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Skun Market: Cambodia's Infamous Spider Stop

Discover Cambodia's 'Spiderville': Skun Market offers a taste of local life and a chance to try the infamous fried tarantulas!

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Skun Market, located in the town of Skun, Cambodia, is a bustling marketplace famous for its unique, and perhaps unsettling, delicacy: fried spiders. A popular stop for travelers, the market offers a glimpse into local life and a chance to sample some unusual snacks.

A brief summary to Skun Market

Local tips

  • Arrive early in the morning to experience the freshest produce and avoid the biggest crowds.
  • Be adventurous and try the local delicacies, including the famous fried tarantulas !
  • Bargain respectfully with vendors for the best prices on souvenirs and handmade crafts.
  • Bring cash, as many vendors may not accept credit cards.
  • Take a walk around the market to discover hidden gems and experience the local atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kampong Cham, locate the bus or minivan station. Look for transport heading towards Skun. The fare typically ranges from $1 to $3. Ask the driver to drop you off near Skun Market, which is located off National Road 7 (NR7). From Phnom Penh, buses and minibuses connect to all northern and northeastern provinces of Cambodia and pass through Skun. The trip takes approximately 2.5 hours. Expect to pay 8,000-10,000 riel for the trip from Phnom Penh to Skun.

  • Car

    From Kampong Cham, head towards National Road 7 (NR7). Follow NR7 for approximately 30 kilometers towards Skun. The market will be on your right-hand side. There is no entry fee to access the market, but be prepared for possible parking fees if you park in a designated area.

  • Taxi/Tuk-Tuk

    From Kampong Cham, you can hail a tuk-tuk. Negotiate the fare before the journey; it should cost around $10 to $15 for a one-way trip to Skun Market. From Phnom Penh, a taxi will cost $50-$65 and take approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes.

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Discover more about Skun Market

Skun Market, situated in the Kampong Cham province, is a vibrant and bustling marketplace that has earned the town of Skun the nickname "Spiderville". Located at the junction of National Routes 6 and 7, about 70km north of Phnom Penh, it serves as a popular rest stop for travelers. While Skun sees relatively few tourists, it's well-known as a commercial hub and a place to experience a unique aspect of Cambodian culture. The market is most famous for its fried spiders, a local delicacy that might challenge the palates of some visitors. These tarantulas, often bred in villages north of Skun, are fried in oil and seasoned, offering a crunchy exterior and a reportedly chicken-like taste. Beyond spiders, you can find a variety of other insects and local foods, providing a glimpse into the region's culinary habits. Skun's tradition of eating spiders is believed to have originated during the Khmer Rouge era when famine forced people to find alternative food sources. Today, while food is more readily available, the practice continues, and the market offers a chance to learn about this unusual aspect of Cambodian history and culture. The market also offers a variety of local produce, street food, and handmade crafts. It's a lively place where you can observe daily activities and interactions among locals.

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