A Glorious History

Built during the French colonial era, Raffles Grand d’Angkor opened its doors in 1932, just as the nearby Angkor Wat was being cleared from the jungle. The hotel quickly became a gathering place for explorers, archaeologists, and heads of state. Charlie Chaplin, Charles de Gaulle, and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis are among its famous guests. Through decades of change, the hotel has retained its original character – high ceilings, ceiling fans, black-and-white tiled floors, and a palpable sense of romance.

Architecture & Ambience

The hotel’s design blends Khmer motifs with French colonial elegance. Guest rooms feature hand-carved wooden furniture, traditional silks, and private balconies overlooking the pool or gardens. The central pool, shaded by frangipani trees, offers a cool retreat after a day exploring Angkor. The legendary Elephant Bar, with its original 1930s decor, serves the famous Airavata cocktail – a secret recipe that has not changed for nearly a century.

Experiences Fit for Royalty

Raffles Grand d’Angkor offers curated experiences that connect guests to the soul of Cambodia. Begin your day with a sunrise visit to Angkor Wat, followed by a champagne breakfast at the hotel’s Café d’Angkor. Take a traditional Apsara dance class or enjoy a private dinner in the gardens. The renowned Raffles Spa offers Khmer healing rituals using local ingredients. For the adventurous, the hotel arranges private helicopter tours over the jungle temples.

Awards & Accolades

Raffles Grand d’Angkor has been consistently named among the best hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and The Telegraph. In 2025, it was inducted into the Historic Hotels of Asia Hall of Fame. The hotel also received the “Best Heritage Hotel in Southeast Asia” award at the World Luxury Hotel Awards.