Old Market Psar Chas
A bustling hub of local life, Old Market Psar Chas offers everything from fresh produce and spices to unique souvenirs and delicious street food.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Old Market Psar Chas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling hub of local life, Old Market Psar Chas offers everything from fresh produce and spices to unique souvenirs and delicious street food.
"It's a vibrant slice of local life, perfect for practicing bargaining and picking up unique gifts."
🎯 Haggling is Essential
Start at 50% of the asking price and negotiate politely. Don't be afraid to walk away if the price isn't right.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Grab a refreshing fruit shake or fresh coconut water from one of the many vendors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Local Produce & Spices
Wet section
Vibrant displays of fresh fruits, vegetables, and aromatic spices offer a sensory feast.

Textiles and Souvenirs
Dry section
Discover unique clothing, artisanal crafts, and souvenirs perfect for gifts or personal keepsakes.

Street Food Delights
Food stalls
Savor authentic Cambodian flavors like amok curry, grilled meats, and refreshing fruit shakes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Master the Art of Bargaining
Timing is Key for a Better Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Markets- Siem Reap
🎯 Haggling is Essential
Start at 50% of the asking price and negotiate politely. Don't be afraid to walk away if the price isn't right.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Grab a refreshing fruit shake or fresh coconut water from one of the many vendors.
Fried chicken advice PP
Best places to go to for cheap, authentic foods
🛍️ Explore Both Sections
The market is divided into wet (produce) and dry (goods) sections; explore both for the full experience.
💰 Look for Export Rejects
Find high-quality branded items at steal deals in the export reject sale stores.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Haggling is Essential
Start at 50% of the asking price and negotiate politely. Don't be afraid to walk away if the price isn't right.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Grab a refreshing fruit shake or fresh coconut water from one of the many vendors.
🛍️ Explore Both Sections
The market is divided into wet (produce) and dry (goods) sections; explore both for the full experience.
💰 Look for Export Rejects
Find high-quality branded items at steal deals in the export reject sale stores.
🚶♀️ Be Prepared for Crowds
Evenings can get busy, especially near Pub Street. Embrace the lively atmosphere!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Old Market Psar Chas for its vibrant atmosphere, wide variety of goods, and authentic street food. The opportunity to practice bargaining is a highlight, though some find vendors can be pushy. It's a must-visit for experiencing local life and finding unique souvenirs.
"A good market to get anything and everything. Not as busy on a weekday but the shopkeepers can be pushy. Be firm with the price you willing to pay and make sure you haggling. Always half or less than half from what they ask.
Otherwise love the market."
Saravanand Naiker
"Well lot, really good clothing options, souvenirs, and artisanal products to buy. Bargaining is a must since their prices are flexible. There are certain accessories stores, and export reject sale stores for the brand enthusiasts which will give you good finish products for steal deals. Careful - you'll find yourself buying things and shopping (both men and women) and stopping only because you run out of money. Enough food stops to sustain you as well."
Virali C. Nagda
"Also known as Psar Chas… situated just behind Pub Street…
caters for local as well as tourists… must bargain ( start by 50%)
Divided into wet and dry sections
7am-8pm"
Su Huan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Market Psar Chas is conveniently located just behind Pub Street in Siem Reap. It's easily accessible by tuk-tuk, taxi, or even on foot if you're staying nearby. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from the Pub Street area.
While there isn't dedicated parking for private cars directly at the market, tuk-tuks and motorbikes can usually find spots nearby. If arriving by car, your driver will likely drop you off at the closest accessible point.
Tuk-tuks are the most popular and recommended mode of transport for tourists in Siem Reap. They are affordable, readily available, and offer an authentic local experience. Negotiate your fare before starting your journey.
Absolutely! Old Market Psar Chas is situated right behind Pub Street, making it a very short and easy walk. It's a great way to soak in the atmosphere of the town.
Public transport in Siem Reap is limited to local buses which may not be convenient for tourists. Tuk-tuks and taxis are the primary and most practical options for getting around and reaching the market.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Old Market Psar Chas. It's a public market, and you can freely wander through its stalls. You only pay for the items you choose to purchase.
The market typically operates from 7 am to 8 pm daily. However, some vendors may start packing up earlier or later depending on the day and their stock.
Weekdays are generally less crowded, offering a more relaxed shopping experience. Weekends and evenings can be quite busy, especially near Pub Street, but offer a more vibrant atmosphere.
Yes, the market opens at 7 am, so you can visit in the early morning to see the local produce section at its freshest and avoid the peak crowds.
Evenings, particularly on weekends, can be very crowded. If you prefer a quieter experience, aim for weekday mornings or early afternoons.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You'll find a wide variety of souvenirs, including textiles, silk scarves, handicrafts, wood carvings, silver jewelry, and local artwork. Many items are unique to Cambodia.
Yes, the market offers many clothing options, including t-shirts, dresses, and traditional Cambodian attire. Look out for 'export reject' stores for branded items at discounted prices.
Bargaining is expected. Start by offering about half of the initial price and negotiate politely. Be firm but friendly.
Prices are generally negotiable for most items, especially souvenirs and clothing. Fixed prices might apply to some food items or pre-packaged goods.
Consider looking for locally made spices, traditional Krama scarves, intricate wood carvings, and unique silver jewelry.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find a wide array of Cambodian street food, including amok curry, grilled meats, noodle dishes, fresh tropical fruits, and local snacks. It's a great place to sample authentic flavors.
Yes, many stalls offer vegetable-based dishes and fresh fruit. You can often find stir-fried vegetables and rice, or ask vendors to prepare dishes without meat or fish sauce.
Don't miss the amok curry, various grilled meats (like pork or chicken skewers), and refreshing fruit shakes made from mango, pineapple, or dragon fruit.
Food prices are very affordable, with many dishes costing just a few US dollars. Fruit shakes are also inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly dining option.
While generally safe and delicious, it's always wise to choose busy stalls with high turnover and ensure food is cooked fresh. Drink bottled water.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The vibrant colors of produce, the bustling crowds, and the diverse array of goods make it a photographer's paradise. Capture the essence of local life.
Focus on the colorful displays of fruits and spices, the interactions between vendors and customers, the textures of textiles, and the preparation of street food.
It's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors. A smile and a gesture usually suffice.
Morning light can be soft and beautiful for capturing produce. Midday offers vibrant colors, while evenings provide a lively, atmospheric glow, though it can be crowded.
Generally, there are no strict restrictions, but be mindful of private stalls or specific areas where photography might be discouraged. Always be respectful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds, making it easier to navigate with little ones. While bargaining might be less of a focus for kids, they can enjoy the sensory experience of the market. If your children are adventurous eaters, introducing them to simple street food like grilled skewers or fresh fruit can be a fun cultural experience. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
💰 Budget Travelers
For food, the market is exceptionally budget-friendly. You can enjoy delicious and authentic Cambodian meals, including flavorful curries and grilled meats, for just a few dollars per dish. Fruit shakes and local snacks are also very affordable, making it easy to eat well without overspending. It's a fantastic place to experience local culture and flavors on a shoestring budget.
couples
Sharing a meal from the street food stalls can be a romantic and authentic experience. Try different dishes together and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Consider visiting in the late afternoon or early evening to experience the market as it transitions into a lively hub, with the glow of lights adding to the ambiance. It's a perfect spot for memorable photos and shared discoveries.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Market's Layout
The dry market, on the other hand, is dedicated to a wide array of goods that aren't perishable. This includes everything from clothing, textiles, and silk scarves to handicrafts, wood carvings, silver jewelry, and an assortment of souvenirs. You'll also find stalls selling household items and personal accessories. This is the primary area for souvenir shopping and finding unique gifts to take home. Many vendors here also sell export-reject items from well-known brands at significantly reduced prices, offering excellent value for discerning shoppers.
Understanding this division helps visitors navigate the market more efficiently, knowing where to look for specific items. Whether you're seeking fresh ingredients or unique keepsakes, the layout ensures a comprehensive shopping experience. Remember that bargaining is a key part of the shopping culture in both sections, so be prepared to negotiate prices to get the best deals.
The Art of Bargaining at Psar Chas
Approach the negotiation with a friendly demeanor and a smile. It's a social interaction as much as a commercial one. If a vendor is unwilling to meet your price, don't be discouraged. You can politely thank them and move on to another stall, as similar items are often available elsewhere. This tactic can sometimes prompt the original vendor to reconsider their price. Remember that the goal is to reach a price you're happy with, and the vendor is also satisfied. Avoid aggressive tactics; a respectful and lighthearted negotiation is key to a positive experience.
Keep in mind that prices for food items or pre-packaged goods might be less negotiable than for souvenirs or clothing. However, for most items, especially those in the dry market section, bargaining is the norm. Being firm but polite is the most effective strategy. Many visitors find that the thrill of a successful haggle adds to the overall enjoyment of their market visit.
Culinary Adventures: Tasting Siem Reap
Beyond the main dishes, the market is an excellent place to sample fresh tropical fruits. Look for stalls selling vibrant mangoes, sweet pineapples, juicy watermelons, and exotic dragon fruits, often prepared into refreshing fruit shakes. These shakes are the perfect way to cool down and rehydrate while exploring the bustling market. Don't shy away from trying other local snacks and sweets; they offer a delightful glimpse into Cambodian flavors and culinary traditions.
When dining at the market, it's advisable to choose stalls that are busy, as this indicates fresh ingredients and high turnover. While most food is prepared hygienically, it's always a good practice to drink bottled water. The affordability of the food makes it an excellent option for budget travelers looking to experience authentic Khmer cuisine without breaking the bank.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit