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Siem Reap

Written by hello Updated 22 October 2026
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Siem Reap is a province in north-western Cambodia and the name of its capital city. It is best known as the gateway to Angkor Archaeological Park, which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.[1] Tourism is the largest part of the local economy, supported by agriculture, fishing on the Tonle Sap lake and handicrafts.

Economy

Most businesses in Siem Reap are small and family owned. Hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, tour operators, transport and retail serve international and domestic visitors, while rice farming and fishing remain important outside the city.

Tourism

Visitor demand follows the seasons. The dry, cooler months from roughly November to February are the busiest, and many businesses earn a large share of their yearly income in this period. Domestic tourism rises around public holidays such as Khmer New Year.

Agriculture and fishing

The Tonle Sap lake supports fishing communities and floating villages. Rice, vegetables and fish from the province supply local markets, hotels and restaurants.

Infrastructure

Siem Reap Angkor International Airport opened in 2023, replacing the old airport close to the city.[2] Road links connect the province to Phnom Penh, Battambang and the Thai border at Poipet.

Doing business in Siem Reap

  • Plan cash flow around the high and low seasons.
  • Reach customers before they arrive: search, maps, review sites and social media matter more than walk-in traffic.
  • Check licences with the relevant ministry and local authority before signing a lease.

See also

References

  1. ^UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Angkor, https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/668
  2. ^Cambodia Airports and government announcements on the opening of Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, 2023
Topics: Places