Apsara Dinner Show

If you’re exploring Siem Reap and looking for a way to enjoy Cambodia’s vibrant traditions after a day at Angkor Wat, the Apsara Dinner Show offers a blend of dance, music, and delicious food. While it’s not a top-tier spectacle, it provides good value and a chance to see traditional Khmer performances in a relaxed setting.

What we love about this experience is its affordable price point, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, and the chance to enjoy multiple dance styles that showcase Khmer culture. The buffet dinner’s variety, including Khmer, Asian, and European dishes, also deserves a mention. However, one potential downsides is the stage setup, which some visitors found lacking in visual appeal, and the overall ambiance can feel a bit underwhelming, especially if the venue is crowded or during local holidays.

This experience suits travelers who are curious about Khmer culture, want a family-friendly evening, or prefer to combine cultural entertainment with hassle-free logistics. If you’re craving an affordable, engaging introduction to Cambodian dance and music, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $19 per person makes it accessible for most travelers.
• Convenient transfers eliminate the need for self-navigation or finding your way there.
• Six traditional dances provide a well-rounded glimpse into Khmer performing arts.
• Buffet dinner offers a diverse menu catering to various tastes.
• No alcohol included, so you’ll need to purchase drinks separately if desired.
• Mixed reviews highlight issues with stage presentation and overall ambiance, so managing expectations is wise.

In-Depth Review of the Apsara Dinner Show Experience

What is the Apsara Dinner Show?

It’s a two-hour evening event blending traditional Khmer dance performances with a buffet dinner. The experience begins with a blessing or welcome dance, setting a respectful tone. Over the next hour, you’ll witness six different dances, each with its own story and style, culminating in the famous Apsara Dance—a graceful display of Cambodian mythology and artistry.

The show typically takes place at the Tonle Sap Restaurant, conveniently located near your hotel or central Siem Reap. The package includes pickup and transfer back to your hotel or Pub Street, simplifying your evening.

How the itinerary unfolds

6:00 PM – Pickup: A driver will collect you from your hotel, easing the worry about logistics, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

6:15 PM – Buffet Dinner: The buffet opens early, giving you plenty of time to fill your plate with Khmer, Asian, and European dishes. Reviewers mention the food is plentiful, with many options, so hungry guests won’t go hungry during the performance.

7:00 PM – Show Begins: The performance kicks off with a Blessing or Welcome Dance, which introduces the audience to Khmer culture in a respectful, traditional manner. This is often followed by six dances performed in quick succession, including the Ramayana Dance, Fishing Dance, Peacock’s Dance, Coconut Dance, and Apsara Dance.

8:15 PM – Photo Opportunity: After the show, dancers are available for photos, giving a chance for some memorable snapshots.

8:30 PM – Transfer Back: The evening ends with a drop-off at your hotel or at Pub Street, where you can enjoy Siem Reap’s vibrant nightlife.

What makes each dance special?

• Ramayana Dance: Depicts scenes from the ancient Hindu epic, giving insight into Khmer storytelling through dance.
• Fishing Dance: A lively performance that mimics local fishing practices, adding a touch of daily life to the show.
• Peacock’s Dance: Features elegant movements inspired by the majestic bird, highlighting grace and poise.
• Coconut Dance: Playful and humorous, often involving audience participation or comic timing.
• Apsara Dance: The highlight, showcasing the iconic celestial dancers, with flowing hand movements and intricate costumes, embodying Cambodia’s artistic emblem.

The venue and ambiance

One of the main criticisms from past visitors, including Cathy_K, concerns the stage backdrop, which is described as “not beautiful” and could be significantly improved with minimal effort. The musicians have also received mixed reviews, with some noting they appear disheveled and distract from the performance. During busy days or holidays, the venue can feel crowded, and the overall atmosphere might lack the elegance of more formal shows.

The food and drinks

The buffet’s diversity means most guests find something to satisfy their hunger. Some reviews highlight the good value for money, especially considering the entertainment included. However, beers, wine, and personal expenses are not included, so you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to enjoy drinks during or after the show.

Practical details and tips

• Booking in advance is recommended, with most guests reserving about two weeks prior. The $19 price tag is quite reasonable for the experience.
• The show is suitable for most travelers, including families and solo visitors, as long as you’re comfortable with basic cultural performances.
• Allergy considerations: If you have food allergies, notify the tour operator in advance to accommodate your dietary needs.
• Timing: The event is scheduled from 6:00 PM to around 8:30 PM, fitting nicely into an evening itinerary.

Authenticity versus presentation

While the dances are genuine representations of Khmer culture, the overall presentation and staging may not rival more polished productions. As one reviewer lamented, “I feel very sorry for the Apsara dancers at this venue,” due to the poor stage backdrop and disorganized musicians. The performers’ dedication is evident, but the setting can sometimes undermine the experience.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience offers good value for travelers seeking an introduction to Cambodian dance without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who want an easy, no-fuss evening, especially if you’re staying near Pub Street. Families with children might enjoy the lively performances and buffet, while solo travelers can appreciate the chance to mingle and take photos with dancers.

It’s less suited for visitors looking for a luxurious or highly polished show, or those wanting a more immersive or elaborate performance. If you’re after a deep cultural experience or a fancy dinner, you might find this somewhat simplified.

Final thoughts

The Apsara Dinner Show in Siem Reap provides a practical, budget-friendly way to experience Khmer dance and music. Its diverse dance lineup, convenient transfers, and buffet dinner make it a solid option for those wanting a relaxed cultural evening. While the venue’s decor and staging could be improved, the authentic performances and friendly atmosphere still shine through.

If you don’t mind a straightforward presentation and are looking for an affordable way to enjoy traditional Cambodian arts, this experience is worth considering. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors wanting a quick cultural fix after a day at Angkor Wat or as a fun night out with family or friends.

FAQs

Is the pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup from your hotel and transfers back to either your hotel or Pub Street, making it very convenient.

How long does the show last?
The entire experience runs approximately 2 hours, from 6:00 PM pickup to drop-off around 8:30 PM.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks such as beer and wine are not included. You’ll need to purchase these separately if desired.

Can I take photos during the performance?
Yes, after the show, dancers are available for photos, so bring your camera or phone to capture some memories.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Generally, yes. The performance is family-friendly, and a buffet dinner is appealing to all ages.

What if I have food allergies?
Inform the tour operator in advance, and they should be able to accommodate your dietary restrictions, depending on their provisions.

In essence, this tour offers a straightforward, culturally enriching evening that’s ideal for travelers looking for affordability and convenience. While it might not be a grand spectacle, the chance to see Khmer dances, enjoy a variety of dishes, and relax with easy transfers makes it a worthwhile addition to your Siem Reap itinerary.