Happy Pchum Ben Day Festival

Also called Ancestor’s’ Day, Pchum Ben is, according to legend, a time where spirits of deceased relatives and ancestors walk the earth. Running for 15 days, usually towards the end of September or October, the fifteenth day of the tenth month of the Khmer Calendar marks one of the most traditional and colourful festivals in Cambodia with people dressing up in traditional clothing to visit their local pagodas with food and offerings and pay respect to their ancestors.

Pchum Ben can also be translated to ‘gathering together to make offerings’, and that’s exactly what families do when they visit the pagodas.

Enjoy your wonderful family reunion!

Related Blog

As of 2024, travelers visiting the Angkor Archaeological Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia, have multiple official options for purchasing the mandatory Angkor Ticket Pass. The primary and longest-standing sales point is the Angkor Enterprise Main Ticket Office, located approximately 4 km from downtown Siem Reap along Road 60. This office operates from 5:00 AM until 5:30 PM daily, catering to early visitors heading for sunrise at Angkor Wat. However, in a move to improve convenience for tourists, authorities have introduced a second official ticket counter at Heritage Walk Mall, a modern shopping and dining complex situated just minutes away from the popular Pub Street area. This secondary outlet, open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, provides the same services as the main office but in a more central, air-conditioned environment with generally shorter queues—making it an excellent choice for those staying in the city center who wish to avoid the morning rush at the primary location.

 

For tech-savvy travelers, the official online ticket portal https://www.angkorenterprise.gov.kh allows advance purchase of passes, which can be presented as QR codes at temple entrances. This digital option is particularly useful for avoiding lines entirely. Pricing remains consistent across all sales channels: $37 for a 1-day pass, $62 for a 3-day pass (valid for 10 days, with any three days of entry), and $72 for a 7-day pass (valid for a month, with any seven days of entry). Children under 12 enter free but must present a passport or ID for verification.

 

A critical requirement for all pass purchases is the on-the-spot photograph taken at the time of issuance, which is embedded into the ticket to prevent transferability. Visitors should also note that passes are non-refundable and must be kept intact throughout their stay, as frequent checks occur at temple entrances. For those planning to witness the iconic Angkor Wat sunrise (with gates opening at 5:00 AM), purchasing the pass the day before is strongly advised to bypass morning ticket office delays. Additionally, while the Heritage Walk Mall offers extended accessibility, it’s worth confirming its hours during holidays or special events, as adjustments may occur.

 

With these options, travelers can choose the most suitable method based on their itinerary—whether prioritizing convenience, avoiding crowds, or securing tickets in advance for a seamless experience at one of the world’s most magnificent heritage sites.

   Discover Traditional Khmer Archery

The Royal Archery Club offers a rare opportunity to try Khmer-style archery, inspired by ancient Angkorian warriors. You won’t just be shooting arrows—you’ll be stepping into history. From handcrafted bamboo arrows to traditional wooden bows, every part of the experience connects you with Cambodia’s martial past.

All skill levels are welcome. Whether you’re a total beginner or have tried archery before, trained instructors will guide you through proper stance, aiming techniques, and safety. Sessions take place in a quiet outdoor setting surrounded by trees, traditional structures, and scenic rice fields.

   Pricing & Packages

For short-term visitors, the pricing is simple and affordable:

– Foreign visitors: $9 USD for a 90-minute session (includes instruction + all equipment)
– Cambodian locals & expats: $5 USD for 90 minutes
– Group and extended memberships are also available, but casual visitors only need to pay the basic walk-in fee.

Many travelers report they were pleasantly surprised by the value. You can shoot as much as you want during the session, and you’re welcome to take breaks, walk around, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

   Easy Access from Sokchea Angkor Hotel & Downtown

Staying at Sokchea Angkor Hotel or anywhere in central Siem Reap? The Royal Archery Club is only a 15–20 minute ride away by tuk-tuk or car. Located in Steung Village, Prasat Bakong District, it’s easy to combine this with visits to nearby Bakong Temple or as a relaxing mid-morning or afternoon break.

Drivers can use this Google Maps link for exact directions:
📍 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/JJVVw3WYXFK35Z3n7)

More Than Just Archery

Beyond shooting arrows, the Royal Archery Club feels like a living cultural village. The site features:

– Traditional Khmer military-style architecture
– Homestay bungalows and a local café
– Opportunities to dress in Angkorian outfits for photos
– A peaceful atmosphere away from the city bustle

It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take great photos, learn something new, and walk away with a unique memory.

   Add It to Your Itinerary

If you only have a couple of days in Siem Reap, you can still enjoy the Royal Archery Club without disrupting your temple visits or tours. Plan for 2–3 hours, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed, entertained, and culturally enriched.

Ready, aim… experience!
Include the Royal Archery Club on your Siem Reap itinerary and discover a side of Cambodia most tourists miss.

A First-Timer’s Guide to Exploring Siem Reap Like a Local

Siem Reap is famous for Angkor Wat, but the real magic lies in its vibrant local culture, hidden gems, and authentic Khmer hospitality. As your home away from home, Sokchea Angkor Hotel is perfectly located to help you experience the city like a true insider. Here’s how to dive deep into Siem Reap’s charm – with all the transportation options you need!

1. Choose Your Adventure: Getting Around Like a Local
Siem Reap offers many ways to explore – pick what suits you best!
– Tuk-tuks – The classic Cambodian experience! Affordable and perfect for short trips around town Price around $20. Our front desk can arrange trusted drivers for you.
– Motorbikes – For the more adventurous, rent a scooter to zip around at your own pace (just mind the traffic!) price around $14-$20.
– Bicycles – rent price around $3-$12.
2. Eat Like a Local (With Our Insider Tips!
Khmer cuisine is a highlight of any trip. Here’s where to go:
– Psar Chas (Old Market) – Try *nom banh chok* (Khmer noodles) or *bai sach chrouk* (pork & rice)
– Tuk-tuk Food Tour – Let us arrange a local-guided evening food tour by tuk-tuk! Price around $20.
– Sokchea Angkor Hotel’s Restaurant – Enjoy authentic Khmer flavors without leaving our property

3. Temple Visits Made Easy
– Private Tuk-tuk Tour – Our recommended drivers know all the best routes and hidden temples
– Sunrise Options – Skip the crowds at Angkor Wat and ask us about quieter alternatives
– Motorbike Adventure – For those comfortable riding, we can suggest scenic temple loop routes

4. Local Experiences You’ll Love
– Evening Food Crawl – Let us arrange a tuk-tuk to take you to the best street food spots
– Countryside Tour – Explore rural villages by motorbike (with driver) or tuk-tuk
– Cooking Class Transport – We’ll arrange your ride to the best local cooking schools

5. Why Stay with Us?
At Sokchea Angkor Hotel, we make local exploration effortless:
✓ Trusted transportation partners – Safe drivers at fair prices
✓ Flexible options – From bikes to private tours
✓ Insider advice – We know the real Siem Reap and love to share it