Siem Reap

Siem Reap

Looking for the best Siem Reap training base in Cambodia? In fact, Siem Reap is Cambodia’s athletic and cultural heart. It’s the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor. It’s also home to one of Asia’s most celebrated race calendars. Beyond the temples, the region offers flat training roads and shaded forest trails. In addition, championship golf rounds out the mix. All of this sits against centuries of Khmer history. So whether you’re chasing a marathon PR or building a base ahead of race season, Siem Reap training delivers. Overall, every session here turns into something worth remembering. For the full regional picture, browse our Cambodia training destinations.

Buddhist monks resting on ancient temple steps in Angkor

Running & Trail

Siem Reap is home to the Angkor Wat International Half Marathon. In fact, the race has run annually since 1996. It’s recognized by World Athletics and AIMS. For example, in 2025 nearly 16,000 runners took part, arriving from over 80 countries. Because the course is flat and shaded, it winds past more than a dozen ancient temples. For a bigger challenge, in particular, try the Ultra Trail Angkor. It offers distances from 8K all the way to 101K, cutting through jungle and ancient ruins alike. Overall, Siem Reap training here works for sprinters and ultra runners alike.

Find a CampSee Venues
Visitor climbing tree covered temple steps at Ta Prohm Siem Reap
Trail runners competing in Ultra Trail Angkor Siem Reap
Runners wearing race bibs competing in Siem Reap road race

Cycling

In short, Angkor Archaeological Park is one of Southeast Asia’s best places to ride. Paved loops and packed dirt trails, however, link temple complex after temple complex. For instance, the South Gate of Angkor Thom loop is easy and accessible, suiting any fitness level. Meanwhile, longer routes push further into the park’s forested backroads. Because the terrain stays largely flat and shaded, riders can build serious mileage here. So, riders can recover at one of Siem Reap’s many wellness centers afterward. Therefore, this kind of Siem Reap training pairs well with an easy trail run the next day.

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Cyclist approaching Angkor Thom South Gate at sunset Siem Reap
Angkor Wat sunset behind cyclists in Siem Reap training destination
Cyclists checking map on shaded road through Angkor Archaeological Park

Golf

Siem Reap is home to three international standard golf courses. In particular, the anchor is Phokeethra Country Club, named Cambodia’s Golf Course of the Year 2025 by IAGTO. Its 18 hole, par 72 course winds through natural lagoons and a bird sanctuary just outside the city. In addition, a driving range, putting green, and personal coaching round out the facility. Therefore, it makes a natural addition to a training week built around running or cycling. Overall, many athletes treat a Siem Reap training week as three parts: temples, trails, and one relaxed round of golf.

Find a CampSee Venues
Golf coach guiding junior player on green in Siem Reap
Golfer completing swing on fairway at Siem Reap golf course
Aerial view of golf course fairway and bunkers in Siem Reap

Culture & Sightseeing

Take a break from the track and the trail to discover the soul of Angkor. From towering temple spires to floating villages on Tonle Sap, these landmarks offer real recovery. They also offer real inspiration. Every athlete needs both.

Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat
Angkor Thom & Bayon
Angkor Thom & Bayon
Ta Prohm
Ta Prohm
Banteay Srei
Banteay Srei
Tonle Sap Floating Villages
Tonle Sap Floating Villages

Excursions

Between training sessions, immerse yourself in the rich history of the Khmer Empire. Explore ancient ruins, floating villages, and traditional performances. Together, they showcase the timeless soul of Cambodia.

  • Known for its massive tree roots, Ta Prohm swallows entire stone corridors. It's one of the most photographed temples in Angkor. It's also a favorite recovery-day walk.
  • Take a boat tour across Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. See stilted homes and floating markets up close. It's an easy, low impact way to spend an afternoon off your feet.
  • Siem Reap's central market and night street offer local food, textiles, and handicrafts. It's a good, low key evening after a long day of training.
  • Known as the Citadel of the Women, this small temple has intricate 10th century carvings. It sits about 25km outside the main Angkor complex. Often, athletes pair a visit here with a cycling route.
Tree roots overtaking ancient temple stonework at Ta Prohm
Pub Street neon sign lit up at night in Siem Reap
Carved pink sandstone towers and statues at Banteay Srei temple
Tree roots overtaking ancient temple stonework at Ta Prohm
Pub Street neon sign lit up at night in Siem Reap
Carved pink sandstone towers and statues at Banteay Srei temple