Angkor Handicraft Association
Discover authentic, handmade crafts directly from Siem Reap artisans. Support local jobs and preserve traditional skills at this non-profit associatio...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Artisans are actively working
Angkor Handicraft Association
Best Time
Artisans are actively working
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover authentic, handmade crafts directly from Siem Reap artisans. Support local jobs and preserve traditional skills at this non-profit association.
"The best place for authentic, handmade souvenirs directly from the source, supporting local artisans."
🤝 Support Local Artisans
Buy directly from the source! Your purchase empowers local craftspeople and supports their livelihoods. :heart:
⏰ Custom Orders Possible
Need a specific size or design? They can often create custom items within 24 hours for a small fee. :scissors:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Handmade Ceramics
Pottery Workshop Area
Witness skilled artisans shape clay into beautiful, traditional pottery. Unique designs and excellent quality.
Artisan Textiles
Textile Section
Explore vibrant silks, clothing, and intricate woven fabrics. Many items are custom-made.
Jewelry & Upcycled Crafts
Main Showroom
Find unique jewelry and creative upcycled items, showcasing local artistry and sustainability.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Support Local Artisans
Beyond the Temples
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Do you have any recommendations for visiting handicraft businesses / Studios?
🤝 Support Local Artisans
Buy directly from the source! Your purchase empowers local craftspeople and supports their livelihoods. :heart:
⏰ Custom Orders Possible
Need a specific size or design? They can often create custom items within 24 hours for a small fee. :scissors:
Art in siem reap?
Angkor Help Needed
📍 Location Insight
A bit outside the main tourist hub, but worth the tuk-tuk ride for authentic finds. :tuk_tuk:
💰 Good Value
Prices reflect the handmade quality and support for artisans. A worthwhile investment for unique souvenirs. :moneybag:
4 days in Siem Reap, how to tackle Angkor Wat & see as much as possible
Tips
from all over the internet
🤝 Support Local Artisans
Buy directly from the source! Your purchase empowers local craftspeople and supports their livelihoods. :heart:
⏰ Custom Orders Possible
Need a specific size or design? They can often create custom items within 24 hours for a small fee. :scissors:
📍 Location Insight
A bit outside the main tourist hub, but worth the tuk-tuk ride for authentic finds. :tuk_tuk:
💰 Good Value
Prices reflect the handmade quality and support for artisans. A worthwhile investment for unique souvenirs. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Angkor Handicraft Association for its authentic, high-quality handmade crafts and the opportunity to support local artisans directly. Many appreciate the chance to see crafts being made and the possibility of custom orders. While a bit outside the main tourist drag, it's considered a worthwhile visit for unique souvenirs and a meaningful shopping experience.
"Very good place for local souvenirs made by artisans"
Denis Churyak
"Great selection of locally produced crafts, including pottery, clothes, jewellery and silks. Good quality products that you can watch being produced. The staff are very friendly too."
Gemma
"Handmade ceramics, textiles, and other upcycled crafts. We visited the Handmade in Cambodia Market on King's Road and couldn't find a button down in my boyfriend's size (Large) and decided to take a tuk tuk ride out to the AHA village. They didn't have a shirt already made in his size but they offered to make him one for in less than 24 hours, a few hours before our flight for a nominal fee (of course we also donated to support the village). Seems like this is where the actual artists are that supply all the local stores and market vendors."
Chantil Tan Bixler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Angkor Handicraft Association (AHA) is located a short tuk-tuk ride from the main tourist areas of Siem Reap. Many visitors arrange a tuk-tuk for a few hours to visit AHA and other nearby attractions. It's recommended to negotiate a price beforehand with your driver.
AHA is not directly adjacent to the Angkor Wat temple complex but is easily accessible by tuk-tuk, typically taking around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. It's a great addition to a day of temple exploration.
While ride-sharing apps are available in Siem Reap, tuk-tuks are a popular and often more convenient option for reaching places like AHA, especially if you plan to visit multiple spots. Confirm with your driver that they know the location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is typically no entrance fee to visit the Angkor Handicraft Association. It's a market and workshop space designed to showcase and sell local crafts.
The Angkor Handicraft Association is generally open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, allowing ample time for visitors to explore and shop.
Booking in advance is not necessary for general visits. You can simply arrive during opening hours. If you're interested in a custom order, you can discuss it with the artisans upon arrival.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Crafts
AHA offers a wide variety of locally produced, handmade souvenirs including ceramics, textiles (silks, clothing), jewelry, wood carvings, and upcycled crafts.
Yes, AHA is a non-profit association that exclusively displays and sells locally produced, handmade products. This ensures authenticity and direct support for the artisans.
While prices are generally fair given the handmade nature and support for artisans, some light negotiation might be possible, especially if purchasing multiple items. However, the focus is on fair trade.
AHA is unique because it's a direct marketplace for artisans, meaning you buy straight from the source. This ensures authenticity and that a larger portion of the profit goes to the creators.
Yes, many artisans work on their crafts on-site, allowing visitors to witness the creation process firsthand. This is a key feature of the AHA experience.
🎫 🤝 Supporting Artisans
AHA is a non-profit association that supports Siem Reap artisan producers. By purchasing items, you directly contribute to creating and supporting local jobs and preserving traditional craft skills.
Yes, AHA operates on principles that support local artisans, ensuring fair compensation and opportunities. It's a key initiative for empowering the community through craft.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the focus is on shopping, the visual aspect of watching crafts being made provides an educational element. It’s a good opportunity to discuss cultural heritage and the importance of supporting local communities. The variety of colorful textiles and unique items can also spark curiosity. Consider it a more interactive and educational stop compared to a typical market.
🎁 Gift Shoppers
The ability to commission custom pieces is a significant advantage for gift shoppers. Whether it's a specific size of clothing or a personalized accessory, artisans can often accommodate requests, ensuring your gift is truly one-of-a-kind. Supporting local artisans with your purchase adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness to your gift.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Cambodian Craftsmanship
When you visit AHA, you're not just buying a trinket; you're investing in the livelihoods of the artists and the continuation of their cultural heritage. The range of crafts is impressive, from intricate textiles and unique jewelry to beautiful ceramics and innovative upcycled goods. Many visitors are struck by the quality and artistry, noting that these are the very items often supplied to larger markets and hotels, but at AHA, you get them directly from the source.
This direct-from-artisan model is what sets AHA apart. It fosters a sense of connection between the buyer and the maker, offering a more meaningful shopping experience. The opportunity to watch artisans at work adds another layer of appreciation for the skill and dedication involved in creating each piece. It’s a testament to the resilience and creativity of Cambodian artisans.
Finding Unique Souvenirs
One of the standout features highlighted by visitors is the possibility of custom orders. If you can't find exactly what you're looking for, artisans are often willing to create a bespoke item, such as a specific size of clothing or a custom jewelry design, within a short timeframe, sometimes even less than 24 hours. This flexibility makes AHA an ideal place to find truly personalized gifts.
Beyond the typical souvenirs, AHA also champions upcycled crafts, showcasing innovative ways to transform discarded materials into beautiful and functional art. This commitment to sustainability adds another layer of appeal for conscious travelers. When shopping at AHA, remember that your purchase directly benefits the artisan, making it a feel-good shopping experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit