Khmer Houses

mr.hotsia travel Cambodia Siem Reap HOT00572

Country
Cambodia

City/Province
Siem Reap

Story Code
HOT00572

Author
mr.hotsia

Stone Carving Sculptures, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Angkor Wat Siem Reap Cambodia, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Khmer Houses in Siem Reap Province: Experience the Traditional Way of Life Before Change

My journey with mr.hotsia to Cambodia this time gave me the opportunity to experience traditional Khmer houses still remaining along the route from Siem Reap to Kampong Thom. These houses serve as windows revealing the lifestyle and culture of the Khmer people in the past, before development and technology rapidly transformed everything, much like what I saw in the wooden houses in Bang Bo 30 years ago.

While many traditional wooden houses in Thailand are now being replaced by concrete or modern buildings, Khmer houses in rural Cambodia still retain the charming two-story wooden house style, although some concrete houses have started to appear. These photos were taken in August 2012 while traveling by car from Siem Reap to Kampong Thom with my travel companion, Mr. Jaruchai Iam-aram (Nong), who helped capture these images well.

Lifestyle and Houses: A Historical Record Not to Be Forgotten

The Khmer houses I saw were not just residences but reflected a deep relationship between people, nature, and the environment. The two-story wooden houses are elevated to address flooding and ventilation during the hot season. Each house usually has a wide veranda for sitting and family activities.

Many times I looked at these houses through the car window and thought about the future, that in a few years these wooden houses might no longer be seen, just like the old wooden houses in my hometown Bang Bo, which used to be full of genuine wooden houses but now only a few remain. I therefore intend to preserve these images as history for future generations to see and understand the roots of Khmer culture in the past.

From Poipet to Siem Reap: The Route to the Land of Culture

For travelers planning to visit Siem Reap, crossing the Poipet border is the most convenient and popular route. This checkpoint is located opposite Rong Kluea Market, Aranyaprathet, Sa Kaeo Province, which I have described in an article.Traveling from Rong Kluea Poipet to Siem ReapBuses depart from Bangkok via the motorway to Rong Kluea Market, taking about 4 hours with a fare of approximately 200 baht, which is very worthwhile for traveling to this historic and cultural land.

Accommodation in Siem Reap: Simplicity Blended with Comfort

When I arrive in Siem Reap, I usually stay atShadow Angkor Guest Housewhich is located beside the Mae Nam Khlong canal flowing from Tonle Sap Lake to Angkor Wat. This hotel offers a peaceful atmosphere, pleasant views, and professional service that impresses me greatly. It also has its own restaurant convenient for travelers.

Another option I recommend for budget travelers who want quality accommodation isReaksmey Chanreas HotelThis hotel is near the Capital bus station, offers cool air conditioning and WIFI at a very reasonable price. It is a good choice for travelers like me who want value and comfort.

Angkor Wat: A Marvel of Art and History Within Reach

Siem Reap is not only known for Khmer houses and lifestyle but also as the location of Angkor Wat, one of the Seven Wonders of the World that many desire to visit. I have shared travel tips and experiences in an article.Angkor Watwhich is only 6 kilometers from Siem Reap. Visiting here allows you to fully experience the exquisite stone carvings and the grand history of the ancient Khmer Empire.

Independent travel is easy: just cross the border at Poipet, then take a vehicle to Siem Reap. From there, rent a bicycle or tuk-tuk to comfortably explore Angkor Wat. You can also choose tickets for 1 day, 3 days, or 1 week depending on your travel duration.

Lifestyle and Tourism in Siem Reap: Must-See Highlights

Besides houses and historical sites, Siem Reap also charms with its local lifestyle both day and night. At night, I often recommend experiencing the vibrant Psar Chaa area with many bars, pubs, and restaurants offering safe and enjoyable options. Alternatively, visit areas popular with locals featuring parks and beer garden streets filled with music and affordable local food. More details can be found atNightlife in Siem Reap

This is the experience I, mr.hotsia, want to share with everyone—not just the beautiful images of Angkor Wat but also the lifestyle and houses reflecting the humanity and valuable traditional culture.