How to Spend Your Time in Siem Reap
As the gateway to Angkor Wat Complex, the small town of Siem Reap is uniquely positioned along the river of the same name. It is endowed with scores of epic sightseeing opportunities that attract visitors worldwide. Around the town museums, well-preserved colonial buildings, and traditional markets rub shoulders with luxury resort hotels, elegant restaurants and glittering shopping malls offering relaxation and diversions for them. Discover how best to use your time in this remarkable town.
Explore Angkor Wat Complex
Also known as Angkor Wat, this is a massive Buddhist temple complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This site is listed as the largest religious structure in the world by the Gunness World Records, hence it is not surprising that many tourists choose their visit here as one of the initial things to do in Siem Reap.Built during the 12th century in the flourishing Khmer capital Angkor by King Suryavarman II, the Angkor Wat complex is a treasured Buddhist site and a national icon of Cambodia. During that era, Angkor was a well-managed city, and these temples were a part of that. Hence, exploring this complex covering the entire site gives a complete view of the Khmer Empire.
ziegler175, Angkor Vat, marked as public domain, more details on Wikimedia Commons
Admire Pre-Rup Temple
Pre-Rup Hindu Temple was the state temple of King Rajendravarman II built in the 10th century in East Baray. The mountain-style structure and stepped pyramid of this structure have used inspiration from the sacred Mount Meru of Hindu mythology. Dedicated to Hindu deities Shiva, Parvathi, Vishnu and Lakshmi this temple had been surrounded by moats.Apart from appreciating the details of this temple, most visitors love to watch the sunset from the vantage point here. A perfect way to end the day and head off to a nice meal.
Enjoy Phare Circus
This Cambodian circus is unique as compared to other circus performances, for one thing, no animals are used at all. Every act of entertainment is done by humans, and the performances also incorporate Cambodian culture.Using various forms like theatrics, dance forms, circus art, acrobatics and more, each show is based on a storyline bringing to life Cambodian stories such as historical, folk and even modern-day stories. Apart from being entertained and inspired by these circus artists, you will feel awe at their talent, energy and emotions. The one-hour show is fully worth the money you pay. It is a quick drive of less than 10 minutes from properties like Anantara Angkor Resort to Phare Circus.Although the shows start at 8 pm, you get to experience pre-show entertainment along with Cambodian street food, drinks and shopping from 5.30 pm. Make use of this time to browse the shopping or enjoy some food. Post show you can chat with the artists and even click photos with them. Their tickets get sold out fast, hence book yours in advance.
Enjoy Angkor Night Market
Opened over 15 years ago, this night market located in downtown Siem Reap is considered the best night market in the city. With over 200 bamboo huts that sell everything from clothes to unique handicraft items. Interesting ware such as silk paintings and stone carvings are picked up by visitors as are the useful items from Angkor Recycled stall, like purses, bags, wallets etc.There are many dining options if you are hungry accompanied by live music while some visitors opt for a good foot massage or a Khmer massage at the massage shops within the market complex.
Visit Angkor National Museum
This museum consists of several galleries and displays over 1000 artefacts on a two-storeyed building. There is much information about the Khmer Civilization and the famous Angkor Wat complex in this museum which will reinforce what you see on the physical visit during your trip. The gallery dedicated to the exhibit of over 1000 Buddhist and Hindu sculptures will be quite enlightening as they demonstrate the golden era of the Khmer Kingdom that is seen at Angkor Wat.
