Siem Reap, Cambodia, is the gateway for exploring Angkor Wat. These insider tips to Siem Reap help open the door to the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire.
Siem Reap is one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia. Gateway to the world-renowned UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park, this small city in northwest Cambodia has become a vibrant hub for travelers seeking to explore the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire.
Sun rising behind Angkor Wat. Photo courtesy of Park Hyatt Siem Reap
Once on the ground, though, visitors realize Siem Reap is more than just a base for exploring the Angkorian temples. It’s a destination in its own right. A unique blend of old-world French colonial charm, modern amenities, stunning natural beauty, delicious Cambodian cuisine, rich culture, and a young population wanting to get on with life after many years of hardship. You can check out many Cambodia tours to visit this intriguing destination.
An Insider Offers Tips for Exploring Siem Reap
Siem Reap is an adventure at the top of many Southeast Asian visitors’ bucket lists. But how do you prioritize what to see and do? Thankfully, we’ve tapped an insider, Rina Mariani, General Manager of Park Hyatt Siem Reap, to help you navigate all the Temple City offers. Originally from the Indonesian island of Bali, Rina has worked in Europe, the Middle East, and across Asia. Since early 2022, Rina and her family have called Siem Reap home. Read on for her recommendations and insider tips for Siem Reap.
Our Siem Reap Insider—Ms. Rina Mariani, General Manager, Park Hyatt Siem Reap. Photo courtesy of Park Hyatt Hotels.
How Many Days Do Visitors Need for a Siem Reap Trip?Â
Rina Mariani: Previously, visitors only spent three to five days in Siem Reap, trying to squeeze in their temple and other Siem Reap experiences. Now we are seeing five to seven days as the norm. One of our best insider tips for seeing Siem Reap is that you need around three days to cover the Temple experience and up to five days to catch many other compelling attractions.
Angkor Archaeological Park—What are your recommendations?
Rina Mariani: The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat is the first reason people add Siem Reap to their Cambodia itinerary. It is an experience of a lifetime. For first-time visitors, engage a certified guide to ensure you get the best understanding of what you are seeing. These are temples and city structures dating from the 9th to 15th centuries. There are so many fascinating stories to learn. Angkor Wat remains the star attraction, though Bayon, Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm are all must-sees.
Early morning on the Angkor Thom reservoir is an example of the ever-changing faces of the Park. Photo by Michael Cullen
Then there are sunrises over Angkor Wat or sunsets viewed from Phnom Bakheng. Visiting at different times of the day, you experience the light play and mood changes on the facades of the temples and the sculptures within them. Guided Bicycle or Vespa Adventures tours are alternative ways to see and experience the Park. Or let our in-house Cultural Insiders tailor something specifically for you. This 400-square-kilometer Park contains many temple complexes, so exploration opportunities abound.
Touring Angkor Archaeological Park by Vespa with your own guide is a fun option. Photo courtesy Vespa Adventures
What is your personal favorite Angkor temple?
Rina Mariani: Ta Prohm is where I go on weekends for quiet and space. It is a mesmerizing temple to visit, and I love getting lost in my thoughts while wandering within it. The world got to know it thanks to those scenes in the Hollywood film Tomb Raider. Although work has been done to stabilize the ruins, Ta Prohm was deliberately left much as it was found. The towering ficus trees grow in and over the buildings, giving it the nickname the ‘jungle temple.’
It is easy to get to thanks to the new cycle paths within and leading to the Archaeological Park. Visit early in the morning when everybody else is at Angkor Wat. The surrounding jungle is alive with sounds, and the light is at its best for keen photographers trying to catch the ongoing battle between nature and architecture.
The ongoing battle between nature and architecture at Ta Prohm. Photo by Michael Cullen
What is on your Siem Reap ‘Must Do or See’ list other than the Angkor temples?
Rina Mariani: Park Hyatt Siem Reap is centrally located, so many downtown attractions are within walking distance or a short tuk-tuk ride away. Visit the old French Quarter for its leafy streets and architectural experience, the Central Market for local wares, and Pub Street to enjoy a sip of locally inspired cocktails, live music, and dining. Kendal Village is the shoppers’ hub for local handicrafts and uniquely Khmer souvenirs, with each shop offering something different. Then head to Satu Souvenirs beside the river for some keepsakes to take home to loved ones. Across the river is Wat Bo Village, another shopping and dining precinct.
Satu Boutique for take-home Siem Reap keepsakes. Photo courtesy Satu Boutique
Do you have some ideas for responsible tourism?
Rina Mariani: Siem Reap is a vibrant destination for responsible tourism, and here are some of my insider tips for Siem Reap.
Kulan Elephant Forest
The 1100-acre Bos Thom Community Forest, in the foothills of Kulen Mountain, is home to rescued elephants that previously carried tourists around Angkor Wat. You can interact with them and see their life in this safe, peaceful retirement haven while learning about and supporting elephant conservation in Cambodia.
Elephant feeding at Kulen Elephant Forest. Photo by Michael Cullen
Phare, The Cambodian Circus
This is an evening of riveting, contemporary, and energetic big-top performances. More than just a circus, Phare performers use theatre, music, dance, and modern circus acts to tell uniquely Cambodian stories; historical, folk, and contemporary. Profits generated at the circus directly support free education, professional arts training, and social support programs at Phare Ponleu Selpak School in Battambang. Phare Circus is not only outstanding entertainment, but it also evokes a profound sense of giving back to the local community in tangible and meaningful ways.
High energy performance at Phare The Cambodian Circus. Photo courtesy Phare The Cambodian Circus
Khmer Culture Experiences
Understanding Khmer culture and lifestyle involves visiting villages and interacting with locals and their communities. There are unique and authentic community-driven tourism experiences for visitors, and our Cultural Insiders can tailor something specifically for you. I recommend these real-life immersive experiences.
Understanding real village life and local culture with community-based tours. Photo by Michael Cullen
Tell us about the arts and craft scene.
Rina Mariani: Siem Reap is now also emerging as a hub for arts and crafts. Many incredible local artisans and foreign artists who have taken up residence are achieving international acclaim and recognition. Belgium-born and Siem Reap-based artist Christian Develter is a personal recommendation. His new Develter Gallery features a comprehensive collection of his signature works, including original vibrant large-format oil paintings, limited-edition lithography collections, sculptural series, and a fashion collection.
Striking art pieces by Siem Reap-based artist Christian Develter. Photo courtesy of the Develter Gallery
What are your insider tips to Siem Reap regarding recommendations for unique gifts and souvenirs?
Rina Mariani: Khmer souvenirs are very diverse and beautifully created. You will see authentic Khmer patterns and designs, featuring both traditional and contemporary elements, in a range of materials, from silk to cotton. Ceramics, rattan, handicraft items, and leather carvings are impressive in Siem Reap and are handmade by local artisans. The locals are also skilled in the art of jewelry making, utilizing silver, beads, and semi-precious stones. Any one of these locally crafted items makes great gifts or great memories of your stay in this Kingdom.
Unique Siem Reap gift ideas. Photo by Michael Cullen
Will you share the Park Hyatt Siem Reap story?
Rina Mariani: Once the Hotel De La Paix, a prominent Siem Reap heritage landmark, the hotel emulates a luxurious colonial residence in the city’s downtown. Award-winning American designer Bill Bensley entirely reimagined Park Hyatt Siem Reap. Blending Khmer architecture with Art Deco, this architectural jewel takes inspiration from Cambodian art and the world-famous Angkorian ruins. We offer 104 spacious guestrooms and 13 expansive suites, a diverse collection of authentic dining options, a full-service spa, a boutique, and two swimming pools.
Park Hyatt Siem Reap hotel façade. Photo courtesy Park Hyatt Siem Reap
Like most of the world, we were closed during the pandemic. The team and I have spent 2022 ensuring we were ready to provide our guests with the best possible Siem Reap experience while also delivering on Park Hyatt’s iconic ‘Luxury is Personal’ tagline. Whether exploring the area through our popular Cultural Insider tours or luxuriating by the stunning swimming pool, Park Hyatt Siem Reap is your ideal base.
Two pools to choose from at Park Hyatt Siem Reap. Photo courtesy Park Hyatt Siem Reap
What is the best time of year to visit?
Rina Mariani: Siem Reap is a year-round destination. April and May are the hottest months, while September and October have the most rain. November, December, and January are the coolest but still warm, with daytime temperatures up to 89°F (32°C).
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Any final insider tips for Siem Reap?
Rina Mariani: Siem Reap is a beautifully diverse city with much to offer beyond the ancient Angkor Temples. A fascinating city of arts, culture, traditions, and warmth. I recommend visitors come with an open mind and heart. Be adventurous. Try the exquisite food and engage in activities that allow you to learn and adapt to the local traditions, customs, and practices. Most importantly, give yourself enough time to experience the beauty and magic of Cambodia’s Siem Reap.
Let Wander With Wonder be your guide when planning your next outdoor adventure or a trip to Asia.
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