Apsara Theatre Performance include Dinner

Attending a traditional Cambodian dance performance in Siem Reap is often a highlight for visitors eager to experience local culture beyond the temples. This tour offers an evening of elaborate Apsara dance shows, paired with a buffet dinner or a Cambodian set menu, all wrapped up with round-trip tuk-tuk or air-conditioned minivan transfers. Priced at $45 per person, it’s a thoughtfully organized experience that combines cultural insight with comfort.

What makes this experience stand out is the convenience of hotel pickups and drop-offs, which removes the stress of organizing your own transport after a busy day exploring Angkor Wat. Plus, the buffet provides a generous spread of Khmer dishes, allowing you to sample local flavors before settling in to enjoy the dance show. However, some travelers note that the show duration is around 45 minutes to an hour, which might feel brief for those expecting a longer performance.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience with minimal hassle—especially if you prefer a structured evening with included transport and dinner. It’s also suitable for those who want a good value, as the price covers more than just the show. However, if you’re after a longer or more in-depth culture, you might find this experience a bit light on content.

Key Points

• Convenient transfers make logistics easy, especially after a day of temple hopping
• Authentic dance styles, including classical apsara and folk dances, showcase Cambodian artistry
• Variety in dining options allows for a full Khmer experience, with buffet or set menu choices
• Stunning costumes and performances reflect Cambodia’s cultural heritage
• Affordable price that includes transportation, taxes, and admission
• Authentic experience with genuine performances, as noted by reviews praising the dancers’ costumes and traditional dance styles

An In-Depth Look at the Apsara Theatre Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Night

Your evening begins with a pickup around 7:00 pm, with the show starting at 7:30 pm. The tour provides round-trip transportation, either via sharing tuk-tuk or air-conditioned minivan, from your hotel in Siem Reap. The smooth logistics mean you don’t have to worry about navigating the city after dark, which is a real plus considering how busy and lively Siem Reap can be at night.

Arriving at the venue—usually at Amazon Angkor Restaurant or a similar spacious venue—you’ll be greeted with welcoming music and a warm reception. Reviews describe the decor as really nice and the venue spacious, which makes for a pleasant atmosphere to settle into for the evening.

Dining is a highlight here. You’re offered a buffet of Khmer favorites, with reviews mentioning a wide range of delicious delicacies. The buffet setup is generous, and you’re encouraged to come hungry because there’s plenty of food. Some guests also opt for the Cambodian set menu, which allows for a more curated experience. Expect a variety of dishes that showcase the local cuisine, including flavorful curries, fresh vegetables, and tempting desserts. Drinks are at your own expense, so bringing a bit of extra cash for beverages and tips is advisable.

Once everyone has eaten and settled in, the dance performance begins. It features several dance styles, from the elegant classical apsara dances to lively folk routines. The costumes are sumptuous and colorful, and reviewers often highlight how authentic and beautiful the performances are. Several mention the authenticity of the dance and the beauty of the costumes, which truly capture Cambodia’s cultural essence.

The Performances: Dance Styles and Cultural Significance

The show usually lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, a duration that many reviewers find just right for a brief cultural overview. The dancers perform traditional Cambodian dances, with some reviewers noting that it can be challenging to understand the announcer, but the visual spectacle more than makes up for it.

Some reviews emphasize the quality of the costumes and dancing. One reviewer, Martin G., praised the authentic dance and beautiful costumes, noting that it’s a great opportunity to see Cambodia’s traditional arts. The performances include both classical apsara dance, which is characterized by graceful, fluid movements, and folk styles, showcasing different regional traditions.

The Venue and Atmosphere

The atmosphere is often described as warm, inviting, and steeped in tradition. Cheryl W. mentioned that the seating arrangements and theatre setup were truly magnificent, adding to the overall experience. The spacious venue and welcoming staff help create a relaxing environment to enjoy the show.

Some visitors, like Fiona Y., appreciated the ambience and the traditional setting, describing the evening as enjoyable and noting that the dinner menu was delicious—especially the desserts. This adds a sweet ending to the cultural evening.

Transport and Group Size

The tour caters to a maximum of 80 travelers, which strikes a good balance—large enough for a lively atmosphere, yet small enough to feel comfortable. The shared tuk-tuk or air-conditioned minivan makes the journey seamless, with most reviews praising the punctuality and professionalism of the drivers—Tong, in particular, gets a shout-out for being punctual and safe.

The Cost and Value

At $45 per person, this tour offers good value considering it includes hotel transfers, admission, and dinner. A few reviews compare the price to local eateries, with some feeling it’s a bit expensive considering the duration and the buffet quality. However, many acknowledge that the convenience and authentic performance justify the cost.

Reviewers also highlight that the price includes all government taxes and service charges, so there are no surprises. The added benefit is the easy logistics, which can often be a headache for independent travelers trying to find good local entertainment.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Siem Reap wanting a comfortable, hassle-free evening of culture. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate authentic performances—the dancers and costumes are genuinely traditional and beautifully presented. Food lovers will enjoy the Khmer buffet, and travelers who prefer organized, guided experiences will find this an excellent option.

However, if you’re seeking a longer or more intense cultural show, or prefer to explore the local food scene independently, this might feel a little limited in scope. The brief duration makes it ideal for those with tight schedules or during their first night in town.

The Bottom Line

This Apsara Theatre performance with dinner offers a well-rounded and authentic glimpse into Cambodia’s traditional dance arts, set against a comfortable, conveniently located venue. The combination of delicious Khmer cuisine, beautiful performances, and stress-free logistics makes it a strong choice for travelers who want to enjoy culture without any fuss.

The moderate price point and positive reviews point to good value for those wanting a memorable, family-friendly cultural experience. It’s best suited for visitors who appreciate authenticity, comfort, and ease of planning in their evening activities.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip hotel transfers in Siem Reap via sharing tuk-tuk or air-conditioned minivan, making transportation one less thing to worry about.

What time does the show start?
The show starts at 7:30 pm, with pickups around 7:00 pm. It’s recommended to leave your hotel about 30 minutes early.

How long is the performance?
Expect the show to last approximately 45 minutes to an hour. It’s a compact but authentic showcase of Cambodian dance.

Are drinks included with dinner?
Drinks are not included in the package and are available for purchase separately during or after the show.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Most travelers report that most people can participate, and the show’s cultural nature makes it suitable for families and all ages.

Is there an option to buy tickets on-site?
While you can buy tickets directly at the theater, booking in advance ensures your spot and includes the convenience of transfers.

What should I bring?
It’s a good idea to bring some cash for drinks and tips. Also, consider a camera to capture the vibrant costumes and performances.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking an easy, culturally rich evening in Siem Reap, this Apsara Theatre Performance with Dinner hits the right notes. It combines authentic Cambodian dance, delicious food, and hassle-free transportation that makes the experience relaxing and enjoyable. While it’s not the longest or most elaborate show available, it offers excellent value for those wanting an intimate glimpse into Cambodia’s artistic traditions without the fuss.

If you enjoy beautiful costumes, traditional dance, and local cuisine, this tour will likely leave you with memorable impressions and plenty of photos. It’s especially suited for first-timers or visitors with limited time who want a well-organized cultural night out.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing evening, this experience provides a delightful way to celebrate Cambodia’s artistic heritage in style.