Traditional Handicrafts: Khmer silk textiles, wood carvings, stone sculptures, and ceramics are authentic souvenirs. Purchase from cooperatives where profits support artisans directly.
Markets for Shopping: Old Market (Psar Chas) for authentic local goods and haggling; Night Market for casual shopping and street food; tourist shops on Pub Street for guaranteed quality at higher prices.
Best Buys: Silk scarves and garments, hand-carved wooden Buddha statues, stone trinkets, traditional masks, and local spice blends.
Bargaining Tips: Expect to negotiate at traditional markets. Start at 30-50% of asking price; sellers usually meet somewhere in the middle. Fixed prices apply in modern shops and restaurants.
Supporting Communities: Shop at fair-trade cooperatives like Artisan Angkor. Choose responsible tourism-related purchases that contribute to local economic development rather than exploitative mass production.
Customs & Export: Protect Khmer heritage—do not remove cultural artifacts. Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species.