuk from their shop opposite of the Old Market to take you there. $0.

Wat Preah Prom Rath, Pokambor Ave. The glittering modern temple grounds gives a few hints to its 500 year history. Though the lotus themed architecture seem to emulate temples from over the border, the front gate integrates Bayon style heads and a scene in relief of the Buddha seated under a tree.

While armies fire arrows on one side and others are eaten by crocodiles on his other, that looks like it could have been taken directly from Angkorian mural. Legend holds it that the site was established around 1500 when a famous monk landed ashore on a piece of his sinking boat.

The boat wood was carved into the oddly foreshortened reclining Buddha installed in a swimming pool like pit behind the imposing, yet despondent looking, seated Buddha in the main hall. Perhaps mimicking the construction materials origins the reclining Buddha has taken on a sunken slant at the feet end.

A pair of small weather worn cannons on either side of the hall are of unknown origin but their style, an embossed crown-like seal and mysterious numbers suggest a European origin.

- Wat Prohm Rath, modern but quite boring, might as well stop in on your way to the museum.

- Wat Preah Enkosa, average little temple.

- Wat Preah Enkosei, interesting little temple, painted orange.

- Wat Po Lanka, little temple painted white.

- Wat Bo, two large brand new temples and one old white one. The new ones, almost finished, have been under construction since 2011.

- Wat Damnak located behind the market on the south-eastern side of the river. Also houses the Center for Khmer Studies, a library and a primary school.

- Wat Kesararam located in central Siem Reap on National Road 6 towards the Airport, adjacent to Sokha Angkor Resort. The temple is known for its beautiful ceiling and wall murals.

Georges Rumerie, Next to quad adventure - Salakamroeuk police. 10:30AM to 11:00PM. Georges proposed you a great variety of free tasting of his own product. Starting with the local jams, chili's and chutneys, you will be able to drink his local infused rums too.

Many craft packaging available, made by villager of Angkor Wat, available for free as well. An activity that takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on your available time or if you decide to stay for eating .

Sombai Cambodian Liqueur, 176 Sombai Road, After Salakamreuk police station, turn left, 200 meters until a red wall. 8am - 8pm. Sombai is made from local fruits and spices infused in alcohol.

You can taste all the 8 different flavours: Ginger-Red Chilli, Mango-Green Chilli, Coconut-Pineapple, Anise-Coffee, Lemon-Lemongrass, Green Tea-Orange, Galangal-Tamarin, Banana-Cinnamon. 8 flavours.

Additional non-alcoholic products are offered like aromatised sea salts, infused cooking oils, spices as well. Also available at Angkor Night Market (Entrance B). Sombai tasting.

Cambodian Craft Beer and Kombucha at Moringa Bar, 136 Steung Thmei Road, Opposite Artisans D'Angkor on the same road as Platinum Cinema, behind Sok San Road. 11am - 11pm.

Moringa Bar offers three new Cambodian beers on tap: Indochine Craft IPA (a British-style hoppy amber ale), Indochine Craft White (a Belgian-style wheat) and Kingdom Pilsener (a refreshing Czech-style pils), as well as bottled stouts, ciders and dark lagers.

Draft beers are poured with imported Czech chilling equipment and served in frosty glasses. Moringa also stocks three flavours of Cambodian-made Tangy Turtle kombucha and offers cocktails with a Southeast Asian flair. Moringa Siem Reap.

Angkor Pottery Center a Traditional Khmer Pottery Workshop and Pottery School, Wat Atwear Village 3.5 km South of Old Market on Main Road 63. 08:00-17:00. Daily pottery classes for beginners as well as professionals in pottery making, carving and glazing by Siem Reap’s most famous local potter, Mrs Paruth Hann.

Make your own design and take your glazed pot home as a souvenir. Enjoy a truly khmer experience and support an enterprise creating fair wage jobs for the poor village women in Siem Reap. $7-20.

Pottery Classes & Painting classes. Pottery class and clay class course, you can make your own ceramic artifact on the potter wheel. You can feel the potters sensation. After you finish your piece, you can add different designs on it with special tools.Paint your own Pottery course, you can draw and / or paint your own design on a pot. $20.

Beyond Unique Cooking Class, cnr of Sivutha Bvld and Alley West. Cambodian Cooking Classes in a village location 10 min from town. Classes include a visit to a local family and information on Cambodian cooking customs and beliefs. Hands on classes for a maximum of six people - unless you book for a private group. US$22.

Lily's Secret Garden Cooking School, Concrete Wat Bo road, Krong Siem Reap 17259, Cambodia. You will visit a local market and get to know some secrets of Khmer culture. Afterwards, Lily & Chris will welcome you to their traditional Khmer family house in Siem Reap countryside, only 5 minutes from town for a relaxed introduction to home-style Cambodian Cuisine.

There you will experience a 100% hands-on cooking class and able to cook this way again back home with Lily’s Secret Garden Cookbook. And at last but not least, you will enjoy the delicious meal you created step by step at Lily’s home, whatever your level of cooking is! US$24.

Cookly Siem Reap Countryside Cooking Class. Start the morning with an interesting visit to Ben's local market, got a tour around and learned interesting facts e.g. about how different plants are used for medicinal purposes.

Also got to taste lovely crunchy crickets and beetles. Moreover, some of the revenue is going to the orphanage around that area. $ 29.

Asana Khmer Cocktail Class, Street 7, The Lane. Khmer cocktail principles and techniques taught by the Manager of Asana (Old Wooden House). Hands on classes for a maximum of six people - unless you book well in advance for a private group. Booking is required. US$15.

Apsara Theatre, Wat Bo Rd. 20:00-21:30. A flashy performance of traditional, popular and dances.

Bambu Stage, Bamboo Street, Wat Damnark, Siem Reap, Open-air performance space set amid the lush and intimate garden of the former Tangram Garden. Bambu Stage has two big green growing shoots. The first is to change perceptions about the history, cultures and issues that affect Cambodia.

Having worked in museums and theatre all their lives gives them insight about people and how they really enjoy an authentic experience- something that comes from the heart of a culture. Something that lets those shoot grow with abundance.

Bambu Stage is one of Siem Reap's unique artistic venue presenting unique contemporary performances by young Cambodian artists.

A new generation of independent and incredible performers with classical backgrounds but professionally trained in modern dance. Their style is very now, but firmly rooted in Cambodian tradition.

Current running show is Bambu Puppets. Starting August 1st 2017, Angkor Temples Decoded will run on Tuesdays and Saturdays while 150 Years Of Photography will run on Fridays. Ticket price and online booking available on their website

Cambodian Cultural Village, Airport Road # 6, Khum Svay Dang Kum, Krus Village, between Airport and Siem Reap city centre, along National Road 6, 3 km from Siem Reap Airport. 10:00-18:30 daily. Cambodian culture in a nutshell, miniatures of Cambodian landmarks and ethnic traditional houses together with cultural performances. US$15.

Performances by Cambodian Living Arts, Wat Bo Pagoda. Show Time: 19:00 Monday Sounds of Angkor & Saturday Wat Bo Shadow Puppet Troupe. New Performances by Cambodian Living Arts. Cambodian Living Arts will host weekly performances set in the heart of Siem Reap, at the Wat Bo Pagoda.

Witness rare art forms revived from temple walls. During an hour, the artists will lead you through 15 centuries of Cambodian music and arts. This experience will allow you to reflect on your encounters with Cambodia's ancient wonders. Adults: $15, Children: $6 Discounts available for large groups.

Rosana Broadway, National Highway 6. Show Time: 5:45 PM/7:30 PM Daily. Famous Cambodian Traditional Dance and International Cabaret Show which provides a unique mix of entertainment on stage.

The Stunning Performers are trained by a Professional Choreographer to bring you several varieties of dancing, with magnificent costumes to sweep you away on a magical and musical journey of song and dance. US$35-$45.

Phare, The Cambodian Circus, Phare Circus Ring Road just south of the intersection with Sok San Road, 2km from Old Market & Pub Street. daily, 19.30, gates open at 19:00. "Unmissable" -Lonely Planet. Siem Reap's most unique, authentic, home-grown, top-rated (TripAdvisor) evening entertainment.

Has Khmer essence, vibe, energy and emotion. An extension of the NGO school Phare Ponleu Selpak Artistic Center in Battambang, but here the show is different, professional and performed daily.The New York Times 36Hours in Siem Reap

Smile of Angkor, Smile of Angkor Grand Theatre (Angkor COEX) North east outskirts of Siem Reap, direction to Angkor turn right to Apsara Road. 19:15-20:25 nightly. Things to do in Siem Reap ? It is the first Grand Epic show that recreates the Angkor Civilization in all its glorious aspects.

A production of Cambodian traditional dances equipped with multimedia large screen, featuring Angkor civilization. Grand epic show that revives the Angkor dynasty in all aspects; from foundation to prosperity, tale to folk customs, past to present.

The performance expresses the traditional Cambodian culture with the latest technology. The performance contains traditional Cambodian dances such as Apsara Dance, Peacock Dance, Shiva Dance, Bokator the traditional Khmer martial art. You can dine on place US$25-37 booking online.

The Champions Performances by the Local Disabled Community, Night Market back of Night Market adjacent to Island Bar. M-Sa 20:30-21:15. A two act play written and performed by participants who share with great feeling what it is like to be disabled in Cambodia and the challenges of their lives.

As many of the performers are in pursuit of education to better their lives they appreciate donations of school materials such pens and writing books. Free, Donations encouraged.

Angkor Cinema, Second Floor, Angkor Trade Center nearby Pubstreet. It is private cinema for tourists.

The Great Escape, Unit C-39, Angkor Shopping Arcade, National Highway 6 Airport Road. 10am to 10pm. Spend an hour with your partner, friends or family trying to solve puzzles and riddles so you can escape a locked room.

The key to success will be working together, thinking outside the box and most important of all – having fun! Three unique games - Lost Room, Prison Break and Crime Scene 86. $20pp per room, $10pp for second rooms - including free return transport.

Angkor Photography Festival: Photography for Change. Annual festival that showcases outdoor projections and various exhibitions around Siem Reap of regional and international photographers.

The festival is held during the last week of November every year, consisting of 7 evenings of outdoor projections and more than 10 gallery exhibitions across various venues in the city.

It aims to highlight the work of Asian photographers and provides free workshops for 30 young photographers from the region every year which are showcased during the event. There is a full time office/gallery for the festival located on the East river road near the Bopha Angkor Hotel.

As well as the festival, the organisers support a local NGO working with street children, that promotes the arts and runs a photography course with students. Photography from these students is also showcased as part of the festival programme.

The Water Festival. This vast festival is probably the most extravagant festival in the calendar. Over three days starting with the last full moon day in October or the beginning of November up to a million people from all walks of life from all over the country flock to the banks of Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers in Phnom Penh to watch hundreds of brightly coloured boats with over 50 paddlers battle it out.

The boat racing dates back to ancient times marking the strengths of the powerful Khmer marine forces during the Khmer empire. In the evening brightly decorated floats cruise along the river prior to and complimenting the fireworks displays.

There is often a parallel festival at Angkor Wat and although it is smaller in scale it is just as impressive due to the backdrop of Angkor Wat.

The festival marks the changing of the flow of the Tonle Sap and is also seen as thanksgiving to the Mekong River for providing the country with fertile land and abundant fish. It is at this time when the river flow reverts to its normal down stream direction.

The remarkable phenomenon that is the Tonle Sap sees the river flowing upstream during the rainy season and then change direction as the rains cease and the swollen Tonle Sap Lake empties back into the Mekong River leaving behind vast quantities of fish.

The Annual Street Puppet Festival. An exciting pageantry with the concept of sticks and stilts manipulated puppets much like those seen at the opening ceremony of the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and also at the Trinidad & Tobago Carnival.

The Khmers believe that Thai massage is derived from Khmer massage but is more relaxing as it requires less twisting and turning. The numerous Khmer style massage shops are mostly and this means mostly as oil massages may lead their hands to wander genuine massage and not a front for sexual services.

If you feel unsure what type they will give you, a safe bet is to opt for one of the blind massage services. The trained masseurs are the real deal. Some are inside the night market.

Fish Massage, around the Pub St area. The Thai fad has swum over the border. Dip your feet in a tank of fish and wince as they eat the dead skin off your toes. Trying a tank with feet already inside it will tell you if the fish are hungry.

Some claim to have No piranhas while others offer a free beer to subdue any doubts. There have been no documented cases of HIV transmission via environmental sources; however, hepatitis C is rarely acquired via environmental sources. $1-2 for 15 mins.

BT Massage -The Family Massage-, Wat Bo Rd, opposite of Soria Moria Hotel. 11:00 to 1:00. BT Massage offers reasonable priced traditional Khmer style massage for the whole family. from 6$.

Bodia Spa, New Street A, Behind UCare Pharmacy, Old market area Siem Reap, Cambodia. Great spa with a nice atmosphere, peaceful rooms, and experienced staff.

It has been design by Lisa Ros, a French-Cambodia Architects based in Siem Reap. Rotin furnitures are from Riem, a Cambodia Artist. There is no special services or hidden fees. It is a nice place to go as a couple or alone. $25-$50.

Frangipani spa, no. 615/617 Hup Guan St, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Wonderful spa with a nice atmosphere, peaceful rooms, and experienced staff. The massages actually feel like trained people are giving them. No special services or hidden fees. It is a nice place to go as a couple or alone.

They have massage tables and air conditioning. They are on a short side street behind Samdech Tep Vong St which isn't always shown on tourist maps. At the ANZ Royal bank on the corner go a few feet south to the next street and turn right on Hup Guan St.

The spa is near the end of the street with a tasteful exterior surrounded by frangipani plants partly obscuring their tasteful green sign saying frangipani. $25-$50.

Lemongrass Garden, 7 Sivatha Boulevard, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Lovely little spa with a relaxing atmosphere and experienced staff. 60 minute Khmer massages are $US15, while 90 minute Khmer massages are $US22. They also offer oil massages, "spiritual massages," and manicures/pedicures.

Treatment rooms have air conditioning, and they provide a cool drink before treatment and warm tea afterwards. They also claim to pay higher wages than most places in Siem Reap, as well as provide other benefits to their workers. $10-30.

Kaya Spa, Pi Thnou Street, opposite Old market,Siem Reap, Cambodia. 10am-10:30pm. The spa’s range of massage therapy regimes are perfectfor releasing stress and muscle tension, and are given a distinctive Cambodian twist by the use of naturally sourced essential oils and local practices.

Handmade oils, soaps, scrubs and other creations have been carefully formulated and blended at a nearby workshop from locally sourced ingredients, An unforgettable experience in a peaceful environment!

KKO Khmer for Khmer Organisation is a NGO that offers free education to young cambodians. To get some money for the schools they do half day or full day bike and moto tours to Angkor and the Countryside with english, german and khmer speaking tourguides.

Enjoy amazing landscapes and discover breathtaking untouristic places even in the Angkor Park. Prices starting from 20$ (halfday Tour).

Sabai Adventures Cambodia. Join the original moto tour operator in Siem Reap and enjoy a fun-filled day out. Drive your own moto on guided tours with Sabai Adventures. Discover ancient temples and hidden spots while exploring the countryside.

Siem Reap Moto Tours. Siem Reap Moto Tours offers guided moto scooter tours in the area around Siem Reap, Angkor. Prices starting from 16$ for Baray Rider Tour(1/4day,minimum 2 pax). Also offering tours to Kulen Mountain. Booking is required.

Motorbike Tours Go on a trip with Ride Expeditions Motorbike Tours. Now based in Siem Reap, Ride Expeditions are available for open and private tours leaving from their headquarters or any main location in Cambodia.

Fully maintained dirt bikes are available to hire as well as all safety gear. The company provides support vehicles as well as a fully trained medic on all tours. See the real Cambodia and have a great time doing it.

Kickstart Dirt Bike Adventures, Psah Krom Street, From the river take the road towards BBU, Kickstart are half way down on the left. 07:00:00-18:00. Kickstart are based in Siem Reap and offer half day & day tours tours to multi-day customized tours around the whole of Cambodia.

A great way to learn about this amazing country with a deep insight into the culture and the people. Spectacular riding that suits all levels from beginner to advanced on a well maintained fleet of Yamaha WRFs with all riding gear included. The owners are a Cambodian/English partnership and offer western quality with a unique Cambodian Flavour, and will ensure an experience of a lifetime. from $60.

Siem Reap Motorbike Tours. Siem Reap Motorbike Tours, Cambodian owned and operated by tuk-tuk drivers, offers guided motorbike tours in the countryside around Siem Reap and to a number of less-visited temples.

The owner-guides are outstanding, and can provide a wealth of knowledge about the agricultural areas you'll visit and Cambodia in general. A great way to do something different and get to know the real Cambodia.

Sunsai Tours. Sunsai Tours offers a wide range of guided motorbike tours and day excursions in the countryside around Siem Reap.

Quad Adventure Cambodia. bring you to places where life is still the same as it was before, where changes seem to have passed the people without touching their traditional way of living. Share their feeling and meet the friendly people. The quad bikes are specially designed off road vehicles that cope with all kind of terrain.

After clear instructions and practice, you will go for an unforgettable off road experience amongst rice fields and traditional villages. Guides will show you the way.

Play Soccer with the locals Location the facility has 3 small turf fields and games start every hour, you can easily pick up a game anytime between 5pm and 9pm every night. The cost is around $1/hour depending on the number of players.

Angkor Wat Putt a Mini Golf Fun For Everyone, Khnar Village, Chreav Commune, 2 km from Old market vai Angkor High School road. 08:30-23:00. 14 hole Miniature Golf Course with 9 replicas of the Angkor Temples, including Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Bayon, Banteay Srei, Preah Vihear and the Terrace of the Elephants. The course is set in a large, well maintained garden with a bar and seating area. $4-7.

Shooting Range, along Road 67 to Banteay Srey, 3kms north of the road to Phmon Bok, turn right down the large dirt road when you see a blue and red sign like their flag with '4th Troops Training Centre', past the school and take the left (1 km), look for the sign 'shooting range' at the 2nd base entrance on the right (720 m)).

Armament and explosives availability apparently is only limited by how much you are willing to spend. Listening to the soldiers-turned-used car salesmen put the hard sell on a new machine gun is almost worth the trip.

This is a game of Russian roulette - fancy pulling the pin of a 30+ year old grenade and possibly getting the faulty one?

Make sure that whoever is supervising you is also willing to stand next to you. It can be a little bit difficult to find, and a tuk-tuk driver may know where it is. Its GPS location is 13°29'7.49"N 103°57'22.78"E. US$50 per AK-47 or M-16 magazine; US$80 per M-60 belt (50 rounds). Grenade throwing: US$30.

Fishing Trip on the Tonle Sap, Middle Ways. October to December: Fish with the locals on the Tonle Sap lake. This tour involves fishing, by net or fishing rod, in a flooded forest west of the lake. You may be able catch-and-release or hold on to your catch and finish the day with a BBQ.

January to February: As the water of the Tonle Sap recede, the flooded forest slowly become a network of muddy channels linked to one another by fish ponds surrounded by the green of the rice fields. There, for half a day you will team up with other people to experiment net fishing.

A fun experience that will teach you skills that passed down from one generation to the next since the dawn of Cambodia. Fishing Trip on The Tonle Sap Lake

Spean Neak Club (Gym), Samdech Tep Vong. 2,000 riel per use.

Microlight Cambodia. Fly around the temples of Angkor, lush jungles, floating villages, and flooded forests in a Microlight Deltawing Aircraft (trike).

MyFly.aero, Aerocambodia airfield, NR6, Siem Reap. Near Apollo Plaza. 7:00am-6:00pm. Sighseeng Flights on the light airplane (2 seats, 1 passenger) around the ancient temples in Siem Reap area, Angkor Wat, Roluos Group, Tonle Sap lake and much more. 69$ and more.

Swim at Makan Makan restaurant, Infinity pool 17 meters, 137 BBU road same entrance as The Pool and Palm Villa 300 meters from BBU - Build Bright University. 08:30-21:30. Pool is 17 meter by 7,5 meter and has a waterfall to sit under and relax. The pool is set in a large, tropical garden with a restaurant, bar and seating area. US $4,- plus a free soft drink or beer.

Swim at Kanell restaurant, nice quite pool, 7 Makara Street - 400 meters from the old market on High School road. 10:00-22:00. The Pool is very private and the atmosphere in the garden is very pleasant.

Best of all this is one of the top rated restaurants in Siem Reap based on Tripadvisor reviews and the staff is very friendly Free with a $5 Drink or Food purchase.

Lex Roulor Tattoo and Piercing Parlour. 10:00-18:00. European hygiene standards. Air conditioned shop. Aussie piercer 10+ years experience, French, Russian, and Chinese tattoo artists. Dot work, line work, old school, new school, water colour, realism.

Angkor Zen Gardens Retreat Center is a meditation and yoga retreat center located 3 km from Siem Reap, Cambodia, not far from Angkor Wat temples.

There is 7 bungalows and 1 AC unit in the middle of a huge 21,000 m2 garden. You can stay full time and participate to various activities like Yoga and meditation. Asian style vegetarian cuisine and a large swimming pool . Single bungalow package from $ 70 per night.

Samadhi Yoga by Navutu Dreams is an onsite Siem Reap yoga studio by Navutu Dreams Resort & Wellness Retreat, just few minutes away from Angkor Wat temples and a short tuk tuk drive from Siem Reap town. The yoga studio offers daily yoga classes led by experienced yoga and wellness instructors.

The yoga pass is priced at US$8.00++ per class per person which includes use of three sparkling pools and resort's facilities. Acupuncture, cupping, detox programs and holistic healing are also on offer upon request.

Some visitors naively think visiting an orphanage may help children in Cambodia, but most orphanage tours do more harm than good. The largest child protection group in the country has asked that tourists not visit orphanages.

The great majority of Cambodian children in orphanages have living parents, but the tourist demand for orphans results in these children being separated from their parents.

Orphanages and the aid organizations that support them are a significant feature of the Siem Reap economy. Many are scams, so it's worth doing a bit of research on them beforehand.

The AHA Official Seal of Authenticity helps identify authentic items handmade in Siem Reap.

As elsewhere in Cambodia, US Dollars, is preferred, along with Cambodian Riel. Using Riel for small purchases can be better than using dollars as retailers tend to round up US$ prices.

The Heritage Watch non-profit organisation supports business that promote Cambodia's arts, culture, heritage and development. Certified businesses display either a gold or silver Heritage Friendly logo.

This provides them with an income which they can use to keep their children in school, and gives them skills which lead to stable employment for them.

International ATMs in Siem Reap are plentiful and most banks will do cash advances from credit cards. Canadia Bank's ATMs are recommended as they have the lowest fee 4$. Other banks charge usually 5$ for withdrawals using foreign cards. Maybank is one of the only one, who charges no fee for a withdrawel

T Galleria by DFS, Angkor, 968 Charles de Gaulle,Next to Angkor National Museum. 9am-10pm. This is the perfect place to treat yourself and stay trendy on your travels, or get an unforgettable souvenir for someone special in your life.

With exceptional brands like Gucci, Jo Malone, Cartier, & Estee Lauder, the opportunities are endless when it comes to lavishly treating yourself or surprising someone with an extravagant souvenir.

AHA Fair Trade Village (Angkor Handicraft Association), Road 60, Trang village, Sangkat Slorkram. Around 80% of the souvenir products sold in Siem Reap town are fake, mass-produced or imported; this is a substantial barriers for local artisans who struggle to compete with foreign economies of scale in handicraft production.

Angkor Handicraft Association is a non for profit business organisation that aims to strengthen the handicraft sector in Siem Reap province. The AHA Fair Trade Village is the largest permanent souvenir market in Siem Reap selling only locally made authentic handicrafts and featuring daily crafting demonstrations and workshops.

By buying products in the AHA Fair Trade Village customers are supporting local artisans and their communities, who rely on handicraft production to generate the necessary income to support their livelihood.

The AHA Fair Trade Village offers a wide range of traditional locally made products including silk, cotton, wood carving, pottery, stone carving, natural fiber, rattan, recycled material crafts, traditional costumes, leather carving, traditional masks,etc.

Angkor Artwork, 0090 Salakamreuk village, After Angkor high school on the right to Thmor Meas Road, 500 meters down the road on the left, opposite a big blue hangar. 09:00-19:00. Lacquer and gilding workshop managed by Eric & Thierry Stocker.

One of the most talented lacquer in France, Eric Stocker introduced lacquer works in Siem Reap through Les Chantiers Ecoles (Artisans d'Angkor) back in the late 90's.

Artisans d'Angkor, Stung Thmey St 2 minute walk from the Old Market. 07:30-17:30. Artisans Angkor is a Cambodian social-enterprise showcasing impressive traditional Cambodian handicraft skills in wood and stone carving, lacquering, silver plating and silk painting.

Visitors can enjoy a free guided tour in Khmer, English, French, German, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese or Korean around the different workshops of the main site located in the city.

This inspiring visit will make you understand and appreciate the Khmer cultural heritage. Their boutique displays high quality items produced by the craftsmen and women, which makes Artisans Angkor a great place to buy souvenirs.

Bloom Bags, cnr Street 7 & Hospital St. Sturdily made totes, messenger and and laptop bags made from recycled fish feed sacks. Though you can buy cheaper knock offs from the market, these are genuine and you can be assured that your money is going to woman who made your bag.

Friends 'n' Stuff, Between Wat (Pagoda) Polanka & Catholic Church, #8A,B Phum Slokram and Morning Market. Families and caregivers of the children and young people Friends-International NGO works with learn how to make products that are sold in the shop.

Khmer Ceramics & Fine Arts Centre, Vithey Charles De Gaulle, Khum Slorkram, On the road to the temples; 30 m. after the traffic light when coming from Siem Reap. 08:00-19:30. Glazed stoneware bowls, plates, teapots and decorative objects in made with traditional Khmer ceramic techniques.

Kokoon boutique, Hospital Street next to Blue Pumpkin. 07:00 am - 10:00pm. This boutique displays high quality pieces of fashion & decorations from Cambodia: traditional kramas, bed covers, shawls and silk scarves,bags and jewellery from local designers and home decor items.

The shop also provides a range of Senteurs d’Angkor products: handmade soaps, natural cosmetics, Cambodian spices, flavoured tea & coffee.

McDermott Gallery, FCC Angkor, Pokambor Ave. 10:00-22:00 daily. Elegant, friendly gallery with photography of Angkor by John McDermott, called the Ansel Adams of Angkor. Also see the new McDermott Gallery at the Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor.

Pages Café & Design, Street 24, Wat Bo. 6am to 10pm. Pages is a place where form and function meld, and where travelers, architects, engineers, teachers, students, neighbors, designers, artists and visitors may cohabit.

You can pass by the café and have a look on the interior design furnitures. Recycled lamps, tables, seats, shirts and design magazines are available for sell.

Samatoa, 98 Pithnu St in front of the provincial hospital-Old Market area / Lucky Mall Siem Reap. 8AM-10PM. Specialized in Cambodian natural silk products. Samatoa encourages fair-trade. From USD$50.

Theam's House Gallery, Veal Village, Khum Kokchak. 08:00-19:00 daily. The gallery exhibits paintings, designer-made artworks created by the artist-designer Theam Lim who has studied at Ecole Boulle and Ecole Supérieure des Beaux-Arts, together at Paris.

Theam's House gallery and atelier are located in the house of the artist, built by himself inspired by the Khmer rural architecture surrounded by a luxurious and tropical garden.

Old Forest Boutique and Tailors, Alley West between Little Italy Restaurant and Smateria shop. 01:00 pm - 9:30pm. Very unique high quality garment and production. Fashionable clothes, bags, scarves and jewellery. The shop also provides handmade massage oil and refreshment body mist.

Alley West is one of the most beautiful streets in Siem Reap, if not the most. You will find art galleries, restaurants, ice cream, fine shops, a hotel, hair dresser, and bars.

The easiest-to-access markets are in the centre of town in the streets coming off the main intersection. Pub Street is one of its streets. Generally, the further you get from that intersection, the better the goods, and the less you will be hassled by touts selling girls, drugs, etc. Go down little alleys! These also take you away from the deafening noise in the centre of town.

Angkor Trade Centre, Cnr Street 9 and Pokambor Ave. The mall, Cambodian style. A reasonably extensive selection of packaged food, drinks whitening deodorant, imported alcohol and the familiar feeling of shopping in air-conditioned comfort. Fixed US$ prices.

Made in Cambodia Market, former Shinta Mani Market, at King's Road River road / 7-Makara Street (From Old market, cross the bride, reach the turnabout, it is behind the Hard Rock Café. 12pm to 10pm.

A daily market with only Cambodian products, most of them being made in Siem Reap,whereas the other markets are full of products coming from Thailand, Vietnam or China. Free tastings of liqueur and free entertainment included, circus show, singers, marching bands,etc.).

Psar Chas (Old Market), Between Street 9 and Hospital Rd. A range of artifacts and tourist junk. Some items purport to be antique, but it probably isn't, and if it is, then most likely it has been stolen.

Psar Leu (High Market), On National Highway 6, a bit south of the city. Not generally visited by foreigners, so prices are about half those of the Old Market. Doesn't have as many strictly tourist goods, souvenirs, Siem Reap bags and T-shirts, but has plenty of clothes shops that sell for example jeans, shirts, hats and socks.

Blue Apsara Vintage, Street 9 - Old Market area next to Capitol Tours. open everyday 9:00 to 22:00. Great selection of quality books for sale in English, French and German. Vintage pictures, postcards & posters. Original 100% cotton papaya best T-Shirt. Longest running bookshop in Siem Reap since 2004.

iOne (Apple Authorized Reseller), 1776 Silvatha Blvd, near KFC. 9AM-7PM. Cambodia is possibly the cheapest place to buy a Macbook or iPod. Prices are in US dollars at same rates as in other countries but there is no added tax.

D's Books, #82 Hospital St a few doors north of Street 7. Probably the best selection of new and secondhand books in town. Generally the books here are in better condition than other places, and there's a variety of genres to choose from. A few shelves of books in languages other than English can be found. Most novels $7.

Kaya Boutique, Hospital St, opposite of Old Market, next to Kaya Spa. 10:00 to 10:30. This new boutique is dedicated of wellness products 100% natural, made in Cambodia, and based on 5 synergies of essential oils. Skin, Body and Home aromatherapy products to feel well and beautiful day after day.

Eating options span the full spectrum of tastes and budgets from the rudimentary Asian staples and pizza to authentic Khmer and sophisticated fine-dining featuring exotic local ingredients.

The largest assortment of restaurants are a few blocks north of the Old Market but there are numerous appetizing alternatives along Wat Bo Road and hidden among the surrounding neighbourhoods.

For Muslim travelers, there is also a halal pizza restaurant in the vicinity of Public Bank. The food is delicious and the prices reasonable.
There are plenty of vegan and vegetarian option in Siem Reap including Cambodian places like Chamkar and also fusion places like Moringa Bar or Artillery Cafe.

Though Pub St is better known for its bars a handful of places are known for great food, many with seating upstairs so you can escape above the partying milieu on the street below. Crammed along The Alley is a wider selection of restaurants that offer a generally quieter and more intimate experience.

The local restaurants lining Phsar Chas have extensive yet near identical menus of cheap fried rice and westernised approximations of Khmer dishes. At dusk the Kindergarten on the corner of Street 8 and 11 erupts into a a rabble of small BBQ stalls, billowing smoke, noise and the persistently entreating peddlers.

CENTRAL Hostel Restaurant, 7 Makara Street, 5 minutes walking from old market, 500 meters from Hard Rock Cafe. 06:30am to 22:00pm. Open-Air restaurant serving great local food and western delights. Extremely good value and low budget meals starting at only USD $2 per dish. $1 beers all day, aswell as fresh coffee, juices and cocktails served.

Chanrea Dom Makara, Sivatha Blvd, Close to, but opposite KFC. Amazing local food for $2.50. Whether it is Amok, the traditional curry with fish or chicken or Prahok, a fermented type of fish, great soups or grilled fish with minced pork and ginger, this pretty non descript and local place will serve all your wishes for authentic Khmer cuisine.

Common Grounds Restaurant (American Coffee Shop & Cafe), #719, St. 14 / Mundol 1, Khum Svay Dangkum, Behind Central Market & Across the street from U-Dara Guesthouse. M-Sa 07:00-20:00. Serving western dishes; chicken tenders, grilled cheese, crispy chicken apple salad, german chocolate cake, seasonal muffins, cinnamon rolls and some Asian dishes.

All profit goes to fund local humanitarian projects through NGO People for Care & Learning. Air-con & high speed internet $3-$7.

Curry Walla, Two locations Sivatha Blvd & Night Market Road. Authentic vegetarian & non-veg Indian food.

Ecstatic Pizza, #072 2 Thnou St across from the Provincial Hospital. 07:00-midnight. Italian and Khmer food has been operating since 1994. Many kinds of pizza and Pasta dishes. You can request your own pizza with either thin or thick crust. Western & English style breakfasts any time. Fruit shakes, soft drinks, draught beer, wine. Free delivery available. US$3-7.

New Delhi Indian Restaurant, #070 Mondol 1, Svaydangkum Commune opposite the provincial hospital north of Pub St. Indian dishes on the menu with many Indian specialties. All their dishes are authentic and prepared to order. From US$4.

Maharajah Restaurant (Royal Indian Cuisine Halal), Sivatha Rd, Old Market Area , Front Of Terrasse Des Elephants. 11AM-10PM. Fresh, hygienic and authentic preparation. They use real Indian spices and most of the food is Halal. Take-away or home delivery is available. US$2-7.

McBuddha Restaurant, Off Sivatha Blvd, on the road that goes to Artisans d'Angkor. Open seating, and the restaurant is run by a local Khmer family who serve everything with a warm smile. The owner used to be a tuk-tuk driver, he speaks English and can give you tips on places to see. The menu is extensive with Khmer and Western offerings, all cooked to order. 8/2014 was told closed for remodeling US$2-7.

Taj Mahal, Street 7, near Pub St. Classic Indian dishes. All the food is Halal.

Tuchner's eatery, #075 Mondol 4, Svaydangkum Commune, beside the provincial hospital. Savoury dishes on the menu including rice boxes, paninis, salad bar and fresh cut fries. From US$8.

Moringa Bar & Restaurant, Craft Beer, pub-style baguette sandwiches, comfort food appetizers, 136 Steung Thmei Road, Opposite Artisans D'Angkor on the same road as Platinum Cinema, behind Sok San Road. 11:00am - 11:00pm.

A good-value place where you can try some new Cambodian craft beer (IPA/White Beer/Pilsener/Chocolate Stout), poured with imported Czech chilling equipment into a frosty glass with a yummy appetizer, a tasty pub style baguette made with fresh French bread or a healthy bowl.

Half the menu is vegan. Moringa is a Mealshare restaurant, where if you buy one of several items on the menu, a second meal is bought by the restaurant for a Cambodian child in need. The atmosphere is very relaxed with a garden setting and there is an AC lounge to beat the heat.

Maiya's Café and Inn, Contemporary Eating, Cambodian Charm, 30 Street, #306 Take 30 Street at Borey Promprey. 07:00am - 9:00pm. A wholesome delight of healthy and fresh eating. A culinary and cafe experience in Siem Reap, Cambodia, home to the incredible Angkor Archaeological Park.

A family run social enterprise cafe passionate about offering guests great food, quality coffee, lodging, and experienced tour services. The perfect mix for your trip to the Kingdom of Cambodia. Coffee, Eat, Sleep, Explore, Repeat. Located outside the tourist areas so you can experience the local ambiance of Cambodia.

Kaya Café, Traditionnal Khmer food & drinks, Pi Thnou Street Opposite Old Market. 09:00am - 10:00pm. In the heart of Siem Reap, it is the spot to taste some traditional Khmer dishes in a peaceful atmosphere.

All the dishes are made with fresh and natural ingredients, also they are using recycled take-away boxes and bamboo straws! Try the desserts, they're delicious! Nice view: the balcony is surrounding the famous Old Market $2,50-$7.

Bugs Cafe, 351 Steung Thmey Village. from 5pm to midnight, closed on Tuesday. Bugs Cafe is the first ever insect tapas restaurant and cocktail bar in Cambodia! Have fun and make great pictures with your friends while discovering the hidden treasures of insect cooking. Insect free food and fresh fruit shakes also available 5 to 15$.

The Hive Siem Reap, 631 Psar Kandal Street, Behind Riviera Hotel., Cambodia. 07:00 to 18:00, closed Tuesdays. Nice cafe in the middle of it all. Contains friendly expats and tourists. Free Wifi, very good coffee, generous portions and tasty eats. Great lunchtime hangout! $3 to $7.

Father's Restaurant, Soksan Road. 8AM-10PM. The menu diverges from the usual with fairly authentic Khmer and Chinese foods. The western menu is not nearly as intriguing. Free WiFi. Fried noodle: US$2; pure fruit shakes: US$1.

Makan Makan, 137 Themey Village (Same entrance as The Pool and Palm Villa, 300 metres from BBU,Build Bright University. Halal kitchen with Khmer and Western dishes. The name Makan Makan comes from the Malaysian/Indonesian word for eating. Fresh food and no MSG usage.

Popular for breakfast, lunch and dinner in combination with swimming in the infinity pool with waterfall. Swimming and use of towel free if you spend $US6 per person in the restaurant. Pool open 07:00 until 21:00. Friendly staff. US$3-6.

Marum, Between Wat (Pagoda) Polanka & Catholic Church, #8A,B Phum Slokram. Open Monday to Saturday from 5pm to 10pm.. Marum is the latest addition to the Friends-International vocational training restaurants.

Featuring a winning mix of creative local cuisine, Marum is named after the Moringa, or 'Tree of life' - very appropriate, as customers will be enjoying a fantastic dining experience that helps build a new life for the students in training there!.

La Volpaia Pizzeria Restaurant, #20-22, St 13. M-F 11:30-14:30 and 17:30-22:00PM, Sa-Su 11:30-22:00. Italian style cuisine specialising in pizzas, pastas and grilled steaks. Air-con dining room, VIP rooms, outdoor and garden seating. US$5-17.

Sala Bai (hotel-restaurant school), 155 Phoum Tapoul St. 7-9 & 12-14, mon-fr. The restaurant is part of a training school for 100 disadvantaged young people, the food is delicious, choice between Asian and Western. US$8 3 course day menu.

Sunflower Restaurant, 2 Thnou St, North of Street 7. The restaurant looks simple but the Hong Kong dim sum, Vietnamese pho and Chinese wonton soup provide a welcome variation to what you find elsewhere. US$2-7.

Viva, Cnr 2 Thnou St & Street 9. A bright orange Mexican restaurant. Burritos, enchiladas and quesadillas are reasonably authentic considering the location. They have some Khmer dishes if you want to eat more local food while enjoying the view over the balcony.

This restaurant usually has a fair number of people in it while most restaurants are empty. $2 for a margarita, $5 for what they call a 'bucket', which is a weiss beer glass filled with margarita and a much better value. Pizza here is only moderately tasty. US$2-8.

Khmer Kitchen, Old Market. This restaurant is one good option to eat variety of Khmer food with a reasonable price. $4.5.

New Leaf Book Cafe, A short walk East of Old Market, near Angkor Trade Centre. 7.30am-9.30pm. Newly founded not-for-profit cafe/restaurant that serves traditional Khmer cuisine. Beautiful decor/ambiance and great food. $5-10.

Sister Srey Cafe, 200 Pokambor Street, On the Siem Reap Riverfront. 7:00-18:00. Great little breakfast, coffee and lunch place with view of the Siem Reap river. Has good vegetarian and some vegan and gluten-free options. Free Wifi. USD 2-6.

Aha, The Alley. Lunch 11:30AM-2:30PM, Dinner 6PM-10PM. The stylish interior with Khmer and international dishes. Some say the taste doesn't quite meet those standards but where else can you eat dried snake in such surroundings. US$7-18.

The Red Piano, Pub St. 2 floors and serves a variety of Italian and other European food with Britney Spears music videos in the background. The Chicken Cordon Bleu (chicken filet with ham and cheese inside then deep fried) is their specialty. Best known as the favourite haunt for Angelina Jolie when filming Tomb Raider at Angkor

L'Angelo, Le Meridien. Probably Siem Reap's most daring restaurant, serving fusionesque Italian cuisine like foie gras on a bed of white asparagus and balsamic vinegar ice cream in a setting so achingly modern that the only decoration is a cloud of black dots on the white wall. A full meal with a glass or two of wine on the side costs around US$100 for two.

Le Malraux, Sivatha St. French cuisine and Khmer specialties, all made with local and fresh products. Central city location that opens early in the morning for breakfast.

Meric at Hotel de la Paix, Sivutha Blvd. Acclaimed by some as the best Khmer restaurant in all Cambodia, it is set in a chic hotel with a minimalist modern feel. The chefs source the freshest and strangest ingredients to build their multi-course seasonal menu, US$31++ optional wine pairing US$16++.

A typical set will include dried snake salad and grilled frog. Arrive before 21:15 for the 4 course fixed price Khmer meal with wine selection. Sit in air conditioned comfort, or outside tables and lounge furniture. The hotel also has a modern bar with local art displayed.

Sok San Road is directly across Sivatha Blvd from Pub Street. Restaurants, hotels and massage parlors line the street. The second block of Sok San Road has been developed more recently and has many new establishments.

Coffee Break Cafe, 2nd block of Sok San Road, across from Karma Bar. 6am-10pm. Delicious fresh ground and brewed imported gourmet coffee, espresso, cappuchino, latte. Breakfast and lunch menu available all day.

Happy Angkor Pizza, Sok San Road, From Sivutha Blvd go West On Sok San to the second block. Its on the north side of the street. 8am-10pm. Pizza and Calzone 20 toppings happy option, free delivery.

Happy Herb Pizza, Sok San Road. Monday to Thurday 07:00 - 23:00, Friday to Saturday 07:00 - 24:00, Sunday 07:00 - 23:00. Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, burgers, Khmer food, free delivery.

Happy Dreamily Pizza, Sok San Road, Across from Tuk Tuk Bar.

Ecstatic Pizza, Sok San Road, Between Gunplay Tattoo and Karma Bar. Large menu, pizzas, sandwiches, breakfast all day, Happy Shakes.

Outside of the main part of town in the sometimes dusty neighbourhood streets and area along Wat Bo Rd are some trendy restaurants and small local places serving the most authentic Khmer food.

The veg'G'table café, Wat Bo Rd,from the Wat Bo/Street 20 junction 2 min south, right hand, look for the giant carrot. Run by a French chef. Has an inspiring and compact menu, mostly vegetarian/vegan with a Mediterranean base. If you like to eat something else than 'local' or 'western' this is your place. Get falafel and humus needs taken care of here. Open 11am-3pm and 6pm to 10pm US$5.

Viroth's Restaurant, #246 Wat Bo Rd. Stylish Khmer restaurant that is often so full you will have to wait for a table. The extensive menu is a mix of Khmer and Asian-esque dishes and with some vegetarian options. Some say the food is not spicy enough but the outdoor setting is nice if it is not raining. US$5-8.

HAVEN Training Restaurant, Chocolate Road, West of Angkor High School, Wat Damnak area. Mon-Sat 11.30am-2.30pm and 5.30pm-9.30pm. HAVEN is a training restaurant teaching disadvantaged young adults valuable work skills, while treating you with delicious, honest food that loves you right back. (Cambodian, Asian, Western Food, with many vegetarian/vegan options). US$5-9.

Alliance Art Cafe, Wat Damnak Rd. In a French colonial building built in 1953, on the former grounds of the French Cultural Centre. The cafe offers both French and Cambodian dishes within an art exhibition space. US$6-18 but the food is good and it has a very stylish ambience. A good choice for a romantic meal or a business dinner. US$15-25.

The distinction between eating and drinking establishments is fairly blurry as even the most humble of restaurants can have an extensive cocktail list on their menu.

Nonetheless, a vibrant drinking scene concentrated along Street 8, aptly dubbed Pub St, is where serious drinkers head for cheap beer, loud music and the sweaty backpacking hubbub scene which some consider to be akin to Bangkok's Khao San Road.

The reality is that it is much more relaxed and attracts wider age range and socio economic group than KSR. The biggest and most well known Pub St bars, Angkor What?, The Red Piano, Temple club and Le Tigre de Papier, are easy to find. Street entertainers in the evenings add to the fun.

Visitors looking for more subdued place to appreciate a quiet drink can seek out some of the smaller places along The Alley, The Lane and the adjoining streets.

Steung Thmei Road is a quiet and lesser-known street directly behind Sok San Road where the bars have a more chilled out vibe and don't have to compete with each other's music systems. This can be a welcome break from the deafening throb of pub street.

Most places have draft Angkor beer for US$0.50 and cans of other beers for US$1-2. Higher-quality, smaller-batch craft beer is now up and coming in Cambodia and offered at a few places in town, such as Moringa Bar or the Siem Reap Brew Pub. Cocktails and spirits go for as little as US$2.

Imported red and white wine, generally from the less prestigious wine producing countries, is widely available and cheaper than you would expect. Better quality Australian and French wines are available in more upmarket establishments at a correspondingly premium price.

Bubble tea, also referred to as Boba tea, and real fruit smoothies are non-alcoholic options.

Linga Bar, The Alley. A sophisticated gay bar that welcomes patrons of all preferences. A good list of classy cocktails and decent wine to enjoy on the big lounges.

Soup Dragon, Pub St. A restaurant/bar on one of the corners of the bar street in the old part of town. Great sunset vista from their rooftop with the added bonus being it is the same time as happy hour - two for one cocktails, drinks range from US$2-4.

Banana Leaf Cafe, Pub St. Small contemporary street side café, with week-end live music. Efficient and professional staff will entertain the crowd until late hours. Great cocktails.

Xbar, Pub St, [82]. 3pm til sunrise. An open air rooftop bar featuring a 6ft skateboard halfpipe, jam sessions every wednesday evenings, live Djs and bands every week and a resident Tattoo shop with a French artist. Probably the best city views in town, and unusual sunset over the halfpipe.

At the end of Pub Street, look up for the X.

Sok San Road (Bar Street)

Little Mitchy's Lounge, Sok San Road, Siemreab-Otdar Meanchey, Cambodia, Siem Reap 0000, Cambodia, Sok San Road Beside Cowboy Hostel. Enjoy the casual relaxed atmosphere of this fully serviced lounge, enjoy a cold beer, or sip on outstanding wine. Meet your friends, expats and like-minded adventurers, or simply chill!.

Mitch is a film-maker, hotelier, community advocate, world traveler, public speaker and former politico in his home country Canada. Having a passion for Art, and Film-Making, some of Mitch’s film work can be seen on the television screen at Little Mitchys Lounge.

Mitch who is in a wheelchair has advocated for the disabled community in Canada and Cambodia.

Siem Reap Party House, Sok San Road, Siemreab-Otdar Meanchey, Cambodia, Siem Reap 0000, Cambodia, Sok San Road West of Night Market intersection on the right. Beautiful Restaurant and Bar with American, Asian, Cambodian, Italian and Australian Cuisine. Sunday Brunch. Music venue.

Tuk Tuk Bar, Sok San Road, Phumi Siem Reap, Takev, Cambodia, From Sivutha go West on Sok San 400 Meters, look for the Tuk Tuk Bar on the right. 24/7. A Tuk Tuk converted into a unique bar, comfortable seating, food and drink. Popular night spot for travellers, locals and expats. Mixed drinks start at $1.50.

KARMA Café- Bar, Sok San Road, Siem Reap, Cambodia 17000, Sok San Road West, Bar Street Area, between Ecstatic Pizza and Green Curry,. 12:00 until 04:00 or later. A mellow low vibes haven. Full Mental Jacket potatoes from open till late and relax with some cold drinks in a friendly ambiance in the evening.

Moringa Bar, 136 Steung Thmei Road, Opposite Artisans D'Angkor on the same road as Platinum Cinema, behind Sok San Road. 11am until 11pm or sometimes later. A very chilled out vibe with good craft beer at reasonable prices, pub style vegetarian food, tasty sandwiches and appetizers that go very well with the beers.

Miss Wong Cocktail Bar, The Lane, behind Pub St. Tucked away from the rowdy chaos of pub street, this sophisticated bar serves up delightful refreshing cocktails in a sultry red lounge reminiscent of 1930s Shanghai.

Asana Old Wooden House, The Lane, behind Pub St. Food & cocktail Bar. Restored in 2012, Asana is the last wooden house in the city-old market area.

Long's Bar, Doung Hem St, off The Lane, behind Pub St. 5pm - Late. Chilled out, air-conditioned bar hidden away from noisy Pub Street, in the laneways of Siem Reap. Comfy pallet furniture, unique house cocktails, and the only non-smoking bar in Siem Reap.

FCC Angkor, Pokambor Ave, North of the Post office. A branch of the legendary Phnom Penh Foreign Correspondents' Club, the FCC is the hippest place for a drink. A blend of modern style and colonial architecture with fairly steeply priced drinks, at least by Cambodian standards.

The Warehouse, corner Street 9 and 2 Thnou St, opposite the Old Market. 10:30AM-3AM. Three floors of different styles. The ground floor tends towards raucous times while the 1st floor offers free pool, Nintendo Wii, a large flat screen tv for sporting events and a table football table.

The rooftop has a chic lounge atmosphere. Free draught beer offered at various times on Friday with an Angkor Wat ticket, though courtesy dictates you have a drink or two before or afterwards or dine from the food menu.

Chillax Lounge & Bar, Artisan Angkor Street Opposite Golden Temple Villa Guest House. 5pm -2am Sunday closed. Chillax Lounge – a designer choice bar – serving excellent signature cocktails, cold drinks and playing cool tunes every day from 5pm – 2 am except Sundays. Gayfriendly $4 Signature Cocktails and cold drinks.

A seemingly inexhaustible range of sleeping options from upmarket hotels to grubby backpacker hostels, with a myriad of guest houses, boutique rooms, bungalows, concrete cells, wood huts and French villas in between, make finding a place to sleep one of the easiest things you will do on your trip.

Hotels are spread over the entire city but most larger hotels line the National Highway to the Airport, cheap backpacker hostels tend to surround the old market area and stylish boutique hotels are nestled in the trees along Wat Bo Road.

Small Khmer run hotels and guest houses, especially in the low season, can be surprisingly good value if you are willing to do a bit of hunting for one that hasn't been overrun by the guidebook toting hoards.

Accommodations at every price point generally offer hot water showers, cable TV, internet and airport or bus pickup. Some may include free breakfast, though don't expect much more than an egg on toast and a coffee.

Most hostels can be booked through Agoda, Hostelworld, Hostelbookers, Booking.com, etc but some of their cheaper rooms are not advertised online. Best to walk in and ask.

Baphuon Villa, House Nr. 117, Slor Kram, Siem Reap City. The guesthouse has fan and airconditioned rooms complete with hotel amenities. Located near the Royal Residence Park and Angkor National Museum and situated about 1.5 km from Night Market and Pub Street : from USD10.00.

Bun Kao Guesthouse, #0566, St 22, Wat Bo Rd (wat bo road / area of G.H. checkin: on arrival; checkout: 12pm noon. Dorms $4/night/person and ensuite double,twin rooms$14/night,triple$18/night with air-con and balconies on each floor. Breakfast is inclusive, except for those is the dorm. Free computer access downstairs or WiFi in room , : from $6 to $21.

Central Hostel, 7 Makara St, Highschool Rd, 500 meters from Hard Rock Cafe. Opposite Royal Crown hotel. checkout: 12:00pm. Central Hostel is a brand new backpacker hostel recently opened in July 2016.

CENTRAL Hostel is the most Central hostel in Siem Reap. This hostel benefits from an excellent location in very close proximity to Siem Reap City Center.

It is situated just 5 minutes walking distance to the heart of the action and is within a short walking distance of The Old Market, Pub Street, The Night Market and The riverside. Central Hostel features a spacious lobby/common area with plenty of space to relax, socialize and meet other travelers.

Adjacent to the lobby, there is a newly built swimming pool to cool down in after the temples, as well as a buzzing open air restaurant and bar. Dorm bed: from $4-7, double/twin: from $US20-$US25; family (3pax): from US$25-US$30.

Dynyka Guesthouse, House Nr. 117, Slor Kram, Siem Reap City. Offers air-conditioned hotel rooms with balcony overlooking the Angkor Wat Temples and smoking and non-smoking facilities. Located at Street Charlie Degual, Trang Village in the City of Siem Reap 10 minutes away from the airport and bus station. : from USD12.00.

Earthwalkers, Sala Kanseng Village, Sangkat No. 2. Clean, high quality budget rooms. Restaurant, Wi-Fi, free breakfast, friendly staff and a nice pool/bar area. Away from town. US$15.

Garden Village Guesthouse & Hostel, 434, Group 4, Stung Thmey Village. Free airport pickup, free internet, restaurant. 80 rooms, Khmer-style private room and dormitories are open-air stilted houses made from bamboo mats and thus quite cool and airy.

The place is quite noisy at night with a bar on the 3rd floor 50 cent on tap beer and a Khmer bar next door. Has nice pool to waste the day in. Dorm bed: US$3:50 to 5$; Khmer-style single private: US$5; single: US$6; double: US$7; twin: US$8; triple: US$9;.

Green Town Guesthouse, Street 21 Wat Bo Village Salakomrouek Commune (from airport take Highway 6 to Siem Reap, pass two traffic lights, turn right at the roundabout, cross the first bridge over the river, turn left across the river and take the first right, the guesthouse is 100 m on your right.

From the bus station take road # 6 in Siem Reap, turn left at the first traffic light, then take the second right., the guesthouse is 50 m on the left. checkin: on arrival; checkout: noon. Backpacker oriented but draws a wide crowd. Clean, relaxed atmosphere with bar & restaurant downstairs.

Western & Cambodian menu. 10 min walk from town centre. US$6 for a large room with high ceiling, open windows, fan, hot shower ensuite and 70 channel TV. US$10 gets the same with air-con. Wi-Fi throughout, free computers downstairs. US$4 dollars for a windowless box that at best has cold water.

If you fall for paying much more than listed here, they may give a free breakfast. Security guard. Tours, tickets and local transport also available. As of Feb 2015, guesthouse was under construction and closed. US$4-10.

Hostelling International Siem Reap, 209, Wat Domnak Village, Salacomreuk Commune. Brightly painted rooms. A dip in the hot tub might be good if everyone else doesn't get in first. Dorms US$5, private rooms US$8.

Lovely Guesthouse, Wat bo area, Street 20, north of Wot Bo Rd, near crossing of Apsara (new) market/minimart. Free WiFi, laundry+ironing US$1.50/kg, restaurant US$2-3/dish, tours to Angkor Vat and district.

Their tuk tuk drivers speak good english, and it's possible to arrange tours with them. Good breakfasts, and good value overall. single/double start at US$5-6 with cold shower, US$8 hot shower.

Mad Monkey Hostel Siem Reap (Mad Monkey Hostel Siem Reap), Siwatha Road, Opposite ABA Bank and next to Hyatt hotel. checkin: 12.00; checkout: 11.00. Popular backpackers hostel, known for its parties and upstairs beach roof Bar (Top Banana) with a sand floor and beach vibe.

The hostel hosts 150 guests per night, provides both shared dorm and private room accommodation.

Paris Angkor Hotel, # 517 Taphul Village, SvayDong Commune, Siem Reap Central Area. Paris Angkor Hotel in Siem Reap offers furnished bedrooms with Cable TV, wireless internet access, bathtub and shower. The hotel is located near city attractions like Wat Kesararam, Luky Mall and Clinic Sokpheap. : from USD15.00.

Sweet Dreams Guest House, House 126 Wat Bo St Salakomrouek Commune, from airport take Highway 6 to Siem Reap, pass two traffic lights, turn right at the roundabout, cross the first bridge over the river, turn left across the river and take the first right, the guesthouse is 100 m on your right.

From the bus station take road # 6 in Siem Reap, turn left at the first traffic light, then take the second right. Call for free pickup from airport/bus station/boat station/train station. checkin: Anytime; checkout: noon. Family owned guesthouse. Clean, relaxed atmosphere with bar & restaurant. Free computer & Free Wifi.

Friendly staff willing to help with ticket booking and trips to Angkor Wat US$2: single room fan & shared Bathroom, US$4/5: single room fan & private bathroom, US$10: double room air-con & private bathroom.

The Mekong Hostel, Taphul Road, near Caltex gas station. One of the newest backpacker hostels to open in Siem Reap featuring an outdoor swimming pool and a poolside bar. The common areas feature lounge chairs and beanbags for guest to enjoy, as well as a full-sized newly installed pool table.

Huge hostel with loads of space to use and with a capacity of over 200 guests - very easy to meet other travelers. Super budget friendly, often the cheapest dorm prices in town. Dorm bed: from $4-7, Private room from $22.

The Siem Reap Hostel, 7 Makara St, Highschool Rd near the corner of Wot Bo Road and Angkor School Road in the Wat Dam Nak area. A comfortable hostel with air-con & Free WiFi throughout, including the rooms, which also have a balcony.

Bar, restaurant, pool table, indoor swimming pool in the bar/restaurant area clean and refreshing, yoga room, cinema style movie nights, pool competition every Tuesday night & a 3 hour happy hour. The staff can organise guides, drivers & book onward travel, and are helpful.

The hostel has its own tuk tuk drivers whom are honest and speak good English. They can be booked for trips at reception, which ensures no overcharging or scams. Dorm bed: US$10, double: $US34; triple: US$42.

Two Dragons Guesthouse, #110 Wat Bo Village, Street 20. Single room from 6$/night with air-con, fan and private bathroom with hot shower. Free Wifi, free coffee/tea, laundry 3$/kg. From 6$.

Angkor Saphir Hostel, National near Royal Palace and next to the stone bridge of Siem Reap River. checkin: 10:00; checkout: 12:00. only 15 minutes drive from the Siem Reap International Airport and within walking distance to the Old Market. air conditioned with free breakfast. Single Room from US$18 Double Room US$20.

Arboretum Guesthouse, Sok San Road, Stung They, Svay Dangkum, Sok san road, 1 minute away from the famous Pub Street. checkin: on arrival, by internet or here; checkout: 11 am. Fan or air-con, balconies, satellite TV, hot water, free Wi-Fi, fridge. 24hr reception, very friendly staff, European management.

Close to town centre; 20 minutes from temples. Free plane, bus, boat pick-up. : Singles from US$16. Doubles US$20. Family room up to US$52.

Babel Guesthouse, Street 20, Wat Bo area, down the road from New Apsara market on Wat Bo Road. Large clean comfortable rooms - airconditioners, ensuite bathroom, hot shower, large comfortable beds, cable TV, wifi. Tropical garden with restaurant and bar, chill out spots and TV area.

Swimming pool next door available for $3 per day. Norwegian owned with friendly local staff. Room rates all include breakfast and free pick up service. From US$20-35.

Big Lyna Villa, #659, Street 22, Wat Bo Rd. A Khmer style wooden building. 10 double rooms with hot shower, mini fridge and satTV. Free Wi-Fi and bicycle usage. air-con double: US$20.

Bliss Villa, close to the Old Market in walking distance to bars, restaurants and the popular Pub Street and Pub Street Alley. checkin: 12; checkout: 12. Air-con, Wi-Fi, Tour Services and Clean Rooms!

This is a great spot slightly off of the tourist path but close enough to walk to everything. The rooms are clean and spacious, especially on the top floor and it is but a five or so minute walk to the street of pubs. $12+.

Boomerang Guesthouse, Sivartha Road,Southern end of Sivartha Road near a roundabout. 5 min walk to Pub Street but far away from the noise. Basic rooms with Free Wifi. The double room is a worthwhile upgrade from the small windowless single room. Fan single: US$3; Fan double: US$7; air-con: US$10.

Borey Rattanak Hotel and Cafe, Located in a more local area and less touristy area of Siem Reap, about 10-15 minute ride to the city center/pub street area. Great local ambiance, nearby sites, proximity to the Angkor Park, local markets and real Cambodian daily life that surrounds the property.

A nice contrast for those wishing to stay outside the bustling city and busy touristic areas. Great for people wanting to explore the temples and go on expeditions.

Clean and comfortable accommodations, a culinary and cultural experience near the incredible Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia.Free airport pick, expereinced tour advice and local knowledge.

Boutique Cambo Hotel, 100 meter from Road No. 6, Salakanseng, Svay Dangkum, Siem Reap. Offers Superior, Deluxe and Family Suites. Rooms come with air conditioning, LCD TV, bathtub, mini bar and free breakfast. The hotel has a restaurant, cafe, bar, swimming pool, airport transfers and many other services. From US$15.

Cheysokha Guesthouse, National road 6, Phum Chong Kaosou, Sangkat Slorkram, Siem Reap City. checkin: 14:00; checkout: 12:00. Located in Chong Kov Sou Bus Station in Siem Reap City. Air-conditioned double and twin rooms. air-con double: US$15.

Dara Reang Sey Hotel, National road NAº 6, Phum Chong Caochou, Khum Slor Kram. All rooms are equipped with cable TV, IDD telephone, in-Room safe deposit box, in-Room Coffee/Tea making facility, alarm system, bath/ shower with hot water, high speed wireless internet, air-conditioner and mini-bar.

Some of its facilities and services are garden, snack bar, non-smoking rooms, designated smoking area, elevator, outdoor swimming pool, BBQ facilities, meeting/banquet facilities, business centre, VIP room facilities, souvenirs/gift shop, restaurant, parking, bicycle rental, ironing service, car hire, Wi-Fi internet access, airport shuttle, Concierge service, 24-hour front desk, laundry/dry cleaning and babysitting/child services. Rates start at 25.20 USD.

Golden Butterfly Villa, Stung Thmey, Svay Dangkum, located next to Golden Temple Villa. checkin: 14:00; checkout: 12:00. A beautiful Khmer-style hotel located in a quite street adjacent to the Pub Street. The owner's family also runs Golden Temple Villa.

Free services include pick up from airport and bus station, Wi-Fi in rooms and the lobby, a 30-min Cambodian massage and bicycle use. All rooms equipped with air-con, cable TV, fridge and hot & cold shower. The staff are very friendly and informative. There is a restaurant at the ground level which serves both Khmer and Western food. $18-$25.

Golden Mango Inn, No. 0658, Road 6, Chongkaosou Village, Slorkram Commune, located along National Road No. 6, accessible by the slip-road next to the TOTAL Petrol Station. checkin: 14:00; checkout: 12:00. A budget accommodation run by the Cheab family.

Free services include pick up from airport and bus station, tuk tuk rides to the Old Market and Pub Street, bicycle use, daily breakfast and booking of bus tickets and countryside or Angkor tours. All rooms equipped with air-con, cable TV, mini-bar and hot & cold shower.

Management and staff are cordial, competent and reliable. Other facilities include a pool, a garden and a small bar/restaurant. $20-$30.

Golden Takeo Guesthouse, #123 Wat Bo Rd. Well presented rooms, surrounded by gardens with a cool roof top terrace. Free breakfast, laundry, bicycle and internet. Fan single: US$12; Fan double: US$14; air-condouble: US$17.

Green Park Village Guesthouse, #304, Road N. 6, Group 10, Dorkpo Village, Slorkram Commune, Between Phsar leur Market and ANZ royal bank. This faraway guesthouse, 3km from Pub Street is located in a quiet location at night but within a stone throw to the massive Phsar leur Market.

$7 for a big single ensuite room with a TV. Free breakfast, free water refill, free coffee & hot water, free tuktuk to town but not the way back, Wifi, free bicycle. The mood is friendly and attracts a quiet clientele. US$7-$18.

Hak's House, Build Bright Rd, next to Build Bright University. A Khmer family-run guesthouse with basic single and double fan or air-con rooms, cable TV, hot shower. in room Free Wi-Fi. All rooms rate includes breakfast. Bus tickets can be booked.

Home Sweet Home Guesthouse, 111 Wat Bo Rd. Large rooms with en suite bathroom. The decoration is best described as spartan and some visitors have found the cleanliness of the rooms and communal areas to be lacking. From US$9-20.

Ivy Guesthouse, behind ANZ Royal same road as the Riviera hotel. checkin: 14:00; checkout: 12:00. 5 min walk to Pub Street. Clean basic rooms. The $1 Tapas night are popular. There's a nice hangout area on the first floor with a TV. double ensuite:$7, air-con double: US$15.

Mandalay Inn,near southern roundabout at Sivatha Boulevard. checkout: noon. Looks expensive but not is written on the outside. Indeed, this centrally located hotel is rather a midrange one, despite its low price. Staff are very welcoming and helpful and the rooms are clean and cosy. Has Wi-fi & TV. fan-double: US$9.

Mom's. One of the longer-running guest houses in Siem Reap, now in a new if somewhat characterless building. Mom will be happy to make all sorts of travel and transport arrangements. US$25 for air-con doubles with breakfast, hot water and airport transfers included.

Palm Garden Lodge, Soksan St, Svay Dungkum. 20 min walk to Pub Street and a bit hard to find. Bright rooms with wood four-poster beds and fresh linen. The new building has better but smalle) rooms and newer TVs. All rooms are ensuite. Free breakfast. $7-25.

Paradise Eco resort-Siem Reap, 1 Tuk Vil, N6 Baray, 10 min from Angkor Wat temple. checkin: 2PM; checkout: 12 noon. Free bike, free WiFi for guests. French and English speaking. Nice atmosphere. Free swimming pool and garden. From US10.

Parklane Hotel, Taphul St, Taphul Village. checkin: 14:00; checkout: 12:00. Very friendly hotel near to city centre. Rooms have air-con, satTV, fridge, Wi-Fi, en-suite with hot water. $20-40.

Popular Guesthouse, 033, group 10, Viheachin Village, Svaydangkum commune. 10 min walk to Pub Street. The rooms are basic, clean and the bed comfortable. Free wifi at the restaurant area on the first floor. Fan single: US$4.

Reasey Boutique Villa - SPA and swimming pool, Taphul Street, Behind Park Hyatt, close to Pub Street, Old Market, Night Market and Riverside. Reasey Boutique Villa is a brand new hotel recently opened in January 2017. This property benefits from an excellent location in very close proximity to Siem Reap City Center.

It is situated just 5 minutes walking distance to the heart of the action and is within a short walking distance of Pub Street, Old Market, Night Market and Riverside.

Reasey Boutique Villa features 5 spacious private luxurious villas spread in a lush tropical garden, a spacious lobby/common area with plenty of space to relax, socialize and meet other travelers.

Adjacent to the lobby, there is a newly built swimming pool to cool down in after the temples. 29 USD for a Luxury King Size.

Rosy Guesthouse, Slar Kram Village. Very popular long running guest house with bar, restaurant and large balcony overlooking the Siem Reap River. Comfortable and well kitted out rooms with hot water shower bathroom, large TV, DVD player, free WiFi, fridge, fan and air-con. US$8-30.

Sam So Guesthouse, 164 Wat Bo Rd, opposite Street 21. All rooms are big, clean, and have a private bathroom with hot water, air-con or fan, large screen satTV and a fridge.

Free WiFi and internet in the lobby. Run by Cambodian family, friendly, helpful and reliable staff. English, German, Italian and French are spoken. Various tours by arrangement. Free breakfast and free pick up. US$11-20.

Seven Candles Guesthouse, 307 Wat Bo Rd. Run by the Ly family, comfortable clean rooms with private hot water bathroom, air-con, fan, and TV. 2 bottles of water daily. Laundry, onward transport bookings, and free Wi-Fi.

The Ly family works hard on making education available to the children of rural families; volunteers with the Ponheary Ly Foundation often stay here. Four of the family are licenced Angkor Wat tour guides, speaking English, French and Russian. Breakfast is available for a small additional fee. US$20.

Shadow of Angkor, 353 Pokambor Ave. In a French colonial building. Very clean, though not soundproof, rooms with air-con, hot water, satTV, free internet. Run by a Cambodian family. From US$7-20.

Side Walk Coffee Hotel, Taphul Street, Taphul Village, Svay Dangkum commune, Siem Reap City. Side Walk Coffee Hotel offers budget accommodation in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Single, Double and Family Rooms are available for occupancy with fan or airconditioning unit. Free wifi, coffee and tea. US$15.

Tanei Guesthouse Siem Reap, next to Artisan D’Angkor. Free in room WiFi 24 hr, free tea & coffee, swimming pool, jacuzzi, restaurant, lobby, quiet garden, terrace, fresh atmosphere, mini-bar, friendly staff, English speaking staff, cleaning room, in room refrigerator, electric lamp, slippers, alarm clock, traditional Khmer pictures, fan, air-con, hot water, cableTV, window, 24 hr services and 24 hr security.

Room rates from US$12 include free pick-up.

Temple Villa, near southern Wat Bo road. checkout: noon. Spacious and comfy rooms with balconies in a calm atmosphere just 300 m from the river. Wifi, pool, TV. Air-con is about 5$ extra. The staff are not service-oriented, the restaurant is below average and the rooms sometimes smell. off-season fan-double: 10$.

The City Garden Villa, National road No.6 , 665 Group 7 Salakangseng, Svaydankom, Siem Reap City. The City Garden Villa offers budget accommodation at the heart of Siem Reap City. The hotel has fan and airconditioned wood-finished rooms complete with amenities.

Angkor Wat Temple is just 15 minutes away and 10 minutes away the famous Old Market. US$3.50.

The Lotus Lodge, Boeng near Phsa Leu Market. checkin: 10:00; checkout: 12:00. An Oasis of Greenery, Large Swimming Pool, Restuarant/Lounge, Free Bike Rental, Free Tuk Tuk to town, Free Tuk Tuk Bus/Airport Pick-up, Free Breakfast, Fast & Free Wifi, Fan or Aircon, Cable TV, Hot Water, 24hr Reception, Friendly Staff, Tour Bookings, Canadian Management, quiet and family friendly. 2 Twin / Double Room from US$20-$30.

The Prohm Roth Inn, #072, Street 20, Wat Bo Rd. Bright & large double, twin & triple rooms, cableTV, fan & air-con, private en-suite, hot shower: US$5-25 ($5-15 in low/rainy season).

It was $5 for a single private ensuite with TV. Green & clean, free pick up, WiFi & breakfast. The same friendly local brothers also own Prohm Roth Guesthouse on Pub St, near the Old Market.

Tropical Breeze Guesthouse and Restaurant, 293 Wat Damnak village over river from Old market & Pub St, turn right and walk for around 5 min. checkin: 14:00; checkout: 12:00. Bar & restaurant downstairs, Western & Cambodian menu.

Large rooms with high ceilings, open windows, Wi-Fi, free computers downstairs, 70 channel TV, air-con or fan, en suite has mains pressure hot water. 24 hr check-in, security guard, security box in lobby and bring your own padlock.

Free set breakfast menu of 56 items, including drinks. Tours, tickets and local transport. Visa or MasterCard accepted. Free pick up 24 hr by prior arrangement. US$8-20.

Velkommen Guesthouse Siem Reap, Group 4, Mondul lll Village, 100 meters east of Angkor National Museum Traffic Light. Large clean comfortable rooms aircon, ensuite bathroom, hot shower, large comfortable beds, cable TV, wifi, security box, fan, wardrobe,Friendly helpful english speaking staff, open bar, restaurant, pool table, plasma TV with DVD player, super fast WiFi (3.5 Mbps), room service, daily room cleaning with fresh towels & linen.

Swimming pool 5 min walk, Night market 15 min walk, Pub Street 15 min walk. Angkor wat 5km. Tuk-tuk & charity bicycles available. $5 aircon dorm, $16 private double aircon.

Yellow Guest House, 363, Taphul Village, Svay Dangkum. Commune. Very clean and well furnished rooms. Staff speak English, as well as several other languages, including Japanese and Thai. Computers and internet in the common area and free Wi-Fi as well. There's a no shoes/flip-flops policy indoors, so the floors are kept clean. From US$3-16.

Angkor Spirit Palace Resort and Spa. Located just outside of downtown, this hotel offers a beautiful garden and pool that is worth spending the late afternoon lounging. The building is really quite impressive and built with many elements of traditional Khmer architecture.

The rooms are simple, but comfortable. Airport transportation and rides into town are included in room rates. Easy and reasonable temple driver access by tuk tuk. Price = $30+ US

Auberge Mont Royal d'Angkor, 497 Taphul St. French villa style building with 37 rooms decorated with an Asian feel. AC unit and ceiling fans, beautiful swimming pool in their well kept garden. US$35-.

Baby Elephant Boutique Hotel, Street 53, No 418, Vihearchin, Svay Dangkom, Siem Reap. A tropical oasis with spacious rooms and modern amenities. Close to Night Market. Complimentary daily a la carte breakfast, gorgeous swimming pool, fitness facilities, massage treatments, tours and transport, and excellent food & cocktails. From US$35 (low season) to $125(deluxe family room.

Casa Angkor Hotel, 52 Oum Chhay St. Colonial Architecture Hotel. Great location in Siem Reap’s Old French Quarter. It offers an outdoor pool, dining options, spa and free Wi-Fi. From US$40 with buffet breakfast included.

Central Boutique Angkor Hotel. Locally owned and operated. Clean, comfortable hotel, not too far from the centre of town, with western bathrooms, gardens and a pool. air-con rooms from US$29 with breakfast included.

City River Hotel, Steung Siem Reap St. Comfortable hotel near the city centre. Airport pick-up. Internet access in rooms and accepts credit cards. From US$60.

Claremont Angkor Boutique Hotel, No.0017, Phum Wat Bo, Sala Kamreuork, Siem Reap. Offers spacious rooms and deluxe amenities. The hotel is located in central Siem Reap City near the airport and close to Pub Street, Psar Chas Market, and Angkor National Museum. Serves complimentary daily breakfast, with swimming pool, fitness facility, spa and body treatments. From US$35.

Frangipani Villa Hotel, #0603, Wat Bo Rd. Superior room from US$44, pool view from US$66, balcony room from US$55.

Golden Temple Hotel, 7 Makara Rd. Excellent Khmer-style quality for an affordable price, rooms starting at US$55. 5 min walk to the centre of Siem Reap. Pool, massage services. Staff can organise trios to Angkor Wat or elsewhere close by.

Kanitha Boutique Villa, Phum Krous, Khum Svaydongkom, Siem Reap. The hotel offers first-class accommodation in its Villas and Deluxe Rooms. Rooms are spacious furnished with luxury amenities, high-speed internet connection and complete hotel facilities. There is a swimming pool, cafe by the pool, bar and restaurant, travel desk and a tropical garden setting.

Men's Resort & Spa. Located in the heart of Siem Reap. "male exclusive" gay hotel. The complex includes a boutique hotel with 10 stylish rooms, a large pool, a fitness centre, massage service and sauna/spa. Rooms from US$49.

Mom´s Guest House, 99, Wat Bo Street, Siem Reap. Centrally located, it is one of the few best family-run guesthouses currently operational in Siem Reap. Short walk to the Old Market and Pub Street. 10 minutes drive to the temples. Free breakfast, swimming pool, wifi and free pick up from the airport. Rooms from US$25.

My Hibiscus Hotels and Resort, Taneuy Street, Wat Bo Village, Sangkat Salakamreuk. The hotel offers deluxe accommodation in its airconditioned hotel rooms and two outdoor swimming pools. It is located 5 minutes drive from Pub Street and the Old Market.

Shining Angkor Boutique Hotel, #560 Group One, Kok Chok Commune. 21 rooms. Free tuk-tuk service one way to the centre of Siem Reap daily. It is a ~US$2 per ride back. Free pickup by tuk-tuk from the airport, and free breakfast of bacon, egg and toast. The staff are friendly and helpful. Decor is traditional wooden furniture with Buddhist elements. Family owned.

Soria Moria Boutique Hotel, Wat Bo Rd. Clean spacious rooms and free WiFi. US$40-65.

Ta Phrom Hotel, river front, next to Old Market, Pokambor Avenue, Mondul I, Sangkat Svay Dangkum.

Free in room WiFi 24 hr, restaurant, wooden rounded stairs lobby, wooden interior and beautiful statues, terrace, traditional atmosphere with French colonial exterior, friendly staff, English speaking staff, cleaning room, in room refrigerator, mini-bar, slippers, air-con, hot water and bathtub, cableTV, 24 hr services and 24 hr security.

Room rates US$35-80. A hotel with strategic location within walking distances to Old Market, Pub Street and Night Markets. Siem Reap Art Centre Market is just across the river. Lovely hotel with exceptional wooden interior, breakfast are included and free airport pick-up for longer stay.

The Cockatoo Nature Resort. 7 rooms in a restored traditional Khmer house plus 2 Balinese-inspired grass-roofed cottages. Pool and lush gardens. Gourmet food served at main restaurant or poolside bar. From US$35 during low season (May-Sept).

The Pool and Palm villa. Located near Build Bright University (BBU). The resort includes two villa's: Khmer-French style and modern with stylish rooms, a 17 metre long infinity pool, 8,500 square metre garden, restaurant. Rooms from US$ 38,- (low season) to US$100 family room with living room high season.

The RiverGarden Siem Reap, 113 Mondule 3. Standard rooms start at US$35, superior from US$45, deluxe from US$65, Khmer Cottage from US$45.

Villa Siem Reap, 153 Taphul Rd. Several min walk to shopping, restaurants and the old market. Runs excellent excursions to temples and floating village. Standard rooms from US$18, superior from US$25, deluxe from US$30, villa bungalows from US$45.

Sokharoth Hotel (Siem Reap Hotel), Street 66, Sala Kanseng Village, Svay Dangkum Commune, Siem Reap, 57 deluxe rooms' facilities includes bar & restaurant, swimming pool, sauna, massage service, business centre, airport service, foreign currency exchange, laundry service catering service. US$60-110.

Heritage Suites Hotel a luxury boutique hotel, next to Wat Pagoda Po Langka. checkin: 12:00pm; checkout: 3:00pm. A roll top bath, private garden and premium linen are uncommon little extras that could help you justify the price. $159-595.

Navutu Dreams Resort & Wellness Retreat Spa Resort & Wellness Retreat, Angkor High School Road, Tropeang Treng Village, Sala Komreuk Commune. checkin: 2:00pm; checkout: 12:00nn. Siem Reap's only resort & wellness retreat with detox, health programs, yoga, yoga holiday breaks, acupuncture and holistic healing. $120-300.

Park Hyatt Siem Reap, Cnr Samdech Tep Vong St & Sivutha Blvd. Khmer meets Art Deco, intimate and residential in style, Park Hyatt Siem Reap is the newest 5-star luxury address. $US275-675.

La Residence d'Angkor, River Rd. The hotel is finished in stone and wood that reflects traditional architecture, centred around a baray-inspired swimming pool. US$395.

Prince D'Angkor, Sivatha Blvd. Upmarket hotel and spa. 10 min stroll from the centre of town. US$180.

Sokha Angkor Resort, corner of National Rd 6 & Sivatha Blvd. checkin: 14:00; checkout: 12:00. A new 5 star resort in the city centre with a large salt-water pool. The resort has 6 restaurants and bars. US$140-$2,200.

Starry Angkor Hotel, No. G4, National Road 6, Banteay Chas Village, Sangkat Slorkram. 127 rooms ranging; all equipped with plasma cable TV, wi-fi, separate shower and bath. Some of its facilities and services are Starry restaurant, swimming pool and fitness room/gym. starting from $60.

Suites and Sweet Angkor, Phum Krous, Khum Svay Daungum. If you can overlook the name the nine villas set in tropical gardens offer privacy and each of the suites face a traditional Khmer lake that includes a private pool with a wooden terrace. US$165.

The One Hotel, The Passage. About as exclusive as you can get the freestanding French colonial building has only one suite with street view balconies and a private roof top jacuzzi garden. US$250.

Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa, Central Park. Very luxurious hotel, beautifully decorated. From US$155.

Prey Kroch Homestay, Prey Kroch Village, Siem Reap. Stay in a quaint little village just a stone’s throw away from Siem Reap's bustling city center. Experience the best of the Khmer hospitality and take the opportunity to be a part of an ever changing lifestyle that will make your stay in Siem Reap an unforgettable experience.

A part of the profits from the homestay are used to offer community services and finance programs that bring positive changes to disadvantaged people.

Most locals are decent people just trying to make an honest living but a few shady characters try every trick to take advantage of visitors. Be alert to deception, but don't let suspicion ruin your visit.

Airport arrival scams: (i) Charging you a huge conversion fee at the Immigration desk, to convert your currency into USD: so bring USD; (ii) Being asked for a tip by the Immigration staffer, as he holds your passport in his hand. Politely decline: he'll return your passport anyway. (iii) Bring small change 1s, 5s, and 10s for the visa payment, as the change balance may not be returned to you by airport staff, and they might deny having ever received from you an amount greater than the price of the visa. Insistence that you are owed change will not help.

Convenience stores have been known to give incorrect change and pocket the rest. Check your change before you walk out of the store and point out any short changing. Most likely they will admit to their mistake and give you the right change.

Street vendors and beggars in competition for generous visitors' handouts have developed cunning, if underhanded, techniques to get your attention and money. The beggar army of young children will come up to you in the crowd and grab your hands, leading you to a store where they will then try and have you buy food/baby milk/water for them.

Baby milk seems the most popular. It might sound like a more humanitarian way to help than simply giving them money, but once you leave the shop the goods you bought for them are sold back to the owners, or to other locals and the cash goes to an adult. Young women with babies cradled in a krama perform a similar trick.

Donation-collectors for orphanages may approach you in the street claiming to be volunteer workers, showing you convincing photos of themselves in the orphanage and a clip board listing the generous donations made by foreign visitors.

Though these young adults may be well groomed and speak excellent English it's possible that your donation will go directly into their pockets. A donation of money or your time to a recognised charity might be a better way to help.

Baby-milk scams may be encountered in the centre of town, outside supermarkets. A very poor looking woman will beg for some milk powder, pointing to her baby. If one cracks and buys the milk, she later returns it to the shop, and the money is split 50:50.

VIP sleeper night bus scam encountered by tourists. Travel agencies sell expensive tickets to Phnom Pehn $10 against $6 in VIP sleeper beds buses operated by transport companies Golden VIP Transport Service and Virak-Buntham Express Tour&Travel.

Buses leave at midnight. When Pick-up brings you to the bus, it can so happen, that you find instead of sleeper bus the regular bus with seats instead beds and if you are not lucky you become the seats in the back that no lean back and have to sit upright all the night.

This scam still to date by transport company OTM - (Olympic Transport Co. and others with the tickets to Sihanoukville. Company says that the road takes only 9h and that there's no bus change in Phnom Penh.

In reality it's 14h road with changing the bus to usual, not Hotel Bus or Sleeping Bus which you paid for, so you have to sit rest of the journey. Mentioned, that there's no correlation on the price, as people paid for their tickets from $13 to $17 to get from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville with the Sleeping Bus.

Tuk Tuks off the airport When getting off the airport, you may be offered to get a ride from a Tuk Tuk driver to your hotel, which are the same ones ordered right off the airport counters. Later when dropping you off, he may offer to be your local guide for the duration of your stay, and the price he may offer may seem too good to be true.

It usually is and when you find out at the end that he's not sticking to his side of the deal, things do get awkward. Consider the fact that if you buy into the scam, you maybe helping him and his family out, especially during the desperate low season, this can turn into a personal choice.

The taxi service at the airport "Tourist Transport Association" also has the same problem. Do not buy into any tour offers by drivers of the company as they tend to be low quality and always try to rip you off. They also pretend to be tour guide but in fact they are only drivers and are not licensed.

Just keep this in mind, and be more open to the drivers/guides options available at your hotel or hostel, who tell fewer lies and the prices tend to be reasonable. You can verify your guide's name and license number online.

Fake Tuk Tuk destination scam The rare unscrupulous tuktuk driver may take you to a destination other than what you specify, such as a different tourist attraction, which is in some way related to what you are looking for.

They may have some connection or get some kickback from this attraction. Before debarking, be sure you are at the right place, and if not, insist that they take you where you are supposed to be.

Massage scam After agreeing upon the price and bringing you to a massage room, more girls 2 or more enter and start doing massage together. After finishing, they demand the agreed payment for every girl.

Even if you understand that it's a scam before the massage started, they are extremely obstinate and can go as far as to not let you leave by using physical force.

An overarching problem that may stoke some scams is an increase in the use of meth or 'yabba'. Locals blame Filipino musicians with ties to the local bar scene and music scene. Stick with happy pizzas.

Naga Healthcare International Medical Center, 660, Hup Guan street, behind Central Market. Mon-Fri 9-12, 13-17. Naga Healthcare works in a small consulting room close to the central market. Dr Joost Hoekstra is specialised in Tropical & General Medicine, Diabetes. 30 USD per consultation as of November 2014.

Royal Angkor International Hospital, National Route 6, Phum Kasekam, Khum Sra Ngea. Owned by the Bangkok Hospital Group and caters specifically to tourists with a smart 4 star hotel-like reception area. Their care is not cheap, but it is of a very high standard.

There is a fully stocked pharmacy, General surgeon, Orthopaedic surgeon, Paediatrician and other hospital services such as treatment for fractures and intestinal problems.

The numerous Internet cafés charge anywhere US$0.50-1.50/hr. Speed of connection, and speed of PC, very much depends from place to place. A free public WiFi network covers the Pub St and Alley areas but it can sometimes be spotty and always terribly slow.

Hello Internet Cafe, Sivatha St in front of Acleda Bank. High speed internet. Low overseas call rate. Internet US$0.5/hr, and overseas call US$0.10/min.

E-Café, on Sivatha St, north of Psar Chas. A cut above the rest in connection and service quality, as well as price.

Most hotels will have cable TV with many international channels such as BBC and CNN as well as those from surrounding countries. There are several FM radio stations, which includes Radio France International on 92.0MHz.

Full service laundries can be found throughout town and most hotels and guesthouse will also take care of your laundry. The going rate is $1/kg. You may occasionally be able get it cheaper if you are willing to wait longer, in which case the laundries won't have to use the dryer. 3-hour services are frequently advertised, but rarely realistic.

3 Hours Laundry, Sivatha Rd near Thunborey Hote. M-Sa 09:00-21:00; Closed Sunday. Washing, folding, ironing and delicate fabric handling for all your stinky shirts. As the name suggests, turn around time is typically 3 hours. US$1 per kg.

New Laundry Express, Tapoul village,Svay Dangkum commune. Uses washing machines and dryers. US$1 per kg.

If you are travelling alone and want to go to the faraway temples eg. Banteay Srei, Kbal Spean, Koh Ker, Phnom Kulen, it is cheaper to join a tour than hiring a motorbike (motodup) or tuktuk. Capitol Tours Opposite National Bank Of Cambodia has tours for a reasonable price prices do not include ticket to enter the temples.

Koh Ker - The ancient capital.

Banteay Chhmar - the forgotten Angkorian complex in neighbouring Banteay Meanchey Province. A bit ambitous for a day trip by tuk-tuk but makes for a wonderful excursion by helicopter, about US$2,200.

Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre, Sanday Village 3 km before the Landmine Museum on the road to Banteay Srey temple. 9Am-5PM. Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre is a community development project and tourist destination just down the road from the Landmine Museum and Banteay Srey temple.

Revenue from admissions is used to pay families in remote villages who are farming butterflies for the exhibit. The project makes a real difference to the farmers' livelihoods and provides a wonderful experience for visitors as they can see spectacular local butterfly species flying close at hand in a beautiful tropical garden. US$4 adults, US$2 children (under 12).

Kampong Phluk Floating Village, off the Highway to Phnom Penh. This mangrove forest offers a much more authentic floating village experience than the one close to the Tonlé Sap ferry harbour. This fascinating village on stilts can be reached by tuk-tuk from Siem Reap.

During the dry season, it takes about 1 hour to reach the village, depending on the road conditions and water level. Depending on where you buy your tour, your haggling techniques and your initiative to book a tuk-tuk and boat ride yourself the price varies between US$7-60/person for a round trip. Beware of scam.

you reach the school in the village, tour guide will give you pack of exercise books and pencils as "a payment to village for visiting them. The queue of pupils will be longer than number of books you have. Immediately you receive next pack but then you will need to pay $9 for the second pack.

In the wet season, the tuk-tuk or taxi will take you to the tourist information and ticket booth about 10km north of the village, where your visit is arranged. A round-trip boat will typically cost $10 per passenger including $1 admission fee.

The boat will take you through the village to a floating restaurant, where you can have lunch mains around $3-5 and continue for a short trip onto the lake. The food especially the fish is surprisingly good, so give it a try. Additionally, the flooded wood is a great scenery.

Short trips (30-60minutes) on nutshell boats (2-3 passengers) can be booked at the ticket booth for $5 per boat.

Landmine Museum, 6 km south of Banteay Srey Temple, 31 km from Siem Reap. This tiny museum was set up by local deminer Aki Ra to educate locals and tourists about the dangers of land mines. Piles of defused mines and UXO lie around the site and the guides are mostly teenagers who were orphaned or injured by mines, many of whom live onsite.

This is a very worthwhile attraction that brings home the scale of the problem and shows you a slice of real Cambodia. The museum moved in 2007, so make sure your motodop doesn't try to take you to the old location in a village near Angkor Wat. US$3.

War Remnant Museum, Just behind the Angkor Wat ticket booth. A newcomer on the Siem Reap museum circuit as of 2016, this small museum displays artifacts of the civil war in Cambodia.

More interesting are the guides, who are veterans of the war and can speak of their own experiences. The museum is dedicated to assisting landmine victims by providing them support and training. US$5.

Wat Thmei Temple & Stupa Memorial to the Killing Fields. A large Buddhist temple. In the grounds is stupa with glass sides contains bones and skulls of victims of Pol Pot's army. Be wary of people purporting to be guides or asking for donations.

Also, several of the photographs on the display boards are actually of the holocaust in Nazi Germany - take this attraction with a pinch of salt. Free, donations welcome.

Phnom Bok. The highest hill in the area. Temple ruins - similar to those found atop of Phnom Krom and Phnom Bakong - can also be found on top of Phnom Bok. It lies 20km to the north east of Siem Reap. Expect a tiring hike up the stairs.

A guard may be able to show you around. Don't forget to check out the old howitzers from the civil war. Admission is free, no pass is needed for the Angkorian ruins.

Phnom Krom. The hill which dominates the view, as you approach the floating village of Chong Kneas from Siem Reap. At the top, temple ruins similar to the other two hills can be found. This particular hill is popular for sunsets, as it can be viewed over the flooded plains during the wet season, and over incredibly vibrant rice fields in the dry season.

Battambang. You can go from Siem Reap to Battambang by boat, on the lake then along the river. It can be a difficult trip in the dry season, as low water levels make it difficult for the boat to get to its destinations.

You go past many many floating villages, saving you the Floating Village Tours. One of the cheapest places to book the boat is at Angkor Pich Erich service, halfway Taphul street.

Phnom Penh. Cambodia's capital city offers a lively nightlife and excellent restaurant options. The trip from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh takes between 4.5 and 8 hours, depending on which form of transport you choose - there are lots of options.


Tourism Observer