Siem Reap Description:
Siem Reap, in Cambodia’s Northwestern region, is the country’s gateway to The Angkor Archeological Park where travelers flock in droves to explore the ruins of the Khmer Empire’s greatest temples and cities.
Siem Reap’s downtown area has retained its French colonial charms, and host of trendy bars and excellent restaurants has sprung up in the French Quarter catering to the city’s international visitors. It’s a wonderful area to stroll through during the daytime, and the colonial market pavilion, jam packed mostly hand made goods and souvenirs, is worth a long look. As dusk settles over the city, the French Quarter’s charms truly begin to shine as tourists filter in looking for refreshments after a long day of exploring the Angkor Archeological Park’s seemingly endless supply of temples.
While the temple ruins in the Angkor Archeological Park are the main sight in the area, Siem Reap has a number of excellent excursions all its own. The Angkor National Museum is one of Cambodia’s finest museums, and the modern building showcases the Khmer Empire’s rich civilization in impressive galleries. Wat Bo is one of the oldest temples outside of Angkor, and the well-preserved wall paintings in the interior depicting the Khmer Empire’s version of the Ramayana are worth studying.
Best Time to Visit Siem Reap:
Siem Reap’s best weather lies between December and May during Cambodia’s dry season. Short bursts of powerful rain are common between June and November, but the extra precipitation during these months alleviates the high daytime temperatures that mark Cambodia’s monsoon season.
How to get to Siem Reap:
Siem Reap is the capital of Cambodia’s northwestern Siem Reap Province. Travelers enjoying one of our luxury tours of Cambodia reach Siem Reap in a private vehicle leaving from Phnom Penh.
Siem Reap Highlights:
Siem Reap’s charms are simply irresistible. The city is a vibrant mix of ancient traditions and modern amenities that can easily convince you stay much longer than you originally planned.
Appropriate Attire:
Western-style clothing choices are fine to wear while visiting Siem Reap and exploring the city’s intact colonial French architecture.