The best way to get out and about
in Siem Reap is through tuktuks. Although that statement is arguable as Siem
Reap is also enjoyable with two wheels (bikes) or even with just two feet
(seriously!). To sum up my short but sweet trip to Angkor's home, which by the way is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, here are my 6 must-see places
in Siem Reap, in no particular order.
Angkor Wat complex. Standing in front of this 12th century architecture will send shivers down your spine in a good way despite of the torturing Cambodian sun. It will be hard to believe that this pleasant place was once a heartless home to many slaves some thousands of years ago. The Mahabharata and Ramayana discussion in your Asian history/lit class will suddenly make sense once you see the intricate carvings on the complex’s walls. It is absolutely amazing!
Ta Phrom. The picturesque one. No wonder why this became the setting of the famous Lara Croft movie. It is so enchanting! The humongous trees as if have minds of their own. After touring here, you will get to realize that there are things bigger than us and one of these is NATURE, literally and figuratively.
Angkor Wat complex. Standing in front of this 12th century architecture will send shivers down your spine in a good way despite of the torturing Cambodian sun. It will be hard to believe that this pleasant place was once a heartless home to many slaves some thousands of years ago. The Mahabharata and Ramayana discussion in your Asian history/lit class will suddenly make sense once you see the intricate carvings on the complex’s walls. It is absolutely amazing!
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| This is believed to be library ruins |
Ta Phrom. The picturesque one. No wonder why this became the setting of the famous Lara Croft movie. It is so enchanting! The humongous trees as if have minds of their own. After touring here, you will get to realize that there are things bigger than us and one of these is NATURE, literally and figuratively.
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| Man vs. Nature at Ta Phrom |
The South Gate of Angkor Thom. Even the way to the gate has already many interesting stories to tell and the various faces of Buddhas say it all. The gate is just the tip of the iceberg for it serves a portal to many temples awaiting to be explored: Bayon Temple, Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King among many others.
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| South Gate being restored by UNESCO |
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| At the South Gate |
Pub Street. Shop, eat and be merry at Pub Street. This is the best place to experience Khmer culture through cuisine. With US$ 10, you get to enjoy a sumptuous not to mention ample meals for two already. Don’t miss the Amok, curries, Vietnamese spring rolls, and pizza, etc.
Try the street food, too. There are also lots of dainty and quaint shops around the area. Eye candies everywhere. You just have to roam around. Don’t forget to pass by the Old Market for cheap finds. Khmer sales people are nice people so you can haggle to your heart’s desire.
After all in a day’s walk at the temples, you can also go to Pub Street for refreshments. Buy drinks at convenient stores where snacks are way cheaper or better yet, grab a chance to get your feet pampered with many fish spas around.
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| Bikes for rent in one of the restaurants on Pub Street |
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| Souvenirs for sale at the Old Market |
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| Street food on Pub Street |
The Killing Fields. Siem Reap is rich in history and speaking of history, the Killing Fields has much nostalgic memories to offer. The sight of the skulls mass-killed during the time of Pol Pot (1975-1979) will sure leave a melancholic impression on you like what it did to me.
Artisans Angkor. Siem Reap people are the artsy type. They are serious with their craft. Artisans Angkor is a cozy gallery slash shop that showcases Siem Reap people’s craftsmanship. Have your free tour around the area. At the end of the tour, you will be directed to the souvenir store where you can shop ‘til you drop with itty bitty items. I hope by this time you still have some dollars to spare because in my case, I used the handy dandy VISA already.
*Tonle Sap is also a must-see in Siem Reap but because I was pressed with time when I visited, I was not able to explore the area. But then again, there’s always a next time, right?
*Tonle Sap is also a must-see in Siem Reap but because I was pressed with time when I visited, I was not able to explore the area. But then again, there’s always a next time, right?
