Siem Reap Travel Guide

Located on the banks of the Siem Reap River, this little town serves as a gateway to one of the World’s best archeological sites from the days of the Khmer empire.

The town of Siem Reap is actually a congregation of small villages that came together under the French and hence the architecture reflects shades of French influence. Despite it being a small town, Siem Reap has a great nightlife and is a base for forays into the surrounding areas, especially Angkor Wat.

Siem Reap is also known as ‘The Great Gate to Angkor’ by many.

When translated to English, Siem reap means ‘Defeat of Siam’ wherein Siam refers to the present day Thailand. The other translation of the city’s name is “Brilliance of Siam”.

The very first tourists totaling around 200 came to Angkor Wat as early as 1907.

Tonle River is the only river in the world which flows in both directions, with its direction reversing during summer.

In Hindu mythology, Mount Meru in Angkor Wat is believed to be the Centre of the Universe.