For the Khmer New Year in Siem Reap, hotels and tourist sites are preparing to welcome visitors. Six places to (re)discover during your stay in Siem Reap.
Over the past years, the provincial capital has undertaken a massive modernization of its infrastructure, widening the main roads, installing new drains and redeveloping the parks. The city is therefore much more pleasant to get around and there are numerous attractions to (re)discover… a selection:
Luxury dining at Malis
Overlooking the Siem Reap River, visitors can treat themselves to a magical evening reliving the Angkorian era with dinner at the magnificent Malis restaurant. Surrounded by a mystical garden and a beautiful pond, this restaurant offers the best Cambodian cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Be sure to try the iconic Fish Amok and Bang Kang river lobster, marinated in Khmer flavors of prahok and chili paste, wrapped in aluminum foil for intense taste and grilled until golden brown. Located on Pokambor Avenue, customers can make a reservation here or by calling +855(0)15 824 888.
A daring palate at the Pou Restaurant and Bar
For the brave at heart, head to Pou Restaurant and Bar, between Wat Damnak Pagoda and the old market. There, chef Pou (uncle) Mork Mengly is renowned for his take on Siem Reap street fusion cuisine. He has just released his latest à la carte menu, and all the dishes listed look delicious!
From tasty chicken curry to the more daring jungle beef with red ants, not forgetting the delicious temple dessert of Angkor Wat, there is a dish for everyone. In addition to the different cuisines, the restaurant offers experimental cocktails and beehives for any adventurous diners looking to excite the taste buds.
Family time at the ICF Park
For families looking to do more than just jump around temples for the Khmer New Year, hop over to ICF Wake Park. There’s water fun for the whole family as you climb, bounce and slide your way through the adventure island.
The park includes a wakeboarding area, a climbing wall for adults and children, an artificial beach with an inflatable jungle for children. It proposes also a bar and a restaurant. This superb park is open from 14 to 17 April, from 11am to 9pm, with a live cooking station from 7pm to 9pm.
Wander through the Chocolate Garden
Anyone looking to see local artisans, handicrafts and vintage collectibles can find themselves strolling along the Chocolate Road to the Chocolate Garden during the weekend in Siem Reap.
Popular among locals and visitors alike for their hot drinks and freshly baked pastries, the café also hosts weekend markets for more than a dozen vendors selling local crafts and antiques from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday.
The concept, which began as a way of supporting local products and creative people with small businesses, has now blossomed into a much-loved place. There is also a small library in case anyone gets tired of walking.
Communion with nature at the Kulen Elephant Forest
Visitors seeking communion with nature can do so by meeting a herd of elephants. This half-day excursion allows you to interact with the animals in small groups in a community-managed forest reserve in the Kulen Mountains It’s about an hour’s drive from the city.
Here, visitors can walk with the elephants on a nature trail, then feed them bananas and sugar cane stalks. Later, you can follow the elephants to a nearby pond and watch them play.
These elephants, once captive, were used to pull roundabouts for tourists in the archaeological park of Angkor. They are now retired, and the center raises funds for various conservation projects.
Relaxation at Sokkhak
Located in the old market district, the Sokkhak spa is one of the most recommended places. This spa is perfect to soothe your aches and weariness.
Their namesake means ‘harmony’ in Khmer, offering massages and spa treatments provided by gentle professional therapists in a peaceful environment.
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