The Tonlé Sap region is anchored by Cambodia's legendary temple complexes and ancient sites, spanning from the Angkor era to smaller sacred ruins nearby.

Angkor Wat

A vast 12th-century temple complex and Cambodia's iconic symbol.

Bayon Temple

Dreamlike stone faces smile from dozens of towers at Angkor Thom.

Ta Prohm

Ruins entwined with centuries-old tree roots for a cinematic atmosphere.

Banteay Srei

A pink sandstone temple famed for incredibly delicate carvings.

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Museums

Curated collections tell Cambodia’s story—from ancient art to recent history—within a short drive of Tonlé Sap.

Angkor National Museum

A modern gallery explaining the Angkor era with engaging exhibits.

Landmine Museum

A sobering collection about Cambodia's recent conflicts and recovery.

War Museum Cambodia (Siem Reap)

Displays on Cambodia's modern wars and resilience.

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Religious Monuments

Sacred temples and monasteries dot the landscape around the lake and Angkor, offering quiet contrasts to the ruins.

Wat Bo

A centuries-old Buddhist temple in Siem Reap with tranquil halls.

Wat Preah Prom Rath

A historic temple by the Old Market area with colorful murals.

Phnom Bakheng

Hilltop temple offering sunset views over the Angkor complex.

Ta Nei Temple

A quieter Angkor temple tucked among the jungle ruins.

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National & Theme Parks

Explore protected landscapes around Tonlé Sap and the Kulen hills.

Tonlé Sap National Park

A lakeside sanctuary with diverse birdlife and stilted villages.

Phnom Kulen National Park

Waterfalls, ancient carvings, and forested hills above the lake.

Kbal Spean (River of a Thousand Lingas)

A forest walk to carved riverbeds and ancient reliefs.

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Neighborhoods

Area snapshots in Siem Reap where visitors stay, shop, and eat.

Siem Reap Town Center (Pub Street area)

Lively evenings, markets, and central nightlife in a compact district.

Siem Reap Riverside

A scenic stretch along the river with restaurants and views.

Old Market Area (Psar Chas)

Historic market lanes buzzing with souvenir stalls and eateries.

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Free Things to Do

Budget-friendly ways to enjoy the Tonlé Sap region without tickets.

Sunset over Tonlé Sap from Phnom Krom

Grab a viewpoint and watch the lake glow in the evening light.

Stroll Siem Reap Old Market

Browse stalls and watch daily life unfold at your own pace.

Riverside walk and street performances

Enjoy free music and performances along the riverfront.

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Gastronomy

Khmer cuisine featuring lake-caught fish and fragrant herbs.

Fish Amok

A fragrant steamed fish curry wrapped in banana leaves.

Lok Lak

Sizzling marinated beef served with crisp rice and a pepper-lime sauce.

Nom Banh Chok

Khmer noodles with a light fish gravy and fresh herbs.

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Nightlife

Evenings come alive in Siem Reap’s lively streets and markets.

Pub Street & Night Market

Bustling lanes lined with bars, eateries, and crafts.

Angkor Night Market

An open-air market offering crafts, snacks, and live music.

Riverside cocktail bars

Relaxed spots along the Tonlé Sap riverfront with sunset vibes.

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Entertainment

Shows and performances showcasing Cambodian culture.

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

A dynamic blend of acrobatics, theatre and live music.

Apsara dance show

Elegant traditional dances told through music and movement.

Puppet or cultural theatre

Classical puppetry or village-style performances available in some venues.

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Sports

Active ways to experience the landscape around the lake.

Kayaking on Tonlé Sap Lake

Paddle through calm waters and view stilted villages.

Cycling around Angkor and countryside

Low-impact rides past temples and rural scenery.

Boat trips to the floating villages

Short, scenic boat rides around Chong Kneas and nearby lakes.

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Off the Track

Less-touristy experiences for a different perspective.

Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary

A crucial wetland refuge for large waterbird colonies.

Kbal Spean (River of the Thousand Lingas)

A scenic forest walk to carved riverbeds and ancient reliefs.

Chong Kneas Floating Village (less-visited spots)

A quieter glimpse into life on Tonlé Sap beyond the usual routes.