Flights from Hangzhou (HGH) to Siem Reap (SAI)

About Siem Reap

Discover Siem Reap

Why visit Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is the gateway to the famed Angkor archaeological complex, blending ancient stone temples with a relaxed riverside town. You will find leafy streets, characterful boutique hotels, and a welcoming atmosphere that invites you to slow down and explore at your own pace.

What to expect
The compact centre is easy to navigate on foot or by tuk-tuk, with cafés, galleries, and leafy side streets branching off from the main riverfront. Between temple visits, you can discover contemporary arts spaces, quiet neighbourhoods, and a growing scene of creative, design-led venues.

Plan your trip
Most visitors use Siem Reap as a base for exploring Angkor, the surrounding countryside, and nearby floating villages. It also works well as a starting point for wider journeys across Cambodia and the region, thanks to convenient air links and a wide choice of accommodation.

Top sights in Siem Reap

Angkor Wat

Explore the vast sandstone galleries and towers of Angkor Wat, the iconic centrepiece of the Angkor archaeological park.

Bayon and Angkor Thom

Wander through Angkor Thom to see Bayon, known for its serene stone faces and intricate bas-reliefs.

Ta Prohm

Visit Ta Prohm, where tree roots weave dramatically through centuries-old stone structures in a lush jungle setting.

Siem Reap River and old town

Stroll along the Siem Reap River and into the old town, lined with cafés, galleries, and characterful shophouses.

Angkor National Museum

Learn about the history, art, and symbolism of the Angkor era through well-curated exhibits and artefacts.

Tonle Sap floating communities

Take a guided boat trip to see stilted homes and floating communities on the nearby Tonle Sap lake.

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Spend an evening enjoying contemporary circus performances that combine acrobatics, storytelling, and live music.

Countryside cycling

Join a cycling tour through rice fields and village lanes for a glimpse of everyday rural life around Siem Reap.

Experience Siem Reap's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Tuk-tuks are a practical and atmospheric way to travel between your hotel, the town centre, and the Angkor temples. For longer days at the archaeological park, many visitors hire a driver for flexibility, while bicycles offer a slower, scenic option for shorter distances.

Local life & culture
Away from the main nightlife streets, calmer neighbourhoods reveal independent galleries, small studios, and relaxed cafés where you can see a quieter side of town. Local markets showcase everyday produce and household items, giving you a sense of daily routines and the close-knit community atmosphere.

Where to unwind
After temple sightseeing, you can relax by a hotel pool or choose a spa for a traditional massage to ease tired legs. The riverfront paths are pleasant for an early morning or late afternoon walk, when the light softens and temperatures are more comfortable for being outdoors.

A taste of Siem Reap

Street food & local specialties
Siem Reap offers many chances to sample local dishes, from simple noodle soups to grilled skewers prepared at small stalls. Traditional flavours are often found near markets and in side streets around the old town, where informal eateries serve generous plates ideal for sharing.

Casual & modern dining hubs
In the town centre you will find cafés, bistros, and relaxed restaurants clustered along main streets and alleys. Menus often blend local and regional flavours, and portions tend to be moderate, so you can comfortably try several dishes across a day without feeling rushed.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, consider dining in a converted villa, a refined hotel restaurant, or a venue with garden views. Some places offer outdoor seating where you can enjoy the warm evening air and soft lighting, creating a memorable setting after a day of exploration.

Retail therapy in Siem Reap

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Siem Reap has a small but growing number of lifestyle centres and air-conditioned complexes where you can find everyday essentials, simple souvenirs, and cafés. These are convenient if you are combining errands with a relaxed break from the heat.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller boutiques and markets around the old town showcase textiles, artwork, and design pieces created by local artisans. Neighbourhood streets near the river and central areas are good places to look for handmade items, from woven accessories to contemporary craft souvenirs.

Evening retail scene
As evening approaches, some market areas and streets become livelier, with stalls and shops staying open into the night. Well-lit walkways and the compact town centre make it easy to browse on foot, and local transport is readily available for a comfortable return to your hotel.

Best time to visit Siem Reap

Cool dry season (peak season)
From November to February, Siem Reap experiences its cooler dry months, with average temperatures around 24–28°C (75–82°F). Lower humidity and clear skies make temple visits and outdoor activities comfortable, and this is when the town feels most lively with visiting travellers.

Hot season (shoulder season)
March to May brings hotter weather, with daytime temperatures often between 30–35°C (86–95°F). The heat is ideal if you enjoy warm evenings by the pool and quieter walkways at popular sites. Early-morning and late-afternoon explorations help you make the most of the longer sunny days.

Green wet season (low season)
From June to October, showers become more frequent, and temperatures average 27–30°C (81–86°F). Rain often comes in short bursts, leaving bright, fresh conditions and lush greenery around Angkor and the countryside. With fewer crowds, it can be a peaceful time to experience Siem Reap at a gentler pace.

Frequently Asked Questions