Cambodia's Ancient Wonders: A Family Adventure In Siem Reap For All Ages

Cambodia’s ancient wonders offer families who love history, culture, and nature a wealth of experiences. One of the best places to immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of Cambodia is Siem Reap, a city renowned for its ancient temples, vibrant markets, and friendly people.

Timeless sunset over the anicent wonders found at Angkor Archeological Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia. — The dimming rays of sunset highlight the timelessness of anicent wonders found at Angkor Archeological Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Photo by Ron Bozman/Spring Hill Productions

After numerous visits, I’m eager to share some of the top things to do in Siem Reap with kids and provide practical tips for planning your trip.

Opt For A Visa To Cambodia

Before you start packing your bags and booking your flights, you can opt visa to Cambodia. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa before you travel. Some foreign nationals may be eligible for an e-visa or a visa-on-arrival. Use the Passport Index to determine if you require a travel visa for Cambodia. Families entering Cambodia on a Mekong River cruise or other tour may have the tour operator arrange visas.

Couple pose in front of ancient Banyan tree at the Ta Prohm temple seen in "Tomb Raider" at the Angkor Archeological Park. Photo by Ron Bozman for Spring Hill Productions. — Couple pose in front of ancient Banyan tree at the Ta Prohm temple seen in “Tomb Raider” at the Angkor Archeological Park. Photo by Ron Bozman for Spring Hill Productions.

e-Visa To Cambodia

The e-visa is a convenient and fast option that allows you to apply for a visa online and receive it by email. The e-visa is valid for 30 days and grants you entry into Cambodia for tourism purposes. Apply for it at least three working days before your intended travel date.

Visa-on-Arrival To Cambodia

The visa-on-arrival is another option that permits you to obtain a visa at the airport or border crossing upon arrival in Cambodia. The visa-on-arrival is also valid for 30 days and allows you to enter Cambodia for tourism purposes. It costs US$30 and requires you to complete an application form and provide a passport photo. You can pay the fee in cash or by credit card. Further details about the visa-on-arrival can be found on the official website of the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

What To Do In Siem Reap with Kids

There are so many things to do in Siem Reap with kids that you won’t run out of options. Siem Reap is a destination that will enrich your mind, body and soul and leave you with unforgettable memories. Here are some of the top activities that I recommend.

Explore Angkor Archaeological Park

Looking out over Siem Reap from the top throne room at the palace of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Photo by Ron Bozman for Spring Hill Productions.

Angkor Archeological Park is the main attraction of Siem Reap, an ancient wonder that is among the most impressive sites in the world. The park covers more than 400 square kilometers and contains the remains of hundreds of temples, palaces, and monuments that date back to the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 15th centuries.

The most famous and iconic temple is Angkor Wat, the largest religious structure in the world. It is the symbol of Cambodia and featured on the national flag. You can also visit other amazing temples, such as Bayon, Bantay Srai and Preah Khan. Don’t miss Ta Prohm, where the 2001 action film, “Tomb Raider,” was filmed. Kids will be mesmerized by the real jungle landscape.

Explore the park by tuk-tuk, bicycle, or guided tour. Plan to spend at least two or three days to appreciate the grandeur and history of these age-old artworks. Early morning and dusk are recommended times to capture the best photographs. Be sure everyone has a hat and sunblock as the Cambodian sun is very strong year round.

View The Ancient Treasures At Angkor National Museum

Smiling bronze Buddha statue from the collection at Angkor National Museum in Siem Reap. Photo by Ron Bozman/Spring Hill Productions

Angkor National Museum is a modern and interactive museum showcasing Cambodia’s ancient wonders. Discover the history and culture of the Khmer civilization and the Angkor period. The museum boasts eight galleries displaying artifacts, sculptures, inscriptions, and multimedia exhibits that explain the origins, beliefs, traditions, and achievements of the Khmer people.

The museum is an excellent place to learn more about the Angkor temples and the stories behind them. The outstanding collection of Buddha figures will help children appreciate the artistic and architectural skills of Khmer artisans. The museum is open daily from 8:30am to 6pm, and the admission fee is US$12 for adults and US$6 for children.

Enjoy The Phare Circus In Siem Reap

Outside the main paved town of Siem Reap, fruit and snack sellers abound so kids never have to worry about getting hungry. Photo by Ron Bozman for Spring Hill Productions.

The Phare Circus is one of Cambodia’s modern wonders: a spectacular and entertaining show. Skilled performers combine acrobatics, music, dance, and drama to tell stories about Cambodian history, culture, and society. The talented and passionate young artists have been trained by Phare Ponleu Selpak, a social enterprise that provides education and employment opportunities for disadvantaged youth.

The show is fun and engaging for all ages and showcases the creativity and resilience of the Cambodian people. The show is held daily at 8pm at the Phare Circus Ring. Ticket prices range from US$18 to US$38 depending on the seat category, so be sure to select center seats for little ones to have a clear view. Children ages 5 and under enter free.

Go To Siem Reap For Cambodia’s Ancient Wonders And Jungle Adventures

Buddha statues line the famous walkway at Bayon, one of Angkor's notable temples. in Siem Reap and an ancient wonder in Cambodia. — Buddha statues line the famous walkway at Bayon, one of Angkor’s notable ancient wonders. Photo by Ron Bozman/Spring Hill Productions

Siem Reap is a city that offers a family-friendly adventure for all ages, with its ancient wonders, cultural attractions, and fun activities. You can explore the Angkor Archaeological Park, visit the Angkor National Museum, and enjoy the Phare Circus, among other things. You can also experience the warmth and hospitality of the Cambodian people and sample the delicious and diverse cuisine of the country.

To visit Siem Reap, you need to check the requirements for the eVisa, a visa waiver that allows you to enter Cambodia for tourism purposes. You can apply for the eVisa online or at the airport or border crossing when you arrive in Cambodia.

Cambodia itself is a fascinating destination for all ages with many family-friendly activities and ancient wonders. You can also find more articles on Cambodia and other destinations on their website.

Author Vidhika Gupta Gupta is a passionate traveler who enjoys exploring cultural and historic sites around the world. She contributed this blog post about Cambodia’s ancient wonders on behalf of sponsor CambodiaGoVisas.com.

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