Psah Chas facts for kids
Psah Chas (which means "Old Market" in the Khmer language) is a very popular market in the city of Siem Reap, located in northern Cambodia. You might also see its name spelled as Phsar Chas, Psar Chas, or Psar Chaa. This market is a special place that attracts both local people and tourists visiting Siem Reap. It's so well-known that many businesses in the city even use Psah Chas as a landmark to help people find their way! The word "psah" comes from "pasar," which also means "market" in other languages like Malay and Cham.
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What is Psah Chas?
Psah Chas is a lively market that serves as a central hub in Siem Reap. It's a place where you can experience the local culture and find many interesting items. Unlike a market with a similar name in Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh, this Psah Chas is designed to welcome everyone, from residents doing their daily shopping to travelers looking for unique souvenirs. It's a busy and exciting spot where you can see, smell, and taste many different things.
Where is Psah Chas Located?
This famous market is found in the southern part of Siem Reap, a major city in northern Cambodia. Siem Reap is well-known as the gateway to the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, making Psah Chas a convenient stop for many visitors. Its central location makes it easy to reach, whether you are staying in a hotel nearby or exploring the city.
What Can You Find at Psah Chas?
Psah Chas is a treasure trove of items, offering a wide variety of goods for sale. It's a fantastic place to explore if you're looking for gifts, local crafts, or delicious food. The market is divided into different sections, each specializing in certain types of products.
Souvenirs and Gifts
If you're looking for something to remember your trip to Cambodia, Psah Chas has plenty of options. You can find many unique souvenirs here, including:
- Colorful T-shirts
- Beautiful silverware
- Soft silk products
- Intricate wood and stone carvings
- Small statues of Buddhas
- Other handmade crafts and traditional items
Delicious Cambodian Food
The market is also famous for its amazing selection of Cambodian cuisine. There are many food stalls where you can try local dishes and fresh ingredients. Some of the delicious foods you might find include:
- Different types of rice
- Dried fish and tasty pork sausages
- Fresh vegetables and fruits
- Prahok, which is a special type of fermented fish paste that is very popular in Cambodian cooking.
You might even find some interesting foods that show the history of the area. For example, some stalls sell baguettes (a type of French bread) and spiced frogs. These foods are thought to be a reminder of the time when France had a colonial presence in Cambodia. Other stalls offer various Khmer soups, which are often served with red chili slices and peanuts for extra flavor.
