What to Buy and Where to Shop in Cambodia

For fine silks, textiles, statues and carvings along with silverwork and even art, Cambodia is a treasure trove. The Buddhism-themed items are sold in boutiques, on the street and in large markets both in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap and, generally speaking, specific items for sale are to be found in specific parts of the towns. However, in certain markets, without a basic foundation in the Khmer Language you'll find it nigh on impossible to bargain prices down so make sure you take a Khmer-speaking friend along or stick to the big markets.

Phnom Penh Shopping

You'll find Cambodian silk for sale in Phnom Penh at the Russian Market (a Cold War era goods depot) and silk shops and boutiques across town, many specializing in silk creations such as tailored Asian and Euro-Asian fashions, accessories and soft furnishings.

Siem Reap Shopping

Only Phnom Penh has better shopping than Siem Reap and that's really saying something. Siem Reap has two main markets: the Central Market and the Old Market. Here, bargaining and haggling skills will be needed as you negotiate prices for the many items on sale such as glassware, freshwater pearls, natural Cambodian silk, and bed covers. You can get tailor-made suits and dresses along with blouses and hats at the three-storey boutique Samatoa.

Shopping in Sihanoukville

More a tourist destination than Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, there is less emphasis on traditional crafts for sale here. Still, you can buy a wide variety of products such as hand-loomed silk scarves, clothing, accessories, home accessories, decorative ornaments, coffee, condiments, handmade cards, notebooks, wall hangings, photo albums, and a variety of games including puzzles in Rajana, a centrally located shop.

Battambang Shopping

Battambang may not have a night life but it does boast interesting shopping opportunities. At the souvenir market you can buy woodcarvings from Battambang, marble sculptures from Pursat Province, and sapphires from Pailin.

What to Buy in Cambodia

Encouraged by the government and aid organisations, local people are rediscovering their natural talent as weavers and craftsmen. A number of rehabilitation programs have sprung up since the eighties such as the gift shop at Wat Thanh in Phnom Penh, a co-op that trains Cambodians disabled by landmines in making attractive items out of silk and cotton fabrics, rattan, bamboo, wood and clay. The result is a pleasing selection of purses and handbags, clothing, furnishings, paintings and many other items.