Siem Reap, Cambodia (2013) Day 3: Apsara Dance

Date Visited: 3rd March 2013

On the third day we woke up in Siem Reap, it was a drizzly morning and we informed our driver to cancel our plan for sightseeing cause majority of them are involved outdoor. After we had our scrumptious breakfast provided by the guest house, we went back to our slumberland again to continue our sweet dreams. 

Once we awoke, the rain stopped and we took tuk-tuk to a nearby shopping complex for lunch. Did nothing much on that day except for lunch and scouted around for souvenir shopping.

Because we have plenty of time to spend in Siem Reap, our guest house suggested to watch traditional Khmer Apsara Dance. The show is performed daily in a large-sized dining hall which I believe can accommodate more than hundreds of people at the same time. The walk-in price for the show is US$12 but we got the discounted ticket from our guest house for only US$8 per pax (approx. to RM26), which comes along with buffet feast, which we think it was pretty affordable and great bargain. 

#1: The Apsara Dance show was held at Angkor Mondial Restaurant. Our guest house even arranged tuk-tuk to pick us up from the guest house to the restaurant itself.

#2: Buffet feast with wide selection of Asian foods and few western foods to choose from

The ancient art of Apsara Dance is commonly seen as depicted on the walls of Angkor’s temples. Traditional Khmer dance is better described as 'dance-drama' it is not merely dance but also meant to convey a story or message. The dance performances are start differently at different venue but mostly around 7:30 pm or 8:00 pm and lasting about 45 minutes to an hour in all. Consisting 4 to 5 dances, Apsara Dance show is a show not to be missed for those who to know more about Cambodian culture and dance.

#3: The classical dance of Apsara Dance

 

#4:

#5: Theatrical Folk Dance which known as the 'Fishing Dance'

#6: Photo session with the dancers

Overall, I found the show was fairly fascinating and interesting especially with the graceful and elegant movements of Apsara dancers, although I didn't quite understand most of the show and dance was about. Food wise, nothing to shout out but pretty enough to satisfy our hungry tummy.

[Credit To: Canby Publications]