Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat, in its beauty and state of preservation, is unrivaled. Its mightiness and magnificence bespeak a pomp and a luxury surpassing that of a Pharaoh or a Shah Jahan, an impressiveness greater than that of the Pyramids, an artistic distinctiveness as fine as that of the Taj Mahal. Angkor Wat is located about six kilometers (four miles) north of Siem Reap, south of Angkor Thom. Entry and exit to Angkor Wat can only be access from its west gate.
Angkor Wat was built in the first half of the 12th century (113-5BC). Estimated construction time of the temple is 30 years by King Suryavarman II, dedicated to Vishnu (Hindu), replica of Angkor Thom style of art.
Angkor Botanical Garden
Angkor Botanical Garden (សួនរុក្ខជាតិអង្គរ), previously known as the Angkor Spice Garden, has been undergoing upgrades for some time and is now open to the public. The 14-hectare site is educational and relaxing featuring local traditional medicinal plants & spices, flowers, palm garden, Khmer inspirational garden, and Angkor forest garden.
On an area of more than 15 hectares under the support and initiative of His Excellency CHEA Sophara, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction “Angkor Botanical Garden »This has been expanded and improved with more than 500 species of plants and flowers and tens of thousands of trees waiting to welcome visitors from all over direction.
Angkor National Museum
Angkor National Museum in Siem Reap houses artifacts of the Khmer empire that ruled for more than seven centuries. It spreads over 20,000 square meters and is home to over 8000 relics, including many statues of Buddha and Hindu Gods.
Angkor National Museum will take visitors through the journey back in time from the creation to the highest point of Khmer civilization. Through the use of interactive exhibits, visitors will develop an understanding of religions and beliefs of the ancient Khmer empire.
Siem Reap Old Market (Phsar Chas)
A covered maze of stalls and vendors, the Old Market is a key landmark in the center of Siem Reap. You’ll find some of the same souvenirs that are for sale within the Angkor Temples area, without the premium prices. There are hot foods for sale, as well, and it would be easy to make a dinner out of banana pancakes, fried insects, roasted corn, and other fresh treats. If you’re hoping to decode the unfamiliar menu items, consider visiting the Old Market on a guided food tour.
The Siem Reap Old Market on the west side of Siem Reap River is where the local population head to in the early mornings to shop for a wide array of fresh vegetables, seafood, and meat as well as household items. Locally known as Psar Chas, it’s the oldest Khmer market in Siem Reap and a must-visit for those looking to experience the local lifestyle.
Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium
“Welcome to Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium, where nature comes to life in breathtaking and captivating encounters! Your gateway to a world-class experience where nature’s marvels come to life! Immerse yourself in the wonders of our state-of-the-art aquarium, where a vibrant underwater paradise awaits. Encounter an array of captivating marine species, from exotic fish to graceful sea creatures. With two beautiful tanks that represent River water and Ocean water variety fishe all over Southeast Asia. Step into our Wildlife Park and embark on a thrilling journey through diverse ecosystems, encountering magnificent animals. For the adventurous at heart, our Reptile House offers an up-close encounter with mesmerizing reptilian wonders.”
Phnom Kulen National Park
Kulen Mountain is situated at north east of Angkor Complex about 50 Km, it takes approximately 2 hours drive up to the hill top with 487 meters height and plateau stretches 30 km long, it is opened for tourists in 1999 by private owned and charged for $20 toll per foreign visitors. The company developed road up to the peak. It is only possible to go up before 11 Am and only possible to come down after midday, to avoid vehicles meeting on the narrow road.
Kulen is considered by Khmers to be the most sacred mountain in Cambodia and it is a popular place for domestic visitors during weekends and festivals. The hill is used as the ancient capital city II in AD 802 to declared himself as god king and announced independence from Java, then giving birth to present day Cambodia.
