Things to Do
Things to Do in Siem Reap
Since it opened in 2007, Angkor Night Market has become one of Siem Reap’s most popular attractions. Cambodia’s first night market, the gigantic open-air venue has more than 240 shops, stalls, street food vendors, bars, and restaurants.
Overview of Angkor Night Market
Whether you opt to visit on your own or with a walking tour, give yourself plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere, stroll around the stalls, and shop for traditional handicrafts. The market is also one of the best spots in Siem Reap to sample traditional Cambodian cuisine, and there are numerous restaurants and street food stalls where you can tuck into local delicacies, from spicy soups to freshly cooked noodles.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Prices are always negotiable at the night market, so don’t be afraid to bargain.
- As well as shopping, it’s possible to get a massage or watch a 3D movie at the night market.
- The night market is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
Shopping at Angkor Night Market
The night market is an ideal place to pick up souvenirs. Vendors sell everything from clothing and household items, to exotic spices, cosmetics, and typical foods. Popular purchases include handmade crafts, clothing and textiles made from local silks, traditional jewelry, and Khmer-style wood and stone carvings.
When to Get There
The market is open daily from 4pm until midnight. Get there before 6pm to avoid the crowds, or time your visit for dinner and make the most of the many street food vendors. For those who want to make a night of it, there are also several bars in and around the market.
How to Get There
The Angkor Night Market is located on Siwatha Street near Pi Thnou Street. It’s easily reachable on foot from central hotels and attractions; otherwise a tuk-tuk can drop you off right outside.
Refurbished in 2018, the 5-acre (2-hectare) War Museum Cambodia is devoted to the weapons of Cambodia’s many conflicts. The collection, which you’re allowed to handle, runs from tanks and fighter planes to small arms and rocket launchers. One room focuses on the landmines that have caused such suffering in Cambodia.
Overview of War Museum Cambodia
Gain access to the War Museum Cambodia for a moderate fee, heavily discounted for locals; payments are in cash only, and there’s no ATM. Museum guides, all of whom have personal connections to the Cambodian conflict, are happy to answer questions in a range of languages free of charge. It’s easy to visit independently, but some Siem Reap city tours stop at the War Museum Cambodia. Consider joining a museum tour that includes a trip to the Wat Thmey Killing Fields.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The War Museum Cambodia will be of interest to Instagrammers and history buffs.
- The museum is a must-visit for families with kids that are into weapons.
- A small shop sells drinks, books, and souvenirs, while the museum offers Wi-Fi.
- The War Museum Cambodia is wheelchair-accessible, although the paths are uneven in places.
War Sights Around Siem Reap
If you’re headed to Phnom Penh, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek are key to understanding the Cambodian genocide and conflict. There are a few sights around Siem Reap, too. Besides the War Museum Cambodia, consider the Cambodia Landmine Museum and the Wat Thmey Killing Fields, a massacre site with a working monastery.
How to Get There
The War Museum Cambodia stands on the outskirts of Siem Reap, about 4 miles (6 kilometers) northwest of downtown. There’s no public transport, so most travelers will want to book a driver or an organized tour.
Opened in 2007, this modern, interactive museum showcases Khmer civilization and the Angkor era. Eight different galleries put the period in context with artifacts gathered from sites including Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. Topics covered include religion and belief, the great Khmer kings, the pre-Angkor period, and ancient costume.
Gain entrance to the Angkor National Museum for a significant fee; children under 4 feet tall (1.2 meters tall) pay half price. Explore with a guide or independently. Audio guides are available in a range of languages for an additional charge. The museum is an occasional stop on Siem Reap city tours and multi-day tours of the Angkor sites, and you can also add it to your itinerary when booking a private guide or driver.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Angkor National Museum is a must for history buffs and anyone who’d like to learn more about the Angkor era.
- Although there are video and touchscreen displays, the museum is largely focused on sculpture and carving. It may be a little much for young children.
- The museum is wheelchair-friendly, with wheelchairs available at the ticket booth.
A Walk Through the Angkor National Museum
Angkor National Museum tours start with a video introduction before you walk through the galleries in order. The Gallery of 1,000 Buddhas showcases religious sculpture; Gallery A introduces the beginnings of the Khmer Empire; Gallery B explores Angkorian beliefs; Gallery C profiles important kings; Gallery D and Gallery E focus on Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom; Gallery F examines stone inscriptions; and Gallery G highlights costume and dance.
How to Get There
The Angkor National Museum is located on the main road north from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat, 3 miles (5 kilometers) south of the temple complex. There’s no public transport in Siem Reap, so your options are scooter, bicycle, vehicle charter, or an organized tour.
