Siem Reap is renown as home to the world heritage of UNESCO and the ancient capital city of the Khmer Empire, now known as Cambodia, in the 9th and 15th centuries. As the documentation of the ruins and intact temples remaining is incredibly well preserved, visitors are able to experience the grandeur and rich history of the Khmer Empire firsthand.
It is also the largest tourism industry in the country; however, this industry was shut down during the pandemic. It has slowly started to recover as travel restrictions are being lifted. During the pandemic, the royal government of Cambodia rebranded the city and reconstructed its infrastructure and tourism facilities to comply with tourist demands.
Siem Reap is a very safe city to travel to and has a diversity of activities to enjoy on your holiday. The following are things to do in Siem Reap:
1. Angkor archeological site: in 1992, the area of the temple was adopted as the world heritage of UNESCO, which is stretching over some 400 square kilometers of reserved area that includes a forested area. Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 15th centuries. They include the famous Temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations. UNESCO has set up a wide-ranging program to safeguard this symbolic site and its surroundings. Further, it has been divided into two main temple areas, known as small and grand circuits.
1.1. How do you get there?
1.1.1. You can hire a remork (Tuk Tuk) with an English-speaking driver at a cost approximately between US$15.00 and US$20.00 per day per Tuk Tuk, or it depends on the certain area you will cover. This service can be organized by lodge staff or by a trusted person you may know.
1.1.2. Rent a vehicle with an English-speaking driver at a cost approximately between US$30.00 and US$45.00. This service can be organized by lodge staff or by a trusted person you may know.
1.1.3. A cycling tour in the Angkor area is an extraordinary experience where you can explore insight in a different way. You will have the opportunity to see the ancient temples up close and immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. The flat terrain makes it a pleasant and enjoyable ride for everyone. Join one of the tours that are available and depart daily to explore the breathtaking landscape. You won't regret it!
Ta Prohm temple - late 12th century, Buddhist temple, dedicated to king's Jayavarman VII's mother.
2. The Kulen National Park: The mountain range is the birthplace of the Khmer Empire and consists of a dozen brick and laterite stone temples. A natural waterfall is the main attraction, leading to the ancient belief that it was the holy river that some of the Khmer kings ordered his people to carve the thousand lingas—a Sanskrit word meaning “form” or “symbol.” It is a main tantric symbol for Lord Shiva, who is the destroyer and restorer, as well as the “god of yogis.” According to yogic texts, linga is the first and final form. It is believed that at the time of creation, the first form it took was that of an ellipsoid. The following remarkable icon is the reclining Buddha, which was built in the 16th century and is now the renown of the holy shrine and local pilgrimage attraction. The most visitors are enjoying the swim in the natural rapids at slow current and the waterfall. Until 1993, this area was a national park. This destination offers you a great hiking trail or a bus tour. You have to rent a vehicle or book a tour from a local operator in town and it should be done a day before. You will need the entrance ticket to be purchase from the booth in the city center at a cost of US$20.00 per person.
3. The great lake of Tonle Sap:
The Great Lake of Tonle Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.
Surface area | 2,700 km2 (1,000 sq mi) (minimum)16,000 km2 (6,200 sq mi) (maximum) |
What has the lake to offer? There are four different floating communities to visit by motor boat. At the floating villages are the daily livelihood distractions. You can get from the city by remork (Tuk Tuk) or private car and get on the long-tail motor boat out to the lake. The entrance can be purchased upon arrival at the destinations, and the cost is variable depending on the different floating villages. The tour will take about a half-day and include both way transfers and a tour out to the lake.
4. A cooking class - learn a Khmer cooking cuisine and its secret ingredients.
Do you love cooking? Food is a part of traveling, and tasty foods are the majority of satisfaction when exploring new destinations. Trying local dishes can provide a unique cultural experience and create lasting memories of your travels. In Siem Reap, you can find choices of cooking schools where you can take a half-day tour that includes your own meal cooked. However, a wide range of prices is between $25 and $45 per person. The tour will take 3–4 hours.
5. Cycling tour - Siem Reap offers the best cycling facility for full day or half-day tour.
Angkor Park offers the best cycling trails to explore the temples. The park's flat terrain and well-maintained paths make it easy for visitors to navigate on two wheels. Cycling through the ancient ruins provides a unique and immersive way to experience the rich history of Angkor.
1. FULL DAY CYCLING TO ANGKOR - The best choice to visit Angkor temples
A full day of cycling to the Angkor temples is an extraordinary experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Cambodia. The stunning architecture and intricate carvings of the temples will leave you in awe as you pedal through this ancient wonder. Exploring the temples by bike also provides a unique opportunity to discover hidden gems off the beaten path and interact with local villagers along the way. It's a physically rewarding and culturally enriching adventure that you won't soon forget.
2. A HALF-DAY TOUR TO THE COUNTRYSIDE
What can you do beyond the temple? Joining a half-day tour biking near Siem Reap is an extraordinary experience to learn about the local culture and history, as well as explore the beautiful countryside and interact with friendly villagers. This unique adventure allows you to see more of Cambodia beyond the temples and gain a deeper understanding of the region's rich heritage. The cycling route is quite unique and fits all fitness levels as it is flat, has village trails, and has great stops along the way to explore insight.
Plan your trip to Southeast Asia with local experts?
Comentários