Watch the traditional Cambodian Apsara Dance

Apsara Dance is a popular Khmer classical performance known by various names in English, such as Khmer royal ballet and Cambodian court dance. For most travelllers, no visit to Cambodia is complete without attending Apsara Dance. Traditional Khmer dance generally brings ancient Khmer culture to life through its dancers, singers and instruments. Apsara dance has a grounded, subtle, and feather-light appearance. The dance is exceptionally unique with its elaborate costuming, tight posture, fingers flexed backwards, arched back and feet, codified facial expressions, slow, deliberate but flowing movements. It presents themes, messages and stories inspired primarily by the Reamker or the Ramayana and the Age of Angkor.

The countless Apsaras or celestial dancers adorning the walls of Angkorian temples may suggest that this classical dance has been part of Khmer culture for over a millennium, making the source of the tradition impossible to trace. Much of traditional dance is inspired by Angkorian-era art and themes, but the tradition has not been passed unbroken from the age of Angkor. In the past, the Apsara dance was the Royal dance, performed only before Royalty to commemorate their dynastic ancestors and to honor the gods.

Where to see Apsara Dance in Siem Reap?
Apsara dance performances are normally available in the evening with dinner at a local restaurant or hotel. Dinner serves at 6:00 or 7:00PM and dance performances follow at 7:30PM or 8:00PM, include 4 or 5 dances, lasting about 45 minutes to an hour. Dinner varies from international/Khmer buffet to a delightful Khmer set menu. Some restaurants do not charge admission for the performance, but you are expected to order dinner. Seat reservations are recommended especially during the high season.

Amazon Angkor Restaurant
#988 Salakrasang, SvayDangkum
Tel: 012-966988

Apsara Theatre
Angkor Village Hotel
Tel: 063-963561

Butterflies Garden Restaurant
East side of the River
Tel: 063-761211

Dead Fish Tower
Sivatha Boulevard
Tel: 012630377

Jasmine Angkor Restaurant
Achamean Street
Tel: 012-808881

La Noria Hotel and Restaurant
East side of the River
Tel: 063-964242

Le Meridien Hotel
Road to Angkor Wat
Tel: 063-963900

La Résidence d’Angkor
East side of the river
Tel: 063-963390

Sofitel Royal Angkor
Road to Angkor Wat
Tel: 063-964600

Temple Balcony
Pub Street
Tel: 015-999909

Victoria Angkor
Royal Independence Gardens
Tel: 063-760428