Angkor covers an area of about 400 square kilometres. This cultural heritage site includes not only numerous temples but also waterworks such as reservoirs, dykes, ponds and canals, as well as transport routes. For several centuries, Angkor was the centre of the Khmer kingdom. Exploring Siem Reap therefore brings you into a vast cultural landscape where buildings and waterworks are equally part of the region’s character. Angkor is located in Siem Reap Province.
Angkor and the diversity of Khmer architecture
Examples of Khmer architecture in Angkor include Angkor Wat, the Bayon, Preah Khan and Ta Prohm. This selection alone draws attention to the different temple complexes across the vast area. The Roluos Group adds further architectural features: Prasat Bakong is considered the first great pyramid temple, Preah Ko is a brick temple covered in stucco, and inscriptions can be found at Lolei. This makes it possible to explore Angkor beyond a handful of well-known names, taking in different building forms and historical records.
Crafts in Siem Reap Province
Crafts also offer insight into the region. Siem Reap Province is home to numerous craft initiatives, including silk and cotton weaving, pottery and stone carving. In a rural village in the province, traditional cotton and silk weaving and crafts are practised in connection with the Angkor Handicraft Association (AHA). These regional examples range from textile work to ceramics and stone.
Visitors with a particular interest in pottery can take pottery classes at the Lo YU YU Ceramics Center in Prasat Bakong District. Participants can make their own souvenir. Check the current availability of classes before visiting.
Nature experiences and insights into wildlife conservation
At the Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre, visitors can observe butterflies developing from egg to caterpillar and chrysalis, and finally into adults. The life cycle is at the heart of the experience. The Cambodia Landmine Museum displays a large collection of mines, mortars and other weapons from Cambodia’s long civil war, as well as a recreated minefield where visitors can learn to identify hazards. Check the current visitor arrangements before visiting these facilities.
There are different ways to enjoy nature: guided walks along nature trails are offered at Prey Kbal Teuk Community Forest. Srah Doun Riek, meanwhile, offers boat trips in a scenic area with flooded forest. Both activities combine getting around on foot or on the water with different views of the landscape. Ask in advance about current dates and the availability of guided walks and boat trips.
The work of the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity is also part of the region’s natural heritage. The centre works to rescue and rehabilitate threatened wildlife and release it back into Cambodian forests. Siem Reap thus brings together cultural discoveries, crafts, nature experiences and wildlife conservation—different topics to consider when planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: Siem Reap, Siem Reap, Kâmpóng Khleang, Pailin, Kampot Province, Krong Preah Sihanouk, Kompong Chhnang, Oddar Meanchey Province.
Go to the main travel overview: Cambodia.
