Cambodia Circuit

Guide to the Temples

Guide to the Temples 
 
Ak Yom  
Constructed: Late 8th - Early 11th century C.E. Religion: Hindu (Shiva) 
King/Patron: 
The historically important ruins of a small brick and sandstone temple in very poor condition. The earliest elements date from the pre-Angkorian 8th century. Inscriptions indicate that a temple dedicated to the Hindu ‘god of the depths’ was previously located on the same spot. Ak Yom is the earliest known example of the 'temple-mountain' architectural design formula, which was to become a primary design formula for many of the Angkorian period temples including Angkor Wat. 
 
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Angkor Thom  
Constructed: Late 12th - Early 13th century C.E. Religion: Buddhism 
King/Patron: Jayavarman VII Style: Bayon Angkor Thom (Big Angkor) is a 3km2 walled and moated royal city and was the last capital of the Angkorian empire. After Jayavarman VII recaptured the Angkorian capital from the Cham invaders in 1181, he began a massive building campaign across the empire, constructing Angkor Thom as his new capital city. He began with existing structures such as Baphuon and 
Phimeanakas and built a grand enclosed city around them, adding the outer wall/moat. He then constructed some of Angkor's greatest temples including his state-temple, Bayon, set at the center of the city. There are five entrances (gates) to the city, one for each cardinal point, and the victory gate leading to the Royal Palace area. Each gate is crowned with 4 giant faces. The South Gate is often the first stop on a tour. 
 
Angkor Wat 
Constructed: Early - Mid 12th century C.E. Religion: Hinduism 
King/Patron: Suryavarman II Style: Angkor Wat 
Angkor Wat is visually, architecturally and artistically breathtaking. It is a massive three-tiered pyramid crowned by five lotus-like towers rising 65 meters from ground level. Angkor Wat is the centerpiece of any visit to the temples of Angkor. At the apex of Khmer political and military dominance in the region, Suryavarman II constructed Angkor Wat in the form of a massive 'temple-mountain' dedicated to the Hindu god, Vishnu. It served as his state temple, though the temple’s uncommon westward orientation has led some to suggest that it was constructed as Suryavarman II’s funerary temple. Other temples of the same style and period include Thommanon, Banteay Samre, Wat Atwea and Beng Melea, which may have served as a prototype to Angkor Wat. 
Angkor Wat is surrounded by a moat and an exterior wall measuring 1300 meters x 1500 meters. The temple itself is 1 km square and consists of three levels surmounted by a central tower. The walls of the temple are covered inside and out with bas-reliefs and carvings. Nearly 2000 distinctively rendered apsara carvings adorn the walls throughout the temple and represent some of the finest examples of apsara carvings in Angkorian-era art. But it is the exterior walls of the lower level that display the most extraordinary bas-reliefs, depicting stories and characters from Hindu mythology and the historical wars of Suryavarman II. It is in the viewing of the bas-reliefs that a tour guide can be very helpful. 
The first level of is the most artistically interesting. Most visitors begin their exploration with the bas-reliefs that cover the exterior wall of the first level, following the bas-reliefs counterclockwise around the temple. Bas-relief highlights include the mythological Battle of Kuru on the west wall; the historical march of the army of Suryavarman II, builder of Angkor Wat, against the Cham, followed by scenes from Heaven and Hell on the south wall; and the classic ‘Churning of the Ocean Milk’ on the east wall. The temple interior is not as densely carved as the first level exterior, but still sports hundreds of fine carvings of apsaras and scenes from Hindu mythology. A guide can be quite helpful in explaining the stories of the various chambers, statues and architectural forms to be found in the interior. At the upper-most of your tour of the temple, the central tower on the third level houses four Buddha images, each facing a different cardinal point, highlighting the fact that though Angkor Wat was constructed as a Hindu temple, it has served as a Buddhist temple since Buddhism became Cambodia’s dominant religion in the 14th century. Some say that it is good luck to pay homage to all four Buddha images before departing Angkor. The northern reflecting pool in front of Angkor Wat is the most popular (and crowded) sunrise location. The sun rises behind Angkor Wat providing a silhouette of the temple’s distinctively shaped towers against a colored sky. Some of the best colors appear just before the sun breaks over the horizon. The visual impact of Angkor Wat, particularly on one's first visit, is awesome. As you pass through the outer gate and get your first glimpse, its size and architecture make it appear two dimensional, like a giant postcard photo against the sky. After you cross through the gate and approach the temple along the walkway it slowly gains depth and complexity. To maximize this effect you should make your first visit in optimal lighting conditions, after 2:00PM when the sun is on the face of the temple. Do not make your first visit to Angkor Wat in the morning when the back lighting obscures the view.

Guide to the Temples Ak Yom Constructed: Late 8th - Early 11th century C.E. Religion: Hindu (Shiva) King/Patron: The historically impo...

Traditional Performance

3:03 AM 0

Traditional Performance 
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It has been a tradition since the earliest days of tourism in the 19th century to treat visitors to Siem Reap with an ‘Apsara dance performance’ - a taste of classical Khmer culture. No visit to Cambodia is complete without attending at least one performance. Dinner performances are now the most popular venue - most places offering buffet or set menus combined with a one-hour dance performance. Dinner ordinarily begins at 6:00 or 7:00PM and dance performances at 7:30PM or 8:00PM, consisting of 4 or 5 dances (classical and folk). Most dinner performances run $10-$35 including dinner and admission. Some place do not charge admission for the performance, but you are expected to order dinner. For the best seats, call for reservations. 
 
Traditional Khmer dance is not merely dance but is also meant to convey a story or message. There are 
four main modern genres of traditional dance: 1) Classical Dance; 2) Shadow theater; 3) Lakhon Khol 
(all-male masked dance-drama.); 4) Folk Dance. As evidenced in part by the innumerable apsaras 
(celestial dancers) adorning the walls of Angkorian temples, traditional dance has been part of Khmer culture 
for well more than a millennium. Yet there have been ruptures in the tradition over the centuries, making it 
almost impossible to precisely trace the source of the tradition. Though much modern traditional dance was 
inspired by Angkorian-era art and themes, the tradition has not been passed unbroken from the age of Angkor. 
Most traditional dances performed today were developed in the 18th through 20th centuries, beginning in 
earnest with a mid-19th century revival championed by King Ang Duong. Subsequent kings and other royals 
also supported the arts and dance, most particularly Queen Sisowath Kossamak Nearireach in the mid-20th 
century, who not only fostered a resurgence in the development of Khmer traditional dance, but also helped 
move it out of the Palace and popularize it. 
 
Many traditional dances including most Theatrical Folk Dances were developed and refined from the 1940s- 
60s under the patronage of Queen Kossamak at the Conservatory of Performing Arts and the Royal 
University of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh. Queen Kossamak trained her granddaughter Princess Bopha Devi in traditional dance from early childhood, and she went on to become the face of Khmer traditional dance in the 1950s and 60s both in Cambodia and abroad. Like so much of Cambodian art and culture, traditional dance was almost lost under the brutal repression of the Khmer Rouge in the late 1970s, only to be revived and reconstructed in the 1980s and 90s due, in large part, to the extraordinary efforts of Princess Bopha Devi. 
Classical dance, including the famous 'Apsara dance,' has a grounded, subtle, restrained, yet feather-light, 
ethereal appearance. Distinct in its ornate costuming, taut posture, arched back and feet, flexed fingers 
flexed, codified facial expressions, slow, close, deliberate but flowing movements, Classical dance is uniquely 
Khmer. It presents themes and stories inspired primarily by the Reamker (the Cambodian version of the 
Indian classic Ramayana) and by the Age of Angkor. 
Folk Dance come in two forms: ceremonial and theatrical. As a general rule, only Theatrical Folk Dance is presented in public performances, with Ceremonial Folk Dances reserved for particular rituals, celebrations and holidays. Theatrical Folk Dances such as the popular Good Harvest Dance and the romantic Fishing Dance are usually adaptations of dances found in the countryside or inspired by rural life and practices. Most of the Theatrical Folk Dances were developed at RUFA in Phnom Penh in the 1960s as part of an effort to preserve and perpetuate Khmer culture and arts.

Cambodia Activity Siem Reap Top Attraction Cambodia What to see & do Traditional Performance

Traditional Performance It has been a tradition since the earliest days of tourism in the 19th century to treat visitors to Siem Reap wit...

What to bring for your trip in cambodia

2:15 AM 0

Preparing 
What to bring for your trip in cambodia 
 
 
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Dress for a tropical environment - warm, humid, sunny. Wear light, airy, covering clothing to protect from the sun and mosquitoes. The sun can be intense so bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Consider buying a traditional Khmer scarf (krama) to keep the sun off your neck. Carry a raincoat during the wet season (May- October,) though you will probably only need it in the afternoon. You should have mosquito repellent for sunrise and sunset hours. Wear practical shoes for climbing narrow steps and walking on uneven surfaces. For serious temple explorers, a flashlight, notebook and compass can come in handy. Books, refreshments, water, trinkets and snacks are available from small vendors throughout the Park. The temples are too far apart to make foot travel practical (though some hearty visitors are hiking it anyway). Transportation options include: moto-remorques (tuk-tuks) are around $15-$20/day; taxis starting at $25-$30/day; motorcycle taxi (motodup) for $10-$12/day; bicycles for $2-$3/day. 
 
There are always additional fees for transport to distant temples outside the Park (e.g. Banteay Srey, Phnom 
Kulen, Kbal Spean, Koh Ker.) Negotiate the fare with your driver. Bicycling around the temples has become quite popular. If you have the time to spare, the roads are good, the terrain is flat and the distances are about right. See page 101 for more on transportation. This guidebook is an adequate introduction to the temples, but more extensive guides give better, more detailed treatment to the details of the bas-reliefs, temple layouts and architectural/artistic context. Guidebooks and other Angkor related books can be 
purchase at bookstores and many of the souvenir shops. Bootlegged books are sold at the Old Market 
and by vendors throughout the Angkor complex. Ancient Angkor (Guidebook) Michael Freeman and 
Claude Jacques. (Thailand: River Books, 2006) Beautifully photographed, authoritative guidebook to the temples of Angkor and the Angkor Archaeological Park. One of the top guidebooks to the temples. Recommended. Angkor: Cambodia’s Wondrous Khmer Temples (Guidebook) Dawn F. Rooney (Odyssey Publications, Hong Kong, 2006, 5th edition) Popular, complete, accurate. The most complete English language guidebook available. One of the top guidebooks to the temples. 
Recommended.The Angkor Guidebook: Your Essential Companion to the Temples Andrew Booth (Thailand: 2014, Amarin Printing and Publishing) Unique guidebook to the temples employing photo overlays to show how the temples may have appeared when they were new and active. Angkor Observed Dawn F. Rooney. (Thailand: Orchid Guides, 2003) A nostalgic picture of the early days of tourism to Angkor drawn through excerpts from 19th/20th century journals and travelogues. 
A Field Guide to Siem Reap Pagodas Ray Zepp. (Cambodia: 2000) A knowledgeable, easy-to-read introduction to Cambodian Buddhism and local pagodas. The Customs of Cambodia Zhou Daguan (Chuo Ta-Kuan). A short but unique and fascinating eye-witness account of royal and ordinary life in 13th century Angkor. (A) History of Cambodia David Chandler. (Bangkok Thailand: White Lotus, 1994) A complete, scholarly but accessible account of Cambodian history from the dawn of Funan to the present. 
Images of the Gods: Khmer Mythology in Cambodia, Laos & Thailand Vittorio Roveda. (Bangkok: River 
Books, 2005) A sweeping photographic exposition and historical analysis of ancient Khmer sculpture reliefs 
from Angkor and across the region. 
 
Khmer Heritage in the Old Siamese Provinces of Cambodia Etienne Aymonier. (Bangkok Thailand: White 
Lotus, 1999, orig. 1901) Turn of the century report/guide. Locations and temple descriptions of familiar and remote temples. The Monuments of the Angkor Group (Les monuments du groupe d'Angkor) Maurice Glaize. Classic 1944 guide to the temples written by a former Conservator of Angkor (1937-1945). Available in English and French and also online. www.theangkorguide.com Travels in Siam, Cambodia, Laos and Annam Henri Mouhot. (Thailand: White Lotus, 2000 reprint, orig. 
1864).

Essential Information What to bring for your trip in cambodia

Preparing What to bring for your trip in cambodia Dress for a tropical environment - warm, humid, sunny. Wear light, airy, covering cl...

siem reap town

12:33 AM 0

Siem reap town

Nestled between rice paddy countryside and set along the Siem Reap River, the provincial capital of Siem Reap City serves as the gateway to the millennium-old ruins of the Angkorian-era Khmer Empire. 
The Angkor Archaeological Park encompasses dozens of temple ruins including Bayon, Ta Prohm and the legendary Angkor Wat whose artistic and archaeological significance and visual impact put it in a class 
with the Pyramids and the Taj Mahal. And though the major temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park are very well touristed these days, it is still possible to capture a bit of the old spirit and discover Angkor. 
Siem Reap Town is where you will probably stay during your visit. The town offers a wide range of accommodations, including several 4 and 5-star hotels, dozens of mid-range places and plenty of budget digs, as well as an amazing variety of restaurants, lots of shopping opportunities and a vibrant nightlife. 
Often missed are the opportunities to experience traditional Cambodia: boat trips on the great Tonle Sap Lake, lake villages and the bird sanctuary, craft shops and silk farms, road tours through rice-paddy countryside and beyond. 
 
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The Old Market (Phsar Chas) area, including the nearby Pub Street, Pub Street alleys and the Night Markets, are favorites when visiting Siem Reap. Stretching from the river across to the night markets on Sivutha Blvd, the entire area is now the dining, shopping and nightlife center of town. Sok San Road across Sivutha, opposite the Old Market area has become quite popular as well, sporting dozens of budget-friendly business, especially guesthouses, bars and restaurants. 
Of all the traditional Cambodian markets in Siem 
Reap, the Old Market offers the deepest selection of souvenirs and curios. There are souvenir vendors throughout much the market, especially on the river side. The north side along Street 9 sports a number 
of inexpensive food stalls serving Cambodian fare in an interesting, local atmosphere. A good place for a 
budget meal and a taste of Cambodian street food. 
After the sun goes down, the focus shifts to 'Pub Street' and Pub Street alleys including The Passage, Alley West and The Lane. Named for the numerous pubs that line Street 8, it all began in 1998 when Angkor What? opened its doors - the lone pub on a lonely street. These days Pub Street is lined end to end with restaurants, pubs and shops, making it the tourist center of town, especially after dark. The narrow connecting alleys and passages just off Pub Street have also filled with small businesses, offering a somewhat quieter and more relaxed ambiance the ever-bustling Pub Street. 
 
Things really gets going on Pub Street around 5:00 PM as people return to town from the temples. The curbside seating fills, the bars crank up the music and the street is blocked to motor traffic, making it a pedestrian only area. Most of the drinking venues stay open until at least midnight and couple running until near dawn. 
 
Pub Street’s narrow connecting alleys and passages offer a relaxed, pedestrians- only alternative to the main street. Alley West is a particularly quaint little alley with an artsy, Old World atmosphere. 
The emphasis is firmly on boutiques, each with its own unique style - clothing, fashions, handicrafts, art and souvenirs - and a few little restaurants in the mix as well. Alley West Shopping Bambou Indochine Originally designed, high quality t-shirts, inspired by images of Indochina and hand printed on 100% cotton. 
Khmer Ceramics Fine Art Center Experience every step of the artistic ceramic process from the potter's wheel to carving, firing, glazing. Classes. Smateria Offering unique hand-made bags, accessories created from recycled products. Unik is a high quality Asian art gallery selling unique antiques, traditional art and contemporary Asian artworks. Wild Poppy Cute little boutique offering women's clothing, fashions and accessories. Also offering a range of quality local product, coffees, teas, potpourris, Bodia Nature products. Alley West Dining & Drinking 
Khmer Kitchen Very affordable, authentic Cambodian and other South east Asian dishes. 
Singing Tree Café Vegetarian friendly (fish, meat and seafood available) café serving signature home-style cooking. Alley West Travel & Tours (see pg 98) Beyond Unique Escapes Unique day trips, cycle, alms, treks, walks, villages, small groups, private packages, cooking classes, tickets. 
More Alley West Angkor Tattoo Western artist of 25 years experience. Promising adherence to strict U.S. standards. All inks and needles are imported from the U.S.

Siem Reap Top Attraction Cambodia What to see & do siem reap town

Siem reap town Nestled between rice paddy countryside and set along the Siem Reap River, the provincial capital of Siem Reap City serv...

Battambang

7:35 AM 1

Getting to battambang 
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Ask your guide or driver to tell you the legend. For sake of ease, take the winding path up the mountain nrather than the stairs, which make for a formidable climb. In the evening around 6:00PM two of the caves disgorge millions of bats which pour into the dusk sky for more than 30 minutes, making quite an impressive site. Not to be missed if you happen to be at Phnom Sampeou in the evening. 
 
Provincial Museum The Battambang Provincial Museum on the riverfront in the center of town houses a large collection of Angkorian and pre-Angkorian artifacts - statues, carvings, bits of ancient temples, pottery, etc. These little provincial museums can be a real treat for the Angkor enthusiast, containing some rare and unique pieces, and this is one of the best of the provincial museums. Hours: 8AM-11AM / 2PM-5PM. Friendly people always happy to see visitors. 
Guides available. Admission: $1. 
Tel: 092-914688, 016-896727 
Snack Tours Battambang Resort offers a unique snack tour between town and Wat Kor Village. A short cycling tour (also possible by tuk tuk) brings you to different kind of food stalls where you can try all kinds of traditional and modern Cambodian snacks. Every afternoon at 4:00PM. 
Tel: 012-510100 
<a href="http://www.battambangresort.com/">www.battambangresort.com</a> 
 
From Siem Reap: 
Boat The daily ferry between Battambang and Siem Reap plies a picturesque, 6-8 hour journey across the 
Tonle Sap and along the Sangker River, passing through some beautiful natural areas. The trip is best in 
the late wet season when the river is high. During the dry season it can take considerably longer. The ferry 
departs in both directions at 7:00am. $20/person. The boats do not meet international safety standards. In 
Battambang the ferry dock is at the north end of town just off National Route #5. In Siem Reap the ferry dock is at Chong Khneas, 15km south of town. 
Road (National Routes #6 and #5, via Sisophon): The road from Battambang to Siem Reap around the west 
side of the lake is in very good condition. Bus: At least four bus companies (including Capitol, 
Phnom Penh Sorya and Rith Mony) run two or three daily A/C buses, most leaving in the morning. Buy 
tickets at the bus company office. $4-$5, 3 hours. 
Taxi: A private taxi costs $40 (+/-$5). 
 
From Phnom Penh: 
Road (291km, National Route #5): The road is paved and in good condition. 
Bus Several bus companies (including Phnom Penh Sorya, Ponleu Angkor, Rith Mony and Capitol Tours) run multiple daily buses between Phnom Penh to Battambang. First bus departs at 6:30AM and the last at 
3:00PM. Fare: about US$7. The trip takes 5 hours. In Battambang, buses depart from the various transportation company offices. See the map. Taxi A private taxi is $45-$55. 4 hours. Rent a taxi andshare with friends to split the cost.

Battambang Top Attraction Cambodia Tourism site What to see & do Battambang

Getting to battambang Ask your guide or driver to tell you the legend. For sake of ease, take the winding path up the mountain nrather th...

Tonle Sap Lake

7:22 AM 0

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Tonle Sap Lake 
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Cambodia’s Great Tonle Sap Lake sits only 15 km south of town, a unique ecosystem and cultural area offering the opportunity to see a different side of the Siem Reap - floating villages, cultural and nature tours, birdwatching... Basic boat tours can be arranged at the Chong Khneas boat dock but we recommend arranging your tour through a reputable tour operator in Siem Reap. 
 
The Tonle Sap Lake is the most prominent feature on 
the map of Cambodia - a huge dumbbell-shaped body of water stretching across the northwest of the country. 
In the wet season, the lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, swelling to an expansive 12,000 
km2. During the dry half of the year it shrinks to as small as 2500 km2, draining into the Tonle Sap River, 
which meanders southeast, eventually merging with the Mekong River at the 'chaktomuk' confluence at 
Phnom Penh. During the wet season a unique hydrologic phenomenon causes the Tonle Sap River to reverse direction, filling the lake. The engine of this phenomenon is the Mekong River, which becomes bloated with snow melt and run off from the monsoon rains. The swollen Mekong backs up into the Tonle Sap at the point where the rivers meet at Chaktomuk, forcing the waters of the Tonle Sap River back into the lake. The inflow expands the area of lake more than five-fold, inundating the surrounding forested floodplain and supporting an extraordinarily rich and diverse eco-system. More than 100 varieties of waterbirds including several threatened and endangered species, over 200 species of fish, as well as crocodiles, turtles, 
macaques, otter and other wildlife inhabit the inundated mangrove forests. The Lake is also an important commercial resource, providing more than half of the fish consumed in Cambodia. In harmony with the specialized ecosystems, the human occupations at the edges of the lake is similarly distinctive - floating 
villages, towering stilted houses, huge fish traps, and an economy and way of life deeply intertwined 
with the lake, the fish, the wildlife and the cycles of rising and falling waters. 
 
Prek Toal Bird 
Sanctuary The sanctuary at the Prek Toal core area of the Biosphere Reserve has been called "the single most important breeding ground Southeast Asia for globally threatened large waterbirds." The Biosphere covers 31,282 hectares at the northwest tip of the Lake and plays host to species including Greater and Lesser Adjuncts, Black-headed Ibis, Painted Stork, Milky Stork, Spot-billed Pelican, Grey-Headed Fish Eagle and many more species. Of the three Biosphere core areas on the Tonle Sap Lake, Prek Toal is the most accessible from Siem Reap and the most popular with birdwatchers. The best time of year for viewing 
is the dry season (December-May) when flocks of migratory birds congregate at Prek Toal. As the dry season progresses and the water recedes, the number of birds increases but the travel to some of the 
more important viewing areas becomes more difficult. Arrange a trip to Prek Toal through your guesthouse 
or a tour operator. To do it yourself, take a moto or taxi from Siem Reap to the Chong Khneas boat dock. 
Arrange a boat to the Prek Toal Environmental Research Station (starting at $60 return,) a $20 
entrance fee and $30 for a guided boat tour of the sanctuary. The Research Station has information on the area's flora and fauna. There are also basic overnight accommodations if you want to stay the night to take full advantage of the sunset and early morning viewing hours. 
 
Chong Khneas is the floating village at the edge of the lake closest and most accessible to Siem Reap. If you want a relatively quick and easy look at the Tonle Sap, boat tours of Chong Khneas are available, departing from the Chong Khneas boat docks all day long. Take a tuk-tuk or taxi the 11-15km from Siem Reap to the docks where there are always boats waiting for passengers. Boat pricing is variable, traditionally by the boat, but they’ll charge up to $20/pax. The boatman will probably point out the differing Khmer and Vietnamese floating households and the floating markets, clinics, schools and other boatloads of tourists. Chong Khneas, while interesting, is over-touristed and is not as picturesque as floating villages further afield. The trip usually includes a couple of stops - usually one a touristy floating 'fish and bird exhibition' with a souvenir and snack shop. Sometimes they will also try to get you to agree to stop at a school or orphanage, which we do not recommend. Ask the operator to skip this part of the tour. Kampong Phluk is a cluster of three villages 
of stilted houses built within the floodplain about 16 km southeast of Siem Reap. The villages are primarily 
Khmer and have about 3000 inhabitants between them. 
Flooded mangrove forest surrounds the area and is home to a variety of wildlife including crab-eating macaques. During the dry season when the lake is low, the buildings in the villages seem to soar atop 
their 6-meter stilts exposed by the lack of water. At this time of year many of the villagers move out onto 
the lake and build temporary houses. In the wet season when water level rises, the villagers move back to 
their permanent houses on the floodplain, the stilts now hidden under the water. Kampong Phluk's economy 
is, as one might expect, based in fishing, primary in shrimp harvesting. 
 
Kampong Phluk sees comparatively few foreign visitors and offers a close look at the submerged forest 
and lakeside village life. The area can be reached by boat from the Chong Khneas or by road. It’s easiest 
to make arrangements through a tour operator, or if you are good at bargaining charter a boat at the 
Chong Khneas docks. During the wet season, drive to Roluos village just off Route #6 east of Siem Reap 
and then take a boat through the flooded forest the rest of the way. During the dry season the road is 
clear, making the boat unnecessary. 
 
Kampong Khleang  
Kampong Khleang is located on the northern lake-edge about 35 km east of Siem Reap. It is more remote and less touristed than Kampong Phluk. Visitors during the dry season are universally awestruck by the forest of stilted houses rising up to 10 meters in the air. In the wet season the waters rise to within one or two meters of the buildings. Kampong Khleang is a permanent community within the floodplain of the Lake, with an economy based in fishing and surrounded by flooded forest.But Kampong Khleang is significantly larger with near 10 times the population of Kampong Phluk, making it the largest community on the Lake. 
The area can be reached by boat from the Chong Khneas docks or by a combination of road to Domdek 
on Route #6 and then boat to the village, the best method depending on the time of year. During the dry 
season, boats cannot get all of the way to the main villages. Consult your guesthouse or tour operator about current conditions. Many tour operators have very little experience in this area so it is best to consult 
with adventure tour operators and guesthouses that specialize in this area. To get there yourself, either charter a boat from Chong Khneas or take car or moto to Domdek village on Route #6 east of Siem Reap, turn south and continue to the water's edge where boats wait to ferry passengers into the village. During the dry season the road is clear and you can take a car or moto all of the way to the village.)

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Siem Reap Tourism site What to see & do Tonle Sap Lake

Tonle Sap Lake Cambodia’s Great Tonle Sap Lake sits only 15 km south of town, a unique ecosystem and cultural area offering...

Other Things to do in Siem Reap

7:01 AM 0

Other Things to do in Siem Reap 
As enthralling as the temples of Angkor may be, there are lots of other things to see and do. Seeing a bit of Cambodia away from the temples can help avert ‘temple-burnout’ and round out your Cambodian experience. It also helps Cambodia by taking some tourist pressure off of the temples and spreading tourism dollars a bit more widely. In addition to the following suggestions, check out the sections on visiting the Tonle Sap Lake and on Traditional Dance Performances 
 
Bird Watching / Environmental Tours 
Siem Reap offers some unique birdwatching opportunities. The Prek Toal bird sanctuary on the Tonle Sap 
Lake and the Ang Trapeng Thmor reservoir northeast of Siem Reap both are home to many rare and threatened species. 
Ang Trapeng Thmor (ATT) Sarus Crane Reserve (The following about Ang Trapeng Thmor comes courtesy 
of the Sam Veasna Center.) Originally constructed as a water reservoir, the reservoir was rebuilt for irrigation and water storage by slave labor during the Khmer Rouge Regime. The reservoir now harbors a unique wetland associated with grassland, dipterocarp forests and paddy fields. Aside from being a feeding ground for more than 300 Sarus Crane in the dry (non-breeding) season, more than 200 species of other birds occur here, of which 18 have been classified as globally or near globally threatened. This is also one of the handful of sites in Cambodia where the endangered Eld’s Deer can be seen. Colonies of fruit bats inhabit larger trees that are often semi-submerged on the edge of the reservoir. 
The best time to see the Sarus Crane is from February to March, though an abundance of bird species can be viewed all year. There is also a hill top Angkorian-era temple a few kilometers into the forest where traditional silk weaving is still practiced in the adjacent village. A boat trip can be taken on the reservoir. 
Officially declared a Sarus Crane Reserve in 2000 the designated area covers over 12,000 hectares, following the work of Sam Veasna and friends at the Wildlife Conservation Society, all foreign visitors are required are required to register at the WCS Office. ATT (Ang Trapeng Thmor) is a day trip from Siem Reap though accommodation can be arranged at the through the Sam Veasna Center (see the following listing), giving birdwatchers the chance of dawn sightings and offering the opportunity of visiting the massive 
Angkorian temple complex of Banteay Chmar. Tour Operators Specializing in Birdwatching Angkor Center for Conservation of Biodiversity The Angkor Center for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) is the first nature conservation center in Cambodia. They offer rescue services to Cambodian wildlife, breed threatened species and serve as an education and training center for communities, wildlife officials and visitors. Visitors are encouraged to visit ACCB, they offer a daily tour Monday through Saturday at 1PM for a minimum donation of $3 per person. 
Sam Veasna Center (SVC) SVC organizes half or full day trips focusing on birds with a trained bird guide. 
SVC was set up to promote wildlife conservation in Cambodia. It works with the Wildlife Conservation 
Society and local village communities to develop remote sites close to the habitat of some spectacular 
bird life. The local communities benefit from the infrastructure set up for the visitors. Trips to see Sarus 
Crane at Ang Trapaeng Thmor, Giant and White Shouldered Ibis at Tamtboey, a vulture restaurant at Chhep, plus some beautiful and unspoiled countryside. 
Tel: 012-520828, 089-700301, 063-963710 
bookings@samveasna.org, <a href="http://www.samveasna.org/">www.samveasna.org</a> 
 
Balloon Rides 
Take a tethered helium balloon ride 200 meters straight 
up for an amazing aerial view of Angkor Wat (1km 
away) and the surrounding countryside. The big, yellow 
balloon is based about 1km east of Angkor Wat on the 
road from the airport. Best on days that are not too 
windy. 
 
Butterfly Gardens 
Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre An interactive butterfly 
exhibit 25 km north of town, on the road to the Banteay 
Srey. The exhibit consists of a netted tropical garden with 
thousands of free-flying butterflies, all native species to 
Cambodia. Tel: 097-8527852 
<a href="http://www.angkorbutterfly.com/">www.angkorbutterfly.com</a> 
 
Butterflies Garden Restaurant 1,500 tropical butterflies 
and a koi pond in a romantic, private garden. 
Creative tropical cuisine, unique Khmer specialties. 
Breakfast, lunch, dinner. Juices, shakes, beer, wine, 
cocktails. #535 Street 25, Wat Bo area. 
Tel: 063-761211<a href="http://www.butterfliesofangkor.com/"> www.butterfliesofangkor.com</a> 
Classes 
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Ceramics Classes 
Khmer Ceramics Class Create your own replica 
Khmer ceramic on the potter's wheel using traditional 
techniques. Potters will guide you through the 
process. Also offering “Art Activity”: Draw and/or paint 
your own design on mug, bowl, box, Buddha. Stamps, 
stencils, and pattern books available. Free pickup. 
Your creation fixed/fired/glazed and delivered to your 
hotel in 24 hours. 8AM-7:30PM. Road to Angkor. Tel: 
017-843014 www.khmerceramics.com 
 
Cooking Classes and Food Tours 
Alliance Art Café Half day Cambodian cooking classes 
by a Khmer chef. Trip to a traditional market to 
select ingredients. Cook several Khmer recipes. Wat 
Damnak area. Tel: 063-964940 
<a href="http://www.allianceangkor.com/">www.allianceangkor.com</a> 
 
Beyond Unique Escapes Half/full day Cambodian 
cooking courses held in a rural setting 10 minutes 
from town. Maximum six people per class. Booking 
essential. Corner Pub Street & Sivutha Blvd. 
Tel: 063-969269, 077-562565 
<a href="http://www.beyonduniqueescapes.com/">www.beyonduniqueescapes.com</a>

Siem Reap What to see & do Other Things to do in Siem Reap

Other Things to do in Siem Reap As enthralling as the temples of Angkor may be, there are lots of other things to see and do. Seeing a bi...

Dining Guide

6:57 AM 0

Dining Guide 
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Siem Reap is a food-lover's delight, offering an array of dining venues and cuisines from Asia and the West. Visitors have the chance to sample many types of Cambodian food, from traditional Khmer dishes to adventurous contemporary fare. French cuisine also enjoys a special place in Siem Reap, and is served at some of the town’s finest restaurants. Eateries are scattered across town, though many, including many specializing in Cambodian cuisine, are concentrated in the Pub Street area. For authentic Cambodian food on a budget try the Old Market stalls along Street 9. Listings in blue also offer a nightlife venue. 
Listings in maroon have traditional performances 
 
American 
Hard Rock Café Angkor 
Bar-Dining: American 
King’s Road Angkor 
Tel: 093-565655 
11:00AM - Midnight 
“Cambodia’s first Hard Rock Café” 
Set in an old colonial-style building next to King’s 
Road Angkor, overlooking the river. Good food, 
unique atmosphere, music memorabilia and live 
performances from all over the world. Indoor seating 
and riverside terrace. At the corner of the Old 
Market Bridge, opposite side from the Old Market. 
 
Asian 
Butterflies Garden Restaurant 
Dining: Asian & International 
#535 Street 25, Wat Bo area 
Tel: 063-761211 
8:00AM - 10:00PM ***Happy Hour: 3PM-7PM 
“Tropical butterflies in a romantic garden setting” 
Tropical butterflies and a koi pond in a romantic 
serene garden. The menu offers Khmer and international 
cuisine with an extensive vegetarian selection 
plus an array of fresh juices, beer, wine and cocktails. 
Specializing in events from corporate retreats to children's 
birthday parties. 
<a href="http://www.butterfliesofangkor.com/">www.butterfliesofangkor.com</a> 
 
The Grey 
Dining: Asian 
King’s Road Angkor 
Tel: 078-486940, 063-966940 
10:00AM - 11:00PM ***Happy Hour: 6PM-8PM 
“Experience a Fire Mountain” 
Khmer inspired restaurant, set in a traditional style 
wooden house. Specialty of the house is the Phnom 
Pleung (Fire Mountain) a unique Cambodian BBQ that 
sits in the center of the table for all to eat from and 
enjoy. Selection 5 meats to barbeque - beef, pork, 
chicken and even kangaroo, crocodile and ostrich. Live 
music during Happy Hour, 6-8PM every night. Visa/MC 
<a href="http://www.restaurant-siemreap.com/">www.restaurant-siemreap.com</a> 
 
 
Palate Angkor Restaurant & Bar 
Dining: Pan Asian 
Acha Sva Av. (riverside, on the east side) 
Tel: 063-965252 
11:00AM - 11:00PM ***Happy Hour: 5PM-7PM 
“Lovely riverside park view” 
Modern Pan-Asian cuisine including several signature 
dishes served in an open air restaurant or on the roof, 
under the stars, with an lovely riverside park view. 
Many seafood choices as well as a complete selection of meat and poultry. Large drink selection, cocktail 
menu and wine selections. Visa/MC 
<a href="http://www.palateangkor.com/">www.palateangkor.com</a> 
 
chinese 
Miss Wong Cocktail Bar 
Bar/Cafe 
The Lane, (Pub Street alley) Old Market area 
Tel: 092-428332 
6:00PM - 1:00AM 
“The coolest cocktail bar in town” 
The coolest cocktail bar in town also serves tasty 
snacks and light meals. The small but delicious modern 
Chinese menu perfectly complements the evocative 
decor; cherry red lanterns beckon visitors in to get a 
taste of old Shanghai. Be sure to enjoy the sliders--barbecued 
pork or duck on a Chinese bun--or one of their 
six types of dim sum. If you're looking for more, try one 
of their hot pots or bowls filled with rice or noodles. 
<a href="http://www.misswong.net/">www.misswong.net</a> 
 
Wok Republik 
Dining: Asian 
King’s Road Angkor 
Tel: 063-966740, 077-207572 
10:00AM - 11:00PM 
“Where the wok is king” 
The emphasis is on the wok, taking a Chinese cooking 
concept and applying it to Cambodian and Chinese cuisine. 
Open kitchen where you can watch the wok in 
action. Visa/MC/JCB/UC/ANZ 
<a href="http://www.restaurant-siemreap.com/">www.restaurant-siemreap.com</a> 
 
De Bon Shabu & Salad Bar 
Dining-Buffet 
Tep Vong Street, just off the river, center of town 
Tel: 092-855848 
11:30AM - 2:00PM / 5:00PM - 9:00PM 
“An inexpensive option, all-you-can-eat” 
This all-you-can-eat shabu and salad bar buffet is an 
inexpensive option for lunch or dinner. More buffet than 
salad bar, it offers a range of salads and prepared 
foods, with hot and cold Western and Asian options, 
plus dessert. Add the shabu option and make your own 
Cambodian-style shabu-shabu beef, seafood and vegetable 
soup. The cost is less than $10 per person, and 
there is special pricing for kids. 
 
Alliance Art Café 
Bar-Dining: Khmer 
High School Road, Wat Damnak area 
Tel: 017-809010, 063-964940 
9:00AM - 10:00PM 
“‘Tasting menus’ with a range of Khmer dishes” 
Set in a colonial-style building, combining an art exhibition 
space with a chic restaurant featuring traditional 
Khmer and classic French cuisine. Alliance offers a number 
of reasonably-priced ‘tasting menus’ prepared with 
fresh, local ingredients that allow visitors to enjoy a range 
of classic Cambodian dishes. Alliance also features a 
deep wine cellar and unique selection of fine spirits and 
champagnes, as well as menus in both French and 
English. Reserve in advance to enjoy an exclusive shadow 
theater and Khmer dances. Swimming pool. 
Visa/MC/JCB/AMEX 
<a href="http://www.allianceangkor.com/">www.allianceangkor.com</a>

Siem Reap Dining Guide

Dining Guide Siem Reap is a food-lover's delight, offering an array of dining venues and cuisines from Asia and the West. Visitors ...

Cambodia visas & entry

5:48 AM 0

Cambodia Visas & entry 
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A passport with at least six-month validity is required. A visa is required for most nationalities. 
One-month visas are available on arrival at the international airports in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh as 
well as most overland international border crossings with Thailand, Vietnam and Laos, and though overseas 
Cambodian embassies. One 4x6 photo is required. 
Tourist visa: US$30. Business visa: US$35. Tourist visas can be extended for one month, but only one time. Business visas can be renewed up to a year at a time, without limitation of number of renewals. 
Renew visas through a local travel agent or the Immigration Department located opposite the Phnom Penh International Airport. 
Tel: 012-581558 
E-mail: visa_info@online.com.kh. 
‘e-Visas' are available online through 
http://evisa.mfaic.gov.kh. US$37 for a 30 day visa. 
Processing time: 3 days. 
 
Arrival/departure 
Siem Reap International Airport The Siem Reap International Airport is a 6km, 15 minutes from town center. Taxis, tuk-tuks and motodups can be hired at the ticket desk located just outside the terminal doors. Taxis run $7, tuk-tuks are $5 and motodups $2 into town. Vans are also available for $10. Extra charges may apply for hotels outside the main town area. Most hotels offer free transportation from the airport with advance reservations. 
Chong Kov Sou Bus Station The main bus station is located near Phsar Leu a couple of kilometers west of town center. On arrival, tuk-tuks from the station into town run about $3-$4, and taxis for $5. For passengers departing Siem Reap, most bus companies offer a free shuttle service from the hotel to the 
bus station. See page 96 for more. 
Chong Khneas Ferry Dock For those arriving from Phnom Penh or Battambang by river ferry, the ferry 
dock is located at Chong Khneas near Phnom Krom, 15km south of Siem Reap town. On arrival rates from 
the dock to town run about: Tuk-tuks: $5; Taxis: $7.

Essential Information Cambodia visas & entry

Cambodia Visas & entry A passport with at least six-month validity is required. A visa is required for most nationalities. One-month...

Cambodia weather & climate

5:44 AM 0

Cambodia weather & climate 
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Practically speaking, Cambodia has four seasons: 1) December-February, cool and dry; 2) March-May, hot 
and dry, 3) June-August, hot and rainy; 4) September-November, cool and diminishing rain. As we go to print in May the hot season has well begun and the monsoon rains are due to start in a month or so. Currently days are mostly rainless and quite warm with mid-day temperatures averaging in the in the mid/upper-30s. 
The monsoon rains, when they begin, generally follow a fairly regular pattern with clear mornings and mid-days, and 1-3 hour rains in the mid-late afternoon, making them fairly easy to plan your day around. The monsoon rains ordinarily trickle off by the end of October or beginning of November. 
Though cool-dry season is considered the most comfortable time of year, the monsoon season has its advantages for the temple visitor. The countryside and temples of Angkor are particularly picturesque with their moats and pools full, the vegetation is green and lush. The colors in the wet temple stone stands much brighter and more apparent when wet. 
 
cambodia fact file 
Country Name: The King-dom of Cambodia Country Name in Khmer language: Kampuchea 
Motto: Nation - Religion - King 
Capital City: Phnom Penh 
Language: Khmer (Cambodian). Some English and 
French spoken. 
Population of Cambodia: 14.86 million (2012 est.) 
Important/Major Cities: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, 
Sihanoukville, Battambang, Kampong Cham 
Major Rivers/Lakes: Tonle Sap River, Mekong River, 
Bassac River, Tonle Sap Lake 
Ethnic Groups: Khmer, ethnic-Chinese, Cham, ethnic- 
Vietnamese, several ethnic minorities (hill tribes) in the 
northeast. 
Bordering Countries: Thailand, Laos, Vietnam 
Intl Airports: Phnom Penh (PHN), Siem Reap (REP) 
Religion: Theravada Buddhism, Islam (Cham,) Animism 
Land Area of Cambodia: 181,035 km2 
Land Area of Siem Reap: 10,299 km2 
Currency: Riel (US$1=~4000R) 
Voltage: 220v/50Hz 
Time: GMT +7 hours 
Country Calling Code: 855 
Internet TLD: .kh

About Cambodia General Information Cambodia weather & climate

Cambodia weather & climate Practically speaking, Cambodia has four seasons: 1) December-February, cool and dry; 2) March-May, hot an...