Cambodia's culture of handicrafts began from the early century of the country history. The ancient traditions were modified from generation to generation. Cambodia is widely renowned for its famous wood and stone carvings, featuring indian Ramayana, and its bas-reliefs.
Regarding the shopping opportunity in Cambodia, there are many kinds of local handicrafts, fine silks, clothes, statues, carving and gemstones are among the most important cambodian products that you should buy for souvenir. The Buddism-themed items are sold in boutiques, on the street and in large markets in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Preh Sihanouk (Sihanoukville) and, generally, specific items for sale could be found in specific parts of the towns. Besides, weavers can be seen in action at the famous silk zone of Koh Dach, outside Phnom Penh. Some nice handiwork comes from Kampong Cham, Takeo and Kandal provinces.
Excellent quality replicas are specifically avialble in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Preh Sihanouk (Sihanoukville). Intricate wooden boxes and other carvings are also used for ornamentation and furniture in Cambodia and are readily in souvenir shops. Moreovers, silver was prized in the 11th century for religious and ceremonial purposes. With Cambodia's tourism industry expanding, numerous silver shops have grown up in Phnom Penh, selling carved decorative and practical items. There are many outlets in villages such as Tul Mau, located about 30km north of Phnom Penh. The normal working material is an alloy containing 70-80% of pure silver, and prices are based on a combination of weight and artistry, which put the bargaining skills to good test.Precious and semi-precious gemstones are for sale in the markets and shops. Buyers may need expert to check up the stones carefully before buying due to the guarantees of authenticity are not so readily available and the cutting of the stones usually is less precise compare to western standards.
Cambodian artisants are very skilled and there is no shortage of handicraft to buy. Carried out by women, many of whom cultivate and harvest the reeds by themselves. The dexterity of the local people is beatifully reflect in products of all kinds, including baskets, bolws, plates, and many other useful items.
In summary, the markets in Cambodia are always a great source of souvenirs. Try the Central Market (Phsar Thmey), in Phnom Penh, which is well worth a visit as it sells clothes, gifts and jewelry. The Russian Market (Phsar Tuol Tum Poung) is crammed with stalls holding a vast selection of bargain souvenirs including clothing, siverware, jewelry, silk, bags, DVDs, CDs and ceramics, as is the Old Market in Siem Reap. Bargaining is expected in the markets, which are open daily from 07:00am to 05:00pm.
Thank you very much for your interesting in shopping in Cambodia. [Go to the website]
Shopping in Phnom Penh
Shopping in Siem Reap
Shopping in Preh Sihanouk
Shopping in Battambang
