I still remember the day I first arrived in Siem Reap. Even though I’d read countless articles about Cambodia’s famous Angkor Wat, I didn’t realise how much more there was to discover in this town and its surrounding countryside. After my visit, I was hooked—Siem Reap had me under its spell. It felt like something special, almost magical, was hidden in every corner. During my stay, I experienced heartwarming interactions with the locals, saw mesmerising shows, and got tangled in the sweet chaos of night markets. Seriously, it was a whirlwind of laughter, sweat, wonder, and a couple of tuk-tuk breakdowns that added to the fun. 🤣
So here’s a little piece of my journey: 10 amazing things to do in Siem Reap that go beyond just the Angkor Wat temple complex. Don’t get me wrong, Angkor Wat is incredible, but there’s so much more to appreciate when you explore deeper! Let me share what I did, saw, and felt during my time in this remarkable place—and hopefully, you’ll feel as inspired as I did. 🌟
1) Wander Through The Old Market (Psar Chaa)
Just a few steps from Siem Reap’s lively Pub Street, you can find the Old Market (Psar Chaa). The first time I walked in, I was immediately hit with a medley of spicy scents, sweet-smelling tropical fruits, and colourful souvenirs crammed together in tiny stalls. I tried bargaining for a few items—I’m not always brilliant at negotiating, but I definitely gave it my best shot, and it was quite entertaining. 😅 The local sellers are friendly but also pretty shrewd businesspeople, so don’t be afraid to haggle politely.
I loved how each aisle brought new surprises: silver jewellery, intricately carved wooden statues of Buddha, and vibrant Khmer scarves known as krama. Many stands also offer local herbs and spices, so if you’re a foodie like me, you’ll find yourself in paradise. I remember the day I decided to buy a packet of roasted cashew nuts laced with chilli—my taste buds still recall that fiery bite. The market is also a perfect place to try street snacks: freshly rolled spring rolls or little plastic bags of fresh mango slices with a chilli-salt dip.
Prices here can range from US$1 (about 4,100 KHR) for small trinkets or postcards up to US$10–20 (around 41,000–82,000 KHR) for handcrafted items. A top tip: be respectful when bargaining. Khmer culture values politeness, and a friendly smile can go a long way! For updated info about Siem Reap’s market hours and local events, the closest reference is usually the Cambodian Tourism Ministry, though there’s no direct official page for Psar Chaa.
2) Experience Phare, The Cambodian Circus
One evening, I hopped into a tuk-tuk to see Phare, The Cambodian Circus, and it turned into one of the highlights of my entire trip! 🎪 Stepping inside the big top, I felt an instant surge of energy. Live music, enchanting lights, flamboyant costumes—this show is not your typical circus of lion tamers. It’s all about creative theatre, high-flying acrobatics, and brilliant storytelling that portrays life in modern Cambodia.
I was riveted by how the performers elegantly jumped and flipped through the air, sharing stories of daily Cambodian life—family dramas, historical hardships, and comedic bits that made everyone laugh out loud. There’s an emotional depth to it as well: you can sense their passion shining through each scene. The ticket price, roughly around US$18–35 (about 73,800–143,500 KHR) depending on your seat choice, felt like a bargain for such a professional and heartfelt performance.
I realised later that many of these performers come from disadvantaged backgrounds and have trained at Phare Ponleu Selpak in Battambang (a nonprofit art school) to hone their talents. Watching their artistry and thinking about how they transformed their lives through art made it even more meaningful. I literally had goosebumps. Be sure to book tickets in advance, because seats can sell out quickly—especially during peak tourist season. Their official website is pharecircus.org, where you can see the schedule and buy tickets online. This is not just another show; it’s a full-blown cultural experience that left me wanting more.
3) Visit The Floating Villages On Tonlé Sap Lake
I took a half-day tour to see the unique floating villages on Tonlé Sap Lake, Asia’s largest freshwater lake. Now, I’ll admit, I was a bit sceptical at first, because I’d heard about how some tours can feel ‘touristy’, but I’m so glad I went. Seeing an entire community living on stilted homes, floating rafts, and even boat schools was absolutely mind-blowing. I remember spotting a floating basketball court of all things—imagine shooting hoops on water! 🏀
Tonlé Sap is crucial to Cambodia, both as a fishing hub and a lifeline for countless families. I got to ride a small wooden boat, weaving through narrow waterways past children waving hello, laundry hung out to dry, and small shops precariously balancing on bamboo stilts. The cultural insight was incredible: families cooking inside open-air kitchens, fishermen returning with fresh catches, and even floating pig pens. Yes, pig pens on a raft—talk about a sight that made me do a double-take!
You have to pay a boat fee—some tours charge US$20–25 (around 82,000–102,500 KHR) which typically includes transport from your hotel, the boat ride, and sometimes a guide. Make sure you do a bit of research or opt for a reputable company that supports local communities, because you want to ensure your money directly benefits the villagers. For official guidelines on Tonlé Sap conservation and tourism, check the Ministry of Environment Cambodia to keep updated on regulations and eco-friendly practices.
4) Explore Beng Mealea Temple
Tucked about 65 kilometres from Siem Reap, Beng Mealea is an ancient temple that’s often likened to a ‘lost city in the jungle’—and for good reason. When I first arrived, my jaw literally dropped. Overgrown vines, mossy stones, collapsed towers, and the sense of nature reclaiming what man once built—that’s the vibe here. 🌿 If you’re a fan of the Tomb Raider aesthetic, this is the real deal (no Angelina Jolie cameo, though).
This temple dates back to the early 12th century, built in a similar style to Angkor Wat, and it’s believed to have been a key Hindu temple during King Suryavarman II’s reign. Wandering through the ruins, I felt an otherworldly calm. There were fewer crowds compared to the main Angkor complex, which made me feel like a genuine explorer stepping into unknown territory. Mind you, some sections can be a bit challenging to navigate due to fallen stones, but that’s part of the fun.
I vividly recall the moment I tried to climb up a crumbling doorway—both thrilling and slightly terrifying, but definitely worth it for the viewpoint of the collapsed galleries. An entry ticket to Beng Mealea is around US$5 (about 20,500 KHR), separate from the main Angkor Pass. The temple is maintained under the larger Angkor authority, and you can find more info on the official APSARA Authority website.
5) Marvel At Banteay Srei Temple
Banteay Srei often gets overshadowed by bigger names like Bayon or Ta Prohm, but honestly, this was one of my favourite temples. It might be small, but the intricacy of the carvings is on another level. I remember standing in front of a wall with these unbelievably detailed motifs and thinking, “How on earth did they do that without modern tools?!” The pinkish hue of the sandstone also makes it stand out from other temples in the Angkor region. 💕
Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, Banteay Srei translates to “Citadel of the Women,” and many believe the fine carvings could only have been crafted by female hands—though that’s more legend than proven fact. Still, there’s a certain feminine grace to the temple’s design that’s truly captivating. The temple is about 25 kilometres northeast of the main Angkor site, so you’ll need a tuk-tuk or a car to get there. The journey is scenic too: rice fields, sugar palm trees, and local villages on both sides.
I highly recommend heading out early to avoid the mid-day heat and large tour groups. Once inside, you can easily spend an hour just admiring the sculptures. Access is included with your Angkor Pass (one-day pass: US$37 / ~151,700 KHR). If you want to learn more about Banteay Srei’s preservation efforts, check updates on the APSARA Authority website as well. You’ll see why this gem of a temple is often called the “jewel of Khmer art.”
6) Take A Dip At Phnom Kulen & See The Waterfall
The day I ventured out to Phnom Kulen, I felt like I was stepping into a completely different side of Cambodia. Located about 50 kilometres from Siem Reap, this sacred mountain is a place of pilgrimage for Cambodians and is considered the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. There’s an entrance fee of about US$20 (around 82,000 KHR), but it’s well worth it. The winding road up the mountain is an adventure in itself—my tuk-tuk had a bit of trouble on the steep slopes, but we eventually made it. 😆
Phnom Kulen offers a break from temple-hopping and city chaos. Up here, you can bathe in a waterfall that feels wonderfully refreshing, especially on a hot day. I vividly recall the water being ice-cold against my skin, but it was such a relief after the sweaty journey. Don’t miss the massive reclining Buddha statue perched atop a hill—it’s carved right out of a huge sandstone boulder! The mystical atmosphere there is something I still think about. Monks chanting, incense burning, and a gentle breeze carrying the scent of frangipani flowers.
Because Phnom Kulen is a sacred place, dress modestly and respect the local customs. I saw many Cambodian families picnicking, laughing, and enjoying the day—joining them felt like I was invited to a secret part of local life. For official details on Phnom Kulen National Park, you can check Cambodia National Parks & Wildlife Sanctuaries via the Ministry of Environment. This day trip was the perfect way to reconnect with nature and cultural history, all in one go.
7) Feast On Khmer Cuisine & Night Market Adventures
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t eat my way through Siem Reap. 😋 Khmer cuisine is often overshadowed by Thai or Vietnamese food, but it’s seriously delicious in its own right. My first introduction to local flavours was through amok, a creamy coconut curry typically made with fish. I tried it at a small family-run restaurant, and the fragrance of lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves was out of this world. Prices for a good meal can be as low as US$3 (about 12,300 KHR) at street stalls or up to US$10 (around 41,000 KHR) in mid-range restaurants.
At night, the city comes alive with street food stalls near Pub Street and the surrounding night markets. Grilled skewers, noodle soups, crispy pancakes—just follow the tantalising aromas. My personal favourite was a stall serving lok lak, a stir-fried beef dish with peppery gravy. I’d drizzle fresh lime juice and salt-pepper mix all over it and then wipe the plate clean with warm rice. Drooling just thinking about it now! Don’t skip dessert either; try fried bananas or sweet sticky rice with mango.
If you want an interactive food experience, cooking classes abound in Siem Reap. You get to visit a local market to pick fresh ingredients and then whip up classic dishes. I did one such class and proudly served myself my own fish amok—tasted heavenly (or maybe I was just starving). For a quick reference, you can find cooking class schedules from operators listed on Siem Reap Official Tourism websites. Trust me, Khmer cuisine is a journey in itself.
8) Check Out The Angkor National Museum
After seeing so many temples, I wanted a deeper understanding of their historical and religious significance. That’s where the Angkor National Museum came in. Located on the road to Angkor Wat, this modern museum showcases the art, culture, and civilisation of the Khmer empire. I felt like I was time-travelling as I wandered through galleries filled with ancient statues, intricate lintels, and informative video presentations.
The place is very well-organised: they have audio guides (for an extra fee) and huge displays explaining the evolution of Angkor. I especially loved the Gallery of A Thousand Buddhas—it’s exactly what the name suggests, with an astonishing array of Buddha statues in different poses, some dating back centuries. Photography isn’t allowed in certain sections, so do respect the rules. Entry is around US$12 (about 49,200 KHR) for adults. Kids usually get a discounted rate.
Pro tip: Go here before exploring the temples. It gives context to what you’ll see in the archaeological park, so you can appreciate every carving and monument on a whole new level. The official website—angkornationalmuseum.com—lists opening times and ongoing exhibitions, so check it out to plan your visit. This museum is a real gem, blending technology and history to help you truly grasp the magnificence of the ancient Khmer empire.
9) Explore The Cambodia Landmine Museum
For a sobering but vital look at Cambodia’s recent history, I visited the Cambodia Landmine Museum. I’ll be honest: it’s not the easiest place to explore emotionally. The museum was founded by Aki Ra, a former child soldier under the Khmer Rouge who later dedicated his life to removing landmines throughout Cambodia. Walking through the small exhibition, I saw displays of defused mines, informative panels about the nation’s turbulent past, and heart-breaking photos of landmine victims.
It was a stark reminder that Cambodia’s history is not only ancient temples and glorious kings—it’s also marred by war and tragedy. Yet, there’s hope in the stories told here. The museum also runs an NGO that helps child survivors by providing them with accommodation, education, and medical support. Entrance is about US$5 (around 20,500 KHR), and proceeds go to clearing mines and supporting victims.
I spent a good hour reading each panel, watching short documentaries, and absorbing the atmosphere. It was heavy, but I left feeling inspired by the courage and resilience of the Cambodian people. If you’re interested, the official website is cambodialandminemuseum.org. As I headed back to my hostel, I realised how important it is for visitors to see not just the beauty of a place, but also understand its struggles and ongoing recovery.
10) Take A Day Trip To Koh Ker
On my final free day, I hopped on a guided tour to Koh Ker, roughly 120 kilometres northeast of Siem Reap. This remote archaeological site was once the capital of the Khmer empire in the 10th century under King Jayavarman IV. The best part? It’s much quieter than the main Angkor circuit, so you genuinely feel like an adventurer stepping into lost temples.
The crowning jewel here is the seven-tiered pyramid-like temple called Prasat Thom. Climbing to the top can be a bit of a challenge, but the vantage point is absolutely worth it. From up there, you can see the dense jungle canopy stretching for miles. I found it humbling to stand in a place so ancient and mostly reclaimed by nature. Another highlight is Prasat Krahom (the Red Temple), adorned with intricate stone carvings that have partially withstood centuries of weather and conflict.
Entrance fees to Koh Ker cost around US$10 (about 41,000 KHR). Because of its remote location, a day trip might cost you around US$60 (about 246,000 KHR) if you’re hiring a private car or joining a small tour group. Pack snacks and water, because amenities here are limited. You can find more details on visiting hours and preservation efforts on the National Authority for Preah Vihear site (they oversee Koh Ker as well). Honestly, stepping off the beaten path to see Koh Ker reminded me why I love travelling: discovering extraordinary places that still feel untouched by mass tourism.
Final Thoughts
My time in Siem Reap proved there’s so much more to see beyond Angkor Wat’s grand spires. From immersing myself in the bustling Old Market to marvelling at hidden temples enveloped by jungle vines, each experience carved out a new piece of my heart. Every tuk-tuk ride was an adventure, every bowl of curry a delightful revelation, and every smile from a local reminded me how warm and welcoming Cambodia is.
If you’re ready to venture beyond the obvious, you’ll find a destination brimming with surprises. I’ve visited many places in Asia (since I’m based in Tokyo, quick flights are always tempting!), but Siem Reap remains special. I can’t wait to return—there are floating villages yet to be explored, more temples to be admired, and more sizzling street food to devour. If you’re looking for more travel ideas or want to delve into other parts of Cambodia, check out this post on travel.lv99.gg for extra inspiration. 🏝️
Trust me when I say, Siem Reap is the gift that keeps on giving. Pack comfy shoes, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready to create memories you’ll treasure forever. Safe travels and happy exploring! 🥰
