Phsar Leu Thom Thmey - a black and white photo of a street sign
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Phsar Leu Thom Thmey

4.3
·4k reviews·Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap's largest and oldest local market, offering an authentic glimpse into Cambodian commerce with endless goods and vibrant local life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Freshest produce & lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Phsar Leu Thom Thmey - a black and white photo of a street sign

Phsar Leu Thom Thmey

Best Time

Mornings

Freshest produce & lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Siem Reap's largest and oldest local market, offering an authentic glimpse into Cambodian commerce with endless goods and vibrant local life.

4.3
(4k reviews)

"It is real Cambodia, but lots of wonderful vendors and great product products. Come with a sense of adventure and a willingness to bargain."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤝 Friendly Bargaining

Vendors are willing to bargain. Approach with a smile and a sense of adventure for great deals! :moneywithwings:

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Ground can be wet and muddy in places. Protect your footwear and walk with confidence! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Khmer Snacks

Authentic Khmer Snacks

Food stalls throughout the market

Sample a variety of fresh, made-to-order Cambodian desserts and savory snacks. A true taste of local life!

Vibrant Textile Section

Vibrant Textile Section

Fabric and clothing stalls

Discover a dazzling array of colorful fabrics, traditional Khmer clothing, and unique textile crafts. Perfect for souvenirs!

Local Produce & Goods

Local Produce & Goods

Fresh produce, meat, and fish sections

Witness the heart of local commerce with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and fish. A glimpse into daily Cambodian life.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Phsar Leu Thom Thmey offers an authentic Cambodian market experience. Expect a bustling atmosphere with a wide array of goods, from fresh produce to textiles and electronics. Bargaining is expected, so come prepared to negotiate prices for the best deals.

Navigating the Market

While English is less common here than in more tourist-centric markets, locals are friendly and helpful. Be mindful of potentially wet or muddy ground in certain areas, especially near the wet market section, and wear appropriate footwear.

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Freshest produce & lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, good for bargaining
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Siam Reap what’s there to do?

🤝 Friendly Bargaining

Vendors are willing to bargain. Approach with a smile and a sense of adventure for great deals! :moneywithwings:

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Ground can be wet and muddy in places. Protect your footwear and walk with confidence! :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

Big Local Market in Siem Reap "Psha Lue Thom Thmey "

reddit.com

stupid question

🗣️ Limited English

Locals are helpful, but English is limited. Gestures and smiles go a long way! :wave:

🛍️ Find Unique Souvenirs

From jewelry to fabrics, discover treasures beyond the typical tourist shops. :gift:

reddit.com

Black American Experience in Siem Reap, Cambodia | Phsar Leu Market!

Tips

from all over the internet

🤝 Friendly Bargaining

Vendors are willing to bargain. Approach with a smile and a sense of adventure for great deals! :moneywithwings:

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Ground can be wet and muddy in places. Protect your footwear and walk with confidence! :athletic_shoe:

🗣️ Limited English

Locals are helpful, but English is limited. Gestures and smiles go a long way! :wave:

🛍️ Find Unique Souvenirs

From jewelry to fabrics, discover treasures beyond the typical tourist shops. :gift:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Phsar Leu Thom Thmey is lauded as Siem Reap's most authentic and traditional local market, offering an immense variety of goods from fresh produce to electronics and jewelry. Visitors appreciate the lack of pressure from vendors and the opportunity to experience 'real Cambodia,' though English is limited and the ground can be wet. It's a place for adventurous shoppers willing to bargain and immerse themselves in local life.

"This is probably the best local traditional market in town when it comes to variety and size. There really are a lot of options for shopping. There’s a vegetable market, fish and meat bread fresh made desserts, definitely real Khmer. There’s also jewelry, watches, fabrics, clothes, electronics, etc., and a lot of little surprises. One thing is nice. There’s not a lot of pressure you’re able just to walk through the market and freely shop, most vendors are willing to bargain there’s not as much English spoken as in old market, but there are people who will help you to make a purchase, and it’s definitely a experience.this market is not the mall, It is real Cambodia, but lots of wonderful vendors and great product products. If you come here, come with a sense of adventure and a willingness to bargain and hunt for the deals and have a great time."

Star Sullivan

"This local market is a great spot to catch a glimpse of everyday life, far from the usual touristy areas. It’s mostly locals here, which makes the experience feel more authentic. Some vendors cook and sell food using fresh ingredients from the market itself, and there are plenty of snacks to try as you wander around. I didn’t get a chance to taste anything, but everything looked pretty tasty. It’s a nice place to stop by on your walk from the bus terminal to the city center. Just be careful—the ground can be wet and a bit muddy in places, so your shoes might get dirty."

Taehyun Ryu (Big Black Tree)

"Very large and traditional Cambodian wet market. The locals are very friendly and will help you out with a smile. English is limited but the helpfulness makes up for it."

greame shea

What People Like

Authentic local experience
Vast variety of goods
Friendly vendors

What People Dislike

Limited English
Wet/muddy ground

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Phsar Leu Thom Thmey is located east of the city center. You can easily reach it by tuk-tuk, which is a popular and affordable option for tourists in Siem Reap. The ride should be relatively short, depending on your starting point. Some travelers mention it's a convenient stop on the way from the bus terminal to the city center. Reddit

It can be a pleasant walk from some parts of Siem Reap, especially if you're coming from the bus terminal. However, it's a large market, so consider a tuk-tuk for ease of access, especially if you plan on doing a lot of shopping. Reddit

Tuk-tuks are the most recommended mode of transport. They are readily available, offer a local experience, and allow for easy negotiation of fares. Negotiate your fare before starting your journey. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, markets of this size typically have designated areas for tuk-tuks and motorbikes. It's advisable to ask your driver to drop you off at a convenient entrance. Reddit

Ride-sharing apps are becoming more prevalent in Siem Reap, but traditional tuk-tuks remain the most common and often preferred method for navigating local markets. It's worth checking your preferred app for availability. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Phsar Leu Thom Thmey is a local market, and typically there is no entrance fee. You can wander through the stalls freely. Reddit

The market is generally open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours to experience the full vibrancy. Reddit

No, advance booking is not required as it's a public local market. You can visit anytime during its operating hours. Reddit

Mornings tend to be the busiest as locals shop for fresh produce. Late afternoons can be less crowded, offering a more relaxed browsing experience. Reddit

You can do a quick walk-through in about an hour, but to truly explore the variety of goods and perhaps enjoy some snacks, allocate at least 2-3 hours. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You can find almost anything! This includes fresh produce, meat, fish, traditional Khmer snacks, jewelry, watches, fabrics, clothing, electronics, beauty products, and more. It's a comprehensive local market. Reddit

Yes, bargaining is a common practice in Cambodian markets. Be polite, friendly, and ready to negotiate prices for the best deals. Reddit

Prices are generally very reasonable, especially compared to tourist-oriented shops. Bargaining can help you secure even better prices. Reddit

While it's a local market, you can certainly find unique items like traditional fabrics and some handicrafts. It might require a bit of searching to find the best pieces. Reddit

Consider unique textiles, local snacks, or small jewelry pieces. It's a great place to find items that feel more authentic than mass-produced souvenirs. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The market is renowned for its fresh, made-to-order snacks and desserts. You can find a variety of delicious Khmer street food, including soups and sweet treats. Reddit

Vendors cook food using fresh ingredients from the market. While it's street food, many vendors maintain good practices. Use your judgment and choose busy stalls. Reddit

You'll likely find fruit-based desserts and some vegetable dishes. It might be challenging to find purely vegetarian meals, but many snacks are naturally vegetarian. Reddit

Look for freshly made desserts and savory snacks. Travelers have enjoyed the delicious soups available from various vendors. Reddit

It's generally recommended to stick to bottled water or drinks from reputable vendors. Be cautious with ice if you have a sensitive stomach. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, but it's always respectful to ask vendors before taking close-up shots of them or their products. A smile and a gesture usually suffice. Reddit

Mornings offer vibrant activity and good natural light. Late afternoons can provide softer light and fewer crowds, making it easier to capture candid moments. Reddit

Focus on the colorful produce, the interactions between vendors and customers, the preparation of food, and the diverse array of goods on display. Reddit

The food stalls, the textile sections with their vibrant colors, and the bustling fresh produce areas offer great photographic opportunities. Reddit

Always be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially of people. Ask permission when in doubt, and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded or wet areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Phsar Leu Thom Thmey can be an exciting, albeit potentially overwhelming, experience for families. The sheer variety of sights and sounds can captivate children's attention. Focus on the food stalls for a taste of local flavors, and let kids marvel at the colorful textiles and produce. Be prepared for crowds and potentially uneven, wet ground, so keep a close eye on little ones and consider a stroller or carrier for very young children. While English is limited, the friendly nature of locals often means they'll engage with children positively. Reddit

Tips for families: Bring hand sanitizer, as hygiene can vary. Stick to bottled drinks. Bargaining can be a fun activity to involve older children in. It's a great opportunity to teach them about different cultures and the importance of respectful interaction. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Phsar Leu Thom Thmey is a paradise for budget travelers. Prices for goods and snacks are significantly lower than in tourist-oriented areas. Embrace the bargaining culture to secure the best deals on everything from clothing to souvenirs. You can also find delicious and affordable local meals and snacks here, making it an excellent spot for a budget-friendly culinary adventure. Reddit

Getting there by tuk-tuk is also cost-effective, especially if you negotiate the fare. The market itself has no entrance fee, so your only expenses will be your purchases. It’s a fantastic place to experience authentic Cambodian life without breaking the bank. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Local Commerce

Phsar Leu Thom Thmey is more than just a market; it's a vibrant hub of daily life in Siem Reap. Unlike the more tourist-focused Old Market, Phsar Leu offers a truly authentic glimpse into Cambodian commerce. Here, locals shop for their daily necessities, from fresh produce and meats to household goods and clothing. The sheer variety is astounding, stocking everything from gold jewelry and electronics to beauty products and traditional Khmer attire. It's a place where the pulse of the community can be felt most strongly. Reddit

Navigating this sprawling market can be an adventure in itself. While English is not widely spoken, the warmth and helpfulness of the vendors shine through. A smile and a few basic Khmer phrases can go a long way. Be prepared for a sensory experience – the sights, sounds, and smells are all part of the immersive journey. Remember that the ground can be wet and a bit muddy in certain sections, so wearing appropriate footwear is key to a comfortable visit. Reddit

For travelers seeking an experience beyond the typical tourist trail, Phsar Leu Thom Thmey is a must-visit. It's an opportunity to engage with local culture, practice your bargaining skills, and discover unique treasures. Come with an open mind and a spirit of adventure, and you'll be rewarded with an unforgettable market experience that truly reflects the spirit of Cambodia. Reddit

Culinary Delights and Bargaining Tips

The food section of Phsar Leu Thom Thmey is a highlight for many visitors. Here, you can find an incredible array of fresh, made-to-order snacks and desserts that offer an authentic taste of Khmer cuisine. From savory soups prepared with fresh ingredients sourced directly from the market to sweet, traditional treats, there's something to tantalize every taste bud. Many vendors cook right before your eyes, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Reddit

When it comes to shopping for goods, bargaining is an integral part of the experience. Approach vendors with a friendly demeanor and be prepared to negotiate prices. It's not about getting the absolute lowest price, but rather engaging in a respectful exchange. Start with a reasonable offer and be willing to meet somewhere in the middle. This interaction is often as enjoyable as the purchase itself. Reddit

For those looking for souvenirs, Phsar Leu Thom Thmey offers a treasure trove of unique items. Beyond the typical tourist trinkets, you can find beautiful textiles, intricate jewelry, and local crafts that reflect Cambodian artistry. Take your time to explore different stalls, compare prices, and don't be afraid to ask questions (even with gestures!). The market is a place to hunt for deals and discover hidden gems. Reddit

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