Siem Reap Town
Gateway to the Temples of Angkor
Stretching north and south along the Siem Reap River, and east and west along National Route No. 6, the provincial capital of Siem Reap is the gateway to the ancient temple sites of the Khmer Empire. Designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Angkor Archaeological Park comprises dozens of temple ruins, including Bayon, Banteay Srey and the world famous Angkor Wat. The artistic and archaeological significance, as well as the visual impact of the Angkor Complex puts it on a par with the Pyramids, Machu Pichu, and the Taj Mahal. But unlike other world class monuments, the ruins of Angkor are as yet unspoiled by over-development. Although the major temples are visited by many tourists these days, it is still possible get away from the crowds, and to explore the mysteries of Angkor in peace and quiet.
Because the town of Siem Reap is close to the Angkor Archaeological Park, the area has been receiving foreign visitors to the temples for over 100 years. The town was originally a cluster of villages, which grew up around a series of temples along the Siem Reap River. The French made the town a regional center, and French Colonial style buildings can still be seen in the town center and around the Old Market. Now Siem Reap offers a wide range of accommodation from 5-star hotels, to budget guesthouses, to homestay with local families. There are restaurants, pubs and shopping, including large local markets, and night markets. Visitors can experience traditional Cambodian ‘Apsara’ dance performances, visit silk farms, take countryside tours, go on boat trips on the great Tonle Sap Lake to floating villages and bird sanctuary, and much more.