Siem Reap

Cambodia – Getting to know Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a city not only famous for the magnificent ruins of Angkor Wat – the largest religious monument in the world, but also for its countless structures built in unique colonial and Asian architectural styles. The most distinctive feature that you can feel when coming here is the sacred and ancient atmosphere that surrounds it.

At Siem Reap’s doorstep lies the expansive Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, and Phnom Kulen National Park, home to the sacred Phnom Kulen Mountain. Let’s join Absolute Asia Tours to know all the top things to do in Siem Reap, from the must-see temples, local insight to culture, tasting local delicacies and so much more.

Discover the Temples of Angkor

The so-called most attractive destination in Siem Reap, the Angkor temple complex, spans over 400 square kilometers and is surrounded by jungles and rice paddies. The crown jewel of the complex, Angkor Wat, holds deep cultural significance for Cambodia, even gracing the national flag if you notice.

Whether you’re visiting iconic sites like Angkor Wat or lesser-known temples, make sure to follow knowledgeable guides to ensure a full appreciation of their history and architecture. If you’re an early riser, the temples at sunrise are a photographer’s paradise, especially Angkor Wat and Bayon – bathing in golden light in dusk. With Absolute Asia Tours, you can tailor your Siem Reap tour to any of the Angkor temples at any time of the day based on your preferences!

Turning to one of the most mystical places in Angkor Wat complex – Ta Prohm, a temple enveloped by jungle vines and towering trees. As this is a famous setting for a Hollywood movie, you’ll witness mist rising through the ruins, creating an almost ethereal scenery and cinematic atmosphere. Another temple, Beng Mealea, offers an even more rugged, overgrown experience, where nature seems to have reclaimed the structure entirely. If you want to explore more mysterious temples in this huge complex, leave us a comment or contact us anytime!

Beyond Siem Reap’s Temples: Cultural and Natural Wonders

While the temples are the main attraction, Siem Reap offers plenty of other exciting things to do. For a taste of local life, you should definitely join a guided after-dark food tour through nearby villages. You’ll sample traditional Cambodian dishes like fish amok and Khmer noodle soup, or stir-fried beef garnished with tree ants if you dare!

If cooking is your passion, why don’t you take part in a hands-on cooking class at Kroya, a stylish restaurant near the town center? After a morning market visit with guides, you’ll create a five-course Khmer meal, all while enjoying the serene surroundings of Kroya’s lush garden.

Visit Tonle Sap’s Floating Villages

An hour outside of Siem Reap is Tonle Sap Lake, where the unique floating villages adapt to the seasonal rise and fall of the Mekong River. One of the most authentic ways to explore this area is by joining a community-led boat tour through the village of Kompong Khleang. You’ll witness stilted houses, local pagodas, and bustling life on the water, gaining insight into how these communities live in harmony with the lake’s changing tides.

If you want an unforgettable journey through this exciting destination, a Siem Reap tour package with Absolute Asia Tours can offer a carefully curated experience from the iconic temples of Angkor to the vibrant local culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or relaxation, our Cambodia tours are designed to make your trip extraordinary!