Siem Reap

This is the former capital of the Khmer Empire, which ruled this region between the 9th and 12th centuries. Angkor Archaeological Park evokes the rich historical, architectural and cultural past of the Khmers. The majestic Angkor complex offers temples galore, which is a marvel to explore. Each temple is unique, from the grandeur of Angkor Wat to the beauty of Banteay Srei, this dynastic ’village’ is spellbinding. You need a minimum of two days to explore. As the temples are spread out, transportation is required. Bicycles, motorbikes, tuk-tuks and air-conditioned cars are at your disposal. Guides can be sought through most hotels and guesthouses.

Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. This vast expanse of water is at the heart of Siem Reap’s past and present lure. Cruising through the most popular village, Chong Khneas, you can see floating markets, a school and a bar. They look even more charming under the sunset. Not to forget that around the lake’s mangrove forests live over 100 different waterfowl. So, go discover more.

Revel in 360-degree views of temples, hovering high and low on a thrilling hot-air balloon ride. From 200 metres height, you can see the Angkorian ruins and the neighbouring countryside in all its splendour.

This Disney-styled village recreates Cambodian culture and history. From hill tribes to Phnom Penh’s Central Market, this tour gives you an original insight into the country’s past and present.

The Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) can only be visited by booking a guided tour for one and a half hours. This centre rescues and rehabilitates local animals and offers visitors a chance to learn about Cambodian wildlife.

This park is a welcoming break from temple-watching and is filled with beautiful butterflies and tropical flowers. Thousands of native species fly around the park and the professional guides will introduce you to the project and the park.

Cambodia still suffers from landmines spreading out in the country. This is not only a museum but also a home and school for at-risk youth and landmine-affected children. It tells the story of the 35-year war and how the inhabitants are still working to get rid of these cruel hidden weapons.

This temple is located close to the Old Market area and the Royal Residence. This is one of the oldest pagodas in the town and it is known for being unusually colourful compared to other temples, as well as unusual sculptures and beautiful gardens.

If you are planning to visit the temple ruins of Angkor Wat, this museum is a perfect start. It will equip you with a lot of valuable information shown in galleries and artefacts so you can easily understand the history and beliefs behind the temples.

To get into this national park, foreigners must pay a toll fee. This place sits magically on the top of mountains that have been used to build the temples of Angkor Wat. The water running from the beautiful waterfall is said to be holy and locals often bring a bottle of it with them home.

This temple is a must-see in Siem Reap. The photogenic and atmospheric combination of trees growing in the ruins of the temple make it one of the favourite tourist attractions. It was founded by the Khmer King Jayavarman VIIas as a Mahayana Buddhist monastery and university.