Siem Reap, officially Siemreap, is a province of Cambodia. It borders the provinces of Oddar Meanchey to the north, Preah Vihear and Kampong Thom to the east, Battambang to the south, and Banteay Meanchey to the west. Its capital and largest city is Siem Reap. Siem Reap Province, located in northwestern Cambodia, is renowned for its cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant communities. While Siem Reap town serves as the gateway to the iconic Angkor Archaeological Park, the province itself offers a range of attractions and activities. Here are some top attractions and things to do in Siem Reap Province:
Top Attractions:
- Angkor Archaeological Park: Explore the ancient temple complex of Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes iconic temples like Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei. Spend days exploring the intricate carvings, grand architecture, and fascinating history of these ancient wonders.
- Tonlé Sap Lake: Take a boat trip to Tonlé Sap, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, and explore floating villages like Kampong Phluk or Chong Kneas. Witness the daily life of local fishermen, visit floating schools and markets, and learn about the unique ecosystems of the lake and its flooded forests.
- Phnom Kulen National Park: Discover the natural beauty and cultural significance of Phnom Kulen National Park, known for its waterfalls, ancient ruins, and sacred sites. Visit attractions like the River of a Thousand Lingas, Preah Ang Thom, and the beautiful Kulen Waterfall.
- Beng Mealea: Venture off the beaten path to Beng Mealea, a sprawling temple ruin engulfed by jungle vegetation. Explore the atmospheric corridors, hidden chambers, and intricate carvings of this lesser-known temple, which served as a filming location for movies like "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom."
- Cambodian Landmine Museum and Relief Center: Learn about Cambodia's tragic history and ongoing landmine issue at the Cambodian Landmine Museum and Relief Center. Explore displays of weapons, demining equipment, and personal stories, and support the center's humanitarian efforts.
- Preah Vihear Temple: Visit Preah Vihear Temple, an ancient Hindu temple perched atop a cliff in the Dângrêk Mountains on the border with Thailand. Marvel at the temple's panoramic views and intricate architecture, and explore the surrounding sanctuary and forests.
Top Things to Do:
- Cultural Village Tours: Experience traditional Cambodian culture and customs with a visit to a cultural village like Kompong Khleang or Chansor Village. Participate in activities like traditional dance performances, pottery-making, and rice farming, and interact with local villagers.
- Cycling and Motorbike Tours: Explore the countryside and rural villages of Siem Reap Province on two wheels with a cycling or motorbike tour. Discover hidden temples, rice paddies, and scenic landscapes while interacting with locals and enjoying the freedom of the open road.
- Khmer Cooking Classes: Learn to cook authentic Khmer cuisine with a cooking class in Siem Reap. Visit a local market to select fresh ingredients, and then join a hands-on cooking lesson to prepare traditional dishes like fish amok, beef lok lak, and banana blossom salad.
- Birdwatching and Wildlife Tours: Discover the diverse flora and fauna of Siem Reap Province with a birdwatching or wildlife tour. Visit protected areas like the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary or Kulen Promtep Wildlife Sanctuary to spot rare bird species, including the endangered Bengal florican.
- Sunset Cruises and Kayaking: Enjoy a leisurely sunset cruise along the Siem Reap River or Tonlé Sap Lake, or embark on a kayaking adventure through flooded forests and floating villages. Experience the tranquility of Cambodia's waterways while soaking in the beautiful sunset views.
- Shopping and Dining: Browse through local markets like the Old Market (Phsar Chas) or the Made in Cambodia Market for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products. Sample Khmer street food, dine at rooftop restaurants, and experience the vibrant nightlife of Siem Reap town.