Street Scams in Siem Reap

Begging Child Network and Souvenir Pressure

Organised child begging networks operate around Angkor Wat's main causeway, the West Gate, and outside popular temples including Bayon and Ta Prohm. Children are coached to sell postcards, bracelets, or cold drinks then switch to aggressive begging when tourists decline. Many are kept out of school by adult handlers who collect the proceeds. Buying goods perpetuates the practice and can lead to mobbing by larger groups.