Siem Reap

Transportation

Siem Reap Information

A breathtakingly beautiful resort town in northwestern Cambodia, Siem Reap is an incredible gateway to some of the most precious and culturally rich Angkor ruins. It is a must-visit when you’re in Cambodia and there are many ways to get there. Siem Reap has an International Airport, which is only 7 km from the town center and one of the easiest ways to get there. Many flights are serviced by the airport coming from and going to many well-known places including Bangkok, Shanghai, Luang Prabang in Laos and Singapore. If you are looking for a much cheaper option, there are many buses or minivans you can take from Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phnom Penh, Laos Border, Koh Kong and more. What is unfortunate is that there’s no direct railway line in Siem Reap, although, the only nearby station is Sisophon station. Also, the only direct boat rides available are between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh through the Tonle Sap River.

Siem Reap Information

The land of majestic temples, the gateway to the Angkor Region, seat of the Khmer kingdom, those titles only capture a glimpse of what Siem Reap has to offer. Siem Reap is a well-known resort town in Northwestern Cambodia, known for some of the most gorgeous and interesting temples on earth. But, that’s not all, as it has much more to offer. Between an intriguing cultural scene, wonderful nature, amazing temples, fancy hotels, delicious food and tranquil spas, Siem Reap has certified itself as an ultimate people pleaser and a must-visit destination.

Siem Reap Highlights

Angkor National Museum
One of the first places that you should visit while visiting Siem Reap is the Angkor National Museum. Located on the road to Angkor, is a state-of-the-art museum dedicated to the ultimate collection, preservation and showcasing of some amazing Angkorian artifacts. The museum displays several fine collections and informative exhibits including Pre-Angkorian period of Chenla and Funan, Angkor Wat, the Gallery of a Thousand Buddhas, the Great Khmer Kings and many more. Capturing audio commentaries and touch screens are implemented to serve a more interactive experience. It’s recommended that you visit the museum before any of the temples for a more beneficial context.

Phare the Cambodian Circus
Phare the Cambodian Circus is an entirely entertaining extravaganza, no one should pass by Cambodia without attending one of their riveting performances. This is much more than what you think a circus can be, as it’s not just a show. It’s a completely satisfying entertaining experience filled with culture and super meaningful messages. The circus has the highest-rated evening entertainment in Siem Reap. By telling moving stories that display Cambodia’s rich culture and history through performance art, Phare the Cambodian Circus has solidified its status as a highlight of the Cambodian experience.

Bayon
The Bayon is the state temple of the much-celebrated King Jayavarman VII originally built-in the 12th or early 13th century and located in the heart of Angkor Thom. A beautiful piece of architecture and an incredible temple, the Bayon has a mesmerizing presence providing a beautifully serene vista. While visiting, you can’t help but smile from ear to ear (pun intended) because of 216 enormous smiling faces of Avalokiteshvara engraved in the temple’s magnificent 54 towers. the temple’s former name was “Banyan Temple” and was changed after the locals who worked on the restoration of the temple mispronounced the name as Bayon, giving it its current catchy title.

Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is among Siem Reap’s most popular and most talked-about places. Originally built as a Hindu temple for the Khmer Empire to dedicate to god Vishnu, and since the 12th century till now is known as the biggest Buddhist temple in the world, Angkor Wat is a severely interesting grand temple complex located in Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia. The temple complex is a certified UNESCO World Heritage Site and is about 500 acres. Visiting this magnificent temple is a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you with a lingering feeling, giving your trip an extra boost.