Flights from Chongqing (CKG) to Siem Reap (SAI)

About Siem Reap

Discover Siem Reap

Why visit Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is the gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park, where centuries-old stone structures rise from the jungle. Beyond its iconic landmarks, the city has a relaxed riverside atmosphere, leafy streets, and a growing creative scene that appeals to curious travellers.

What to expect
You will find compact neighbourhoods where boutique hotels, cafés, and galleries sit alongside everyday markets and local shops. The central Old French Quarter and riverside areas are easy to explore on foot, offering a mix of historic architecture and modern amenities with a gentle, unhurried pace.

Plan your trip
Many visitors use Siem Reap as a base for several days to explore Angkor and nearby countryside villages. It is also a handy springboard for travelling onwards in the region, with connections to Phnom Penh and other cities, making it a rewarding stop on a wider journey through Southeast Asia.

Top sights in Siem Reap

Angkor Wat

Explore the vast main temple complex of Angkor, known for its intricate carvings, soaring towers, and reflective pools at sunrise.

Bayon and Angkor Thom

Wander through Angkor Thom to see Bayon Temple, famous for its mysterious stone faces and atmospheric terraces.

Ta Prohm

Visit Ta Prohm, where tree roots weave dramatically through ancient stone walls, creating one of Angkor’s most photogenic scenes.

Siem Reap Old Market

Browse the Old Market area for local snacks, textiles, and souvenirs while experiencing the city’s lively daily trade.

Angkor National Museum

Gain context for your temple visits at Angkor National Museum, which showcases sculptures, artefacts, and engaging exhibits.

Tonle Sap Lake floating communities

Take a guided boat trip to Tonle Sap Lake to see stilted houses and learn about life along this vast freshwater lake.

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Enjoy an evening performance combining acrobatics, storytelling, and live music by talented local artists.

Siem Reap Riverside

Stroll along the riverside paths in the late afternoon to enjoy cooler air, local parks, and a relaxed view of city life.

Experience Siem Reap’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Tuk-tuks are one of the most convenient ways to travel between the city centre and the Angkor complex, offering open-air views and flexibility. For shorter distances, cycling or walking around the central districts lets you explore at a gentle pace and stop easily for photos.

Local life & culture
Siem Reap’s atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a blend of traditional homes, small galleries, and contemporary cafés. As you explore, you will see everyday scenes of riverfront gatherings and busy markets, along with cultural performances and artisan workshops that reflect the city’s creative energy.

Where to unwind
After temple visits, many visitors relax by hotel pools or in quiet garden cafés shaded by tropical trees. In the cooler early morning or late afternoon, the riverfront paths and small parks are pleasant for a gentle walk, giving you time to reflect on the day’s discoveries.

A taste of Siem Reap

Street food & local specialties
You can discover local flavours at markets and modest eateries around the Old Market and riverside areas, where stalls serve noodle dishes, grilled snacks, and fresh tropical fruit. These spots are ideal for sampling everyday cooking in a relaxed, informal setting.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Around the city centre, small restaurants, bistros, and cafés offer a mix of local and international menus. Many places are used to visitors exploring all day, so dishes are served quickly and in portions that make it easy to try several plates to share.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, consider dining at venues with rooftop terraces or garden settings, where you can enjoy open-air views and soft evening light. Some hotels and restaurants near the river create a calm atmosphere, ideal for a slower meal after a full day at Angkor.

Retail therapy in Siem Reap

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Compact shopping centres and mixed-use complexes in the city bring together everyday conveniences, small boutiques, and casual dining. They are practical stops if you need travel essentials, clothing, or a comfortable place to cool down during the heat of the day.

Markets & local crafts
Siem Reap is known for its night and day markets, where you will find textiles, artwork, and handmade items. Areas around the Old Market, the riverside, and nearby streets feature small shops and stalls showcasing local crafts alongside modern design pieces.

Evening retail scene
After sunset, the city’s markets and central streets become livelier, with illuminated stalls and open-front shops welcoming evening visitors. It is easy to combine an after-dark stroll with browsing and dining, and central locations are straightforward to reach by tuk-tuk or on foot from many hotels.

Best time to visit Siem Reap

Cool dry season (peak season)
From November to February, Siem Reap enjoys cooler, drier weather, with average temperatures around 24–28°C (75–82°F). Clear skies and comfortable humidity make this a popular time for long temple days, gentle cycling, and sunset views over the Angkor complex.

Hot season (shoulder season)
March to May brings hotter days, with temperatures often between 30–35°C (86–95°F). Early morning and late afternoon temple visits are especially rewarding, and the intense light can create striking conditions for photography around the ancient stone structures.

Green wet season (low season)
From June to October, showers and occasional storms refresh the landscape, with temperatures around 26–32°C (79–90°F). The surrounding rice fields and temple moats become lush and vivid, and you may find a calmer atmosphere at many sights between bursts of sunshine.

Frequently Asked Questions