Things to do in Sot Nikum

2026 Asia 100 - Best Things to Do

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is located in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Built in the early 12th century as the state temple and mausoleum for Khmer King Suryavarman II, it took over 30 years to complete. While earlier Angkor kings primarily worshipped Shiva, this temple was dedicated to Vishnu. Later, it gradually transformed into a Buddhist monastery and remains one of the few Angkor monuments where religious functions continue today, with monks still visiting. The entire complex is modeled after Mount Meru from Hindu mythology, featuring a wide moat and outer walls enclosing three elevated concentric galleries, with five central towers arranged in a quincunx pattern—the silhouette depicted on Cambodia's national flag. Unlike most temples in Angkor, Angkor Wat faces west, creating its iconic sunrise scene: at dawn, standing by the pond in front of the west gate, visitors watch the sun rise behind the five towers, their reflections mirrored on the water. The outer gallery walls are adorned with extensive bas-reliefs, including the awe-inspiring Churning of the Ocean of Milk depicting gods and asuras pulling a giant serpent. Scattered across the walls are over a thousand apsara carvings, each with unique hairstyles, attire, and dance poses worth examining closely. Enter through the west gate via the causeway and follow the central axis inward—this layered progression offers deeper immersion than a hurried visit. Arrive early to secure a prime sunrise photography spot by the pond. Note that temple steps are steep, some with narrow risers, so wear comfortable, slip-resistant shoes. As a religious site, visitors must cover shoulders and knees and avoid climbing or leaning on carvings. △ Experience the true stories and mysterious legends of Angkor Wat, with every spot being a great photo opportunity. △ Today, Angkor Wat remains mysterious and magnificent, attracting thousands of travelers from around the world.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Cambodia

Angkor Archaeological Park

Angkor Archaeological Park is a vast complex of structures left by the Khmer Empire, scattered across the jungles and fields north of Siem Reap. It covers a vast area, encompassing dozens of temple ruins and ancient city remains. The core of the park consists of two main parts: Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. Angkor Wat is the best-preserved structure in the entire site, originally a Hindu temple that later incorporated Buddhist beliefs. Five towers rise above layers of galleries, the inner walls of which are covered in bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu epics and the history of the Khmer dynasty, featuring extensive narratives and numerous figures. The silhouette of this building is also used as the design on the flag of Cambodia. Angkor Thom is the site of the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire. The stone bridges outside the city gates are lined with statues of devas and asuras churning the Ocean of Milk. Bayon Temple at the center of the city is famous for its dozens of towers with four-faced Buddhas, each face carved with a serene, smiling expression, known as the "Smile of Khmer." Ta Prohm is renowned for its unique view of giant tree roots intertwined with stone structures.

No. 4 of Night Attractions in Cambodia

Tonlé Sap

Tonlé Sap, also known as Phnom Penh Lake, is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. It is connected to the water by water.Phnom Penh Lake. The Tonle Sap River connects to the Mekong River, which flows through Phnom Penh. Several floating villages dot the lake, nicknamed "Vietnamese Floating Villages" because of the large number of Vietnamese refugees who inhabited it. You can take a boat tour on the lake to visit these floating villages and see houses, churches, schools and other buildings on the water. In the evening, you can also appreciate the sunset over the lake, which is different from that at Angkor Wat. Tonlé Saphas a very distinct seasonality. The dry season runs from December to April, when the average water depth is one meter. The lake's surface area is several times smaller than during the rainy season, but the climate is milder during this period, making it suitable for sightseeing. It takes about a half-hour drive from downtown Siem Reap to Tonlé Sap. Upon reaching the lakeside pier, you'll see numerous tour boats soliciting business. Due to the different locations of the floating villages on the lake, boat tour fees vary, generally around US$15-20. It's worth discussing your trip with the boatman in advance to determine which floating village you'd like to visit and the price. Alternatively, specialized boat companies, such as Tara Boat, offer half-day tours, sunset cruises, and even tours of multiple floating villages.

No. 14 of Best Things to Do in Cambodia

Prasat Beng Mealea

Prasat Beng Mealea is located approx. 40 km east of Angkor Wat and approx. 10 km northeast of Banteay Srei Temple. It is completely lost in the wilderness, where you can see what Angkor Wat looked like sleeping in the jungle before its discovery. Although Prasat Beng Mealea is now almost entirely in ruins and enveloped by the jungle, making it impossible to see in its entirety, its uniqueness still makes it worth a special visit.

Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium

Welcome to Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium, where nature comes to life in breathtaking spectacles and captivating encounters! Your gateway to a world-class experience where nature's marvels come to life! Immerse yourself in the wonders of our state-of-the-art aquarium, where a vibrant underwater paradise awaits. Encounter an array of captivating marine species, from exotic fish to graceful sea creatures. With two beautiful tanks that represent River water and Ocean water variety fish from all over Southeast Asia. Step into our Wildlife Park and embark on a thrilling journey through diverse ecosystems, encountering magnificent animals from around the globe. For the adventurous at heart, our Reptile House offers an up-close encounter with mesmerizing reptilian wonders. Join us as we ignite curiosity, foster conservation, and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Angkor. Prepare to be amazed!

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Cambodia

Angkor National Museum

• Explore the history, culture, and lifestyle of the Golden Age of the Khmer Empire. • Admire the artistic treasures of the Angkor period. • Appreciate the unique architectural styles. ▴The Angkor National Museum mainly exhibits cultural relics and works of art from various periods of the Khmer dynasty, including stone carvings, images of Buddha, multimedia images, etc. The collections are vast and precious. ▴The exterior shape of the museum is uniquely designed and the roof has the charm of the ancient tower of Angkor Wat. The promenade, the doorway and the window are inspired by the design of Angkor Wat. Modern elements are also blended in, making it more magnificent and spectacular.

No. 1 of Activities in Cambodia

Sunrise Sightseeing in Siem Reap

The sunrise in Siem Reap is a gentle prelude to the interweaving of the remains of the Angkor Dynasty and modern travel memories. It slowly unveils the mysterious veil of the ancient land of Southeast Asia in an almost sacred manner. Standing on the top of Bayon Temple or on the wall of Angkor Thom, a breathtaking picture unfolds before your eyes: the sky gradually turns white, the mountains in the distance are looming in the morning light, and the nearby Angkor ruins are more simple and solemn under the reflection of the sunrise. Every stone and every mark seems to be telling a thousand-year story, weaving a dialogue across time and space with this new sunlight. In the glory of the sunrise, people can feel the magic and greatness of nature, and also experience the thickness and vicissitudes of history. This quiet and passionate atmosphere is unforgettable.

Kompong Khleang Village

No. 2 of Activities in Cambodia

Sunset Sightseeing in Siem Reap

At sunset in Siem Reap, the afterglow of the setting sun fills the earth, dyeing the sky into gorgeous orange-red or pink-purple. This color change casts a mysterious and romantic veil over the entire city. As the sun gradually sinks, the light becomes soft and warm, making the ancient buildings and natural landscapes more vivid and charming. Under the reflection of the setting sun, the outlines of ancient monuments such as Angkor Wat become clearer, showing a beauty of harmonious coexistence of history and nature. Phnom Bakheng is one of the popular places to watch the sunset in Siem Reap. Climbing to the top of the mountain, you can overlook the magnificent scenery of the entire ancient city of Angkor, especially when the sunset and the spires of Angkor Wat complement each other, it is even more beautiful. Pre-Reap Temple is also a good place to watch the sunset, with fewer people than Phnom Bakheng. Here you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the sunset and the surrounding ruins of temples and lakes, and feel a quiet and profound historical atmosphere. In short, watching the sunset in Siem Reap is not only a visual enjoyment, but also allows people to feel the profoundness of ancient civilization and find inner peace and satisfaction.

No. 8 of Best Things to Do in Cambodia

Apsara Theatre

Built in a traditional semi-colonial style, the Apsara Theatre is imbued with a grandiose energy. From its original wooden exterior to its antique décor and marquee lights; the magic of the old theatre is alive and well. On evenings, the Apsara Theatre opens its doors to showcase Cambodia's rich cultural heritage, traditional performing arts. Dancers, singers and musicians will perform 3 classical and 2 village dances to the music of the traditional orchestra. The performance will be preceded by a beverage service and an authentic meal.