Angkor National Museum
Siem Reap, Cambodia · Museum
About Angkor National Museum
The Angkor National Museum is a premier archaeological museum located in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It showcases an extensive collection of priceless artifacts dedicated to preserving the legacy and culture of the ancient Khmer Empire. Visiting here provides essential spiritual and historical context that helps visitors fully appreciate the nearby temples of Angkor.
Don't miss
- The Gallery of a Thousand Buddhas features an extraordinary room filled with hundreds of Buddha statues crafted from various precious materials.
- The Great Khmer Kings gallery details the reigns, spiritual philosophies, and architectural feats of rulers like Jayavarman VII.
- The Angkor Wat exhibit presents intricate stone lintels, preserved bas-reliefs, and multimedia models explaining the temple's construction.
- The Pre-Angkorian Period gallery highlights the early spiritual transition from Hinduism to Buddhism through ancient inscriptions and sculptures.
Plan your visit
Visit in the middle of the day to escape the intense tropical heat in Siem Reap. It is best to go on your first day in town before exploring the archaeological park.
Admission is paid, with optional audio headsets available for an additional fee. Tickets can be purchased at the counter upon arrival or booked in advance online.
The museum is located along Charles de Gaulle Boulevard, roughly a 5- to 10-minute tuk-tuk ride north of Pub Street and the Old Market area.
Tips for visiting
- Rent the multimedia audio guide at the reception desk for a much deeper understanding of the exhibits.
- Schedule your museum visit before heading to the actual temples so you can easily recognize key deities and architectural styles.
- Dress respectfully with covered shoulders and knees out of deference to the sacred religious artifacts on display.
- Take advantage of the free lockers at the entrance, as large bags and backpacks are not permitted inside the galleries.
- Be aware that photography is strictly prohibited inside the artifact exhibition rooms.
Angkor National Museum FAQ
Is photography allowed inside the Angkor National Museum?
Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited inside the main artifact galleries. Visitors are only allowed to take photos in the main entrance hall, lobby, and courtyard areas.
Should I visit the museum before or after the temples?
It is strongly recommended to visit the museum before exploring the Angkor temples. The exhibits provide crucial chronological and religious context that makes viewing the ancient stone carvings far more meaningful.
Is this museum covered by the Angkor Pass?
No, the Angkor National Museum is operated independently from the Angkor Archaeological Park. You need to purchase a separate admission ticket to enter.
Is the facility air-conditioned and accessible?
Yes, the facility is modern, fully air-conditioned, and provides a welcome respite from the midday heat. It is also wheelchair accessible with ramps, elevators, and smooth walkways.
More things to do in Siem Reap
Angkor Wat Landmark
Witness sunrise over the grandest religious monument in the world and admire its intricate sandstone bas-reliefs.
Bayon Temple Landmark
Explore the ancient royal city of Angkor Thom featuring over two hundred serenely smiling stone faces.
Ta Prohm Landmark
Walk through the atmospheric temple famously intertwined with massive silk-cotton tree roots and jungle foliage.
Banteay Srei Landmark
Marvel at a 10th-century Hindu temple celebrated for its delicate, reddish-pink sandstone carvings.
Phare, The Cambodian Circus Activity
Watch a dynamic performance combining traditional theater, modern circus arts, and social commentary by talented youth.
Tonle Sap Floating Villages Nature
Take a boat excursion to stilted and floating communities like Kompong Phluk to observe daily life on Southeast Asia's largest lake.
Pub Street & Night Markets Nightlife
Soak in the buzzing evening energy with street food stalls, foot massages, and lively open-air bars.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: ahmetyuksek, dMz on Pixabay.