There are a lot of other interesting and joyful things to do and explore in Siem Reap than exploring the grand temples of the Angkor Wat. There is no denying to the fact it is the greatest source of attraction to this place. It is a magnificent and majestic area that will leave you in awe at nearly every corner of the place. From cooking classes and butterfly watching, to biking and horseback riding – there’s a myriad of things you can do to make your visit to Siem Reap even more exciting and memorable.
Taking a Cooking Class
You can sign up for a wonderful cooking class were you’ll learn to make Khmer amok, a mango salad and some excellent Khmer curry. First you’ll go to the local market and next you’ll learn from a local cook these excellent recipes and eat the results as well. You’ll learn how to make the flavors authentic and you’ll be able to surprise your friends and family at home with your new cooking skills.
Get a Revitalizing Massage
A visit to any part of the Asian continent is incomplete without getting a soothing message. And Siem Reap is no exception. If you have exhausted after spending your day exploring the grand monuments of Angkor Wat, you deserve a nice, relaxing massage that will revitalize your mind and body. Getting a message in Siem Reap doesn’t cost you a fortune. There are a number of massage spas on almost all streets of Siem Reap, they aren’t just easy to find but they also charge reasonable rates.
Explore the Old Market of Siem Reap
You don’t necessarily have to buy something from here; you can just go for window shopping and explore the bizarre items on sale here. You will find “Psah Chas” – the name given by locals to this old market – right at the heart of the town. Right in the middle of the market, there’s a labyrinth of tables filled with raw meat, exotic fruits, uncomfortably smelling fishes, and spooky pig heads. You can buy food, sausages, and even clothes and souvenirs made by the locals in this old market.
It’s indeed a fun and interesting place to visit, unless you’re too squeamish to survive the display of the exotic food items here.
Visit the Landmine and War Museum
Exploring the land mine museum is a must do activity if you are keen to learn about the untold history of Cambodia. If you are to visit just one place other than Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, I suggest that should be it. This War Museum of Siem Reap perfectly depicts the deadly and ferocious era of The Khmer Rouge in 1975 and the Vietnamese occupation in 1979. During these unfortunate years of conflict millions of land mines, tanks and unexploded objects were left behind by the armies. A few of them are on display at this Museum. The Landmine Museum is 25km north of Siem Reap. IF you love history, you’ll regret not exploring these places.
