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Preah Dak village, located in Siem Reap province, is a charming destination for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Cambodian experiences. This village is not only famous for its rich historical significance near the Angkor temples but also for its vibrant local culture, especially when it comes to food and handicrafts. Here, you can find a variety of souvenirs, delicious local dishes, and traditional desserts, with Num Tnaot (Khmer Palm Cake) being one of the highlights.

Preah Dak: A Perfect Place for Souvenirs and Local Treats
Souvenirs
Preah Dak offers a variety of handmade items and locally produced goods, making it an excellent spot for visitors to pick up authentic Cambodian souvenirs. Handcrafted items like:

Palm sugar products (a specialty of the village),
Traditional woven crafts like baskets and mats,
Local pottery and hand-carved wooden items.
These souvenirs are often made by local artisans, reflecting the village’s cultural heritage and offering a way for tourists to support the local economy.

Local Food and Desserts
Visitors can sample a wide range of local dishes and desserts in Preah Dak, and it’s a great place to experience the authentic flavors of Cambodian rural life.

Num Tnaot (Palm Cake): This is the village’s signature dessert, made from locally sourced palm sugar, rice flour, and coconut milk. The soft, spongy cakes are steamed and wrapped in banana leaves, and their unique sweet flavor is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.

Palm Sugar Products: You can also buy pure palm sugar, palm syrup, or palm-based candies, which are often sold as souvenirs and are a perfect reminder of the village’s culinary heritage.

Other Traditional Dishes: In addition to desserts, you can enjoy local Cambodian cuisine like grilled meats, noodle dishes, and fresh tropical fruits. The village is known for preparing meals with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring an authentic dining experience.

A Stop for Tourists
Given its proximity to Siem Reap’s iconic Angkor Wat, Preah Dak is a popular stop for tourists who are exploring the temple complexes. Many tour groups include a stop in the village as part of their itinerary, allowing visitors to witness traditional Cambodian life and cuisine firsthand.

You can also visit the local markets and see villagers at work, making palm sugar, weaving, and preparing delicious traditional desserts like Num Tnaot. It’s a great place for tourists to immerse themselves in Cambodian culture and bring home a little piece of it in the form of food, crafts, or unique palm sugar products.

The best time to visit Siem Reap largely depends on what you value most—comfortable weather, fewer crowds, or unique cultural experiences. Generally, the peak season runs from November to February, when temperatures are cooler and humidity is lower. During these months, the skies are clear and ideal for exploring the Angkor temple complex, floating villages, and outdoor markets. However, this is also when tourist numbers swell, meaning higher prices and busier attractions.

If you prefer a balance between good weather and manageable crowds, March to May offers warm, dry conditions, though temperatures can soar above 35°C. This period rewards early morning temple visits and quieter evenings around town. Travelers who can handle the heat may find this shoulder season especially enjoyable.

The rainy season, from June to October, transforms Siem Reap into a lush, green landscape. Afternoon showers are common, but they rarely disrupt the entire day. This season provides fewer tourists, lower accommodation rates, and stunning scenery—particularly around temples such as Ta Prohm, where moss-covered stones and dramatic skies create atmospheric photo opportunities. It’s also the best time to see the Tonlé Sap Lake at its fullest, enriching visits to floating villages.

Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on your priorities. For the most comfortable climate, choose November to February. For fewer crowds and great value, consider June to October. And for a blend of both, March to May offers a pleasant middle ground.

Staying at Sokchea Angkor Hotel makes traveling around Siem Reap convenient and stress-free, thanks to its central location and the city’s wide range of transportation options. Whether you are visiting ancient temples, local markets, or cultural attractions, getting around is simple and affordable.

One of the most popular ways to travel in Siem Reap is by tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuks are readily available outside Sokchea Angkor Hotel, and hotel staff can easily arrange a reliable driver for short trips or full-day tours. This option is ideal for visiting Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm, as drivers are familiar with temple routes and can offer flexible schedules.

For shorter distances, walking is a pleasant choice. The hotel is close to restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops, and parts of the Old Market area, allowing guests to explore the town at a relaxed pace. Bicycles are also a popular and eco-friendly option. Many travelers enjoy cycling through quiet streets or around the Angkor temple complex in the early morning or late afternoon.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps provide additional comfort, especially for families or those traveling during hot weather. These services are useful for airport transfers or longer journeys. For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike offers independence, though traffic rules and safety should be considered.

With helpful hotel services and multiple transport options, Sokchea Angkor Hotel serves as an excellent base for exploring Siem Reap easily, comfortably, and at your own pace.