Live Music Venues in Cambodia
Cambodia's live music scene is small but passionate. From jazz bars in Phnom Penh to reggae nights in Kampot, cover bands on Pub Street to Phare Circus's live traditional music, here's where to find live sounds across the kingdom.
The Music Scene at a Glance
Cambodia's music scene has deep roots — traditional Khmer music nearly died during the Khmer Rouge era but has been revived by organizations like Cambodian Living Arts. The modern scene blends traditional instruments with contemporary genres. Phnom Penh has the most diverse live music, Siem Reap has the most accessible (Pub Street), and Kampot has the most atmospheric riverside sessions.
Best variety
Most accessible
Most atmospheric
Top Live Music Venues
Hangar 44
Location: Phnom Penh (Bassac Lane)
A tiki-themed bar with regular live music nights. Wednesday is the flagship live music night with local and expat bands playing funk, jazz, and covers. Great cocktails and a party atmosphere.
Oscar's on the Corner
Location: Phnom Penh (BKK1)
An intimate jazz bar with live performances on weekends. Local jazz musicians and visiting international artists play in a small, candle-lit setting. The best venue for serious music lovers.
The Box Office
Location: Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh's main events venue hosting concerts, comedy nights, film screenings, and cultural events. International and regional touring acts play here. Check their Facebook page for schedules.
Laundry Bar
Location: Phnom Penh (BKK1)
A creative underground bar hosting DJs, electronic music events, and indie nights. The vibe is alternative and artistic — Phnom Penh's closest thing to a Berlin club night.
Siem Reap Pub Street
Location: Siem Reap
Multiple bars along Pub Street feature live cover bands playing classic rock, pop, and dance music. Not high art, but infectious fun with $0.50 beer. Temple Bar and Angkor What? are the main live venues.
Hard Rock Cafe
Location: Phnom Penh & Siem Reap
The international chain has locations in both major cities with regular live cover bands playing classic rock and pop. A reliable option for live music any night of the week.
Phare Circus
Location: Siem Reap
While primarily a circus, every performance features live musicians playing a blend of traditional Khmer instruments and modern arrangements. The music is as compelling as the acrobatics.
Meta House
Location: Phnom Penh
A German-Cambodian cultural center hosting regular live music, film screenings, art exhibitions, and discussions. Eclectic programming ranging from traditional Khmer music to experimental electronica.
The Groove
Location: Siem Reap
A dedicated live music venue in Siem Reap's Kandal Village area. Regular bands play blues, rock, and jazz in an intimate setting. One of the few venues focused exclusively on quality live music.
Riverside Bars
Location: Kampot
Kampot's riverside bars host mellow live music — acoustic sets, reggae evenings, and open jam sessions. The Rusty Keyhole and Naga House are favorites. The relaxed Kampot vibe makes every performance feel like a private concert.
Traditional Khmer Music
Cambodian Living Arts
The most important organization preserving traditional Khmer music and dance. They host free performances at the National Museum in Phnom Penh (check schedule) and support master musicians across the country. A vital cultural experience for visitors interested in Cambodia's musical heritage.
Apsara Dance Dinner Shows
Several restaurants in Siem Reap offer traditional Apsara dance performances with dinner. The combination of classical Khmer music, elaborate costumes, and mythology-based choreography is Cambodia's signature cultural entertainment. Performances typically 7-9 PM, $15-30 including dinner.
Chapei Dong Veng
Cambodia's unique long-necked guitar tradition, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. Performers play and sing satirical, philosophical songs. Occasionally performed at cultural events and the National Museum. A rare and precious art form worth seeking out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city has the best live music scene?
Phnom Penh has the most diverse scene — jazz, electronic, indie, and traditional. Siem Reap has the most accessible nightlife (Pub Street cover bands). Kampot offers the most atmospheric setting for live acoustic and reggae music.
Is there a music festival in Cambodia?
Several are emerging. The Cambodia Music & Arts Festival has been held in Siem Reap. Bassac Music Night in Phnom Penh features rotating artists. Check local event listings on Facebook groups like "Phnom Penh Events" for the latest.
What traditional instruments are unique to Cambodia?
The chapei dong veng (long-necked guitar), roneat (xylophone), skor (drums), and tro (string instruments). The pinpeat ensemble is the classical orchestra used in court music and Apsara dance. Traditional music nearly disappeared during the Khmer Rouge era — hearing it live is culturally significant.
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