Kroma Khmer (Scarf)

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.

Siem Reap will come alive on Nov. 14-15 for its vibrant Water Festival, a lively celebration filled with a variety of activities that embrace Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. Alongside the iconic boat races, which remain a highlight of the festival, visitors can partake in full moon salutations and taste traditional pounded rice dishes, symbolizing blessings and community unity. The enchanting lantern floats will also light up the evening sky, adding a magical touch to the festivities.

Beyond these traditional events, visitors can enjoy exhibitions showcasing local food and products, with stalls offering a taste of Cambodia’s unique flavors and craftsmanship. Concerts, cultural performances, and various forms of entertainment will fill the areas along the Siem Reap River, as well as key tourist sites, providing an exciting array of options for attendees.

This year’s festival aims to shine a light on the heart of Cambodian culture, with an expectation of drawing a diverse audience of both national and international visitors to the province. The Siem Reap administration warmly welcomes everyone to experience the festivities and has stressed the importance of maintaining order, security, safety measures, and cleanliness to ensure an enjoyable and respectful celebration for all.

When visiting temples in Cambodia, especially the famous Angkor Wat and other sacred sites, it’s important to respect local customs and religious traditions. Here’s a guide on what to do and what not to do:

### Do’s:
1. Dress Modestly
– Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees (e.g., long pants/skirts and shirts with sleeves).
– Remove hats and shoes when entering temple sanctuaries or sacred areas.

2. Be Respectful
– Speak softly and avoid loud noises.
– Follow instructions from monks or temple staff.
– Bow slightly when passing in front of Buddha statues or altars.

3. Ask Permission Before Taking Photos
– Some temples prohibit photography, especially of monks or sacred relics.
– Avoid posing disrespectfully (e.g., turning your back to Buddha statues).

4. Follow Temple Rules
– Walk clockwise around stupas and shrines (a sign of respect in Buddhist tradition).
– Do not touch or lean on ancient carvings and structures.

5. Support Local Communities
– Buy souvenirs from local vendors (but avoid purchasing ancient artifacts).
– Donate respectfully if there’s an offering box.

### Don’ts:
1. Do Not Wear Revealing Clothing
– Avoid tank tops, short shorts, or beachwear inside temple grounds.

2. Do Not Touch or Climb on Sacred Structures
– Many temples are ancient and fragile; climbing on them can cause damage.
– Do not touch Buddha statues or carvings.

3. Avoid Public Displays of Affection
– Holding hands is fine, but kissing or hugging is considered disrespectful.

4. Do Not Point Your Feet at Buddha or Monks
– Feet are considered the lowest and least sacred part of the body. Sit with your legs tucked to the side.

5. Do Not Disturb Worshipers or Monks
– Avoid interrupting prayers or meditation.
– Women should not touch monks or hand objects directly to them (place items on a table or cloth instead).

6. No Smoking, Drinking, or Eating Inside Temples
– These activities are considered highly disrespectful in sacred spaces.

7. Avoid Taking “Selfie” Photos in Sacred Areas
– Some temples ban selfie sticks, and posing playfully can offend locals.

### Additional Tips:
– Visit Early Morning or Late Afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
– Carry Cash (Small Riels or USD) for donations or small purchases.
– Hire a Licensed Guide to learn about temple history and proper etiquette.

By following these guidelines, you show respect for Cambodia’s culture and religion while enjoying a meaningful temple visit.