Siem Reap-The Heart of Cambodia

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Siem Reap, not the Capital city of Cambodia but it’s more than that. It’s the heart of this beautiful country. It’s the home to the Worlds Largest temple- Angkor Wat. People move to Cambodia from all over the World just to Visit the temples and Marvel in their rich history and craft.  

How to Reach

Siem Reap has an International Airport.  So, one can take a flight to reach Siem Reap. If you are in Bangkok or Lao or Vietnam then you can also cross the border via road.

Visa

Visa is easily available on Arrival. Visa Fee is 30 USD. They don’t need any documentation. Just fill the form and you will get stamped.

What to do and how to do it

It was my first visit to Cambodia. So, I was very much excited about it because it was my dream to see the Angkor Wat.  As we reached Siem Reap, we have already booked the Cabin Advance, so the driver was waiting Outside. After arriving out of the Airport, the first thing we did was purchase a Sim Card. There are different options available. Out of that, we took 6 USD, Sim Card.

Fishing and Floating Village and Apsara Dance with Buffet Dinner

In the evening around 4 pm, we left for Floating Village. It took us 30 mins to reach the place. The water was not good, but the view was amazing and the Houses were floating. The strange thing I noticed is that each house was standing on a pillar. There was everything like Grocery Store, Schools for Children, Temples etc.  It was something I picked up for the foremost time. We spent almost 2 hours and then we left to see Apsara Dance. It took us almost 1 hour to reach. There was a huge Buffet comprising both Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Food. First, it was a buffet and then after buffet dance started. It was an amazing and we all were tired. So, we went to our Hotel.

Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Phrom

Finally, the day has come for which I was waiting for. Yes, I was going to Visit Angkor Wat.

We all wake up at 4 am. We planned to see the Sunrise at Angkor. We left at 5 am, first, we went to take the ticket. It is still dark at that time. One day Angkor Pass costs us 37 USD. After that, we straight away went to see the Sunrise. When the sun is about to rise, sky color changes a lot and in turn, you will ascertain the different colors of Angkor Wat. It was looking so mesmerizing. When I examine the walls of this 1000-year-old temple, I felt that these walls are telling me about the chronicle of this synagogue. Every bit and when you get into the temple, you will find out the story of Ramayana and Mahabharata stories in script on the rampart. To know the History of Angkor Wat you should visit the temple and hire a guide.  

After Angkor Wat, we went to TA Phrom and Bayon.

It’s in the compound of Angkor and Yes, it’s a must see. It was completely different from the primary synagogue. Bayon was something which I have never experienced. On all the rocks, you can see the Buddha.

 

And Ta Phrom was the place where you can see how the roots of the trees have entered the temple which caused devastation. It happened because the temple was abandoned and neglected.

Angkor National Museum

On the same day in the evening, we proceeded to this Museum. If you desire to know about Cambodia then this is the spot. This museum will give you insides about the lifestyle of Khmer People. Also, it shows all the Avatars of Lord Vishnu. It will tell you about the History of Buddha and explains the different postures of Buddha.

Fish Spa

If you have ever thought to take a fish spa but it seems very costly in your country, then you should try. It’s very cheap in Siem Reap. In Downtown, we endured and paid 3 USD for Fish Spa without any time limit. It was an unforgettable experience.

 

Pub Street

The best place to take a stroll at night. Also, you should book your hostel or hotel near to this street so that you can enjoy at night without being ripped off. There are lots of Pubs and restaurants. And yes, it’s completely safe.

Relaxation

Siem Reap is one of the best places I have visited till date. It’s like a little town where you can slow down and rest off from the stressful life of the metropolis.  Do spend more time here than in Phnom Penh.

Food

Food is same as that in Thailand but taste and preparation is totally different. The local Khmer food is awesome. It’s a must to try. Even they have a different taste for fried rice. And Indian food tastes better than what you produce in India.

If you still have any questions do write in the comment section.

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