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Royal Independence Gardens: Siem Reap's Green Heart

Escape to Siem Reap's Royal Independence Gardens: a historic park with shrines, gardens, and the spectacle of nightly bat flights.

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The Royal Independence Gardens, also known as the Royal Gardens, offer a green escape in the heart of Siem Reap. This park, significant for its role in Cambodia's independence, features gardens, shrines, and a vibrant atmosphere popular with locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Royal Independence Gardens

  • ផ្លូវជាតិលេខ 6, National Route 6 (Airport Road), Krong Siem Reap, KH
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit in the late afternoon to witness the spectacular sight of hundreds of fruit bats taking flight from the trees.
  • Take a stroll along the Siem Reap River on the east side of the park for a relaxing experience.
  • Visit the Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm Shrine to observe locals practicing their faith and making offerings.
  • Enjoy the gardens during local festivals like the Water Festival and Khmer New Year for a vibrant cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Old Market area and Pub Street, walk north along Pokambor Avenue, which runs alongside the Siem Reap River. This is a one-way street. The Royal Independence Gardens will be on your left, at the corner where Charles De Gaulle and National Route 6 meet. The walk is approximately 1.3km and should take about 15 minutes.

  • Tuk-Tuk

    Tuk-tuks are readily available throughout Siem Reap. A short trip within downtown Siem Reap typically costs between $2 and $4. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Tell the driver you wish to go to the Royal Independence Gardens at the intersection of Charles De Gaulle and National Route 6.

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Discover more about Royal Independence Gardens

The Royal Independence Gardens, sometimes called the Royal Crusade for Independence Gardens, provide a refreshing contrast to Siem Reap's bustling streets. This green space is historically significant, named to commemorate the planning of Cambodia's independence from French colonial rule in the 1950s by King Sihanouk and General Lon Nol, who met at the nearby Royal Residence. Today, the gardens are a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy well-maintained gardens, ancient trees, and various attractions. Key features include the Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm Shrine, a popular place for locals to pray, and a Buddhist shrine. The park is also known as the "Bat Park" due to the large colony of fruit bats that reside in the trees, creating a spectacle as they take flight in the evening. The gardens are often the center of town celebrations, especially during the Water Festival and Khmer New Year. The surrounding area includes the Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor and Victoria Angkor Hotel, adding to the area's charm. The Royal Residence, though not open to the public, holds historical importance as the former home of King Sihanouk during the independence planning.

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