Best known for the magnificent temples of Angkor, Siem Reap has quietly emerged as a credible golf destination as well, offering three international-standard courses that complement the region’s extraordinary cultural attractions.
Adventurous travellers have been drawn to the ancient temples of Angkor for decades. The UNESCO-protected Angkor Archaeological Park contains hundreds of temples and historic sites, with Angkor Wat – the world’s largest religious monument – widely recognized as Cambodia’s greatest archaeological treasure.
Built between 802 and 1431 CE, Angkor was once the capital of the Khmer Empire, which ruled over much of Southeast Asia at its height. The empire’s rulers constructed an astonishing network of temples, reservoirs, and ceremonial structures that today stand as one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological landscapes.
These religious and historical landmarks have long captivated archaeologists, historians, and travellers alike. Today, most visitors base themselves in nearby Siem Reap, the gateway city that serves as the primary access point to Angkor Archaeological Park and its surrounding attractions.
AN EMERGING GOLF DESTINATION
Beyond its temples, Siem Reap has also developed a growing reputation as a regional golf hub, thanks to three international-standard courses. Each layout reflects modern course design principles, emphasizing strategic play, precision shot-making, and consistently high conditioning. For visiting golfers, the temples are now just one part of the overall experience.
The area’s three courses are Angkor Golf Resort, Siem Reap Booyoung Country Club, and Phokeethra Country Club. Phokeethra opened in early 2007 as Siem Reap’s first 18-hole championship course, setting the stage for the city’s entry into golf tourism. Booyoung followed in 2009 with a par-72 layout and extensive facilities that quickly attracted international players.
Together, these courses have helped position Siem Reap as a destination where cultural exploration and leisure golf can be combined within a single itinerary.
That evolution has not gone unnoticed by the global golf tourism industry. Cambodia was named the Asia Pacific Golf Destination of the Year 2025 by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO). The award was presented during the Asia Golf Tourism Convention in Danang, Vietnam.
The recognition reflects Cambodia’s rapid emergence as a golfing destination, driven by the quality of its courses, improving infrastructure, and the unique appeal of pairing championship golf with iconic cultural landmarks such as Angkor.
FALDO’S ANGKOR
The Sir Nick Faldo-designed Angkor Golf Resort is regarded as Cambodia’s premier course. Opened in December 2007, it was among the first in the country to offer a fully international-standard golfing experience.
Its 18-hole, 7,279-yard, par-72 layout stretches across former rice fields punctuated by tall sugar palms, just minutes from the centre of Siem Reap. The landscape remains relatively flat, but thoughtful design elements ensure the course remains both challenging and engaging.
Strategically placed bunkers and water hazards provide difficulty without feeling overly punitive, as most are visible from the tees. The greens feature subtle undulations that reward careful approach shots and confident putting. The fairways are generous in width, but the presence of water throughout the layout ensures that players remain attentive from the opening tee shot to the final putt.
Several holes stand out. The par-four second, a 381-yard dogleg right, leads to a well-guarded green that demands a precise approach. The 559-yard par-five 13th is notable for its bunker placements along both sides of the fairway, requiring careful positioning from the tee.
The closing stretch is often considered the most demanding part of the course. The par-five 16th measures 588 yards, with water running the entire length of the left side. The 17th – the longest par three on the course – plays toward a green protected by water on the right.
The finishing hole, a 440-yard par four, is widely regarded as one of the course’s strongest. A slight dogleg left and water that influences both the tee shot and approach ensure that the round concludes with a memorable challenge.
Facilities at Angkor Golf Resort include a 300 m driving range, pro shop, putting greens, and a restaurant. The clubhouse operates daily from 6.30 am to 7 pm, and the course is located just a short drive from central Siem Reap.
GOLF’S GROWING ROLE IN SIEM REAP
Golf is helping diversify Siem Reap’s tourism economy by attracting visitors who want more than cultural sightseeing alone. While the city’s heritage remains its central draw, golf provides a structured and high-quality leisure option that complements the temple experience.
Increasingly, tour operators are pairing temple visits with golf rounds, creating itineraries that appeal to travellers seeking both history and recreation.
Angkor itself of course remains the defining attraction. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple complex draws millions of visitors each year and stands as one of the most important cultural sites in Southeast Asia.
Meanwhile, Siem Reap has grown into a vibrant tourist town that caters to travellers from around the world with everything from casual cafés and lively night markets to spas and boutique hotels.
Now, alongside banana pancakes and traditional Khmer cuisine alongside plentiful international options, visitors can also enjoy excellent golf – a combination that is steadily strengthening Siem Reap’s appeal as a multifaceted destination.
