Kandal Village

Overview

Kandal Village is a trendy riverside neighbourhood that has become Siem Reap's creative hub, home to independent boutiques, design studios, speciality coffee shops, and art galleries. The area offers a quieter, more curated alternative to the bustle of Pub Street and the Old Market.

Highlights

• Independent Boutiques: Locally designed fashion, homewares, and fair-trade products.
• Speciality Coffee: Several third-wave coffee shops serving single-origin Cambodian beans.
• Art Galleries: Small contemporary art spaces showcasing Cambodian and Southeast Asian artists.

History

Named after the Khmer word for 'central', Kandal Village emerged in the 2010s as Siem Reap's creative community gravitated to the affordable shophouses along the river. The neighbourhood has since been recognised by international travel media as one of Southeast Asia's most promising creative districts.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Best explored on foot in the cooler morning or late afternoon hours.
• Tip 2: Many shops close between 12:00 and 14:00 for lunch — plan accordingly.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.