An Updated Guide to the Best Residential Communes in Siem Reap | 31 Aug 2025
Siem Reap has grown far beyond its identity as the gateway to Angkor Wat. With a rising number of long-term residents, boutique developments, and returning investors, Siem Reap has become a true lifestyle destination. This updated guide walks you through the best areas to search for a home in Siem Reap, grouped by commune (also called sangkat), and highlighting the most sought-after micro-neighborhoods in each.
1. Sala Kamreuk
Includes: Wat Bo Village, Wat Damnak, central Sala Kamreuk streets
Sala Kamreuk is one of the city’s most vibrant communes, offering a blend of tradition and modern lifestyle. Wat Bo Village has become a lifestyle hub, known for its leafy streets, riverside cafés, boutique shops, and yoga studios. Nearby Wat Damnak offers a calmer, more residential atmosphere, while inner សាលាកំរើក features gated communities and private villas tucked away from the busier areas.
- Variety of apartments, villas with pools, and quiet residential lanes
- Walking distance to the river, markets, restaurants, and schools
- Popular with families, expats, and lifestyle-focused residents
See also: Wat Bo Village: Siem Reap’s New Cultural Hub and Tourist Destination
2. Svay Dangkum
Includes: Central Siem Reap residential blocks, Taphul Village
Svay Dangkum is one of the most versatile communes, combining practicality with community life. Centrally located, it offers a mix of Khmer-style villas, modern apartments, and family homes. Taphul Village, a sub-area within Svay Dangkum, is known for its local neighborhood feel, budget-friendly rentals, and convenient proximity to schools and markets.
- A practical choice for long-term living
- Close to schools, clinics, supermarkets, and local services
- Balanced mix of affordability and convenience
3. Slor Kram
Includes: Preah Sihanouk Avenue (formerly Charles de Gaulle Blvd)
Slor Kram is an elegant residential commune known for its wide boulevards and spacious compounds. Preah Sihanouk Avenue, leading directly to Angkor Wat, gives the area both prestige and easy access to one of Cambodia’s greatest landmarks. With leafy roads and a quieter environment, it’s a favorite among long-term residents looking for more space and tranquility.
- Larger land parcels and high-end homes
- Easy access to Angkor Archaeological Park and the airport
- A peaceful setting ideal for families and luxury buyers
See also: Siem Reap Area Guide: Slor Kram – The Gateway Sangkat to Angkor Wat
4. Chreav
Located just south of the city center, Chreav offers a peaceful countryside vibe while remaining well-connected to town. With its quiet roads, open fields, and spacious plots, Chreav attracts residents who value peace, fresh air, and room to create their own home environment. It’s also a popular area for garden-style houses and custom-built villas.
- Tranquil setting with green fields and fresh air
- Spacious land at competitive prices
- Great for nature lovers, families, and custom-home projects
See also: Embrace a Peaceful Country Living in Siem Reap | IPS Cambodia
5. Kouk Chak
Kouk Chak covers much of the southern approach to the Angkor Archaeological Park, including the area around Angkor Wat. Daily life here feels distinctly green and quiet, with village clusters along tree‑lined roads and easy cycling routes into town. Because of heritage‑zone protections, development stays low‑rise and sensitive; most homes are standalone houses or small compounds set just off the main roads.
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Close to Angkor Wat, scenic moats, and shaded cycling paths
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Calm villages and generous lots just outside the heritage core
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Quick links via Preah Sihanouk Avenue and National Road 6
6. Sra Ngae
Home to Kasekam Village and calm neighborhoods along National Road 6, Srangae (often written Sra Ngae) is known for the Angkor Golf Resort and established residential enclaves. It’s a laid‑back area with tree‑lined streets, local markets, and easy connections into town.
- Base for Angkor Golf Resort and other leisure facilities
- Established compounds and family homes along NR6 side streets
- Calm, suburban feel within minutes of central Siem Reap
Final Thoughts
From riverside enclaves and central neighborhoods to peaceful countryside escapes, each commune in Siem Reap offers its own way of life. Whether you prefer vibrant streets with cafés and shops, or quiet retreats surrounded by greenery, there’s a neighborhood to suit every lifestyle in this growing city.
