Siem Reap Cambodia Travel Guide|Itinerary, Things to Do; Budget Hotels
Contents
The Siem Reap Cambodia Travel Guide| Itinerary, Things to do; Hotels are designed to help first-time travelers to Cambodia. This travel guide provides relevant and updated pieces of information needed by any adventurer. Keep on reading.
It is hard to separate Siem Reap from many of its Buddhist temples as its pagodas (called “wat”) are undeniably its biggest draw. While all of these temples are now seemingly “jaded,” given the wear-and-tear it had accrued over centuries; the wats retain a sense of architectural ingenuity which provides significant wonder to the people of today.
Year after year, millions flock this piece of land to behold a sight uncommon in many places, particularly in the west.
Angkor Wat, the Symbol of Cambodia
The Angkor Wat was not originally a temple based on the Buddhist belief. Going back at a time when Cambodia adheres to Hinduism which its succession of kings had practice, Angkor Wat was a temple meant for the Hindu god, Vishnu. But it was not until the 12th century when this belief is broken, which subsequently transformed the pagoda as a construct for Buddhism.
Featuring a design that was considered the best of Khmer architecture and an attempt to represent the belief about the legendary place called Mount Meru, Angkor Wat epitomizes both the intangible and tangible aspects of the Khmer culture.
Other temples dot the land of Siem Reap, Cambodia but these constructs are mostly only ruins of their former selves. This is much unlike what Angkor Wat is to this day—despite its damages; it still managed to retain composure that continues to animate a legacy.
Must read: Cambodia Travel Guide
Things to do in Siem Reap Cambodia|List of Tourist Attractions
To say that the temples at Angkor are the only reason for being in Siem Reap is to be shortsighted—or even blinded—from the other things that make the place more exciting.
Although present-day Cambodia is taking little efforts in capitalizing tourism through their age-old temples, it does not ignore the fact that tourism is still a significant factor in its still growing economy. For this reason, many are the sites that sprung within Siem Reap, Cambodia alone as aimed at fostering its tourism
Listed below are popular tourist attractions | Things to do in Siem Reap, Cambodia
The Amazing Temples of Siem Reap
The temples of Siem Reap are amongst the top destinations to see when visiting the place
For more, please visit
To see these temples, BOOK A SUNRISE ANGKOR TEMPLE PRIVATE TOUR BY TUK-TUK ( Covering: Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm Temple, Bayon Temple, Ta Keo Temple, Banteay Kdei Temple, Terrace of the Elephants, South Gate of Angkor Thom )
Apsaras Dancing Performances
Cambodia is known for its dancing girls called the “apsaras.” Donning exotic outfits and performing oftentimes slow body movements to the tune of strange music is, in a nutshell, that describes an apsara.
The performance itself may not be everyone’s cup of tea. But give it attention, and you shall probably be mesmerized by it.
Enjoy this experience, BOOK AN APSARA CULTURAL SHOW AND DINNER HERE
The Pub Street
Do you love parties? If you do, then don’t miss this place. Experiencing the “Pub Street” , the party hub is one of the top ‘Things to do in of Siem Reap, Cambodia. The area features pubs and bars and loaded with restaurants offering international cuisines.
The Cambodia Landmine Museum
The previous civil war that took place in Cambodia incorporated the presence of landmines into people’s consciousness. In commemorating this dark facet of Cambodia’s history, the Landmine Museum was established which sought to educate the people everything about landmines and, more importantly, how the world can be rid of them.
Siem Reap Old Market
Shop till you drop at the Old Market in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Locally known as Psar Chas, this place is where the locals go shopping early morning for seafood, fresh veggies, meat, and other households needs. The oldest Kmer Market in Siem Reap which you should go for your souvenir shopping.
The War Museum of Cambodia
The last 30 thirty years at the beginning of the 20th century mark the years when Cambodia was at war. Aptly dubbed the “War Museum Cambodia,” this gallery immortalizes the events of those times as depicted by the showcase of weapons and arms from all sides of the event—Cambodian, Khmer, and Vietnamese.
Tonle Sap Lake
Cruise at Tonle Sap Lake and visit the largest floating Village home to ethnic Cham and Vietnamese communities. The place features a floating school, floating restaurant, floating crocodile farm, and much more.
For more, read, Tonle Sap Lake Travel Guide
Visit this attraction, BOOK A KOMPONG PHLUK/TONLE SAP LAKE TOUR HERE
Khmer Spa Experience
While in Siem Reap, Cambodia takes time to experience their traditional massage, the Khmer Massage. Quite similar to Thai Massage, this Cambodian massage does not use any oil. The process involves using hands, thumbs, knees, and even feet to ease and stimulate pressure points of the body. Yes, like Thai Massage, you are fully clothed while enjoying this kind of massage.
Khmer Spa is one of the top things to do in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Don’t miss this experience – BOOK A SPA KHMER LUXURY EXPERIENCE HERE
How to get to Siem Reap, Cambodia
Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia with Cebu Pacific Air. Cebu Pacific flies three times per week on Manila-Siem reap Route. To book your cheap flight, click the link below:
BOOK CEBU PACIFIC AIR FOR SIEM REAP HERE
For your convenience, you can book a private car to bring you to your hotel from Siem Reap Airport here – HOTEL TRANSFER FROM SIEM REAP AIRPORT
Getting Around Siem Reap, Cambodia
It is quite easy to get around in Siem Reap. I strongly suggest downloading a Grab Application and a Google Map for easy navigation. The moment you arrived at your hotel, ask for their call card to present to the driver if you have a problem communicating.
Tuk-tuk is a famous type of transportation in Siem Reap, Cambodia. However, Cambodians would want it to be called as Remorque to differentiate from the Tuktuk of Thailand. It would be best to agree on the price before hopping in.
Your choice of Transportation in Siem Reap, Cambodia would depend on the season, your budget, and the distance you would wish to visit.
Now, if you know how to use a motorbike, it would be great to rent one at a very affordable price and go wherever you want.
Weather|Best Time to Visit Siem Reap Cambodia
Siem Reap’s peak season is during the colder season from November to February. While quite it is challenging to visit during the wet season, which usually begins in July, it is also the season where temples look at their best. During this season the grass is greener, and most photographers would want to get beautiful photos of the temples during this time. Just be mindful of the cons though, like getting wet.
Etiquette When in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Despite millions of tourists visiting the place, Siem Reap, Cambodia belongs to a conservative society rooting its values from Buddhism. While Cambodians may understand that you may not be familiar with their cultures being a tourist, it would still be best to practice standard etiquette while in Siem Reap.
While visiting their temples it would still be best to dress descent casually like wearing some shawl or not taking down your shirt even it is hot in cases of men.
Crown Angkor Hotel, our home during our latest visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia
5A Luxury Hotel and Spa. Opening soon in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This 5-star hotel offers a dramatic ambiance with its all-wood structure, fitted for lux travelers. For more, email: info@5acambodia.com
List of Hotels, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Click here to book your hotel room in Siem Reap, DISCOUNTED HOTEL ROOMS IN SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA
Getting Connected in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Stay connected in Siem Reap, Cambodia with CEB Wi-fi Kit which you can book through their website. The Ceb Wi-Fi Kit booth is located in NAIA Terminal 3 for International departures. For more information, visit- CEB Wi-Fi Kit
Currency
1 USD = 4,061 KHR- 1 KHR = 0.013 PHP
USD is commonly used in Siem Reap, Cambodia, shops even the small stalls would peg their price in USD. You can withdraw money from the ATM at the airport the moment you arrive.
Electricity
Type A, C and G power plugs and sockets with the standard frequency of 50 Hz are being used in Cambodia.
Happy Trip Tips
- Pack comfortable clothes and shoes. Even if it rains, it could still be humid at times.
- Must have accessories are as follows: sunglasses, cap, shawl, fans
- Sunscreens are a must ( I prefer 100 SFP); you can also use an off lotion.
- Don’t forget your medicines. It is also best to bring always loperamide just in case you have a sensitive stomach, pain relievers, etc.
- Extra batteries and power banks.
- Use your haggling skills when shopping in Siem Reap, Cambodia
5 Day-4 Nights Travel Itinerary – Siem Reap, Cambodia
Below is our itinerary during our latest visit to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Feel free to tweak and make your own to suit your personal preference and style of traveling.
DAY 1
- Evening: Depart Manila, Philippines
- Evening: Arrival Siem Reap Cambodia Airport
- Hotel Check-in
- Dinner and Rest
DAY 2
- Morning: Breakfast, Temple Tour
- Visit Apsara Authority Ticket Center (please buy 3 Days Tour Pass)
- Visit Angkor Thom, Bayon, Elephant Terrace, etc.
- Noon: Lunch at Angkor Cafe (restaurant with A/C opposite Angkor Wat)
- Afternoon: Continue Tour After Lunch
- Visit Taphrom, East Baray Area, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Climb Bakheng Mountain for Sunset View
- Back to Hotel
Evening: Proceed to Kai Xin Restaurant for Buffet with Traditional Show - After Dinner: Visit Pub Street, Night Market
DAY 3
- Morning: Wake Up at 4.00 am and Depart Hotel at 4.45 am for Sunrise at Angkor Wat (The Angkor Wat offers a spectacular view during sunrise so, you might consider this activity.)
- Morning: After breakfast, Continue Temple Tour to Banteay Srey District
- Along the way, stop by at some temples, pagodas and other notable locations.
- Visit at Banteay Srey, considered as the most beautiful Temple in Angkor.
- Noon: Lunch at Bong Thom Home Stay (a local Restaurant at Banteay Srey surrounded by tropical trees and herb garden)
- Afternoon: Continue Tour and back to Siem Reap, Cambodia; Visit the Sister Buddha, King’s Palace, etc.,
- Back to hotel
- Evening: Dinner at Ba Jiao Lou Restaurant
- After dinner, Traditional Khmer Massage (of course you might want to have a short walk to digest your food to prepare your body for the experience)
DAY 4
- Morning: Breakfast in the hotel
- Morning: After breakfast, proceed to Tonle Sap Lake Siem Reap, Cambodia and visit bodies of water that is connected to Angkor Civilization: Understand the community of people who lives by the water.
- Stop by for a moment at WEST BARAY and understand its design and purpose.
- Start exploring the Largest Lake in the World.
- Noon: Lunch
- You can start shopping at the Old Market
- Dinner – Malis Restuarant, the biggest fine dining restaurant in Siem Reap, Cambodia
DAY 5
- Morning: Breakfast in the hotel
- Morning: After Breakfast, proceed to downtown for last-minute shopping at Angkor Market
- Noon: Lunch at Khema, a French restaurant
- Afternoon: After lunch, visit an old market for our last-minute shopping
Back to the hotel to pack your things - Dinner and Proceed to the Siem Reap Airport for your departure
More Happy Trip Travel Guides
- HONGKONG TRAVEL GUIDE
- TSIM SHA TSUI
- HONGKONG SPACE MUSEUM
- HONGKONG MUSEUM OF ART & THE AVENUE OF STARS
- DISNEYLAND
- NGONG PING 360 CABLE CAR
- NGONG PING VILLAGE, LANTAU ISLAND
- SYMPHONY OF LIGHTS
- STAR FERRY CRUISE EXPERIENCE
- VICTORIA PEAK
- OCEAN PARK
- TIPS TO TRAVEL MACAU FOR FREE
- LADIES MARKET
- MACAU TRAVEL GUIDE
In my opinion as a leader important events need to be acknowledge. I can deal with them by listening their ideas about the activity and how can they come up with a solution so that none of them will feel that I am favoring someone. With that, I can make them cooperate and follow my instructions.
Romar S. Dolor
If I were given the chance to lead our class for an important activity/project and some of my classmates are not cooperating nor following my instruction so as a group leader when my classmates are not participating the first thing that I will do is to confront and try my best to encourage them to cooperate in our activity. As a leader I will use participation of everyone to not only answers my question but to seek help or ask for clarification as well. I am going to do is we will exchange conversations to understand each other’s ideas so that we can feel comfortable about the activity or projects to be done.
If ever I will have an uncooperative member, I will first ask their concern about why they are behaving that way. most of the time, we are dealing with people we know nothing about their situation. Some are secretly struggling, and are just not open with it. As a leader, I will give them freedom to speak their concerns and try to address whatever the issue or the reason about why that person is uncooperative. If ever I did my best to understand them and address the concern, and still they are uncooperative, I will use my authority to remove from the group. I know that I did my best to address the situation in the most understanding way I can, and removing them is justifiable. I also believe that the downfall of one person in a group is also the downfall of the whole group. So I will not risk the future of my members just for one person who can not cooperate.
Melitado, Angel B. BSIT 3M1
If I am given the chance to lead our class in a certain activity, I will deal with my classmates who are not cooperating or following instructions by. First thing is that I am going to do is to have my self- control intact I must first resist my self to start a argument with them. Next, I should talk to them it’s important to validate their beliefs and thinking their point of view. Another, I should get them to listen on what I have to say and also I should listen of what they have to say. Lastly, Respect and Persuade each of them in that way they might listen to me.
Ely John B. Laureano BSIT 3M1
If I given a chance to lead a class for an important activity/project , to deal with my classmates who are not cooperating not following instruction. I will give a simple instructionsto my classmate and I will give consequence to those who are not following instruction. I will divide them into a group and every group will have a activity and every group will have a leader to mange and organize their activities. And to those who are not following to their leader i will not let them to join the group activities in our fieldtrip.
This is a beautiful place to visit and if I will bring a classmate they will easily get distracted and migth get siperated from others or the group. Therefor before leaving the hotel i will remind them to allways follow the leader and not to be hard headed so they will not get lost.
in the event that someone disobeys i will record it and report back to our teacher so that next time he gets evaluated before going on a fieldltrip.
John paul Navarette.3R1.
If I am given the opportunity to lead my classmates, the first thing to do is to tell them that we should respect the culture, community, and just enjoy our field trip, secondly, if my classmates are not united and do not follow what I said, I will give them punishment and Discipline those who do not follow me and so that they can enjoy the beauty of Siem Reap in a different way than Combodia, because there are many beautiful things to see there like, breathtaking temples, well-preserved colonial buildings , unique museums, cultural theme parks, expansive lakes and verdant mountains.
As a leader, I need to build a relationship with my classmates who’s not cooperating with my instructions. It’s my job to find a way to engage them. Adress them politely, have an informal discussion about what is going on for them. I am the leader, Leadership is a process of influence, so I have the power and responsibilities to influence them for a better future.
As a leader of the class, frst, I will convene them to discuss some of the rules before continuing to the trip. I’ll also warn them to be obedient with rules because Cambodians preserve and highly respected this place well. If there will be some of my classmates who break or not being cooperated then I will give them sanctions like; Apologize for the inconvenience, fixing or settling the damage done.
John Miguel Villa BSIT 3-M1
As a student leader, I will say to them that they should be respectful and follow the rules because the rules is very important. I will set a rules nicely and clearly and give some warnings and consequences if they dont follow it. Just for example if they dont follow the rules I will give 2 or 3 chances to correct their behavior and if they don’t obey and respect the rules that I given, I will say it to our teacher or professor that who are not obeying the rules and for the next field trip they would be able or cannot join.
If I lead the class for a field trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia, I will make sure that the class should be informed of the rules and regulations before the field trip to avoid accidents that may happen because we cannot predict the future. Also for the students who do not follow instructions or cooperate I should give them consequences like if they do not follow my instructions they will not be joining in the next field trip and also I will give them a class recitation after the field trip to know if they learn something on the field trip or not.
Patricia M. Pendon BSIT3-M1
As the class leader, I’ll deal with them by teaching them what I’ve learned and giving them advice that they should listen carefully and cooperate and that we must have unity for each other so that no one is left behind, but if my talkings don’t work, it’s time to tell our teacher about the situation so that our teacher can handle it and take good care of it.
If i given a chance to lead a class for an important activity or project in Siem Reap, Cambodia l will do the right and good discipline to the student just to ensure that they cooperate to our activities, to those who are not cooperating i will give them a warning. As a leader i will tell them that this activity is very important so that they will focus and understand.
As a leader i will talk to them privately, with all respect and ask them if they have a suggestion for activities we should do that they feel comfortable. And i will courage them to join and participate doing the activities so that they can boost there confidence to share ideas and let them to enjoy with gaining learnings or knowlegde.
Wenna M. Donguines BSIT 3-M1
To those of my classmate not cooperating nor following my instructions as a leader I will talk them calmly and ask why they’re not cooperating nor following and I’ll tell them that they need to cooperate to avoid accident and to prevent then from fighting.
Franz joseph A. Sillares
What I will do to my classmates who do not obey the order is that I will talk to them thoroughly. because what we will do will help and benefit each of us so they all just work together. Because it will be done for them and to make everyone happy.
Jeffrey bagahansol BSIT 3M1
If I become a leader, the first thing I will do is give instructions to understand what to do or where to go and if they don’t follow, I will give a penalty or so that I can discipline them properly and listen to what I have to say.
Ayomana , Mark Joseph
If i am the leader in the group in road trip, i will manage and tell my group that cooperate, participate and listen to my instructions so that the group will less problems during road trips, before we go i will tell them what to do to be safe in trip.
if I become a leader, I will give instructions that if they do not cooperate, I will give them penalty or consequences so that they become disciplined and follow me.
The Cambodia Land Mine Museum
To encourage my classmates to cooperate during field trip i will tell them that their is an question and answer after we toured the museum and i will give reward who can answer.
wow!! so many great things and amazing pictures.
Thanks for sharing this.
Thanks for sharing this amazing post.
Cambodia is on my bucket list for sure! Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom, this is incredible!