Cambodia is a fantastic place to learn new skills—particularly if you want to dive deeper into the local food scene and get a taste of everyday life. Unlike just visiting temples or beaches, these workshops offer hands-on ways to connect with Cambodian culture. We especially love the Khmer cooking experiences, like the Phnom Penh’s Hands-On Khmer Cooking Class in the Countryside, which combines culinary skills with the chance to explore a village far from the typical tourist trail. Whether you’re interested in cooking chicken amok or learning about local produce, these classes let you take home more than just souvenirs—they give you real skills and stories.
If you’re based in Siem Reap, you’ll find several options that blend market visits with cooking—perfect for foodies who want a side of local life. These classes aren’t just about recipes; they are about understanding what makes Cambodian cuisine unique and how it has evolved. Below, we’ve outlined the best workshops and classes in Cambodia, each offering a different angle on culinary culture and local traditions.
1. Phnom Penh’s Hands-On Khmer Cooking Class in the Countryside
This intimate, private tour takes you out of Phnom Penh and into the hinterlands, where you meet a local guide in a village most travelers won’t see. The highlight is exploring the Arey Ksat market by tuk-tuk, learning about local produce and buying ingredients for your meal. The experience truly immerses you in Cambodian life, with the guide sharing stories about the village and daily routines. After shopping, you’ll learn to cook iconic dishes like chicken amok, with step-by-step guidance.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authenticity and intimacy. With just your group, you get personalized attention and a chance to ask questions about local ingredients, cooking techniques, and village life. The ferry ride across the Mekong adds an extra layer of adventure. Guests consistently praise the warm hospitality, delicious food, and the chance to learn from a local family. At 4 hours and $35 per person, it offers excellent value for a deeply memorable experience.
Bottom line: If you’re seeking a genuine, hands-on Cambodian cooking experience that combines travel, culture, and cuisine, this tour is a top choice.
2. Siem Reap: Evening Market Tour and Cooking Class
For around $28, this class offers a unique way to explore Siem Reap’s vibrant evening market before rolling up your sleeves in the open air. You’ll start by wandering through stalls filled with fresh herbs, spices, and regional ingredients. Guided by a professional chef, you’ll then learn to prepare three authentic Khmer dishes. The class ends with you enjoying your meal under the stars, in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
The key appeal here is the atmosphere—combining market exploration with hands-on cooking in a peaceful environment. It’s ideal for travelers who want a culinary adventure with a social, outdoor vibe. The focus on Cambodian herbs and spices deepens your understanding of local flavors. Since the class is relatively short and affordable, it suits those on a budget or looking for a fun, casual experience.
Bottom line: If you’re after a lively, relaxed evening that combines market discovery with delicious cooking, this class delivers.
$28 per person
3. Siem Reap Khmer Cooking Class and Local Market Tour
This 4-hour experience, priced at $39 per person, offers an immersive look into Khmer culture through a guided market visit, cooking, and a homemade lunch. Led by a local family, you’ll explore a village market, learn about regional ingredients, and then prepare traditional dishes together. The tour includes food tasting and an opportunity to see everyday life in a Khmer village.
What makes this class special is the personal touch of being guided by local residents who share their family recipes and stories. The program includes a comprehensive itinerary with stops at markets, a cooking session, and a shared meal in a welcoming home. Guests often leave feeling they’ve gained new culinary skills and insights into Cambodia’s regional foods.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want an authentic, full-day experience blending local culture with hands-on cooking and a hearty meal.
$39 per person
4. Siem Reap: Private Cooking Class with Market Visit
For about $65 per person, this private experience offers a tailored culinary journey. It starts with a visit to a local market, where you’ll learn about the ingredients that define Cambodian cuisine. The guide explains the cultural significance of various herbs, spices, and produce, giving you context for the dishes you’ll prepare. The class emphasizes traditional cooking techniques, including stir-frying and curry-making, helping you master the delicate balance of flavors.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the opportunity to learn about the cultural influences shaping Cambodian food. The smaller group size means more direct interaction, making it ideal for serious food lovers or those wanting a more in-depth experience. The class duration of 3.5 hours fits well into a busy travel schedule, and the focus on ingredients and techniques ensures you walk away with practical skills.
Bottom line: If you prefer a private, comprehensive class that deepens your understanding of Cambodian ingredients and techniques, this tour makes a great choice.
$65 per person
How to Choose Your Cambodia Workshop or Class
When selecting the best workshop or class, consider your budget, time available, and interest level. For a deep dive into authentic Cambodian cooking with a family, the Phnom Penh countryside tour offers an unforgettable experience. If you want a relaxed evening with a focus on market exploration and dining under the stars, the Siem Reap market class is perfect. For a comprehensive and personalized experience in Siem Reap, the private market and cooking class is hard to beat.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and time. Consider your fitness level—most tours involve walking and standing, so choose accordingly.
Cambodia offers a range of hands-on cooking tours and market visits tailored to different interests and budgets. From the intimate, countryside experience to private classes in Siem Reap, there’s an option for everyone eager to connect more deeply with local culinary traditions. Whether you’re a serious cook or simply curious about Khmer flavors, these workshops promise memorable stories and skills you can take home. We encourage booking early to ensure you don’t miss out on these culinary adventures.