Craftsmanship is one of the defining elements of Cambodian culture. In Siem Reap, a visit to Artisans d'Angkor is essential to truly appreciate it. By discovering this major center of traditional craftsmanship, you will observe how the distinctive style of Khmer art, profoundly inspired by Hinduism and Buddhism, is beautifully perpetuated through ancestral techniques still applied today.

A Little History

A semi-public and social Cambodian enterprise founded in 1998 to help young people find work near their villages, Artisans d'Angkor is today completely self-sufficient and continues its efforts in education, grounded in its own craftsmanship training program. Since its inception, the organization has upheld a social policy ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, medical coverage, and numerous other employee benefits. It now operates 48 workshops across Siem Reap province and employs over 1,100 people, including more than 800 artisans.

Visiting Artisans d'Angkor

Know that Artisans d'Angkor provides English-speaking guides free of charge to all its visitors. It would be a shame not to take advantage of this. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your smiling guide, who will inform you throughout your visit. First, they will share the origins and evolution of Artisans d'Angkor before leading you on a complete discovery of traditional Khmer craftsmanship, from raw materials to splendid finished pieces. As you move from workshop to workshop, you will have time to admire the mastery of techniques and expertise in stone and wood carving, lacquerware, silverwork, ceramics, and silk painting. You will have plenty of opportunity to observe and photograph the meticulous work of the artisans. This highly instructive experience concludes in the grand boutique showroom, where the full diversity of handcrafted pieces by passionate artisans is displayed.

Prepare yourself to make some purchases, as Artisans d'Angkor not only revives traditional Khmer arts and crafts, but also offers an extensive collection of silk fabrics and clothing, contemporary furniture, and a vast range of high-quality decorative objects, accessories, and jewelry that will be difficult to resist.

Hours

Artisans d'Angkor welcomes visitors daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Admission is free. The boutique closes at 6:30 PM.

From the Old Market and Pub Street, a 3-minute walk will bring you to Artisans d'Angkor, located on Stung Thmey Street (perpendicular to Sivatha Street, opposite the Terrace of Elephants hotel). If you prefer not to walk, take a tuk tuk.