12 Best Places to Visit in Siem Reap: Local Favorites & Hidden Gems (2025)
Siem Reap completely stole my heart the moment I set foot in this magical city. It’s the perfect blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty that makes it so much more than just a gateway to Angkor Wat.
Whether you’re planning to spend a few days or a full week exploring, this guide will take you through the 12 absolute must-see places in Siem Reap that combine iconic landmarks with off-the-beaten-path gems. I’ve personally visited each spot (sometimes multiple times!) to ensure you’re getting authentic recommendations.
Let me be your guide to experiencing the very best places to visit in Siem Reap!
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Overview of Siem Reap’s Must-See Places
Siem Reap is a treasure trove of experiences that captivates visitors with its perfect blend of ancient history and modern charm. While most visitors come for the temples of Angkor Archaeological Park, there’s so much more to discover in this vibrant city.
From the majestic temples of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm to cultural experiences at artisan workshops and museums, Siem Reap offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Nature lovers will find peace at Tonle Sap Lake and West Baray Lake, while those seeking authentic local experiences can explore bustling markets and hidden village gems.
Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking to connect with the local way of life, Siem Reap has something special waiting for you. Let’s dive into the 12 best places to visit in Siem Reap that will make your trip unforgettable!
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Iconic Temples
The ancient temples of Angkor are undoubtedly the crown jewels of Siem Reap and the main reason most travelers visit Cambodia. Built during the height of the Khmer Empire, these architectural marvels tell stories of a civilization that once ruled much of Southeast Asia. Here are the five temples you absolutely cannot miss.
Angkor Wat
UNESCO World Heritage World’s Largest Religious Monument
Angkor Wat is not just the most famous temple in Cambodia—it’s the largest religious monument in the world. This massive three-tiered pyramid crowned by five lotus-like towers rises 65 meters from the forest floor. The temple’s intricate bas-reliefs stretch for almost a kilometer, depicting scenes from Hindu epics and everyday life during the Khmer Empire.
🌟 My Experience: I’ll never forget waking up at 4:30 AM to catch sunrise at Angkor Wat. Despite the early hour and the crowds, watching the temple’s silhouette emerge against the changing colors of dawn was magical. I spent nearly 3 hours exploring afterward, when most tourists had left for breakfast.
Visitor Tips:
- Visit at sunrise for the most magical experience and photographs
- Book a guided tour to truly understand the temple’s history and symbolism
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking a lot!
- Don’t rush—allow at least 2-3 hours to properly explore this massive complex
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily
Angkor Thom
Ancient Capital Iconic Face Towers
Just north of Angkor Wat lies Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire. This massive 9 km² walled city contains several magnificent structures, but the highlight is undoubtedly the Bayon Temple with its 216 stone faces of Avalokiteshvara that seem to smile down at visitors from every angle.
💡 Pro Tip: When visiting Bayon Temple, look at the faces from different angles – each appears to be watching you no matter where you stand. I found the best photos were taken around 10 AM when the light creates interesting shadows on the face carvings.
Must-see spots within Angkor Thom:
- Bayon Temple with its enigmatic smiling faces
- The Terrace of the Elephants, a 300-meter viewing platform for royal ceremonies
- The Terrace of the Leper King with its hidden passageway and intricate carvings
- Baphuon Temple, an earlier temple mountain that’s been carefully reconstructed
Visiting Time: Allow at least half a day
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Ta Prohm
Tomb Raider Temple Nature Reclaiming Ruins
If Ta Prohm looks familiar, it might be because you’ve seen it in the movie “Tomb Raider.” This temple has been left largely as it was found, with massive tree roots embracing the stone structures in a haunting display of nature reclaiming human creation.
🌟 My Experience: I visited Ta Prohm just after a light morning rain, and the atmosphere was completely mystical. The dampness intensified the earthy smell, and fewer visitors meant I could take my time photographing the incredible trees without crowds in my shots. It felt like stepping into another world!
⚠️ Warning: The terrain at Ta Prohm can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. Wear shoes with good grip and watch your step around the massive tree roots and partially collapsed structures.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning (7-8 AM) to avoid crowds
Banteay Srei
Pink Temple Exquisite Carvings
Often called the “Citadel of Women” or the “Pink Temple” due to its rose-colored sandstone, Banteay Srei is a true gem located about 25 km northeast of the main Angkor complex. Built in the 10th century, this temple is small compared to Angkor Wat but makes up for it with some of the most exquisite carvings you’ll find anywhere in Cambodia.
💡 Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the pink sandstone glows in the setting sun, creating a magical atmosphere. I arrived at 3:30 PM and the lighting was perfect for both photography and appreciating the incredible detail of the carvings.
Distance from Siem Reap: About 25 km (1 hour drive)
Preah Khan
Maze-like Temple Less Crowded
Preah Khan is a massive temple complex that once served as both a city, monastery, and royal residence. Less visited than the main temples, it offers a more peaceful experience with its atmospheric corridors and beautiful carvings, including the famous “Tree of Life” where a massive fig tree emerges from the temple structure.
🌟 My Experience: Preah Khan quickly became my favorite temple in the Angkor complex. I spent a peaceful afternoon exploring its countless corridors and hidden chambers, often finding myself completely alone in sections of this enormous structure. The light filtering through the roof in places created the most beautiful patterns on the ancient stones.
Recommended Visit: Morning for best lighting, allow 1-2 hours
Temple Comparison at a Glance
| Temple | Key Features | Visitor Tips | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angkor Wat | Largest religious monument, intricate bas-reliefs | Visit at sunrise, hire a guide | 2-3 hours |
| Angkor Thom | Ancient capital, Bayon Temple’s smiling faces | Explore the South Gate, visit Bayon last | Half day |
| Ta Prohm | “Tomb Raider Temple,” trees growing out of ruins | Early morning for fewer crowds | 1-2 hours |
| Banteay Srei | “Pink Temple,” delicate carvings | Late afternoon for best lighting | 1-1.5 hours |
| Preah Khan | Vast complex, maze-like layout | Morning visit, hire a guide | 1-2 hours |
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Cultural Gems
While the temples rightfully steal much of the spotlight, Siem Reap’s cultural attractions offer deeper insights into Cambodian life, history, and craftsmanship. These sites provide a perfect complement to temple exploration and help you understand the country beyond its ancient past.
Artisans D’Angkor
Traditional Crafts Social Enterprise
Artisans d’Angkor isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s a social enterprise committed to reviving traditional Khmer craftsmanship while providing sustainable employment opportunities to rural communities. Here, you can watch skilled artisans create beautiful stone carvings, wood sculptures, silk paintings, and silver jewelry using techniques passed down through generations.
🌟 My Experience: During my visit, I met a young stone carver named Sokha who had been training at Artisans d’Angkor for three years. He explained how the organization had given him not just employment, but purpose and pride in preserving his cultural heritage. Watching his hands transform a block of sandstone into an intricate Apsara dancer was mesmerizing.
What to expect:
- Free guided tours in multiple languages that take you through different workshops
- Demonstrations of various crafting techniques
- A chance to purchase authentic, high-quality souvenirs that directly support local artisans
- A beautiful boutique with carefully curated pieces
Location: Downtown Siem Reap, easily accessible by tuk-tuk
Silk Farm
Traditional Techniques Free Tours
About 20 minutes from downtown Siem Reap, the Silk Farm operated by Artisans d’Angkor offers a fascinating look at the complete silk-making process. You’ll see everything from the mulberry bushes where silkworms feed to the intricate weaving of finished textiles.
💡 Pro Tip: The farm provides free shuttle service from the main Artisans d’Angkor shop in town. I recommend making a reservation a day in advance during high season to secure your spot. The 9:30 AM tour tends to be less crowded than the afternoon one.
What you’ll learn:
- How silkworms are raised and how silk threads are harvested
- Traditional dyeing techniques using natural materials
- The complex process of setting up a loom
- The difference between machine-made and hand-woven silk
Tour Times: 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM daily
Landmine Museum
Educational Humanitarian
Cambodia’s recent history includes the devastating period of the Khmer Rouge regime and its aftermath, which left the country littered with landmines. The Cambodia Landmine Museum, founded by former child soldier Aki Ra, provides powerful education about this ongoing issue while supporting rehabilitation programs for affected communities.
🌟 My Experience: This was one of the most sobering yet important experiences of my trip. Hearing the stories of survivors and learning about ongoing demining efforts gave me a much deeper understanding of Cambodia’s challenges. The resilience of the Cambodian people in the face of such adversity is truly inspiring.
Entrance Fee: $5 (supports humanitarian work)
Angkor National Museum
Modern Facility Historical Context
Before diving into the temples, the Angkor National Museum offers excellent historical context for what you’ll be seeing. This modern facility houses thousands of artifacts from the Angkor period displayed in eight chronologically arranged galleries.
💡 Pro Tip: I highly recommend visiting this museum before exploring the temples. The knowledge I gained here significantly enhanced my temple experience, as I could recognize the mythological scenes and appreciate the religious significance of what I was seeing. The $5 audio guide is well worth it!
Highlights of the museum:
- The Gallery of 1000 Buddha Images
- The impressive collection of Angkorian statues and reliefs
- Multimedia presentations about Khmer history and culture
- Air-conditioned comfort (a nice break from the heat!)
Entrance Fee: $12 (audio guide $5 extra)
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Natural Beauty
When temple fatigue sets in (and it will!), Siem Reap’s natural attractions offer a refreshing change of pace. These sites showcase Cambodia’s rural beauty and provide insights into traditional ways of life that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Tonle Sap Lake and Floating Villages
Ecological Wonder Unique Way of Life
Tonle Sap is not just any lake—it’s a remarkable ecological wonder that changes dramatically with the seasons. During the monsoon, the lake expands to up to five times its dry-season size, becoming the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. The communities that live on and around the lake have adapted to this rhythm, creating fascinating floating villages.
🌟 My Experience: I visited Kompong Phluk during the dry season when the houses stood on impossibly tall stilts above the parched earth. Our boat took us through flooded forests where the tops of trees poked out of the water—a surreal landscape that felt like something from a fantasy novel. The highlight was chatting with a local family (through my guide as translator) who invited us to see their home and explained how they adapted to the dramatic seasonal changes.
How to Visit Responsibly:
- Book through reputable companies that work directly with local communities
- Consider bringing school supplies as gifts rather than candy
- Ask permission before taking photos of people’s homes
- Choose smaller group tours for a more authentic experience
Popular floating villages:
- Kompong Phluk: My personal recommendation, as it’s less touristy than others. This village is built on tall stilts that tower above the water during the dry season.
- Chong Kneas: The most accessible from Siem Reap, but also the most commercialized.
- Kompong Khleang: The largest floating community, offering a more authentic experience but requiring a longer journey.
Tour Cost: Around $22 USD per person for a half-day tour
West Baray Lake
Ancient Engineering Local Recreation
West Baray is an impressive feat of ancient engineering—an 8km by 2.2km artificial reservoir built in the 11th century that still functions today. This massive man-made lake was part of the sophisticated water management system of the Angkor civilization and remains a popular recreational spot for locals.
🌟 My Experience: I visited West Baray on a Sunday afternoon and it was a delightful cultural experience. Cambodian families were picnicking on bamboo platforms, children were splashing in the water, and the atmosphere was festive and relaxed. I rented a boat for $15 to visit the island temple in the middle, then joined the locals for some delicious grilled fish and cold Angkor beer on the shore.
What to do at West Baray Lake:
- Rent a boat for a relaxing cruise on the calm waters
- Enjoy a local picnic on the shores with food from nearby vendors
- Swim in the refreshing water (a welcome relief in the hot season!)
- Visit the small island temple in the middle of the lake, West Mebon
Distance from Siem Reap: About 20 minutes by tuk-tuk
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Local Favorites
To experience the authentic side of Siem Reap, venture beyond the tourist hotspots and explore these local favorites. These places offer insights into everyday Cambodian life and provide opportunities for meaningful interactions with the community.
Old Market (Phsar Chas)
Local Life Shopping
Located in the heart of Siem Reap, the Old Market (Phsar Chas) is a bustling hub where locals and tourists alike shop for everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. This is where you’ll find the pulse of daily life in Siem Reap.
💡 Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning around 7 AM to see the market at its most authentic when locals are doing their daily shopping. The light is also beautiful for photography, and you’ll avoid the heat of midday. Don’t miss trying a traditional Cambodian breakfast of bai sach chrouk (grilled pork with rice) from one of the small food stalls.
Bargaining Tips:
- Start at about 50% of the initial asking price
- Keep a smile and maintain a friendly attitude
- Be willing to walk away if the price isn’t right
- Bundle multiple items for better discounts
Best For: Local food, textiles, souvenirs, people-watching
The Royal Residence
Peaceful Gardens Royal Heritage
Often overlooked by tourists rushing between temples, the Royal Residence offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens and interesting architecture. This is where the Cambodian royal family stays when visiting Siem Reap.
🌟 My Experience: I stumbled upon the Royal Residence gardens while exploring the area around the Raffles Hotel one evening. It was a delightful surprise to find local families relaxing in this beautiful space, away from the tourist crowds. The towering trees provided welcome shade, and I enjoyed watching children playing traditional games as the sun set.
Visitor Tips: Best visited in late afternoon, combine with nearby Royal Gardens
Kandal Village
Boutique Shopping Creative Hub
One of my favorite hidden gems in Siem Reap is Kandal Village, a charming neighborhood that has transformed into a hub for creative boutiques, cafes, and galleries. Located just a short walk from the Old Market, this area offers a more relaxed shopping and dining experience.
🌟 My Experience: I stumbled upon Kandal Village during my second day in Siem Reap when looking for a quiet place to escape the midday heat. I ended up spending the entire afternoon there, sipping excellent coffee at Little Red Fox Espresso, browsing beautiful ceramics at Trunkh, and chatting with shop owners about their businesses. It was such a lovely experience that I returned multiple times during my stay.
Highlights of Kandal Village:
- Boutique shops selling ethically-produced clothing and homewares
- Artisanal cafes serving specialty coffee and fresh cuisine
- Art galleries showcasing work by local artists
- Small spas offering traditional and modern treatments
When to Visit: Most shops open 10 AM – 7 PM, many closed on Sundays
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Practical Tips for Visiting Siem Reap
After multiple visits to Siem Reap, I’ve gathered some practical advice to help you make the most of your trip to these must-see places in Siem Reap:
Best Time to Visit
The ideal months are November to February when the weather is relatively cooler and drier. However, this is also peak tourist season. The wet season (June-October) offers fewer crowds and lush green landscapes, though occasional afternoon downpours might interrupt your plans.
How to Get Around
- Tuk-tuks: The most convenient way to explore the temples and city. Expect to pay $15-20 for a full day temple tour.
- Bicycles: Can be rented for around $2-5 per day—perfect for exploring the town and nearby temples.
- Private cars with drivers: Offer air-conditioned comfort for about $30-50 per day.
- E-scooters: Available for rent but check your travel insurance coverage before renting.
Temple Pass Options
- 1-day pass: $37
- 3-day pass (valid for 10 days): $62
- 7-day pass (valid for 1 month): $72
Accommodation Recommendations
- Budget: Onederz Hostel – Clean, modern hostel with a pool from $8/night
- Mid-range: Templation Hotel – Stunning eco-friendly resort with beautiful pools from $80/night
- Luxury: Jaya House River Park – Exceptional boutique hotel with plastic-free initiatives from $180/night
Cultural Etiquette
- Dress modestly when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered)
- Remove hats and shoes when entering religious buildings
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially monks
- Don’t touch anyone on the head (considered sacred in Cambodian culture)
- Use both hands when giving or receiving items
Safety Tips
Siem Reap is generally very safe for tourists. The main concerns are petty theft and traffic accidents. Keep valuables secure and be careful when crossing streets.
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Make Your Siem Reap Adventure Unforgettable
Siem Reap is so much more than just a base for exploring Angkor Wat. By venturing beyond the main temples to discover cultural workshops, natural wonders, and local hangouts, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Cambodia’s rich heritage and resilient spirit.
My most treasured memories of Siem Reap aren’t just of the magnificent temples (though they are undoubtedly awe-inspiring), but of the connections made with local artisans, the peaceful moments watching sunset over Tonle Sap Lake, and the flavors discovered at small market stalls off the tourist path.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore more deeply, I hope this guide to the best places to visit in Siem Reap helps you create your own meaningful experiences in this magical corner of Cambodia.
Looking to plan your perfect Siem Reap itinerary? Don’t miss these essential experiences:
- 3-Day Angkor Wat Explorer Pass with Guide
- Phare Cambodian Circus Show Ticket
- Cambodian Cooking Class with Market Tour
Have you been to Siem Reap? Which places were your favorites? Let me know in the comments below!
Safe travels,
Alexandra
