Sisophon Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Sisophon, Cambodia with this comprehensive travel guide.


Sisophon, a small city located in northwestern Cambodia, is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. This travel guide will help you discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Sisophon.

Introduction to Sisophon

Sisophon is the capital of the Banteay Meanchey province and is located approximately 359 kilometers northwest of Phnom Penh. The city has a rich history and is home to several ancient temples and historical sites. Sisophon also serves as the gateway to the nearby Thailand border.

List of Places to Visit in Sisophon

Sisophon is an excellent destination for those who want to explore Cambodia beyond the usual tourist hotspots. Here are some of the top places to visit in Sisophon:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Banteay Chhmar Temple: This ancient temple, located about 60 kilometers from Sisophon, is one of the biggest religious complexes in Cambodia. It features several walled enclosures, moats, and intricate carvings.

  • Phnom Bak and Phnom Chenh Chiang: These two hills, located just outside Sisophon, offer stunning views of the city and are home to several ancient temples and pagodas.

  • Anlong Veng Peace Center: This museum chronicles Cambodia’s bloody Khmer Rouge era and is dedicated to peace-building efforts in the country.

Natural Attractions of Sisophon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Prahok Village: Located about 20 kilometers from Sisophon, this village is famous for producing Cambodia’s national dish, prahok. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Ang Trapeang Thmor Nature Reserve: This wildlife sanctuary, located about 100 kilometers from Sisophon, is home to several endangered species, including the Eld’s deer and the sarus crane.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sisophon

Sisophon is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in and around the city:

  • Siem Reap to Sisophon via Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport: This scenic route takes visitors through several small villages and rice paddies.

  • Banteay Chhmar to Sisophon: This route passes through several ancient temples and pagodas and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Sisophon: Activities and Tours

Sisophon is a destination that offers something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Sisophon:

  • Visit the Banteay Chhmar temple complex

  • Explore the ruins of Phnom Bak and Phnom Chenh Chiang

  • Take a bike tour of the surrounding countryside

Week-Long Itinerary for Sisophon

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Sisophon:

Day 1: Explore the Banteay Chhmar temple complex

Day 2: Visit Phnom Bak and Phnom Chenh Chiang

Day 3: Take a bike tour of the surrounding countryside

Day 4: Check out the Anlong Veng Peace Center

Day 5: Visit Prahok Village

Day 6: Explore the Ang Trapeang Thmor Nature Reserve

Day 7: Relax and enjoy Sisophon’s local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Sisophon

Sisophon is known for its delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Prahok: Cambodia’s national dish, made from fermented fish paste

  • Amok: A fragrant fish curry cooked with coconut milk and spices

Local Beverages

  • Angkor Beer: Cambodia’s most popular beer, brewed in nearby Siem Reap

  • Sraa Tram: A refreshing drink made from tamarind juice, sugar, and ice

Where to Stay in Sisophon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sisophon has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in Sisophon:

  • Royal Hill Resort: A luxury hotel located just outside Sisophon, with a swimming pool and several restaurants.

  • Angkor Mithona Guesthouse: An affordable and comfortable option in the center of Sisophon.

What to Buy in Sisophon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sisophon is an excellent destination for souvenir shopping. Here are some of the best local products to bring home:

  • Handicrafts and textiles
  • Local spices and herbs
  • Siem Reap coffee

Local Culture and Customs of Sisophon

Sisophon has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Buddhism is the dominant religion in Sisophon, and visitors should dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Sisophon

The best time to visit Sisophon is between November and March, when the weather is dry and mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sisophon

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Sisophon:

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites

  • Try the local food and beverages

Don’t:

  • Touch someone on the head, as this is considered disrespectful in Khmer culture

  • Wear revealing clothing

Safety and Health

Safety in Sisophon

Sisophon is a relatively safe destination for travelers, but visitors should exercise caution when traveling alone at night.

Health in Sisophon

Visitors to Sisophon should take malaria medication and get vaccinated against typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and tetanus before visiting.

Getting to Sisophon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sisophon is easily accessible by bus or car from nearby towns and cities.

Airports Near Sisophon

The nearest airport to Sisophon is the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Sisophon

The Banteay Meanchey bus station is located in the center of Sisophon and is the main transportation hub in the city.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a taxi or car rental service to get around Sisophon and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Sisophon

The best way to get around Sisophon is by foot or bicycle. Taxis and motorcycle taxis are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Sisophon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sisophon is an excellent starting point for exploring nearby destinations and attractions. Here are some of the best places to visit near Sisophon:

  • Siem Reap: Home to the famous Angkor Wat temple complex, Siem Reap is just 145 kilometers from Sisophon.

  • Battambang: Known for its French colonial architecture and beautiful countryside, Battambang is located just 87 kilometers from Sisophon.

Conclusion

Sisophon is a unique and exciting destination in Cambodia that offers visitors a chance to explore the country beyond the usual tourist hotspots. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, Sisophon is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Cambodia.

The then-derelict Sisophon railway station before renovation, with the watchtower on Phnom Bak, behind. The then-derelict Sisophon railway station before renovation, with the watchtower on Phnom Bak, behind.