Siem Reap is the second largest city in the Kingdom of Cambodia. With its inspiring temples, colorful cafes and warm people, Siem Reap is a jewel of South-East Asia. It is also the gateway to Angkor, a UNESCO protected site of ancient ruins from the Khmer Empire. If you’re planning a getaway to this incredible city, Angelica Almas of eco club member Terrai has put together a 72 hour city guide for you to make the most out of your stay:
Bayon Temple
Siem Reap, Cambodia travel guide
Day 1
When you’re in Siem Reap, temple tours are an absolute must. Find a guide (Louet is one of the best in town) and head to the ancient city of Angkor by tuktuk (motorized rickshaws) to discover the impressive ancient ruins. Make sure you get there for the 5:00 am sunrise at the iconic Angkor Wat reflecting ponds. It’s an early one but worth every penny.
Angkor Thom
Once you’ve crossed that off your list there are tons of other temples to view but here are our recommendations for the must-sees in the Angkor area:
- Angkor Thom: Enter the ancient city of Angkor through this impressive Southern Gate
- Angkor Wat: One of the wonders of the world, this iconic temple is a must see. If you can manage to get up, make sure to be there during sunset
- Bayon Temple: The temple of over 200 stone smiling faces built in the 12th century
- Elephant Terrace: A striking 350m long wall decorated with carved elephants
- Ta Phrom: Known for the giant roots and trees, this was the temple where Angelina Jolie’s Tomb Raider, was shot.
Ta Phrom
This will definitely be a whole day affair so make sure you eat a big breakfast and ask your guide to find a restaurant to break for lunch. Post-tour, your body will be feeling it so make sure you book an appointment at the spa, Bodia, for a rejuvenating massage.
Day 2
Plan a later start to your day and make sure you get to sleep in, have a later breakfast and enjoy your hotel pool. Once you’re ready, head downtown for some shopping. Old Market, Made In Cambodia Market, Kandal Village & the Night Market are great options for finding artisan created products and souvenirs to bring back home. Make sure you put your bargaining skills to the test!
(Night Market, photo via Wikipedia)
In the evening, experience Khmer ancient culture with an Apsara Dance Show with dinner provided. If you’re still up for more, you can head to the pub street to experience the vibrant nightlife that the city is known for.
Apsara Theatre, photos via apsaratheatre.asia
Day 3
Lotus fields are found in abundance across Cambodia. As a predominantly Buddhist nation, the lotus flower holds a lot of significance for Cambodia as it represents spiritual awakening, purity and faithfulness. To dive deeper into this culture, have a unique experience by touring a local lotus farm which creates one of the rarest and most expensive fabrics in the world, lotus silk.
Lotus farm photos via lotusfarm.org
Terrai’s scrunchies are made from the city’s excess lotus stems which are then hand-extracted and processed from fibers into fabric. The scrunchies are no-dye making it a muted and versatile option. Learn more here and if you visit, see it all up close at Lotus Farm Siem Reap by Samatoa Lotus Textiles.
Post-tour, continue the vibes with one of the many amazing yoga classes offered in the city at Yoga Space Studios.
Below, find our recommendations for food and drinks around Siem Reap!
Food & Drinks Bible
- Malis Restaurant for elevated local cuisine
Zannier Phum Baitang Hotel for an elevated dinner - Fellini for amazing Italian
- Khmer Taste for cheap, no frills, local Khmer cuisine
Lum Orng restaurant for a farm to table dining experience - Gelato Lab for the best gelato in town
- Sister Srey for brunch, coffee, fresh pressed juices and smoothies
- The Little Red Fox Espresso Cafe for great coffee
- Miss Wong for a speakeasy style vibe and cocktails
A big thanks for Terrai and Angelica for sharing this wonderful tour of Siem Reap, Cambodia. Learn more about the process behind their own lotus silk textiles in this post and be sure to stop by byterrai.com to shop.
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