• Introduction
• Travel Information
• Money and Banking
• Communication
• Health Care and Security
• Shopping
• Things to See and Do
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat and Drink

Things to See and Do

Wats and Shrines

Wat Bo
Wat Bo is the most historic structure in Siem Reap Province, other than the Angkorian ruins. It is located off Wat Bo Road and its quiet surroundings contain stupas, flowers and shrubs and the monks’living quarters. However, the main attraction at Wat Bo is wall paintings depicting the Ramayana and scenes from the life of the Buddha. The elegant style and subtle colours of the murals contrast sharply with the current vogue for bright, garish temple paintings.

Unfortunately, the poor condition of the building in which they are housed means that many scenes have already been damaged or destroyed by rainwater. While teams of specialists have rightly been dedicated to the preservation of the Angkor Temples, this treasure-trove of Khmer art is now at great risk.

Free Meditation and Conversation Sessions at Wat Bo

The monks at Wat Bo offer free meditation sessions from 4.00pm-5.00pm Friday-Sunday and hold informal conversation sessions about Buddhism and their daily life Monday- Thursday from 4.00pm-5.00pm.
For further information contact 012 756490 or ask at the Wat
[Siem Reap Map F-11].

Wat Thmei

Wat Thmei (New Wat) The Wat contains a unique glass-walled stupa containing the bones of victims of the Khmer Rouge. Some of the bones were recovered from a nearby well, while others are the remains of soldiers who died on a nearby battlefield.
Located on the secondary road to the temples, 500m west of the road to Angkor about 1.5km north of town.
[Temple Map]

Wat Damnak

Wat Damnak is also a very old temple and houses the Center for Khmer Studies (a public library) in its compound. There are also colonial style-buildings around the temple.
[Siem Reap Map B-15]

Shrines

Buddhism suffered repression during the war years. Religious beliefs of any kind were banned by the Khmer Rouge and anyone caught practicing a religious faith was persecuted. With the arrival of peace the Khmer people quickly set about building new temples, reviving old traditions, and celebrating the Buddhist holy days. Local shrines came back into use. Siem Reap has several important and interesting shrines two of these are located on National Road No.6, across from the Royal Residence.

Preah Ang Chek and Preah Ang Chorm

This shrine holds two standing Buddha statues. The figures have great local significance and are believed to provide protection for the town. A local legend tells that Khmer Rouge cadres attempted to remove the two statues from the shrine, but the statues became heavier and heavier and the cadres were unable to lift them. Eventually they gave up and left the figures in situ.

Flowers and incense are sold from a stall in front of the shrine. A constant flow of visitors comes to pay homage and the shrine is often busy in the evening. The shrine to Preah Ang Chek and Preah Ang Chorm is considered a place of good fortune and it is common for newly-married couples and their families to visit the shrine. Wedding parties can often be seen outside.
[Siem Reap Map D-9]

Ya Tep

Cambodia’s provinces and towns have their own local spirits and protectors. In Siem Reap, Ya Tep is a sort of ‘patron saint’ who is believed to have the power to protect travellers. The shrine dates back to the 18th century. It attracts local worshippers on a daily basis and is very busy during the principal Buddhist holy days. The shrine to Ya Tep is easy to find, being located on an island in the middle of National Road No.6, next to the Royal Residence.
[Siem Reap Map D-9]

Museums

Angkor National Museum

The new National Museum in Siem Reap has recently opened and features the Angkor National Museum itself plus a Cultural Mall and shops. The museum’s 8 main galleries contain original artifacts restored by Angkor Conservation and a collection of 1000 Buddha statues. Other galleries focus on ancient clothing styles; the four principal kings of Angkor; the extant written material from the Angkor temples and the history and religion of pre-Angkor period. Innovative mixed-media displays tell the story of the Angkor civilization and multi-lingual tour guides and audio units are also available. The Cultural Mall has souvenir shops selling high-quality reproductions of ancient artifacts as well as traditional silks and handicrafts. The Mall also contains restaurants, cafes and a garden area.

The Angkor National Museum is located on Charles de Gaul Boulevard heading north towards the Main Entrance to Angkor Wat.
Entry costs $3 for Cambodians and $12 for foreigners
Open 10.00am - 8.00pm

Mine Museum

Founded by Mr. Akira, a former soldier and de-miner, this museum is a fascinating testament to Cambodia’s violent past, and to Aki Ra’s personal survival. It documents the story of Aki Ra’s life and experiences through a quarter of a century of war, and houses one of the world’s largest collections of decommissioned mines and other ordnance. Aki Ra is constantly seeking donations, and has recently founded an NGO, in cooperation with CLMMRF, to maximize his vision of “making my country safe for my people”. The museum is home to several young landmine victims taken in by Akira and his wife. This is a unique museum and a thoroughly worthwhile project that deserves your support. The museum is open from 7am to 6pm. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted and much appreciated.

NOTE: The Mine Museum is now on the right hand side of the road leading from Siem Reap to Banteay Srey. Tel: 012-598 951

Cambodian Cultural Village

Owned by the Canadia Bank, the museum displays Cambodian history and culture in a kind of over-priced theme park [entry for foreigners is 6 times the local price]. Good displays of traditional dance performed with vigour and enthusiasm by the exponents. There is also a wax museum. Avoid the crass and distasteful Judgment Tunnel, especially if you have small children.
Admission: $2 for Khmer, $12 for foreigners.
Location: National Rd. #6 Tel: 012-368999, Tel/FAX: (855) 63-963836

War Museum

A limited display of guns, mines, tanks and other military hardware. Open from 8am to 5:30pm. Entry costs $3. Do not confuse this museum with the Mine Museum.
Location: Kasekam Village off of National Rd. #6 on way to airport. Tel: 012-873 666
E-mail: warmuseum@forum.org.kh

Activities

Osmose: Trips to Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve

Not far from the floating village of Prek Toal is the 22 thousand hectare core bird reserve, part of the UNESCO declared Tonle Sap Great Lake Biosphere Reserve. Ariel surveys in the nineties revealed significant breeding colonies of large water birds extinct else where in South East Asia with seven species in particular: Oriental Darter, Spot Billed Pelican, Greater and Lesser Adjutant, Painted and Milky Stork and Black Headed Ibis. Thanks to the efforts of the WCS Rangers (Wildlife Conservation Society) the numbers of breeding pairs of these species has increased in the last 6 years. The birds nest in the reserve from September through March which corresponds with the flood of the lake from the back flow of the Mekong up the Tonle Sap River. During this time the reserve becomes accessible by boat. OSMOSE, a local NGO working in environmental education and conservation, runs trips to the core reserve in cooperation with the Environmental Research Station in Prek Toal. The visits are a must for any keen bird watcher visiting Siem Reap, and also for those who appreciate the beauty of an unspoiled wilderness. It also offers the opportunity to experience the floating village close up during a paddle boat tour of Prek Toal.
For more information, or to book a trip, contact OSMOSE at 012-832812, or osmose@online.com.kh.

Tara River Boat

For a great experience on the Tonle Sap Lake, the Tara River Boat provides tours to the great lake which include visits to the floating village, Environmental Center, Gecko Center, crocodile & fish farms, and dining on the river boat. The cost of the tours are all inclusive. The “Tara” is the largest ship on the lake, and is a beautifully restored, 50 year old vessel. Ten percent of all profits go directly back to the community. Day trips and Sunset trips are offered. You can spend the day on the lake, and enjoy fantastic sunsets. Air conditioned cabins with all amenities are available for overnight stay. Tours of the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, Kompong Phluk, and Kompong Khleang can be arranged. For more information, fees and schedules, contact the Tara River Boat at 012-771641, or inquire at your hotel or guesthouse.
E-mail: info@taraboat.com
Website: www.taraboat.com
[Temple Map]

Quad Adventure

Explore Cambodia and meet Khmer families in a spirit of Discovery, Respect and Safety. Guided Tours from 45 mins. to 1 day tours on our fully equipped All Terrain Vehicles.
Info & Booking : 012 178 47 26 (English, French and Khmer)
E-mail: info@quad-adventure-cambodia.com
Website: www.quad-adventure-cambodia.com
[location and details: Siem Reap Map E-16]

Balloon Rides

The balloon station is 1km to the west of Angkor Wat. The balloon rises 200 meters in the air on a fixed wire and provides amazing views of the temples and landscape. Sunrise and sunset are the most popular times for a ride. Tel: 012-520 810.

Countryside Tours

If you are enchanted by rice paddies and water buffalo, houses on stilts and little villages; you will find a tour through the Cambodian countryside truly worthwhile. Most travel agencies can arrange tours for you. However, for a more authentic experience consider asking your motodup or tuk-tuk driver to take you to his village. Many drivers are happy to do this and genuinely delighted that visitors are interested to see more of their country. The brash new hotels and restaurants in Siem Reap can give visitors a false impression of Cambodia. Poverty and poor living conditions affect most of the population and Siem Reap Province remains the second poorest Province in Cambodia, according to aid organisations. A journey in the Cambodian countryside can help to redress the balance.

Raja Yoga

Free one hour introductory sessions Mon. to Fri. at 5pm. Longer courses if you have the time. Experienced teachers offering a practical and simple meditation technique. Books & CDs in many languages are available. Registered NGO with branches in over 100 countries. Location: #652 Hup Guan St. (behind Riviera Hotel).
Tel. 012-258984 (Also in Phnom Penh Tel: 011-751395)
E-mail: angkor@kh.bkwsu.org
Website: www.bkwsu.org
[Siem Reap Map D-12]

Sokha Hilicopters

Flight packages available from $50 Per Person.
Cambodia has some of the most amazing sites in the world like Angkor Wat. To fully appreciate the wonder and scale of this unique temple region, you need to see it from the air. Sokha Helicopters lets you do this in comfort and style in one our luxurious, air-conditioned helicopters. More comprehensive scenic flights to remote temples are also available. Helicopters are available for private and commercial charters. Flights depart from the Balloon Site in Siem Reap.
Siem Reap Office: 24 Sivatha Rd. Tel: 012-1848 891, Fax: 063-966 072
E-mail: res@sokhahelicopters.com
Website: www.sokhahelicopters.com
[Siem Reap Map C-11]

Phnom Penh Office: #2 St. 134, Sangkat Mittapheap Khan, 7 Makara.
Phone/Fax: 023-885 772, Mobile: 016-831 468
Email: sokhahelicopters@hotmail.com
[Phnom Penh Map E-4]

Massage and Spa

There are numerous establishments around town that offer just about every variety of massage. Massages are also available at some hotels, nightclubs and hairdressers. These following services are all highly reputable:

Blue 7 Massage

Professional staff and nice ambience. Full body and foot massage with cream or powder, oil massage. Good therapy after a long day of temple trudging. Clean and air conditioned w/ relaxing music. A relaxing massage you’ll never forget. Open everyday from 10am to 12 midnight. Three locations in Siem reap to choose from:
1. Near Pub Street opposite the Provincial Hospital
2. Opposite Maharajah Restaurant
3. Sivatha Blvd. opposite Dead Fish Tower
Tel: 011-955 567, 016-507 968, 012-807 858
E-mail: santouch011@yahoo.com, info@angkorriverstar.com
Website: www.angkorriverstar.com
[Siem Reap Map C-13, D-13, Old Market Map]

Body Tune

When you need to re-balance and rejuvenate yourself in between your daily routine, Body Tune is the perfect time saving and resource saving answer. Suited to your lifestyle, Body Tune provides a professional massage to restore and enhance your natural beauty from the inside out. Be pampered and indulge yourself in a stylish and tasteful ambience. A truly unique experience for body, mind & spirit.
Location: 293-296 Pokambor Ave., near Old Market Bridge, Siem Reap Tel: 063-764141
Website: www.bodytune.co.th
Also 3 branches in Bangkok, Thailand.
[Siem Reap Map D-13, and Old Market Map]

Healthy Hand Massage

After a long day exploring the temples, unwind & relax with a massage from healthy hands. They offer the highest quality traditional Cambodian style massage. Treatments offered include: Foot Reflexology, Therapeutic Aroma Oil & Harnin Oil.
Free Transport to/from home or hotel! Professional Staff. Clean & Comfortable.
Open Daily from 10am to 11pm. Tel: (855) 12-999 936, 063-395 555
Location: National Rd. No.6, Siem Reap (100m west of Banteay Srey Hotel)
E-mail: reservation@healthy-hand.com
[Siem Reap Map Inset]

Lotus Massage

Body massage, Foot massage, Hand massage and Oil massage offered. Ladies and children welcome. Open from 10am to 11pm daily. #55 Oum Khun St., east of Sivatha St.
Tel: 012-452270, 092-692676, 012-955551
[Siem Reap Map B-10]

Seeing Hands 4 Massage by the Blind

Massage and Shiatsu by fully qualified professionals. Effective for relief of stress and for relaxation. Cool and comfortable atmosphere with quiet music.
Location: Sivatha Blvd., 25m behind the Cambodia Commercial Bank.
Tel: 012-786894
[Siem Reap Map C-13]

Seeing Hands 4 II Massage by the Blind

Massage Styles: Anma and Shiatsu from Japan. Located on the street opposite the CAB.
Tel: 012-286316, 012-286317
[Siem Reap Map C-13]

Nightclubs

Given the current size of Siem Reap it is surprising that there isn’t a wider choice of nightclubs. The principal nightclubs in town are:

Zone One

Located near the Salina Hotel on Phsar Nge Street, this modern club is popular with young Khmers. Its central location ensures that it is busy most evenings but it is especially lively at weekends. There is a large restaurant area outside and a small bar inside serving beers, cocktails and soft drinks. The dance floor is on the ground-floor level. The upstairs areas are given over to karaoke and massage facilities. [Siem Reap Map A-11]

Bakheng Club

The Bakheng Club has the best sound and lighting system in town and offers live performances as well as a disco. There is an outside restaurant as well as areas set aside for private massage and karaoke sessions.

This isn’t the easiest club to find, though most moto drivers know its location and can take you there direct. Turn south off Highway No.6 at the lights by the Angkor Paradise Hotel and take the first road on the right off Psar Nge Street. Follow the dirt road past the Norkorpich Chamroeun Guesthouse for about a kilometer until it bends right. The club is straight ahead.

Martini Bar

Though not as wild as its notorious Phnom Penh namesake, Martini Bar is the most down-market of the town’s nightclubs. Its riverside location near the Old Market Bridge makes it easy to get to and it is known to most moto and tuk-tuk drivers. The club serves a wide range of beers and these are promoted by highly persistent beer sellers. [Siem Reap Map E-14]