The Backpackers Guide to Siem Reap, Cambodia

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🇰🇭 Updated for 2024 🇰🇭 One of the most captivating aspects of backpacking is the freedom it offers. Being able to shift plans spontaneously, without any overarching commitments, is a joy unique to this form of travel. Siem Reap, renowned for its iconic Angkor Wat temples and enticing backpacking vibe, perfectly encapsulates this sense of adventure. If you’re contemplating a stay or wondering about the things to do in Siem Reap, this guide has got you covered.

Is there a lot to do in Siem Reap?

Absolutely! Siem Reap, is often hailed as the gateway to Cambodia’s heritage, and is brimming with activities and experiences – the main being the Angkor Wat temple (which I’ve dived into in more detail below). 

• Night Markets: An absolute treat for shopaholics and foodies alike. Siem Reap’s night markets offer an eclectic mix of authentic Cambodian crafts, faux designer goods, and mouthwatering local delicacies. From fake Burberry bags to the iconic elephant pants, there’s a trinket for every traveler. And, if bargaining is your forte, you’re in for a treat.

• Pub Street: An iconic part of Siem Reap’s nightlife, Pub Street is more than just a strip of bars. It’s where East meets West. With a heady mix of traditional Khmer music venues, western bars, and street food vendors selling anything from local delights to fried tarantulas, it’s a place where memories are made.

• Floating Village: Beyond the city’s hustle and bustle lies the serene Tonlé Sap Lake and its floating villages. A boat ride here offers insights into the unique lifestyle of communities living on the water.

• Cambodian Cooking Classes: Dive into Cambodia’s culinary world by enrolling in a cooking class. Learn to whip up traditional dishes and understand the delicate balance of flavors that define Cambodian cuisine.

• Phare, The Cambodian Circus: Unlike any circus you’ve seen before, Phare combines Cambodian stories, music, dance, and acrobatic acts into a unique and mesmerizing performance. It’s a vibrant testament to the country’s rich culture and arts.

• Artisans Angkor: Discover the world of Khmer craftsmanship at Artisans Angkor. This social business helps young Cambodians find work in their home villages, promoting the continuation of traditional craft skills. You can witness artisans at work, sculpting, painting, and weaving.

• Wat Bo: One of the oldest temples in Siem Reap, Wat Bo offers a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle. The temple’s walls adorned with well-preserved religious art dating back to the 19th century are a sight to behold. 

With such a diverse array of things to do in Siem Reap, seamlessly blending the historical with the contemporary, backpackers have a so many experiences to jump into. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventurer, a food lover, or someone seeking relaxation, Siem Reap has something unique to offer.

Things to do in Siem Reap: Angkor Wat

A trip to Siem Reap (and a guide on things to do in Siem Reap) would be incomplete without witnessing the grandeur of Angkor Wat. Not only is it the largest religious monument in the world, but its intricate carvings and architectural genius have also cemented its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The temple complex spans over 400 square kilometers, consisting of numerous temples, hydraulic structures, and ancient urban plans. While a day would give you a snapshot, a two or three-day exploration is recommended to genuinely soak in its beauty.

Angkor Wat, built in the early 12th century, stands as a testament to the Khmer Empire’s architectural prowess. The central temple complex, with its lotus-bud towers, intricate bas-reliefs, and Apsara carvings, is a visual treat.

Equally captivating is the Bayon Temple, known for its giant stone faces, and Ta Prohm, which nature has reclaimed with tree roots intertwining with temple ruins. Watching the sunrise behind the iconic Angkor Wat silhouette or the sunset over the Pre Rup temple is nothing short of magical.

For travelers keen on diving deep into its history, hiring a local guide can provide insights into the complex’s cultural and historical significance. Alternatively, renting a tuk-tuk or a bicycle offers the freedom to explore at one’s own pace.

Getting to Angkor Wat

1. By Air: Fly to Siem Reap International Airport. Angkor Wat is close by.
2. By Road: Tuk-tuks, bikes, and cars are available from Siem Reap.
3. By Tour: Book a local guided tour for history and stories. You could also book your tour in advance on Get Your Guide. 

Angkor Wat Essentials 

• Sunrise: Visit early to see the sunrise.
• Dress: Wear modest clothing. Your shoulders and knees must be covered. 
• Stay Hydrated: Carry water. Once the sun has risen it can get unbearably hot. 
• Guide: Consider hiring a local guide for a richer experience.

Enjoy Angkor Wat! It truly is the gem of all the things to do in Siem Reap. Don’t forget your camera.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Best Camera for Travel Photography 📸

How Many Days Do I Need in Siem Reap?

Given the variety of things to do in Siem Reap, a minimum of 3-4 days would be ideal. 

How to get to Siem Reap

The allure of Siem Reap is undeniable. After spending an extended stay in Sihanoukville (admittedly, longer than I should have), I was eager to experience Siem Reap’s magic. My journey began with a sleeper bus from Sihanoukville, a 10-hour ride worth every minute. I was greeted by a city already bustling at 7 am with coffee shops, lively bars, and vibrant markets. Siem Reap is accessible and well-connected, catering to travellers from various parts of Southeast Asia.

• From Cambodia: Regular buses, including sleeper options, connect Siem Reap to cities like Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. As shared, the journey from Sihanoukville is approximately 10 hours, making sleeper buses an excellent choice.

• From Thailand: Buses run from Bangkok to Siem Reap, taking around 8-10 hours.

• From Vietnam: Direct buses from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap are available, with the journey spanning about 13 hours.

• Flying: If you’re in a hurry, there’s an international airport in Siem Reap too.
   

Things to do in Siem Reap: Where to stay

For budget backpackers, Siem Reap offers a plethora of extremely cheap lodging options. Most dorm beds in Siem Reap hostels start below £4 per person per night – crazy! These are the best hostels in Siem Reap. 

• Garden Village Hostel:  This is where I stayed. Ask seasoned backpackers about things to do in Siem Reap, and you’ll invariably hear tales from Garden Village Hostel. A haven for backpackers, there’s a lively pool area, amazing and cheap food (do try the Khmer style chicken amok!), and a great vibe. It’s the perfect place to kick back and mingle.

  • Prices for private rooms start at £7. Check current prices for Garden Village Hostel on TripAdvisor

• Onederz Hostel: Highly rated by backpackers, Onederz Hostel boasts a stunning rooftop pool, clean dormitories, and its proximity to Pub Street makes it an ideal choice. 

  • Prices for dorms start at £3 per night, privates at £7. Check the current prices for Onederz Hostel on TripAdvisor. 

• Funky Village: Living up to its name, the Funky Village hostel in Siem Reap promises a vibrant ambiance with its neon lights, daily parties, and modern amenities.

  • Prices for dorms start at £2, privates from £7. Check current prices for Funky Village on Hostel World. 

Find your perfect Hostel in Siem Reap below 👇

Is it worth it to go to Siem Reap?