Unveiling Siem Reap: Temples, Pub Street, and a Strong Touch of the Countryside

It was in the summer of 2019 and we were on a short trip to Southeast Asia. Our Southeast Asian adventure was in full swing, with Malaysia keeping us captivated. But travel, as they say, is about embracing the unexpected. And that’s exactly what happened when we stumbled upon unbelievably cheap flights – Kuala Lumpur to Siem Reap for just 4,000 INR per person!

We were sitting in a cafe in Kuala Lumpur exploring different options to explore other places near Kuala Lumpur and this super cheap fare caught our sight. At first, I thought it was just a scam but Hey!!! I was on Skyscanner. I told my friends and we booked them on a whim, excitement bubbling over at the prospect of exploring Cambodia.

Visa Logistics: A Hurdle Overcome

Back in 2019, unlike today, Cambodia didn’t offer visas on arrival for Indians if you land at any airport. It was applicable only when we crossed the border by land or through seaport as bribery prevails everywhere and if the officers are getting treated with a good chunk of money, they will allow it. Anyway, we were in Malaysia so a land border was not an option. So, we applied for an e-visa, an express option that thankfully came through within 6 hours, albeit for 5,600 INR per person.

You can apply for an eVisa on their official website here.

Siem Reap Arrival: A Tiny Airport, Big Dreams

The next day, we boarded our flight and landed in Siem Reap. A stark contrast to the bustling airports we were used to, Siem Reap felt more like a charming village airport handling a handful of flights. Very tiny pagoda-shaped terminals and a handful of officials waiting to welcome the tourists.

The immigration was a breeze as we already had our visas and stepped out in no time. Outside, the lack of crowds only heightened our anticipation.

A Taxi Driver’s Recommendations

Hopping into a taxi, we struck up a conversation with the driver, a friendly Chinese gentleman. He instantly recommended a hotel near Pub Street, the heart of Siem Reap’s nightlife. For a mere $10, he dropped us off and even offered to arrange exploration packages, a tempting prospect for the days ahead. We accepted his offer and informed him to arrive tomorrow for the tour.

Clean Comforts and Culinary Curiosities

Our hotel ticked all the boxes – clean, comfortable, and nestled in a lush green haven. The room was pretty spacious having 3 single beds and a private bathroom attached. We had our lunch at a nearby cafe for a mere 20$ for 3 people and came back to the hotel for a short nap. After a well-deserved rest, we ventured out to explore the vibrant Pub Street in the evening. Tuk-tuks, the iconic Cambodian vehicles, ferried us there for $5, a steal for three of us.

Now, Cambodia uses the Cambodian Riel as its currency. However, the economy heavily relies on the US dollar, so carrying USD is a must for smooth transactions. ATMs were also a gamble, so ensuring enough cash on hand was key.

Pub Street pulsated with life! But the food scene was an eye-opener. Restaurants offered frog curry and alligator chops, and even street vendors displayed scorpions, lizards, and cockroaches on their stalls. The European tourists, ever-adventurous, munched away on these exotic treats, while we, the Indian tourists, let out a collective “yuck!”

We settled on a local bar, opting for familiar comforts like pizza and local cocktails. The lively ambiance was infectious, and we found ourselves chatting with fellow travelers who were grooving to the music.

After a night of fun, we returned to our hotel, the memories of Pub Street etched in our minds.

Kulen Mountain: A Spiritual Escape

The next morning, sharp at 9 AM, our friendly taxi driver from the previous day reappeared. With a full day planned, we embarked on a journey to Kulen Mountain, a two-hour drive from the city. This magical place was a treasure trove of Buddhist temples and a sacred fountain. We sipped from the fountain’s refreshing water, feeling a sense of serenity wash over us. A small waterfall provided the perfect spot to cool off and have some fun. The presence of locals enjoying picnics and reveling in the beauty of the place added to the charm.

A Day Packed with History and Beauty

Next on our agenda was the Terrace of the Elephants, a majestic structure adorned with intricate stone carvings, a window into Cambodia’s rich history. Our final stop for the day was the Siem Reap River, its calm flow adding a touch of tranquility to our exploration. The entire day tour, including the car and the driver’s expertise, cost us only $150 – a steal considering the sights we witnessed.

An interesting tidbit shared by the driver was the scarcity of hospitals in Cambodia. He attributed this to the healthy diet and the hardworking nature of the people, suggesting a very low incidence of illness.

As dusk settled, we found ourselves back on Pub Street, soaking in the vibrant nightlife before returning to our hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Angkor Wat: A Separate Adventure

Our third day in Siem Reap was dedicated to the magnificent Angkor Wat, a place worthy of its own dedicated blog post (wink, wink). The sprawling temple complex left us awestruck, a testament to Cambodia’s glorious past. Exhausted but exhilarated, we returned to our hotel, our hearts brimming with memories of this incredible city.

Floating Villages: A Glimpse into a Unique Lifestyle

Early in the morning, we set off for Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. A boat ride awaited us, and as we glided across the calm water, a network of floating villages unfolded before our eyes. These villages, literally built on stilts above the lake, were a sight to behold. Homes, schools, and even shops bobbed gently on the water, their residents leading a life intricately connected to the lake.

We visited a floating market, a bustling hub of activity where vendors displayed their wares in boats. The sight of locals bartering for everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts was a fascinating glimpse into their daily lives. We even had the opportunity to sample some local delicacies, the flavors both unfamiliar and surprisingly delicious.

Sunset Over Tonle Sap: A Day’s Perfect Ending

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the lake, we made our way back to the boat. The serenity of the moment was breathtaking. We returned to Siem Reap with a renewed appreciation for the simple beauty of rural Cambodia, a stark contrast to the vibrancy of the city.

Farewell, Cambodia: A Land of Smiles and Surprises

Our Cambodian adventure was drawing to a close. Bidding farewell to our guide and the ever-helpful taxi driver, we carried with us a treasure trove of memories. From the majestic Angkor Wat to the serene Tonle Sap and the warmth of the Cambodian people, this journey exceeded our expectations. Cambodia had surprised us at every turn – with its ancient temples, unique floating villages, and delicious, albeit sometimes bizarre, cuisine. It was a land of smiles, a place where history whispered stories and the pace of life was refreshingly slow. As we boarded our flight back home, we knew that Cambodia would forever hold a special place in our hearts.