Cambodia -The land of villages in Southeast Asia is very well-known for its emerging tourism. In view of the booming tourism in the nation, the local flea markets have also gained popularity. Their handmade and beautifully carved souvenirs are eye-catching. Cambodia offers a variety of locally produced souvenirs, Cambodian silks, ceramics, spices, jewellery and much more.
What to Buy in Cambodia?
1. Sculptures
Cambodia being majorly influenced by the ancient Khmer architecture and Buddhism provides tourists with a lot of handicrafts and painted buddha statues, Angkorian sculptures, carved clay pots, etc.
Where to buy: Flea markets in Siem Reap like AHA Fair Trade Village and Siem Reap Art Centre Market.
2. Rice Wine
Rice wine or Sra (in local terms) is a popular homemade liquor. This rice wine is often infused with fruits, spices and medicinal herbs in hand painted bottles, which is in great demand.
Where to buy: Aeon mall in Phnom Penh and local markets of Siem Reap.
3. Textiles
One can find the locally produced and handwoven silk and cotton dyed fabrics in the markets of Cambodia. The soft and vibrant coloured fabrics made of natural plant fibres are used in making various items like dresses, bags, scarfs, etc. The famous Cambodian fabrics include the traditional cotton Khmer scarf called Krama and the Khmer Golden Silk.
Where to buy: Samatoa store and Made In Cambodia Market in Siem Reap.
4. Silverware and Jewellery
Cambodia has one of the finest and most intricate sets of silverware and silver oxidised jewellery made by the Khmer artisans with traditional Khmer patterns. Silverware items like storage boxes, home decor, kitchen articles, etc are seen in the stores. Silverware antique articles are very beautiful and worth buying.
Where to buy: Russian Market in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap Art Center Market and Psar Chaa Old Market, Siem Reap.
Shopping Malls in Cambodia
1. Aeon Mall, Phnom Penh
Aeon mall situated in the capital city of Phnom Penh is one of the biggest and best malls in Cambodia. This mall owns huge supermarkets and international brand outlets like Starbucks, Mango, Gucci, etc. This mall is very popular and has two branches in Phnom Penh itself.
What to buy: Shopaholics can shop from the luxury clothing and skincare brands here and you can also purchase the healthy edible products like chia seeds, himalayan pink salt and organic coconut oil
Timings: 9 AM - 10 PM
2. Lucky Mall, Siem Reap
Lucky mall is from one of the most popular malls in Siem Reap. It is the best place to relax and do some shopping. You can get a better taste of Cambodian cuisine from the restaurants here. For book lovers, there is a book store and a stationery store here.
What to buy: Edible Souvenirs, liquor, etc
Timings: 9 AM - 10 PM
3. Central Mall, Phnom Penh
Central mall is a luxury mall which offers you to shop from a variety of luxury international brands like LOJEL, EAGLE CREEK, etc. Timings: 8 AM - 7 PM
4. WB Arena, Phnom Penh
WB Arena is an open space shopping area and entertainment complex located alongside the Tonle Bassac River. You can grab a quick bite from the cafes or restaurants, relax and enjoy the riverside view or maybe rent a boat for a fun ride. During the evening, this place is decked up with lights, music and fun performances.What to buy: This place has affordable clothing and skincare product stores
Timings : 6 AM - 12 AM
Street Shopping In Cambodia
1. Angkor Night Market, Siem Reap
The Angkor Night Market offers great ambience and an open-air shopping experience. You can get a taste of the authentic street-style food in the market. You can also shop for gifts and souvenirs for your friends and family.
What to buy: Traditional scarfs and clothing, handmade clay pots, candles, soap, antiques, etc
Timings: 5 PM - 11 PM
2. Central Market, Phnom Penh
Phsar Thmei or the Central Market was built in 1937 in Phnom Penh. The dome-shaped structure is one of the major attractions here and is worth visiting. The market is a little expensive but is filled with various shops and food stalls offering classic Cambodian food. This place also has a huge section, selling different kinds of spices, rice and fresh meat.
What to buy: Postcards, spices, edible souvenirs, gold jewellery, traditional Cambodian clothing, cheap electronic goods,etc
Timings: 7 AM - 6 PM
3. Russian Market, Phnom Penh
The Russian Market is one of the most popular markets in Phnom Penh. You can spot stores selling authentic essential oils of eucalyptus, rose, lavender and tea tree here. You can also find a wide range of antique articles here.
What to buy: Oxidised jewellery, ceramics, lanterns, fridge magnets, buddha miniatures, etc
Important tip: Beware of the fake antique articles!
Timings: 06:00 AM - 04.30 PM
4. Psar Chas - Old Market, Siem Reap
The Old Market in Siem Reap also known as Psar Chas has a very ancient vibe to it. It is a local market which offers tourists with affordable souvenirs, printed t-shirts, jewellery, the local Cambodian rice delicacies and much more.
What to buy: Vintage Souvenirs, scenery paintings, jewellery made of precious gemstones from Van Safinas store, gold plated jewellery, handmade bags
Timings: 7 AM - 8 PM
Cambodia altogether gives a very authentic experience to its tourists, offering them with mouth-watering delicacies, stunning architecture, affectionate local people and beautifully handmade souvenirs to take back home.