Sustainable Weekend in Siem Reap: Top Eco-Friendly Things to Do

Behind the famous ruins of the Angkor complex, Siem Reap is stepping into a new light, not just as the gateway to ancient temples, but as a rising hub for sustainable and meaningful travel. 

Beneath its dusty roads and laid-back charm, a quiet transformation is underway. From social enterprises and ethical eateries to eco-friendly initiatives, Siem Reap offers countless ways for conscious travelers to make a positive impact. This is your guide to experiencing Siem Reap in a way that gives back but still soaks up the rich culture, flavors, and warmth of Cambodia.

What makes Siem Reap a green destination?

In Siem Reap, sustainability is more than a concept - it’s a way of life embraced by the community, local businesses, and governing bodies. The city takes pride in its eco-conscious initiatives, from conservation programs to supporting local enterprises. Visitors are encouraged to explore attractions that promote both cultural enrichment and environmental preservation, such as the Ta Prohm, Angkor Centre, the Cambodia Landmine Museum,...

Sustainable travel in Siem Reap is growing (Source: Siemreap)

Sustainable travel in Siem Reap extends to where you stay and how you get around. Eco-lodges and green hotels are thoughtfully designed to minimize environmental impact through renewable energy use, water-saving systems, and community engagement. 

Meanwhile, many restaurants focus on farm-to-table concepts, serving organic and locally sourced ingredients that support nearby farmers and reduce food miles. At the same time, community-based tourism gives visitors a meaningful way to engage with local culture, where every interaction and experience directly benefits the people who call Siem Reap home.

What to do for a sustainable weekend in Siem Reap

Siem Reap offers a plethora of eco-friendly things to do and spots that allow you to explore while minimizing your ecological footprint. From bird-watching in natural reserves to sustainable art workshops, there is something for every eco-conscious traveler.

Day one

Riverside Walk

Start your day with a stroll from the Royal Residence along Pokambor Avenue, where you'll find cozy benches, decorative street lamps, and charming bridges over a quiet river. A great first stop is the Old Market – a paradise for scarves, souvenirs, and quirky T-shirts.

The river also plays a vital role in mitigating flooding in Siem Reap town (Source: Phnom Penh)

Vegetarian Meal at Banlle Vegetarian Restaurant

Situated in the heart of Siem Reap town, just a 5-minute walk from the old market, it occupies a 1,200-square-meter space in a traditional Cambodian wooden house with two floors. 

Banlle Vegetarian Restaurant (Source: Safarway)

On the lower floor, you'll find a contemporary air-conditioned dining space with transparent walls, complete with a bar serving cocktails and juices. Upstairs, there's an open-air area cooled by fans, providing a view of the herb and vegetable garden. Or, you can enjoy a romantic evening in the garden's outdoor seating, surrounded by the lush greenery of tropical vegetables and herbs.

Window Shopping

Siem Reap boasts a lively shopping scene filled with colorful markets, charming galleries, and stylish boutiques. A great starting point is the area around the Old Market, where you’ll find everything from souvenirs and local produce to Burmese gemstones and trendy summer clothing. 

Scattered across the city are various art galleries showcasing the talents of both Cambodian and international artists. Many shops and social enterprises also aim to give back to the community, making it meaningful to purchase locally made products that support Cambodian artisans. 

A famous street in Siem Reap  (Source: News) 

Dining with Purpose - Green Market

This eco-friendly venue not only showcases a diverse range of cuisines but also hosts cultural activities, including Cambodian puppet shows and a blend of modern music with traditional Khmer classic songs.

At the heart of their concept is a commitment to being plastic-free and environmentally friendly. Green Market serves as a community of food stalls, providing opportunities for local families in Siem Reap to generate additional income. Such a noble endeavor deserves recognition and support.

Green Market - a culinary destination in the Heart of Siem Reap (Source: Bettercambodia)

Read more: Must-Try Experiences When Visiting Siem Reap, Cambodia

Day two

Breakfast at New Leaf Eatery

Old Market is just a few metres away from this cafe with a mission. New Leaf donates 30% of its profits to education projects in the community, and shares an additional 20% with its all-Khmer staff. Locally-sourced ingredients feature highly on the menu of predominantly Khmer, with some Western dishes. 

Breakfast at New Leaf Eatery (Source: Drink KL)

Coffee here is from beans grown in Northern Cambodia, and sourced ethically by Three Corner Coffee Roaster which supports Khmer producers. You can try a cold-brew Iced Americano or a Khmer-style iced coffee with sweet milk. The Post Temple Cooler, a special juice blend with cucumber, celery, apple and lime-mint sorbet, is the perfect way to rehydrate after seeing the sights.

Relax at the Royal Gardens

Royal Independence Gardens, a lush green space nestled in the heart of the city, where you can enjoy the shade of tall trees, admire colorful flowers, and take a break from the city's busy streets. This quiet spot is perfect for a leisurely walk or simply unwinding in nature.

Royal Gardens in Siem Reap (Source: Encircle)

Explore the Angkor Temples

Visitors flock to Angkor Wat right at daybreak to capture the perfect shot of the iconic temple reflected from the surrounding ponds as the sunrise paints the scene a flaming shade of red. Beyond this near mandatory photo, there are many options for exploring Angkor. 

You can make your way around Angkor on a bicycle or an ebike or you can hire a tuk-tuk or a private car for the day. Every visit to Siem Reap is centred around Angkor so your accommodation will be more than happy to make all the arrangements for you and advise you on the particulars.

The iconic temple in Cambodia (Source: Pelago)

Phase - The Cambodian Circus

More than a circus, Phare is storytelling through acrobatics, music, and theatre. Founded by former refugee children, it represents the spirit of resilience and hope – a must-see performance in Siem Reap.

Phare Cambodian Circus (Source: Travelmag)

Tips for Sustainable Travel in Siem Reap

Traveling responsibly in Siem Reap not only helps preserve its stunning cultural heritage and natural beauty but also supports local communities. Here are some tips to make your visit more sustainable:

Tips for Sustainable Travel in Siem Reap (Source: Lonely Planet)

• Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation: Stay at hotels, hostels, or guesthouses that follow green practices like solar energy use, water conservation, and locally owned and support community-based tourism.
• Walk, Cycle, or Use Electric Tuk Tuks: Siem Reap is a walkable city with flat terrain, making it ideal for exploring on foot or by bicycle.
• Support Social Enterprises: Dine and shop at places that give back to the community. Restaurants like Green Market and Chamkar House. Shopping at ethical boutiques in Kandal Village helps support local artisans and fair trade practices.
• Offset Your Carbon Footprint: If you’re flying to Siem Reap, consider donating to carbon offset programs to help balance the environmental impact of your travel.

Conclusion 

Sustainable travel in Siem Reap is more than a choice; it’s a journey towards a more responsible and fulfilling travel experience. By choosing eco-friendly options, respecting local cultures, and supporting sustainable initiatives, we can all contribute to preserving the unique charm and heritage of Siem Reap. Let’s make our travels count for a better with Asia King Travel now!

Read more: Cambodia Travel FAQs: Clear up your doubts when traveling in Cambodia