How to Plan Your Trip to Angkor National Museum in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a historical destination that offers tourists an opportunity to explore ancient artwork, sculptures, and structures. One of the most alluring tourist attractions here is the Angkor National Museum. The museum contains intriguing exhibitions on the history of Angkor and the Khmer Empire, and it is a great complement to a tour of the UNESCO-listed Angkor Temples. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to plan your trip to the Angkor National Museum.

Choose the Right Time to Visit

The Angkor National Museum is open from Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm. You should expect large crowds during peak season (November – January) and take this into account when planning your trip. If you would like to avoid the crowds, you can visit during the off-peak season (May – September).

Buy a Prepaid Admission Ticket

You can buy your admission ticket online to avoid queues and save time. The prepaid admission means no waiting for tickets and you will be in and out of the museum in no time. The Angkor National Museum offers flexible entrance tickets, allowing you to choose an arrival time that is most convenient for you.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The admission ticket includes the price of the Angkor National Museum fee, tips, and the tour and audio guide. You also get a one-way pick-up from the office JTB(Cambodia) to the museum. The self-guided tour means that you can explore at your own pace, and spend as much time as you like admiring ancient artifacts excavated from the Angkor archaeological sites.

Transportation to the Museum

Although included in the package, make sure to bring the confirmation voucher and meet the office staff at JTB(Cambodia)Co.Ltd for pick-up. The staff will help you get to the museum with ease.

Tips for Your Visit

– Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, since the museum requires a lot of walking.

– Bring a camera or a smartphone to capture images of the exhibitions and artifacts in the museum.

– Don’t touch the artifacts or exhibits, as they are fragile and need to be taken care of.

Conclusion

Angkor National Museum in Siem Reap is an incredible place to explore ancient history and gain insights into the Khmer Empire. Planning your trip in advance will make your visit more enjoyable, and taking note of the tips above will help you make the most of your visit. Book your tour to Angkor National Museum here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap

Siem Reap, located in Cambodia, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. With its rich culture, history, and architectural marvels, Siem Reap never fails to entice visitors. However, before planning your trip to this city, it’s essential to know some critical information. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap.

1. What Is the Best Time to Visit Siem Reap?

The best time to visit Siem Reap is between November and February, when the weather is relatively dry, and the temperature stays within an average of 25°C to 30°C. During this time, you can enjoy the city’s attractions without any hindrance.

2. What Are the Must-Visit Attractions in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is famous for its majestic temples, which are some of the most significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, and Ta Prohm are some of the must-visit attractions in Siem Reap. Apart from these historical sites, the city also boasts of natural wonders like Tonle Sap, a massive freshwater lake, and Kulen Mountain National Park.

3. How Many Days Do I Need to Explore Siem Reap?

We recommend spending at least 3-5 days in Siem Reap to explore the city’s major attractions thoroughly. Plan your itinerary to visit the temples in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowd and scorching heat.

4. What Is the Currency Used in Siem Reap?

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely accepted in Siem Reap. We recommend carrying US dollars in small denominations for convenience.

5. What Is the Food Like in Siem Reap?

Cambodian cuisine is known for its unique flavor combination of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. Siem Reap offers a range of traditional Khmer dishes like Amok (steamed fish curry), Lok Lak (marinated beef salad), and Bai Sach Chrouk (grilled pork and rice). Street food is also a popular option in Siem Reap, with vendors selling delicious snacks like Num Banh Chok (rice noodles with fish gravy) and Spong (Cambodian pancake).

6. How Do I Get Around Siem Reap?

Tuk-tuks are the most popular mode of transportation in Siem Reap, and you can easily find them around tourist areas. If you prefer a more comfortable ride, you can also rent a motorbike or hire a private car with a driver.

7. Is Siem Reap Safe for Tourists?

Siem Reap is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, there’s always a risk of pickpocketing or theft. It’s always advisable to keep your valuables in a safe place and avoid carrying too much cash.

8. What Should I Wear When Visiting the Temples?

When visiting the temples in Siem Reap, it’s important to dress appropriately as a sign of respect. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Loose-fitting, breathable cotton clothes are recommended, as it can get very hot and humid while walking around the temples.

9. What Are Some Common Scams to Watch Out for in Siem Reap?

Like any other tourist destination, Siem Reap is not free from scams. Some common scams to watch out for include overpriced tuk-tuk rides, fake ticket sellers, and unofficial tour guides. Always try to book your tours and transportation from authorized operators and carry enough cash to avoid scams.

10. Can I Use Credit Cards in Siem Reap?

Most hotels, restaurants, and tour operators in Siem Reap accept major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. However, smaller shops and vendors may only accept cash, so it’s always handy to carry some cash with you.

Conclusion

Siem Reap is undoubtedly one of the most magnificent destinations to visit in Southeast Asia. Now that you have the answers to some of the most asked questions, you can plan your trip with confidence. Remember to keep yourself safe, respect the local culture and dress appropriately when visiting temples, and enjoy all that Siem Reap has to offer.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Siem Reap

As the gateway to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap has become one of Cambodia’s most popular tourist destinations. Though Angkor Wat is an impressive historical site, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Siem Reap. In this guide, we’ll take you through how to spend your time in one of Cambodia’s most fascinating cities.

1. Explore Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples

Angkor Wat is undoubtedly the highlight of Siem Reap, but don’t just stop there. It is worth exploring the other temples, each of which has its own unique charm. Some of the most famous temples include Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Angkor Thom. Entrance tickets cost $37 for a one-day pass, $62 for a three-day pass, and $72 for a seven-day pass. If you’re a history buff, consider hiring a local guide to give you more insight into the temples’ historical significance.

2. Take a bicycle tour of the city

One of the best ways to explore Siem Reap is on two wheels. It’s a beautiful city with a laid-back vibe, and taking a bicycle tour will give you a unique perspective on the local lifestyle. There are plenty of bicycle rental shops in the town, and renting a bike for a day costs as low as $2. Hire a local guide who can show you the hidden gems of the city.

3. Visit the Angkor National Museum

For a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the temples of Angkor, visit the Angkor National Museum. It is home to a huge collection of artefacts and exhibits, and it’s an excellent way to learn more about Khmer history. The entry fee is $12 for foreigners.

4. Enjoy a Cambodian Traditional Apsara Dance Show

Be sure to catch a traditional Apsara dance show – it’s a classical Khmer art form showcasing a blend of culture, tradition and art. The performances usually take place in many places, including hotels and restaurants in Siem Reap. For a fantastic experience, go to the Grand Theater, where dancers are dressed in traditional Cambodian costumes and put on a breathtaking performance.

5. Shop at the local markets

If you’re in the mood for some shopping, Siem Reap has many great markets. One of the most popular is Angkor Night Market, where you can find souvenirs and gifts at reasonable prices. The old market is another spot to explore fresh food, textiles, and crafts. The best time to shop is in the morning, but the markets stay open late, which offers a unique and enjoyable night market experience.

6. Visit the floating villages

Take a day trip from Siem Reap and visit the stilted houses and floating communities located on the Tonle Sap Lake. The lake’s water levels fluctuate seasonally, turning the area into a unique landscape. You can book a private or shared tour to Chong Kneas, Kampong Pluk, or Kampong Khleang to experience life on the water.

7. Visit the Cambodian Landmine Museum and Relief Center

Explore one of Cambodia’s darker chapters at the Cambodian Landmine Museum and Relief Center. This museum highlights a real-life story of a former Khmer Rouge soldier turned as a hero by dedicating his life to disarming landmines and helping landmine victims. The museum is informative and insightful, offering a gratifying experience to visitors.

8. Taste the local cuisine

Cambodian cuisine doesn’t get as much recognition as its neighbours, Thailand and Vietnam. Make sure you give it a try, as it’s delicious and unique. Some of the must-try dishes include Fish Amok (a coconut milk and curry based fish), Khmer noodle soup, and Red Ant and Beef Stir Fry. Try local street food or explore the more upmarket restaurants.In conclusion, Siem Reap offers an array of attractions catering to tourists who are interested in history, culture, ecology, and adventure. With this guide, you’re sure to make the most out of your experience in Siem Reap.