Apsara Performance Including Buffet Dinner & Hotel Pick up

If you’re heading to Siem Reap and want a night filled with true Cambodian flavor, this Apsara dance and dinner experience offers a compelling blend of tradition, entertainment, and local cuisine. While it’s not an exclusive or small-scale event—some may find the venue a bit crowded—it provides a great value at just $22 per person, especially if you’re eager to see a traditional Khmer performance with authentic food included.

What I particularly like about this tour is the cultural storytelling behind the dance, the delicious Khmer buffet, and the convenience of hotel pickup. That said, the large venue can mean some noisy interruptions from other groups, which might be a downside for those seeking a quieter, more intimate show. It’s best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded, accessible introduction to Khmer arts and cuisine without breaking the bank.

Good To Know

• Affordable yet authentic: At $22, this tour offers a real taste of Khmer culture with dinner and entertainment included.
• Convenience is key, with hotel pickup and return via tuk-tuk making it hassle-free.
• Cultural significance: The dance reflects Hindu and Buddhist stories, adding depth to the performance.
• Food variety: The buffet features classic Khmer dishes like Amok curry and Khmer BBQ, plus international options.
• Large venue ambiance: Some reviewers mention it can be noisy due to big tour groups.
• Guided storytelling: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into the dance’s origins.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Hotel Pickup and Transportation

The experience starts with a pick-up directly from your hotel lobby, usually via tuk-tuk—an authentic Cambodian touch that adds to the fun. You’ll be taken to the venue, which is often Amazon Restaurant or a comparable location, as per reviews. The drive is short, and the entire trip is designed to be relaxed, so you’ll arrive ready for a night of cultural discovery.

The Apsara Dance Show

Once inside, you’ll settle into seats to watch the traditional Apsara dance performance. This dance is rooted in Hindu and Buddhist mythology, portraying celestial female beings sent from heaven—an elegant window into Khmer spiritual beliefs. The dance’s hand gestures are intricate and hold symbolic meanings, which guides often explain, making the performance not just beautiful but also meaningful.

According to reviewers, the dancers perform with grace and precision, signaling the rich tradition behind each movement. One guest noted, “The food and performance of the dancers were excellent,” highlighting the quality of the show. The dance is rhythmic, with soft, mesmerizing moves that captivate viewers of all ages.

Dinner Buffet

During the performance, guests enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring traditional Khmer dishes such as Amok (a coconut curry steamed in banana leaves), Khmer BBQ, and other local favorites. International dishes are also available for those with more diverse tastes. Many travelers appreciated the delicious, authentic flavors, and some mention the ample variety—making sure there’s something for all.

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Cultural Context & Storytelling

What sets this experience apart is the storytelling aspect. Guides share insights into the mythological origins of the dance, connecting it to Cambodia’s Hindu and Buddhist roots. This adds a layer of understanding that enhances appreciation for the performance.

Return and Ease of Access

After roughly 2.5 hours, including the show and dinner, your tuk-tuk will return you to your hotel. This seamless logistics arrangement is especially appreciated by guests who prefer not to worry about navigating unfamiliar streets at night.

The Experience from Reviews

Multiple reviews emphasize the value for money and quality of the show. One guest from GetYourGuide mentioned, “Amazon Restaurant had a very good buffet and the show was also fun and a nice experience.” Others praised the knowledgeable guides, who help interpret the dance’s significance, making it accessible even for first-timers.

However, some reviewers also note that the venue can be quite large with many tour groups, leading to a somewhat noisy environment. Someone expressed concern over a mix-up with their pickup, which highlights the importance of confirming details beforehand. Despite this, most guests felt the experience was worthwhile and enjoyed the combination of entertainment and culinary delight.

Is This Tour for You?

This tour is perfect if you want a cost-effective cultural experience in Siem Reap, especially if you’re interested in traditional Khmer arts and food. It suits travelers who enjoy live performances and don’t mind larger venues with a bustling atmosphere. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer organized logistics and hotel pickup to maximize relaxation after a day of sightseeing.

If you’re seeking an intimate, small-scale show or a deep dive into Cambodia’s history, you might prefer more specialized or smaller venues. But for a fun, lively, and authentic night out, this tour hits the right notes.

The Practical Details

• Price: $22 per person offers excellent value for a combined dinner and show.
• Duration: 2.5 hours, including pickup, performance, and return.
• Included: Round-trip tuk-tuk transfers, buffet dinner, and the dance performance.
• Timing: Check availability for starting times; generally, evening shows.
• Accessibility: Pickup is available, but you’ll need to wait in your hotel lobby 10 minutes before scheduled pickup.
• Language: Guided commentary available in English, enhancing your understanding.

This Apsara performance and dinner experience offers a lively, reasonably priced introduction to Khmer culture, blending captivating dance with local cuisine. It’s ideal for travelers looking for an easy, relaxed night out with informative storytelling and authentic flavors. While the large venue and busy atmosphere might not suit those craving intimacy or quiet, the overall value and cultural richness make it worth considering.

The combination of professional dance, delicious buffet, and convenient logistics makes this a practical choice for visitors wanting a memorable, hassle-free evening in Siem Reap. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seeking a fun cultural highlight, this tour provides a well-rounded taste of Cambodia’s artistic heritage.

What is included in this tour?
You get round-trip tuk-tuk transfers from your hotel, a buffet dinner, and the Apsara dance performance.

How long is the show?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including pickup and return.

Is there a dress code?
While not explicitly stated, it’s best to dress smart casual, especially since you’ll be visiting a restaurant and enjoying a cultural performance.

Can I choose a specific starting time?
Yes, check availability for different starting times—it’s best to confirm in advance.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient.

What kind of food is served?
The buffet features traditional Khmer dishes like Amok curry and Khmer BBQ, with some international options.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most likely, as the performance is family-friendly, but check with the provider if you have young children.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your plans.

Will I understand the cultural significance of the dance?
Guides provide explanations about the mythology and symbolism behind the dance, enriching your appreciation.

Is this experience available in different languages?
The tour is conducted in English, with guided commentary to help you follow along.

This Apsara dance and dinner experience is a wonderful way to end a day in Siem Reap, offering a taste of Cambodia’s artistic soul in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re after cultural insight, good food, or just a lively night out, it’s an option worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby