Siem Reap Tourist Attractions Directory

2. Beyond the Main Temples – Must-See Historical Sites

While the main Angkor complex gets most attention, many other Siem Reap tourist attractions offer less crowded but equally amazing experiences.

Banteay Srei

Known as the “Citadel of Women,” Banteay Srei stands out for its small size and stunning pink sandstone carvings. Built in the 10th century, its detailed artwork shows the highest level of Khmer craftsmanship.

Located about 25 km from the main Angkor complex, this temple features:

• The most detailed stone carvings in the Angkor area
• Beautiful pink-hued sandstone that glows at sunset
• Smaller scale that lets you see details up close

Eastern Mebon Temple

Eastern Mebon Temple stands as a striking temple mountain rising from what was once an artificial island in the middle of the East Baray reservoir. Built in the 10th century during King Rajendravarman’s reign, this three-tiered temple now sits on dry land after the baray dried up centuries ago.

This unique temple features:

• Impressive stone elephant sculptures guarding each corner of the first and second levels
• Well-preserved lion statues and intricate lintels depicting Hindu mythology
• Five towers arranged in a quincunx pattern representing Mount Meru
• A distinctive layout that allows visitors to visualize its former island setting
• Beautiful morning light for photography with fewer crowds than the main circuit

Pre Rup Temple

Pre Rup temple rises majestically with its distinctive reddish hue and pyramid-like structure. Built in the late 10th century, this temple mountain served as a royal crematorium (its name means “turn the body”).

What makes Pre Rup special:

• Stunning sunset views across the countryside
• Impressive brick construction that creates rich colors at golden hour
• Steep stairs leading to panoramic vistas from the top platform
• Less crowded atmosphere for peaceful exploration

Ta Keo Temple

The imposing Ta Keo Temple stands as an unfinished masterpiece, abandoned mid-construction in the 11th century. Its minimalist design lacks the detailed carvings of other temples, but compensates with sheer size and architectural ambition.

Visitors appreciate:

• The challenging climb up extraordinarily steep stairs
• Massive sandstone blocks fitted without mortar
• The mystery of why such an ambitious project was never completed
• Fewer tourists compared to main circuit temples

Ta Som Temple

The compact Ta Som Temple charms visitors with its peaceful atmosphere and famous tree-embraced eastern gopura (entrance gate). Built in the late 12th century, this single-level temple follows a classic Bayon-style design.

Key features include:

• A magnificent strangler fig tree growing over the eastern entrance
• Well-preserved face towers similar to those at Bayon
• Intimate scale perfect for unhurried exploration
• Beautiful lichen and moss patterns on the ancient stones

Banteay Samre Temple

Banteay Samre Temple remains one of the most complete and well-restored complexes in the region. Its name means “Citadel of the Samre,” referring to an ethnic group from the area.

This often-overlooked gem offers:

• Remarkable preservation with intact galleries and towers
• Hindu-influenced architecture with beautiful carved lintels
• Similarities to Angkor Wat in miniature form
• A peaceful setting away from the main tourist routes

Preah Khan

Preah Khan served as both a temple and university in the 12th century. Its name means “Sacred Sword,” and the site covers a huge area with endless corridors, doorways, and courtyards.

This less-visited temple offers:

• Tree roots growing through stone walls similar to Ta Prohm
• Four entrance gates with different themes
• A chance to explore without large crowds

For a complete temple experience beyond the main sites, consider the Siem Reap 2 Day Tour that takes you to both popular and lesser-known temples with an expert guide.

3. Tonle Sap Lake and Floating Villages

Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, Tonle Sap Lake, lies just south of Siem Reap. The lake changes size dramatically between seasons – growing up to five times bigger during rainy months!

Kompong Phluk Floating Village

Kompong Phluk features houses built on tall stilts that rise up to 10 meters above the ground. During wet season, the village appears to float on water, while in dry season, you can walk beneath the elevated homes.

The village offers:

• A peek into a way of life unchanged for generations
• Boat tours through flooded forests
• Meeting locals who depend on fishing for their livelihood

The Angkor Wat to Siem Reap Floating Village tour combines temple visits with a boat trip to these unique communities.

Kompong Khleang Floating Village

Kompong Khleang provides the most authentic floating village experience, located about 50 km from Siem Reap. As the largest community on the lake with over 10,000 residents, it offers a genuine look at traditional lake life without excessive tourism.

What makes Kompong Khleang special:

• Much less touristic than other floating villages
• Impressive variation between wet and dry seasons (up to 10-meter difference)
• Mix of stilted homes and truly floating structures
• Local-run boat services that directly benefit the community
• Authentic fishing operations and fish processing to observe

Chong Kneas Floating Village

Closer to Siem Reap town, Chong Kneas provides the most accessible floating village experience. The community includes floating schools, churches, restaurants, and even a basketball court – all on boats!

This village welcomed 134,291 visitors in January 2025 alone, with 40% choosing homestay options for deeper cultural connections.