tourism cambodia

14 Top-Rated Places to Visit in Cambodia

Written by Jess Lee Updated Mar 18, 2024

Best known as both the home of the colossal temples of Angkor Wat and for the brutal Khmer Rouge era of the 1970s and later civil war, Cambodian history encompasses both some of humanity's greatest artistic accomplishments and most horrific deeds.

The history is what draws most travelers here, but this Southeast Asian nation has more tourist attractions to offer for those who linger longer than a short temple hop to Siem Reap.

Beyond the temples, Cambodia is a prime destination for Southeast Asia travels that manages to charm all who come.

The coastline of sandy white beaches tempts every sun sloth. The jungle-swathed countryside is geared up for the more intrepid, and the buzzing capital of Phnom Penh envelops visitors in the frenetic pulse of contemporary Cambodian city life.

Plan your sightseeing in this fascinating country with our list of the top places to visit in Cambodia.

Angkor Wat (Angkor Archaeological Park)

Koh rong samloem, prasat preah vihear, tonlé sap lake, koh kong conservation corridor, sambor prei kuk, banteay chhmar, frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit cambodia.

This temple city is the number one tourist spot in Cambodia.

Accessed from the town of Siem Reap, the temples of the Angkorian period are so ambitious in scale and in the majesty of their construction, that Angkor Wat is rated as one of the world's must-see ancient sites .

Built between 802 and 1432, this was the largest city in the world during the medieval age and the vast powerhouse of the Khmer kings who endeavored to outbid their predecessors in the beauty of their construction.

As the city's wooden dwellings were encroached and then decayed by the surrounding jungle, what remains today, are just those mighty temples.

The temple of Angkor Wat itself, the world's largest religious building, is only one sliver of the site in total, and the sprawling circuit of temples deserves three days to explore if you want to understand the scope of the Angkorian period's architectural achievements.

For those short on time though, the main highlights after Angkor Wat are the tree-root clasped temple of Ta Prohm (which first found international fame as a location used in the movie Tomb Raider), the Bayon Temple for its 216 stone-carved faces, Angkor Thom and Preah Khan.

Cambodia's capital is the frenetic heartbeat of the nation; a city of chaotic streets abuzz with motorbikes and car horns that can frazzle at first glance.

Deserted completely during the Khmer Rouge madness and left to wither and decay, Phnom Penh has bounced back to become one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic cities.

For visitors, this is Cambodia's most cosmopolitan destination, with a café and restaurant scene unrivaled in the rest of the country.

It's also home to a scattering of important historic sites that help unravel both Cambodia's modern and ancient history.

The National Museum is home to a swag of Khmer sculpture that traces the nation's history from the pre-Angkorian age right through to the phenomenal majesty of the god-Kings of Angkor.

The Royal Palace provides gorgeous examples of traditional artistry, while Tuol Sleng Museum and the killing fields of Choeung Ek speak of the horror and brutality the people of this country suffered under Khmer Rouge rule.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Phnom Penh

Just off Cambodia's south coast lie a scattering of islands just as beautiful as their Thai counterparts to the west, but much less visited.

Compared to the now very developed islands of Koh Samui and Phuket , Cambodia's islands are a slice of laid-back tropical bliss, where sun and sand take center stage, and the big resorts have yet to make their mark.

Of all the islands, Koh Rong Samloem is one of the most beautiful, with the long, sandy Saracen Bay home to a dozen beach hut resorts that offer a welcome respite from the world.

It's really all about hammock-time here, but there's plenty of scuba diving activities on offer for the more active.

You can access these islands from Sihanoukville.

Siem Reap is usually seen by travelers as among Cambodia's top places to visit due to it being the base for Angkor Archaeological Park, but the town itself offers more interesting attractions beyond the mighty temples.

This is the country's major activity center, with bundles of tours on offer, from cycle trips around the lush countryside just outside of town to Cambodian cookery tours.

Shoppers will also find plenty to keep them occupied, as central Siem Reap is brimming with opportunities to browse traditional crafts.

Make sure to visit Angkor National Museum, before heading to Angkor Wat itself, to dose up on the history of the site. The exhibits here explore the breadth of culture and artistry of the Khmer empire.

For evening entertainment while in town, don't miss Phare The Cambodian Circus. This internationally-renowned circus troupe and social enterprise puts on dazzling shows where performers combine theater, acrobatics, and music.

Ratanakiri is a nature-filled reprieve for travelers suffering from temple-fatigue.

This is outback Cambodia, and the endless red-dirt roads of the region, leading to ethnic minority villages, are an intrepid traveler's delight.

For those with an adventurous streak, the province is one of the best places in Cambodia for trekking, from spotting gibbons at Veun Sai-Siem Pang Conservation Area, where overnight trips involve sleeping in hammocks and early rises to track buff-cheeked gibbons, to hiking in Virachey National Park home to elephants, tigers, and sun bears.

There's more relaxing options on offer as well. The emerald water of Yeak Lom Crater Lake just outside of Ban Lung town is a tranquil swimming spot, while the waterfalls of Chaa Ong and Ka Tieng are fun diversions that provide more opportunities for getting wet.

The temples of Angkor Wat may gain all the glory, but Prasat Preah Vihear wins the prize for the most dramatic location.

Sitting atop the Dangrek Mountains, on an escarpment with dizzying views across the Cambodian floodplains, Prasat Preah Vihear is a monumental temple complex of intricately carved pavilions linked by long causeways, built originally to honor the god Shiva.

The temple is snug against the border with Thailand and has historically been a point of contention between the two nations, who both claim it as their own.

The International Court of Justice ruled in Cambodia's favor in 2013 after border disputes flared up between 2008 and 2011.

Tensions have dissipated in the last few years, meaning this UNESCO World Heritage Site can now reclaim its rightful role on the tourist trail.

Access is from Sra Em, although most visitors come on a day trip from Siem Reap (200 kilometers south).

The countryside of rice fields and tiny villages surrounding the northwest city of Battambang holds some of the most tranquil rural scenery in Cambodia, and the area is home to swags of historic riches as well.

All this has made the city itself a popular destination on traveler itineraries.

For history fans, the temples of Phnom Sampeau, Phnom Banan and Wat Ek Phnom are all within day-tripping distance, while the famed Bamboo Train - a single-line rail track where "carriages" made from a platform of wood and bamboo travel between Battambang's east bank and the tiny village of O Srav - is one of the most popular activities for visitors.

Battambang itself is a rather sleepy city compared to the buzz of the capital, with a central district brimming with colonial buildings.

For those who found Phnom Penh's hectic buzz a bit too much to handle, Battambang is a thoroughly approachable town to use as a base.

The laid-back riverine town of Kampot has oodles of old-world ambience.

The compact central district is a joy to ramble around, full of surviving shop-house architecture, some of which has been painstakingly restored.

Kampot's charm lies in its exceedingly chilled-out atmosphere, and many a traveler finds themselves waylaid here longer than they expected, having succumbed to its easygoing pace.

For the more active though, this is also an excellent base for discovering the surrounding sights of the south.

The old French summer getaway of Boker Hill Station, with its abandoned church and eerie, empty shell of a once-grand hotel, is an easy day trip from town, as are the limestone caves of Phnom Chhnork and Phnom Sorsia both with old temples inside.

Tonlé Sap is Cambodia's most important waterway and Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake.

As well as being an important source of food and a vital tool for Cambodian irrigation, the lake itself is home to 170 floating villages that depend on fishing for their livelihood, with homes built directly on the water.

The houses, shops, churches, schools, and temples of these villages are built on rustic buoy foundations of lashed together barrels and bamboo, and all transport is by boat. They're a fascinating place to spend a day exploring.

One of the most interesting is the sprawling village of Kompong Luong, near the town of Pursat on Tonlé Sap's western shore, although the most popular village to visit is Chong Kneas near Siem Reap.

The Koh Kong Conservation Corridor stretches across an area within Cambodia's Cardamom Mountains, south of the border town of Koh Kong in the country's southwest.

The highlands here, home to dense rainforest, winding rivers, and waterfalls, offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and boat tours.

Head to the Tatai River if you want to simply soak up the lush surroundings and take a time out from life. Here, you'll find a handful of boutique eco-resorts scattered along the riverbank all offering activities such as day hikes and kayaking.

Further south in the Cardamoms is the village of Chi Pat, an eco-tourism center with simple homestay and guesthouse accommodation and plenty of activities, ranging from multi-day treks into the forested mountains to wildlife-spotting river boat trips.

If you're here for the full Mekong experience, you've come to the right place.

Spread along the banks of the mighty Mekong, Kratie has become a major destination for travelers due to its dolphin-watching tours.

The endangered Irrawaddy dolphins are endemic to the Mekong, and environmental measures have now been put in place to try and help their dwindling numbers.

Tourism has played a good role in trying to protect the dolphins by offering an alternative economy to fishing.

To see the dolphins head to Kampi, just north of Kratie, where there are plenty of boat tours available.

This pre-Angkorian temple site dates from the early 7th century when it was the capital of the Upper Chenla Empire.

More than 100 brick temples dedicated to various Hindu gods sit within the forest here, many half-swallowed by mammoth tree roots.

Archaeologically, the site is extremely important, containing some of Cambodia's oldest surviving buildings, but you don't have to be an archaeology buff to appreciate the ethereal beauty of this tree-wrapped site.

The most important temples in the archaeological site include Prasat Sambor, Prasat Tao and Prasat Yeay Peau which all have remarkably clear carvings on their temple walls and plenty of ethereal ambience provided by twisting tree trunks and coiling vines.

You can access Sambor Prei Kuk from Kompong Thom.

For a touch of Indiana Jones-style temple exploring, you can't beat Banteay Chhmar.

This mammoth temple complex sits consumed by surrounding jungle in Cambodia's lonely northwest, providing the perfect opportunity to discover the highlights without the crowds.

It was built by the 12th-century Angkorian king Jayavarman VII, and the remarkable stone reliefs along its walls are some of the most intricately detailed you'll see in the country.

In particular, the spectacular bas reliefs depicting Avalokiteśvara on the south wall and the dizzying array of battle scenes depicted on the eastern walls are prime examples of the Angkorian era's artistry.

The village neighboring the archaeological site has simple homestay accommodation. Otherwise, most people stay in Sisophon (60 kilometers south) or take a day trip to the ruins from Siem Reap.

Adventurous travelers beeline to the hill country of Mundulkiri Province in Cambodia's far east for wildlife spotting, village life, trail-bike tours, and the Elephant Valley Project.

The most famous tourist attraction in the region, the Elephant Valley Project offers visitors a chance to walk with the sanctuary's elephants (no riding allowed) while providing an opportunity for local mahouts (elephant keepers) to earn a wage that doesn't involve overworking their elephants.

For adrenaline-junkies, the Mayura zipline course skims right over the top of Bou Sra waterfall, while bird-watchers and wildlife spotters will want to take a tour into Seima Protected Forest, home to gibbons, the endangered black-shanked douc langurs, and plentiful birdlife.

The small town of Sen Monorom is the main base for travelers in Mundulkiri and within easy day-tripping distance to all of the tourist attractions.

Most visitors who arrive in Cambodia are heading to the Angkor Wat temples as their main destination - so it makes sense that the best time to visit Cambodia is when the temples are at their best. Weather-wise, the best time to visit Siem Reap and Angkor Wat is between December and February, when temperatures drop into the high 20s and the humidity is low enough to be bearable.

However, these months are part of the cool season, which is also high season in the country - this means higher prices, bigger crowds, and more expensive airfares. For better prices and slightly smaller crowds, consider arriving in March or early April - while temperatures are rising fast at this time, the rainy season is just starting by then, so you should be able to still enjoy the outdoors.

Phnom Penh has hot and humid weather all year-round, with just a small dip in temperature and humidity dropping to around 70 percent during the cool season. This is also a good time to visit Koh Rong, Cambodia's best beach destination.

More on Cambodia

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations

The Top 10 Things to Do in Cambodia

Oleh_Slobodeniuk / Getty Images

The Angkor temples may have overshadowed Cambodia ’s other wonders, but going off the beaten path will reward intrepid travelers with a far richer local experience.

Yes, there’s already plenty to see if you stick close to civilization—whether it’s the capital Phnom Penh , the Angkor-adjacent settlement of Siem Reap , or the bucolic Kampot —but none of these will get you dazzling white-sand beaches, close encounters with rare gibbons, or glamping in a forest clearing. Read on to find out what you can do in Cambodia and how much better it gets when you go further afield.

Get Your Temple Fix at Angkor Wat

Pakawat Thongcharoen / Getty Images

Everything about Angkor Wat is massive but curiously balanced. The site boasts a 500-acre square temple surrounded by walls, a wide moat crossed by an 800-foot causeway, and five stone towers that rise from the temple’s center, the highest standing some 700 feet above the ground.

The whole structure was conceived as a depiction of the mythical center of the universe, Mount Meru. That explains the temple’s symmetry and the amazing amount of detail on the temple’s walls and other surfaces, most notably the 160-foot-long gallery depicting the churning of the sea of milk in Hindu mythology.

Angkor Wat, together with nearby temples like Angkor Thom and Bayon, is part of the Angkor Archaeological Park, a major Cambodian tourist draw that ( in good years ) drew up to 2.2 million international tourists and earned $99 million in ticket sales.

Getting There: Angkor Archaeological Park is easily accessible by tuk-tuk from Siem Reap.

Meet Irrawaddy Dolphins in Kratie

John W Banagan / Getty Images

In a tiny section of the mighty Mekong River that runs through Cambodia, you can find the freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins living in their natural habitat, a hundred-mile stretch between the province of Kratie and the Lao border.

To see these unusual aquatic mammals in the wild, visit the town of Kampi in Kratie and take a motorboat across the river—not just to see the swimming cetaceans at play but also to skirt the flooded forests along the riverbanks.

About 20 dolphins make their home in Kampi’s stretch of the Mekong, where the waters are unusually slow-moving and surprisingly clear.

Getting There: Kampi is about 150 miles northeast of Phnom Penh, making it a five-hour drive by car or bus. Time your visit for the dry season between January and May, ideally during Khmer New Year.

Witness Khmer Rouge Atrocities at Tuol Sleng

Formerly a Phnom Penh high school, then a Khmer Rouge detention and torture camp, Tuol Sleng has since become a somber yet essential memorial to Cambodia's dark, genocidal past.

Renaming the school Security Prison 21 (S-21), the Khmer Rouge converted classrooms into interrogation chambers and prison cells. Getting at the truth was secondary to making prisoners confess to almost any crime the Khmer Rouge imagined—innocent teenagers, office workers, and even Communist intellectuals were forced to disclose to working for the CIA, which, in the end, cost them their lives.

Many reminders of the Khmer Rouge's inhuman cruelty can still be seen at Tuol Sleng: photographs of the facility's doomed men, women, and children, their eyes staring blankly into space; torture chambers and their instruments, mainly as the Khmer Rouge left them; and cases of skulls belonging to S-21's unfortunate victims.

Getting There: Tuol Sleng is easily accessible by tuk-tuk from Phnom Penh. The entrance fee costs $5 for non-Cambodian adults.

Take a River Cruise up the Mekong to Tonle Sap

Tonle Sap Lake is the centerpiece of various interconnected ecologies, all tied up with the ebb and flow of the Mekong River.

As the Mekong’s water volume rises and falls with the monsoon seasons, Tonle Sap expands and contracts—at its maximum extent, Tonle Sap covers 6,200 square miles. Residents around the lake live by this seasonal rhythm, setting up floating villages that help catch about half of all the fish consumed in Cambodia.

Getting There: Tonle Sap is easily accessible from both Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. Wherever your starting point is, you can book a river cruise that takes you up close to the floating villages and nearby nature reserves like Prek Toal, a scenic spot for viewing Cambodia’s endemic and migrating birds.

Discover Khmer Food

Cambodia's culinary spread might not share the spiciness and range of Thai food, but comparisons hardly do it justice.

The dishes you'll find when dining out at Phnom Penh or Siem Reap reflect the local "terroir"—white rice underpinning wholesome fish and chicken dishes cooked with local herbs and spices like garlic, shallots, galangal, and lemongrass.

Fish is a major part of the Khmer diet, given the easy access to rivers, lakes, and coastlines. You can eat it fresh or prepared as amok, a curry-like favorite made from freshwater fish steamed with coconut milk, spices, eggs, and the local fish paste called prahok.

Uncover the Mystery of Banteay Chhmar

Mike Aquino

Banteay Chhmar was constructed in the 12th century to memorialize a Khmer king’s son who had fallen in battle. It sat squarely at the heart of the Khmer Empire when it was built. But bad foundations and shifting borders left Banteay Chhmar forgotten for centuries, allowing natural deterioration and human theft to take a toll.

Today, archaeologists and adventurous tourists can visit this massive temple—presently being reconstructed—as an overnight stay from Siem Reap. Visitors will find a large, rectangular city enclosed by a 200-foot wide moat, crossed by a causeway to the east.

Reconstruction is ongoing, and visitors can see the structures that remain. Wall carvings showing battles and the God of Mercy Avalokitesvara still stand, as does a single “face tower” with enigmatic smiling faces.

Getting There: Banteay Chhmar is a three-hour drive north of Siem Reap.

Go Glamping in Botum Sakor National Park

Courtesy of Yaana Hospitality

Cambodia’s largest national park covers 660 square miles between the Cardamom Mountains and the coastal wetlands on a peninsula jutting out into the Gulf of Thailand. The thick, evergreen rainforest cover shelters many of Cambodia’s most endangered animals, including the Asiatic black bear, pileated gibbon, Asian elephant, and the clouded leopard.

Beyond the forest cover, hikers can also explore the coastal mangrove habitats, the grassland clearings, and the Preak Tachan river, a perfect setting for an afternoon of kayaking.

Nearby accommodations range from simple homestays to luxe glamping getaways like the Cardamom Tented Camp , composed of nine safari-style tents within the park borders. The tents meet three-star hotel standards and are an excellent launching pad for the Camp’s multi-day nature tour packages.

Getting There: Travel by bus from Phnom Penh takes four hours over Highway 48 to Andong Teuk village in Chi Phat; alternatively, your local resort can book your transportation as part of your stay.

Enjoy Phare Circus’s Big Top Experience

Courtesy of Mike Aquino

Inspired by their heritage, eight Cambodian performers returned to their hometown Battambang to establish Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS). This charitable organization uses the performing arts to educate and rehabilitate children and youth.

You need only attend Phare's grandiose acrobatic show in Siem Reap to contribute to this worthy enterprise. Located on Phare Circus Ring Road south of Sok San Road, the 400-seater big top converts Cambodian folklore and culture into a frenetic performance reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil.

Phare Circus guests sit on bleachers surrounding a single circular stage within the Phare Circus' red tent. The acrobatic performances you'll see here are as authentically Khmer as the Apsara dance and, for many, far more entertaining. Speaking parts are performed in Khmer, though subtitles in three languages are projected on a screen to help non-speakers.

Getting There: Phare Circus is easily accessible by tuk-tuk from Siem Reap.

Go Scuba Diving in Koh Rong

Tony Calandruccio / Getty Images

The island of Koh Rong, one of the country's handfuls of islands on the Gulf of Thailand, offers a more secluded and off-the-beaten-path beach feel. Its miles of white-sand beaches have a more laid-back feel, but Koh Toch's party scene is always an option if you feel it's too quiet.

Under the sea around Koh Rong offers a real treat to tourists—a diverse marine life full of amazing fish and other ocean-dwelling creatures. On any given day, all year round, you'll find yourself swimming alongside blue spotted rays, schools of barracuda, and the occasional sea turtle. And thanks to the shallow reefs, scuba diving and snorkeling are relatively easy.

Getting There: From Sihanoukville on the mainland coast, motorboats take 40 minutes to get to Koh Toch, the key entryway for tourists to Koh Rong.

Trek Untamed Jungle Trails in Ratanakiri

Karin de Mamiel / Getty Images

The hiking trails in the remote province of Ratanakiri, bordering Vietnam and Laos, are a sight to behold due to the area’s seclusion and wildness. You can easily imagine you’re the first to visit, whether walking through the Ochum district’s tribal villages or tracking down gibbons in Virachey National Park.

Many treks begin at the town of Banlung and can go as long as you like—some of the deeper jungle treks can take over a week to complete. The treks often include homestays in a Chunchiet tribal village, visits to local Chunchiet cemeteries, and riding bamboo rafts down the Sesan River.

Treks to Virachey National Park offer a fair chance of seeing rare northern yellow-cheeked gibbons, among other native animals.

Getting There: Buses and shared taxis take up to eight hours from Phnom Penh to Banlung, with a stopover at Kratie.  

Related Articles

More related articles.

• Customized Tour

The Complete Cambodia Travel Guide

Cambodia Travel Guide

Cambodia is really a hidden gem in Southeast Asia with world famous ancient temple complexes, deserted pristine beaches and islands, and rich cultural heritage. Cambodia is a relatively easy and safe place to travel, as long as you have good planning and preparation before the trip. Our Cambodia Travel Guide will give you the latest travel advice and most comprehensive information you need to make your trip to Cambodia run more smoothly.

Table of Contents

General Information

Major cities, ii. visa to cambodia, raffles grand hotel d’angkor, park hyatt siem reap, jaya house river park siem reap, shinta mani shack, courtyard marriott siem reap, lynnaya urban river resort, tara angkor hotel, central boutique angkor hotel, raffles hotel le royal, sokha phnom penh hotel & residence, palace gate hotel & resort phnom penh, white mansion boutique hotel, aquarius hotel & urban resort, villa langka phnom penh, queen grand boutique hotel, maisons wat kor, bambu hotel, classy hotel & spa, knai bang chatt, samanea beach resort, raingsey bungalow, kep bay hotel & resort, rikitikitavi hotel, the columns, 4 rivers floating lodge, song saa private island resort, white boutique resort, naia beach resort, the royal sands koh rong, the secret garden koh rong, sok san beach resort, sol beach resort, moonlight resort, rajabori villas resort, mayura hill hotel & resort, 1. places to visit in siem reap, 2. places to visit in phnom penh, 3. places to visit in battambang, 4. places to visit in sihanouk ville, 5. places to visit in kampot, 6. places to visit in kep, 7. places to visit in kratie, 8. places to visit in mondulkiri, 1. fish amok, 2. samlor korkor, 3. nom banh chok, 4. pepper crabs, 5. fried insects, 1. culture & classic tours, 2. adventure tours in cambodia, 3. luxury cambodia tours & holiday packages, 4. cambodia beach vacation packages, 1. overview of climate in cambodia, 2. when is the best time to visit cambodia, i. cambodia travel facts.

Apsara dancers in beautiful Khmer traditional costumes.

• Country Name: – Conventional form: The Kingdom of Cambodia. – Local form: Preahreacheanacha Kampuchea (short form: Kampuchea).
• Government Type: Multiparty Democracy under a Constitutional Monarchy.
• Capital:  Phnom Penh
• Location: Southeast Asia, bordered by Vietnam, Thailand and Laos and the Gulf of Thailand.
• Land Area: 68,154 sq mi (176,519 sq km);
• Total Area: 69,900 sq mi (181,040 sq km).
• Land Boundaries: Laos – 555 km, Thailand – 817 km, Vietnam – 1,158 km.
• Coastline: 443 km.
• Climate: tropical; rainy & monsoon season – May to October; dry season – November to April.
• Natural hazards: monsoonal rains (June to September); flooding; occasional droughts.
• Terrain:  mostly low, flat plains; mountains in southwest and north.
• Population: 15.28 million (March 2019 estimate)
• Language: Khmer (official) 97%, other 3% (2013 estimate)
• Religion:  Theravada Buddhist (official) 96.9%, Muslim 1.9%, Christian 0.4%, other 0.8% (2013 estimate)
• Ethnic Groups:  Khmer (97.6%), Cham (1.2%), Chinese (0.1%), Vietnamese (0.1%), and several ethnic minority groups (0.9%), most located in the northeastern section of the country (groups include: Kuy, Mnong, Stieng, Brao, Tampuan, Pear, Jarai, Radee, Brao, Krung and Kavet.)
• Currency: US dollar (USD) officially used, Khmer riel (KHR) is only for small transactions.
• Voltage:  220v/50Hz; European plugs are most common, British less so.
• Country Calling Code:  855
• Time Zone:  GMT +7 hours

Cambodia region distribution map.

• 1- Cardamom & Elephant Mountains (Battambang, Kampot, Koh Kong, Pailin, Pursat, Sihanoukville, Bokor National Park, Kep) – the western mountain ranges, gulf coast beaches and offshore islands.
• 2- North-western Cambodia (Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap, Sisophon, Koh Ker, Poipet, Tonle Sap Lake, Preah Vihear) – the main reason most visitors come to Cambodia, plus a huge lake and the northern mountains.
• 3- Mekong Lowlands & Central Plains (Phnom Penh, Kampong Cham, Kompong Thom, Krek, Kampong Chhnang) – the capital city and the central flatlands.
• 4- Eastern Cambodia  (Banlung, Kratie, Sen Monorom, Stung Treng, Chlong) – remote rural areas and national parks east of the mighty Mekong.
• Phnom Penh – Cambodia’s bustling capital, at the confluence of the mighty Mekong, the Bassac and the great Tonle Sap.
• Siem Reap – the gateway for UNESCO World Heritage Angkor Complex.
• Sihanoukville – coastal town in country’s southwest, main access to pristine offshore islands.
• Battambang – the country’s second largest city, leading rice-producing province of Cambodia.
• Kampot  – tranquil gateway to the abundant green Elephant Mountains & Bokor National Park.
• Kratie  – charming riverside town in the north-east on the Mekong, home to endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
• Koh Kong – near the Thai border, embraces part of the Cardamom Mountains – the biggest coherent rainforest of Southeast Asia.
• Kompong Thom – riverside town & home to less well known but less crowded Sambor Prei Kuk Temple & other ancient sites.
• Mondulkiri – home to several tribal minorities, wildlife sanctuary, great waterfalls. Did you know that Bousra Waterfall, Mondulkiri is one of the biggest waterfalls in Cambodia

Visa to Cambodia.

A 30-day tourist visa is required for all visitors coming to Cambodia, except for nationals from the following countries:

• Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Laos and Vietnam (30 days).
• Thailand, Myanmar, Brunei, Seychelles (14 days).
• Philippines (21 days).

Visas to Cambodia can be obtained upon arrival international airports or land border checkpoints with visa fee 30 – 33 USD in cash only. You are required to show your passport-size photos and valid passport to Immigration Office and then fill in application form.

In case you want to avoid long queue at the airports or land borders, Cambodia E-Visa is also available to apply with the fee 36 USD per person. It will take about 3 working days to process your application. At this moment, there are 220 countries eligible for Cambodia E-visa. You can check out more details about Cambodia Visa requirements and procedures on Cambodia Visa .

III. Hotels in Cambodia

Looking for accommodation to stay in Cambodia? In recent years, accommodation for tourists in Cambodia has significantly improved in standards and service quality. Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanouk Ville offer plenty of hotels and lodgings in all categories to meet all budgets and demands. Even in smaller towns, tourists still can find a reasonable choice of guesthouses, mid-range hotels or quirkier accommodations in off-the-beaten-track regions, such as floating river lodges, jungle bungalows or luxurious resorts in private islands.

1. Hotels in Siem Reap

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor offers a peaceful oasis perfect for a luxury Cambodian holiday.

– Location: 1 Vithei Charles de Gaulle, Khum Svay Dang Kum, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Located right in the heart of Siem Reap, 5 minute drive to the central market, and 10 minute drive to both Angkor Wat and Siem Reap Airport.

– Style & Character:

• + Opened in 1932 – a truly heritage landmark itself;
• + The unique blend of old-world charm and modern necessities;
• + Beautiful prints of Cambodian life in 19 th century in the marble floored hallways;
• + Original wooden elevator, John McDermott’s seminal photographs of the Angkor ruins.
• + Hosted great celebrities such as Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham, the Clintons and Michelle Obama

– Service & Facilities:

• + 60,000sqm garden, 33 meters long outdoor swimming pool;
• + Well-equipped gym, top of the range spa.
• + Cambodian buffet dinner combined with the classic dance Apsara performances;

– Rooms:

• + Dark-wood floors, historic prints on the walls, immaculate faux-antique furnishings.
• + Modern necessities: air-conditioning, smart ceiling lighting, minibar and coffee machine.
• + Bathrooms tiled with Italian marble, large walk-in shower.

– Food & Drinks:

• + 1932 Restaurant – Royal Khmer cuisine;
• + Café d’Angkor – lunch & dinner with Asian & Continental dishes.
• + The Conservatory – colonial atmosphere with pool & garden views.
• + Elephant Bar – extensive wine list and humidor.

Park Hyatt Siem Reap possesses prominent location, within walking distance to Siem Reap’s shopping & nightlife areas.

– Location: Sivutha Boulevard Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia. Within walking distance of the city’s shopping and nightlife area: Old Market, Angkor Night Market, Pub Street.

• + Exterior: ancient Khmer combines über modern aesthetics;
• + Large sculptures like silent guards in the corridors, interior’s minimalist, contemporary décor;
• + Strong identity by legendary designer and architect Bill Bensley, John McDermott’s iconic black and white images of the Angkor monuments, art works by local artist Lim Muy Theam.
• + Free traditional Apsara dance in central courtyard with dinner or drink in high season.
• + 2 swimming pools: smaller saltwater pool, larger one consists of interconnecting pools connected by small bridge;
• + Small but well-equipped gym; 7 spa rooms.
• + 104 spacious, bright and elegant rooms including 13 suites;
• + Amenities: air-con, television, a safe, a minibar, a docking port for iPads and other tablets and a Nespresso coffee machine;
• + Spotless large bathroom.
• + The Dining Room: buffet breakfast, Khmer set-menus as well as French cuisine classics;
• + The Living Room: Khmer and Western cuisines, fine wines, tempting cocktail concoctions;
• + The Glasshouse Deli. Patisserie: delectable light fare, fresh pastries, indulgent cakes and a grand selection of homemade ice cream and sorbets.

Jaya House River Park is a boutique hideaway situated on Siem Reap’s tranquil riverfront.

– Location: Street 30, Krong, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Situated on a tranquil riverfront, complimentary nine-minute ride to the centre, and similar distance to Angkor Archaeological Park.

• + A boutique hideaway mixes style and a social conscience with unique design inspired by 1960s Cambodian Modernism;
• + Interiors crafted from sustainably sourced wood and local stone;
• + The first plastic-free hotel in Cambodia.
• + Welcoming & attentive staffs;
• + Two swimming pools;
• + Smalls spa with a steam room
• + 36 spacious rooms & suites with balcony or terrace overlooking garden;
• + 4 Junior Pool Suites with alfresco plunge pools;
• + Neutral tones and tactile fabrics, comfortable pillow-top mattress & premium bedding & linens;
• + Vintage telephones, Bluetooth connectivity;
• + Well-stocked complimentary minibar with soft drinks and Angkor beer, a Malongo espresso coffee machine.
• + Tror Kuon: all day dining, mentored by renowned British chef Neil Wager;
• + Breakfast: part-buffet, part à la carte;
• + Sky Bar at rooftop.

Shinta Mani Shack is a spotless, quirky but ultimately straightforward resort.

– Location: Junction of 3rd and 14th Street, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Located in the junction between Royal Gardens and Old Market, 15 minute drive from Angkor Wat.

• + A spotless, quirky but ultimately straightforward resort;
• + Impressive high-ceilinged lobby which sports an extraordinary psychedelic Apsara mural;
• + Long dark corridors around the garden, contrast to the pool;
• + Large pool in central garden to get sun all day;
• + Plastic free hotel with refill stations around the resort;
• + Mirrored featured wall, custom designed iron bed and hand crafted light fittings.
• + A wall-mounted LCD TV/soundbar, BlueTooth, complimentary wireless internet access;
• + Artwork exclusively created for Shinta Mani by Bensley Design Studios, Bangkok.
• + Small bathroom but in immaculate condition.
• + Baitong: all day seasonal menus; reasonably pricey comfort food;
• + Kroya: blends local products and international recipe;
• + The Steakhouse: American steakhouse;
• + Bensley’s Bar: over 30 Gins from all corners of the world.

COURTYARD Marriott Siem Reap features award-winning Khmer architecture, forward-thinking amenities and sleek décor.

– Location: No 0609 Road 6A, Phum Chongkoesou Khum Slor Kram Siem Reap, Cambodia. Strategically access to Angkor Wat, 15 minute drive to Angkor Golf Course, 20 minute drive to Siem Reap Airport.

• + Features award-winning Khmer architecture, forward-thinking amenities and sleek décor;
• + Quan Spa in serene Angkorian architectural vestige;
• + State of the art fitness center;
• + Saltwater lagoon pool & whirlpool.
• + Spacious rooms with locally inspired décor, sleek marble bathrooms, private balconies and signature amenities.
• + Bluetooth speaker, complimentary WiFi and a 43-inch flat-screen TV.
• + Lok Lak: all day dining, authentic Khmer food and international favorites;
• + The Upper Deck: chic rooftop bar with breathtaking sunset views to the west;

Lynnaya Urban River Resort offers perfect blend of classic & modern chic design.

– Location: Street 20, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia. Riverfront location, 800m from Pub Street, 6 km from Angkor Wat, 8 km to Siem Reap Airport.

• + Offers modern and contemporary style promoting a real sense of luxury and class;
• + Perfect blend of classic & modern chic design.
• + An outdoor dark-blue swimming pool;
• + Experience relaxing treatments in Nirvana Spa & Wellness.
• + Each room features fine linens and classic Cambodian-style furnishings;
• + Flat-screen cable TV, an electric kettle, comfortable seating area and air conditioning;
• + Stylish en suite bathrooms.
• + Palate Restaurant: indoor main restaurant, retains the history and charm of the 1950’s building style.
• + Palate Skybar: enjoying sunset over the river; live music on Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday;
• + Pool Bar: located at the pool, open from 10:00 to 19:00.

Tara Angkor Hotel is a spacious full-service hotel close to the entrance of Angkor Wat.

– Location: Charles De Gaulle, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia. Located just 500 m from Angkor National Museum, 2.3 km to the lively Pub Street and Old Market, iconic Angkor Wat is 5.4 km away and 9.1 km from Siem Reap International Airport. – Service & Facilities:

• + An outdoor pool, a spa and a gym, a sauna, a hot tub and cooking classes.
• + Feature wooden flooring and garden or city views;
• + Each room has flat-screen TV, minibar, and tea/coffee making facilities;
• + Private bathroom provides bath amenities, bathrobes and slippers.
• + Suites add separate living areas, dining tables and whirlpool tub.
• + Tong Tara Restaurant: buffet breakfast, all day international dining;
• + Frangipani Restaurant: European & Asian menu;
• + Lily Lounge: serves cocktails.

Central Boutique Angkor Hotel is a perfect choice for mid-range budgeted travelers.

– Location: Tapoul Road, Tapoul Village, Svay Dangkum Commune, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Located in the heart of the Siem Reap City with easy access to the Pub Street, the Old Market & Angkor Night Market. – Style & Character:

• Well decorated with Cambodian art décor style furnishing.
• + All rooms are in boutique style; 20 bungalows located around one swimming pool and 34 rooms are facing to another swimming pool and surrounding garden;
• + Air conditioning, hot and cold water, bathtub with shower, stock mini-bar, safety box, hair dryer, tea and coffee making facility, Cable TV, IDD telephone, full bath room amenities and wireless internet access;
• + Most of the hotel rooms face the swimming pool, all rooms attached with terrace or balcony.
• + Bamboo Restaurant: casual & open air restaurant, offer a wide choice of other Asian and European dishes;
• + Bamboo Bar: offer all kind of drinks, cocktails and snack;
• + Poolside Terrace: a relaxing atmosphere in the tropical garden.

2. Hotels in Phnom Penh

Raffles Hotel Le Royal is the true heritage hotel in Phnom Penh.

– Location: 92 Rukhak Vithei Daun Penh Sangkat Wat Phnom Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Situated among embassies, government buildings and the National Library, 5 minute walk to Wat Phnom, 10 minutes to the riverfront, short drive to the National Museum, Royal Palace and Russian Market. – Style & Character:

• + First opened in 1929, the true heritage hotel in Phnom Penh;
• + Presents a wonderful fusion of colonial, Khmer and Art Deco styles;
• + Chosen as a regular staying place for famous writers, royalty and celebrities like Charlie Chaplin, Jackie Onassis, André Malraux, and W. Somerset Maugham, Jackie Kennedy.
• + Walls are lined with historical black-and-white photographs;
• + Newer wing was only built in 1997, but contains many original interiors: polished tiles and restored staircase, bookcases and bureaus lining the elegant corridors;
• + Two sublime outdoor pools surrounded by loungers, frangipani trees and tropical shrubs;
• + Raffles Spa offers a range of traditional Khmer and modern treatments.
• + Consists of 175 rooms, almost are State Rooms in newer wing with blend of colonial charm & modern comfort, private balconies, marble bathroom has separate shower/bath, and traditional décor;
• + The original 1929 building has Landmark Rooms; original claw-foot baths, antiques and high ceilings;
• + Rooms are equipped with silk bathrobes, signature toiletries, TV, air-conditioning and ceiling fans.
• + Le Phnom 1929: a casual, Parisian brasserie-style atmosphere, open kitchen, great cocktails and the “Around the World in 80 wines” wine program;
• + Restaurant Le Royal: the only restaurant serving Royal Khmer cuisine in Phnom Penh;
• + Elephant Bar: popular spot for afternoon tea, signature Femme Fatale cocktail created Jackie Kennedy in 1967;
• + Poolside Terrace: relax in the afternoon sun on in the shared of the fragrant frangipani trees.

Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel offers breathtaking view of the majestic Royal Palace, and the untouched greenery rural beauty opposite of Phnom Penh capital.

– Location: Street KeoChenda, Phum 1, Sangkat Chroy Changvar, Khan Chroy Changvar, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Sokha Phnom Penh is strategically located on the bank of Mekong River, opposite to the Royal Palace, approximately 13 km from Phnom Penh International Airport, 5.6 km to both Old Market and Central Market. – Style & Character:

• + Offering breathtaking view of the majestic Royal Palace, Chaktomuk River and a wide sweeping view of the untouched greenery rural beauty opposite of Phnom Penh capital, Sokha Phnom Penh provides the peaceful, less busy side of the congested capital.
• + Staff here are able to communicate in Chinese, Thai, Khmer and English.
• + Large outdoor swimming pool overlooks the Great Mekong, Bassac River and the riverside ambience of the charming city of Phnom Penh;
• + Fitness Center with world-class gym equipment;
• + Jasmine Spa with 17 treatment rooms.
• + Spacious room with a spectacular view of Tonle Sap River, Royal Palace and serene greenery;
• + Each air-conditioned room and suite is soundproof. The seating area is equipped with an electric kettle, tea/coffee maker, minibar, flat-screen cable TV and safe;
• + Private bathrooms include a bathtub, hairdryer, toothbrushes, slippers and free toiletries. Ironing facilities are also available.

7 restaurants & 4 bars

• + Lotus Restaurant: buffet breakfast, all day dining;
• + The China House: offers regional Chinese specialties;
• + Takezono Restaurant: on the 19 th floor, provides authentic Japanese cuisine;
• + The Bel Cibo: ultimate Italian dining experiences with excellent view of the river and city;
• + Thansur Restaurant: offers a global blended menu featuring East meet West.

Palace Gate Hotel & Resort is the luxury accommodation in the heart of the thriving capital of Cambodia.

– Location: #44B, Street Sothearos Blvd (corner of street 240), Sangkat Chey Chumneas, Khan Daun Penh. Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Adjacent to the Royal Palace, 550m to the National Museum, 1.8km to Independence Monument and 11km away from Phnom Penh International Airport. – Style & Character:

+ Luxury hotel in the heart of the thriving capital of Cambodia; + Restored French colonial villa, ornate columns and wonderful examples of Cambodian tile making.

• + An outdoor swimming pool and surrounding garden;
• + Senses Spa: blending ancient Asian healing techniques with age-old beauty recipes.
• + Carefully decorated in Angkorian style with tasteful interior design to reflect the country’s history and traditions;
• + Higher room category offers wonderful views of either the Royal Palace or the river;
• + Rooms are fitted with a private bathroom equipped with a bidet.
• + Mealea Restaurant: buffet breakfast with extensive menu offering a range of Asian and Western options which changes on a 6 day cycle;
• + Organic Skybar: chance to sip cocktails and enjoy sunset at rooftop bar surrounded by the unique organic herb and vegetable garden.

White Mansion Boutique Hotel was set in a period building that was once the US Ambassador Residence.

– Location: #26 Street 240 (corner street 51), Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Close to Independence Monument Park, the Royal Palace and other Phnom Penh tourist spots. – Style & Character:

• + A boutique set in a period building that was once the US Ambassador Residence;
• + Elegance, genuine comfort and casual chic reign supreme.
• + 20m long saltwater swimming pool;
• + In-room massages and spa treatments available.
• + 33 suites and rooms, some with balcony or terrace with city view;
• + Locally made furniture, marble floor;
• + Bathroom equipped with custom Italian marble, designed cabinetry, double washbasin, large shower and/or bath, faucets.
• + Le Café: room service breakfast or in the gardens; offers snacks, degustation platters, Asian and international dishes.

Aquarius Hotel & Urban Resort is well-known for its glass-walled, L-shape salt water infinity pool at the rooftop.

– Location: No 5, St 240, Sangkat Chakto Mukh, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Situated in the city’s main shopping and dining area-the street 240; a few minutes’ walk to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum and Independence Monument. – Service & Facilities:

• + Glass-walled, L-shape salt water infinity pool at the rooftop;
• + Petal Spa: tranquil traditional Khmer massage;
• + Art Exhibition: gallery of Phnom Penh’s famous emerging local and international artist.
• + Rooms are tastefully enhanced with the indulgence of contemporary industrial design and dynamic Cambodian tradition and culture;
• + Most of the rooms and suites have either stunning city view, river view or a private balcony;
• + Open air Slla Sky bar & restaurant; river view rooftop, serves enthralling Western and Asian Fusion cuisines;

Villa Langka’s pool is surrounded by a fragrant garden courtyard.

– Location: 14, Street 282, Sangkat Beung Keng Kang I (BKK1), Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Situated in a small & quiet alley, opposite to Wat Langka Pagoda, and just around the corner from the Independence Monument and street 278 with popular shops, bars and restaurants. – Service & Facilities:

• + A shady pool surrounded by a fragrant garden courtyard;
• + Minispace spa.
• + Boutique style rooms blending contemporary elegance with Cambodian traditions;
• + 24 rooms in a traditional Khmer villa and 24 rooms in a contemporary building;
• + Room amenities: minibars, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and free breakfast
• + Poolside Restaurant: menu combines the flavour and freshness of Phnom Penh’s daily markets with the culinary skills of our Chef;
• + Poolside Bar: enjoy fresh fruit juices and exotic cocktails.

3 star Queen Grand Boutique Hotel is conveniently located within walking distance to the Independence Monument.

– Location: No 14-16, Street 258, Sangkat Chak Tomuk, Daun Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The hotel is about 25-minute drive from Phnom Penh International Airport and Royal Palace is a brief stroll away, within walking distance to the Independence Monument, University of Cambodia and the National Museum of Cambodia. – Service & Facilities:

• + The La Grand Spa: combines international and rich of Khmer style massage;
• + Rooftop Jacuzzi: enjoy sunbath and overlook the significant Mekong River and Royal Palace.
• + Modern design with a touch of Khmer style;
• + Air-conditioned rooms are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to views and allow plenty of natural light;
• + Equipped with a flat-screen TV, DVD player, minibar and desk;
• + En suite bathrooms include a hairdryer and free toiletries.
• + Restaurant & Bar: serves up a variety of Khmer and Western dishes daily;
• + Sky Bar: over view the picturesque Riverside and dazzling city center Nagaworld Casino.

3. Hotels in Battambang

Maisons Wat Kor is set amid an authentic atmosphere in the heart of Khmer cultural village Wat Kor.

– Location: St 800, Wat Kor Village, Battambang, Cambodia. This boutique style hotel is set amid an authentic atmosphere in the heart of Khmer cultural village Wat Kor. It is a 5-minute walk from Wat Kor Pagoda, 2km to Battambang Town Centre and Central Market. – Service & Facilities:

• + A salt water swimming pool;
• + Khmer cooking classes;
• + Classic Khmer massage services.
• + Includes 15 guestrooms within 3 wooden houses, decorated with local furniture and ecofriendly materials;
• + Some rooms at garden level with balconies offering stunning views to the lotus pond and pool.
• + La Terrasse De Lotus Restaurant serves Cambodian cuisine and Western dishes.

Design in Bambu Hotel combines local Khmer and French colonial architecture; old-fashioned Cambodian tiles.

– Location: Phum Romchek 5, Sangkat Rottanak, KO Street, Battambang, Cambodia. – Service & Facilities:

• + Salt water swimming pool (14m x 6) is available exclusively to staying guests.
• + 16 bedrooms arranged in 4 traditionally inspired buildings;
• + Design combines local Khmer and French colonial architecture; old-fashioned Cambodian tiles;
• + Equipped with en suite bathrooms, air conditioning, telephone, flat screen cable TV, DVD player with access to our DVD library, iPod docker, mini bar, room safe and private terrace or balcony.
• + Russey Restaurant: all day dining, serves snacks, mains and desserts from local and international cuisine;
• + Pool bar: draught and bottled beers, a comprehensive wine list, a selection of local fruit juices and shakes, a range of cocktails, teas, coffees and other soft drinks.

Classy Hotel situated in the heart of East River Bank – an ideal place from which to discover Battambang center.

– Location: 159 D, Street 207, Phnum Romcheck 4, Sangkat Ratanak, Battambang, Cambodia. Situated in the heart of East River Bank, Classy Hotel is an ideal place from which to discover Battambang: 200m from Colonial Buildings, 300m to Battambang Museum, 400m away from riverside night market. – Service & Facilities:

• + Large outdoor swimming pool;
• + Spa and well equipped wellness centre.
• + Spacious rooms, basic decoration in modern hotel building
• + Cooled with air conditioning, feature a flat-screen cable TV, a minibar, a personal safe and a wardrobe;
• + En suite bathrooms offer a hot/cold showers and free amenities.
• + Java Restaurant: buffet breakfast, all day dining, direct access to swimming pool;
• + Dine Panorama: outdoor seating, spectacular view to river and pagoda at sunset

4. Hotels in Kep

Luxury boutique resort Knai Bang Chatt is located on the South Coast of Cambodia.

– Location: Phum Thmey, Sangkat Prey Thom, Kep City, Cambodia. Situated on the waterfront, a 10-minute walk to the centre of town, the famous crab market, cafés, bars and restaurants. – Style & Character:

• + Ground-breaking New Khmer architecture, inspired by the iconic Cambodian architect Van Molyvan, who studied under Le Corbusier.
• + Showpiece baby blue villa once belonged to the governor of Kep; the entrance and reception building was owned by the King’s relative; and a tomato-red two-storey building with zig-zagging columns was owned by the Head of Customs.
• + Private white sand beach;
• + Long wooden sea jetty with breathtaking view;
• + A substantial outdoor swimming pool embedded in the lawn;
• + Rental services: bicycle, scooter, kayak, paddle boat;
• + First Sailing Club in Cambodia with catamaran service;
• + Small but private and intimate spa services;
• + 18 rooms at six architecturally striking buildings;
• + Room interiors: minimalist style and inviting – earthy tones, polished stone walls, fluid wooden furnishings and mosquito nets strung above beds;
• + Bathrooms: spacious, shower only, locally made soap & shampoo.
• + The Strand: high-end & open-air restaurant; mixing elements from a range of global cuisines and palettes; serves inventive Khmer, international and vegan dishes;
• + The Sailing Club Restaurant & Bar: a restored traditional wooden fisherman’s cottage directly over the sea; serves small plates, sandwiches, seafood throughout the day;
• + The Lounge: open & airy space, Kep’s premier cocktail and wine bar.

Private dinner arrangement on the beach in Samanea Beach Resort.

– Location: Kep Road 33A, Kep, Cambodia. Set along Kep’s seashore and next to a protected mangrove forest. – Style & Character:

• + Renovated from the ruins of seaside cottage by suing the same materials: bricks, stone, cement tiles.
• + 300 square meters salt water infinity pool with integrated Jacuzzi jets and a safe shallow area for kids;
• + Private artificial white sand beach;
• + Mangrove forest with wooden boardwalk meandering through it;
• + Samathe Spa & Salon: unique concept of bio-treatments.
• + 12 well adorned Khmer style villas built set on 20 hectares, set around botanical garden, each villa has private terrace with sea, garden or pool views;
• + Decoration combines regional materials & innovation;
• + Almost rooms have 4 poster beds, a living area with sofa, 1 big size Flat-screen televisions 32″, a DVD player, and an antique desk;
• + Bathrooms: outdoor, laden with tropical plants, deep oval shaped bathtub.
• + Chankiri Restaurant: all day dining, serves international & Khmer specialties;
• + Panoramic Rooftop Bar: enjoy cocktails and tapas on 360 o bar with sea & mountain views.

Raingsey Bungalow’s swimming pool surrounded by bamboo and shaded by palm trees and tropical plants.

– Location: Thmey Village, Prey Thom Commune, Crab Market, Kep, Cambodia. Located a stone’s throw away from the famous Kep Crab Market, 5 minute walk to Kep National Park Entrance, and 1km to Kep Beach. – Service & Facilities:

• + A clear swimming pool surrounded by bamboo and shaded by palm trees and tropical plants;
• + 9 private bungalows scattered in a 2,500m² lush garden;
• + Each bungalow cottage has large windows, a private terrace opening out to the greenery;
• + Room amenities: aircon, ceiling fan, a desk, a flat-screen TV and an en suite bathroom.
• + Combine both modern-creative and traditional Asian styles;
• + Serve a tasty cocktail, Craft Beer, Local Commercial beers.

Almost rooms in Kep Bay Hotel offer spectacular views to ocean and greenery landscapes.

– Location: No.23100, Kep, Cambodia. Located 400m from Kep Beach, 1.8km from Crab Market, 1.6km from Kep Jetty and 2.7km to Kep Market. – Service & Facilities:

• + Huge & clean swimming pool – the highlight of the hotel.
• + Free bikes;
• + Spa & massage services.
• + Spacious rooms feature private balconies with sea view, several rooms with mountain view;
• + Room amenities: air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, a desk;
• + Bathroom: combined bathtub & standing shower.
• + The Bay Dining Restaurant: outdoor seating, buffet breakfast, all day dining;
• + The Bay Sky Bar: spectacular sunset view overlooking the ocean.

5. Hotels in Kampot

Stylish room decorations in Rikitikitavi Hotel.

– Location: Riverside Road, Corner Street 728 Kampot, Cambodia. A prime location on the riverfront, within few minutes’ walk from many of Kampot’s bars and restaurants. – Style & Character:

• + Undergone various identities – 1920s wooden rice barn, theatre, home to an ex-governor of Kampot – before converted into a boutique hotel in 2006 by a British couple.
• + Small, stylish rooms in renovated wooden framed rice barn .
• + Only 8 rooms but in cozy settings, equipped with all luxuries such as air conditioning, fan and en-suite bathroom.
• + Restaurant: beautifully designed terrace restaurant overlooking the river, mountains and Kampot’s stunning sunsets.
• + Balcony Bar: views over Kampot River and the Elephant Mountains

The Columns Hotel was originally built as a set of shophouses when Cambodia was a French colony.

– Location: 37 Phoum 1 Ouksophear, Kampot, Cambodia. Located at a quietly tree-lined street, few minutes’ walk to the riverfront and two streets from the old Market. – Style & Character:

• + Built as a set of shophouses when Cambodia was a French colony;
• + Restored & renovated into the modern boutique hotel;
• + Retained original features: wooden beams, pretty tilework, blue French Colonial shutters.
• + 17 rooms designed in a subtle and understated style;
• + Hard wood furnishings, colorful silk cushions and décor created by local craftsmen;
• + Some rooms at the back with no view but super-quiet, top-floor attic-style rooms with balconies, second-floor rooms with big windows and French Colonial blue shutters cost a little more.
• + Green Café: serves breakfast, freshly baked pastries, great coffee and cooling smoothies during the daytime.

6. Hotels in Koh Kong

4 Rivers Floating Lodge is surrounded by lush rainforest and river setting.

– Location: Koh Andet Island, 20 km from Koh Kong City, southwest Cambodia’s jungle-fringed Tatai River and at the steps of the Cardamom Mountains. – Style & Character:

• + Floating white tented lodge is surrounded by lush rainforest and river setting;
• + Minimise the use of wood, use solar power where possible, and also support community projects.
• + A small library with books and DVDs to borrow, and reception sit on the central pontoon;
• + Shaded seating on riverfront deck on other side;
• + No WI-FI, no pool but the river awaits;
• + Free kayak to use, waterfall trips, firefly & sunset cruises, forest hikes & village excursions.
• + 12 luxury floating tents on tranquil Tatai River and on-land tents for family with kids;
• + Each 45 sqm spacious tent is fully equipped with modern amenities, handcrafted furniture by local materials.
• + Tents are roomy enough to include a lounge area with chaise longue;
• + The spacious bathroom has twin sinks and an innovative wooden shower barrel containing a hot-water power shower.
• + 4 Rivers Restaurant: combines the best of the local Cambodia cuisine and global influences, also serves a mix of Western and Southeast Asian food.

7. Hotels in Sihanouk Ville

All villas in Song Saa Private Island Resort are decorated in a contemporary-tropical style and has private pool.

– Location: Song Saa, Koh Rong Archipelago, Near Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia. Spanning over Koh Ouen and Koh Bong islands in Sihanouk Ville, accessible by a 25-minute drive with a 40-minute boat ride from Sihanouk Ville International Airport. – Style & Character:

• + Dotted across two tiny rainforests isles, ringed by calm clear waters;
• + Classic look blends nature & modernity;
• + Almost every furniture item has been upcycled from wood collected in the local area.
• + Resort staffs are locals from nearby area, trained in house to an exemplary standard;
• + Lists of activities to enhance your private island experience: snorkeling & scuba diving, sea kayaking, yoga & meditation, island safari, Buddhist ceremonies;
• + Spa: spa with no walls – it’s actually made up of little ‘sanctuaries’ dotted across the island, where treatments take place nestled in nature.
• + 24 vast thatched roof villas are decorated in a contemporary-tropical style, with cool stone walls and four-poster beds wrapped in blousy muslin;
• + Dreamy indoor/outdoor bathrooms with tealights;
• + TV & internet are provided but kept to a minimum;
• + Private pool in each villa (from 26sqm to 33sqm).
• + Restaurant: at the end of a wooden walkway to catch both sunrises and sunsets, à la carte breakfast between 7am and 11am..

Natural stone pool in White Boutique Resort.

– Location: Marina Road, Otres 2, Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia. It is a 15-minute tuk-tuk ride to the Sihanouk Ville city centre, 25 km drive to Ream National Park and 16 km to Sihanouk Ville Airport. – Service & Facilities:

• + Fitness center with all basic equipment;
• + Spa with experienced Khmer master of massage;
• + Natural stone pool
• + 19 spacious rooms & suites in combination with Cambodian culture & natural surroundings;
• + All rooms are air-conditioned and feature beds with orthopedic mattresses, minibar and a flat-screen TV;
• + A terrace or balcony are featured in certain rooms;
• + Duo Restaurant & Bar: combine Western cuisine & Cambodian flavors; offers stunning ocean views.

In Naia Resort, 1950s design influences from Cambodia’s Golden Age is blended with Mediterranean tones, using Cambodian-made materials.

– Location: Marina Road, Otres 2, Village 6, Sangkat 4, Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia. It’s located in quiet Otres Beach, 8km away from Ochheuteal Beach in Sihanoukville, 25 minutes to Sihanoukville airport. And it’s easy to Kbal Chhay waterfalls and Ream National Park from here. – Style & Character:

• + Designed by Spanish architect: wavy-design balconies, porthole windows, white exterior and soft hues of greens, blues and browns exude a calm, natural beach vibe;
• + Blends 1950s design influences from Cambodia’s Golden Age with Mediterranean tones, using Cambodian-made materials.
• + 32 rooms with perfect balance between comfort & style;
• + Almost room open onto the sea, private balcony or terrace ;
• + 1950s-style designer furniture in soft colors ;
• + En suite bathroom with a shower, a bidet and terry dressing gowns.
• + Breakfast restaurant inside the hotel;
• + Beach Bar & Restaurant with cool blue design, wooden deck and sunset views, serves snacks, lunch, dinner and happy-hour cocktails;
• + Bar near reception area with beautiful 1950s design.

8. Hotels in Koh Rong

Freestanding villas in The Royal Sands Resort with tropical & uncluttered décor.

– Location: Sok San Village, Koh Rong (Island), Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia. Located an hour by own catamaran boat west of Sihanouk Ville in the Gulf of Thailand. – Service & Facilities:

• + Dramatic black swimming pool, in front of the two Jacuzzis;
• + SensesSpa: includes a semi open-air ‘sala’ for foot and Khmer massages, an outdoor yoga ‘sala’ dedicated to the art of breathing & stretching and private rooms for more specialised therapies;
• + Fitness center in front of the spa area, overlooking the mountains of Koh Rong;
• + Other services: island hopping, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, SUP, fishing, mountain biking, trekking, plankton experience.
• + 67 freestanding villas, 30 of them have personal pools;
• + Spacious bedrooms; tropical & uncluttered décor;
• + Bathroom includes indoor & outdoor rain showers;
• + The Chill: open-air restaurant for lunch with BBQ seafood & dinner with refined Asian dishes;
• + Ocean Restaurant: serves up Cambodia’s finest buffet breakfast.

Romantic dinner set-up on Secret Garden Koh Rong’s private beach.

– Location: Pagoda Beach, Koh Rong, Cambodia. There is direct speed ferry from Sihanouk Ville to Pagoda Beach Pier within 40 minutes. – Service & Facilities:

• + Outdoor swimming pool & kid’s pool.
• + Luxury bungalows with sea views, private balcony in lush garden setting;
• + Combine local architecture style & Scandinavian influenced contemporary decor;
• + Beachfront restaurant provides stunning sea view; an exciting menu of western, Asian and fusion cuisine.

Secluded and relaxing beachfront in Sok San Beach Resort.

– Location: Sok San Village, Koh Rong (Island), Sihanouk Ville, Cambodia. – Service & Facilities:

• + Private speedboat services transfer guests from its mainland lounge in Sihanouk Ville to Sok San Beach Resort;
• + Other services: island hopping, snorkeling, scuba diving, wakeboarding, fishing, horse riding, beach volleyball, sunset cruises, plankton experience.
• + 16 thatched roof rooms located in five pavilion buildings with sea view or surrounding forest;
• + 20 chalets have 2 connecting rooms; like private traditional Cambodian cottages;
• + Sundeck Beach Bar: perfect spot to watch the sun go down over the horizon;
• + La Terrasse Restaurant: serves a delicious mix of Khmer and International cuisine;
• + Coco Beach Bar & Grill: offers snacks and a range of local and international drinks.

9. Hotels in Koh Rong Sanloem

Khmer-style villas with direct access to the beach in Sol Beach Resort.

– Location: Saracen Bay, Koh Rong Sanloem, Cambodia. Conveniently located at the heart of Saracen Bay, the main pier for several speed ferry from Sihanouk Ville’s mainland to Koh Rong Samloem within 40 minutes. – Service & Facilities:

• + The Soul Spa: can arrange a massage directly on the beach, or a more personal setting in private spa room.
• + Beautifully designed Khmer-style villas;
• + Include large soft beds, air-conditioning, fans, mosquito nets, Wi-Fi;
• + Modern bathrooms (with a shower, a bath, and hot water),
• + Bar & restaurant right on the beach, all day dining with a focus on classic Khmer dishes and well-known western foods.

– Location: Saracen Bay, Koh Rong Sanloem, Cambodia. A beachfront Resort located on Saracen Bay on the beautiful Koh Rong Sanloem Island, forty-five minutes from the mainland Sihanouk Ville by speed boat. – Service & Facilities:

• + Khmer, English, French and Chinese speaking staffs;
• + Two Jacuzzi pools with direct access to the beach;
• + Excursions to the white untamed beaches and surrounding local fisherman’s villages, offering guided fishing trips, snorkeling , diving, and more.
• + Dome rooms with king sized bed places under a round skylight;
• + Deluxe rooms with balcony, garden view, open air shower;
• + All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a television with movie selection, minibar, and hot water shower.
• + Blue Moon Restaurant: Asian European style fusion cuisine.

10. Hotels in Kratie

Rajabori Villas nestles in tranquil Koh Trong Island – only 10 minute boat ride from Kratie town.

– Location: Phum Kbal Koh, Sangkat Koh Trong 1, Kratie, Cambodia. Located on Koh Trong Island, 10 minute boat ride from Kratie’s mainland, 10-minute walk from Wat Chong Koh Wat Kbal Koh Pagodas. – Service & Facilities:

• + 180 sqm swimming pool;
• + Free bicycles, rental tuk tuk or horse cart, kayak to visit surrounding villages and nearby hot spots.
• + 13 small natural wooden Khmer-style buildings, built by well-trained local craftsmen to preserve Cambodian architectural heritage;
• + Limited electricity with only one fan per room, no TV or internet;
• + Water is heated by solar panels & need few minutes to reach the tap.
• + Restaurant: serves mainly Cambodian rural cuisines using fresh season’s products from local suppliers;
• + Bar: overlooks to swimming pool, well stocked in various alcohols.

11. Hotels in Mondulkiri

Mayura Hill Resort is the best accommodation in Mondulkiri.

– Location: Phum Derm Srol, Sen Monorom City, Mondulkiri Province, Cambodia. Situated on a verdant hillsides, 1.6km from the downtown Sen Monorom, a perfect base to explore surrounding must-see destinations. – Service & Facilities:

• + Outdoor swimming pool;
• + Children’s playground area;
• + Fitness centre & yoga class.
• + 11 private villas embodying the natural environment;
• + Interiors: fresh, light and airy with wooden handmade furniture;
• + Private balcony in each room overlooking lush green garden or swimming pool;
• + Room amenities: air conditioner, in room safe, cable channels TV, DVD player, free WIFI, minibar, coffee/tea making facilities.
• + Pkha Cha Restaurant: indoor & outdoor seating, offers casual all day dining with both European & Khmer cuisine.

IV. Places to Visit in Cambodia

Buddhist monks enjoy the views of Bayon Temple from distance.

Undoubtedly, Siem Reap stands in the first position of the must-visited list in Cambodia. It serves as the linking bridge to the ancient ruins and temples of Angkor Complex . Being defined as one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia by UNESCO, Angkor Archaeological Park spreads over 400km 2 , with remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire from the 9 th to the 15 th century. The most highlighted temples can be listed as Angkor Wat , Angkor Thom , Ta Prohm .

To meet the continuously increasing demand to visit magnificent Angkor, Siem Reap has transformed itself into a major tourist hub. It’s a vibrant town with many activities and attractions including lively Psar Chas Market , buzzing cafes, bars, traditional craft shops and plentiful nightlife. Siem Reap is also a good point to access the nearby floating villages, bird sanctuaries on the Tonle Sap Lake – the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.

In Siem Reap, there is a wide range of accommodation to choose, ranging from luxury or 5 star standard hotels, resorts to hundreds of guesthouses to meet every budget. There are lots of other things to do in Siem Reap that we recommend doing while you are here.

Leisure stroll along the facade of Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace.

Phnom Penh is the vibrant bustling capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Despite recent rapid changes, the city exudes a sort of provincial charm and tranquility with French colonial mansions and tree-lined boulevards amidst monumental Angkorian architecture. The city is conveniently located at the conjunction of three grand rivers – the Tonle Sap, the Mekong and the Bassac river. Therefore, tourists are highly recommended to take the scenic cruise to witness the golden colors of Phnom Penh’s skyline at sunset. Or just simply take the leisure stroll to Phnom Penh’s historic riverfront area where stands lots of restaurants, art galleries and silk shops.

City tour in Phnom Penh can’t be completed without Royal Palace and adjacent Silver Pagoda , which provide gorgeous examples of traditional artistry and offer intriguing insight into both Cambodia’s ancient and modern history. While  Tuol Sleng Museum and Choeung Ek   Killing Field are the evidence for the horror and brutality the people of this country suffered under Khmer Rouge rule. Shopaholics can’t miss the visit to the distinctive Central Market where you can buy jewelry, curios, clothes and souvenirs.

Wat Sampov Pram – the monastery is situated on almost top of Bokor Mountain.

Even being Cambodia’s second biggest city, Battambang itself is a laidback place compared to the bustling of the capital. If Phnom Penh’s hectic buzz is a bit too much to handle, tourists can take 6-hour drive from Phnom Penh to Battambang to find quieter atmosphere.

Battambang was established as a trading center in the 18th century. Later it became part of French Indochina, with some colonial buildings still in existence until now and scattered through the city’s boulevards. History lovers can take day trip to visit several Angkor-style temples and Buddhist shrines, like the temples of  Phnom Sampeau ,  Phnom Banan , and  Wat Ek Phnom . Among them, Phnom Sampeau (also known as Bat Cave) is the top site because tourists are eager to come there to witness thousands of bats making their way out of caves in the hillside to feed before returning at dawn.

Taking a slow 30-minute ride on the Bamboo Train is another popular activity which only can be experienced in Battambang. It is a single-line rail track where “carriages” made from a platform of wood and bamboo travel between Battambang’s east bank and the nearby tiny village. Famed among some of the most tranquil rural scenery in Cambodia, Battambang is an ideal place to take biking trip along rice fields, visit Cambodian families and taste rice paper, dried bananas, and bamboo sticky rice which are made in traditional methods.

Your night in this town will not be boring if you pay the visit to ‘ Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus’ , where all traditional Cambodian dances and circus music are performed live by students and young locals from nearby poor community. Here is our detailed guides for things to do in Battambang .

Beautiful secluded and deserted beach in Sihanouk Ville.

Being known as the most popular beach destination of Cambodia on the Gulf of Thailand, Sihanouk Ville was named after a former king – Norodom Sihanouk. In Sihanouk Ville, Ochheuteal Beach  and the  Serendipity Beach have emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s backpacker areas with party reputation. For a much quieter scene, just take 6 km to the south around  Otres Beach , with huts or bungalows on the beach, a sprinkling of classy boutique hotels, and a number of up-and-coming restaurants.

Sihanouk Ville is also the main entry point to offshore islands of Koh Rong , Koh Rong Samloem , where are ideal places for snorkeling and thoroughly relaxing beach vacation. Blessed with pristine, wild and beautiful islands, these islands are where tourists go to enjoy the nature and stay away from the world. If water activities are not in your list, just take a ride to pretty and pristine Ream National Park , which is an easy day trip from Sihanouk Ville and home to more than 200 different bird species, including a few threatened species.

Spectacular views from Bokor Hill Station.

Located about 3 hour drive from Phnom Penh, Kampot is often chosen as a break spot on the way to access Sihanouk Ville from Cambodia’s capital. Kampot is famous for its black peppercorns around the world because of their unique flavor. A visit at pepper plantation will help you to observe the work of local community living there, as well as taste local dishes using this special ingredient.

Besides being the land of black peppercorns, Kampot is a laid-back riverine town that has a number of colonial structures, some of which has been painstakingly restored. Many travelers stay here longer than they expected, having succumbed to its easygoing pace and chilled-out atmosphere. For the more active tourists, they will not feel boring because Kampot is also an excellent base for discovering the surrounding sights of the south. In this idyllic location, visitors can go boating and rafting on the river, as well as take in glistening waterfalls along the route.

Day trip can be taken from the town to Bokor National Park, which is famous for the old French summer getaway of Bokor Hill Station , with its abandoned church and eerie, empty shell of a once-grand hotel. Bokor National Park is a lush primary forest with pleasant climate.

Kep used to be a colonial retreat for the French elite in 1908.

Lying 25km southeast of Kampot, Kep is a favourite among Cambodians for weekend getaways and foreign travelers who want to get away from the tourist crowds at Sihanouk Ville. They are attracted by its convenient location (3h30m drive from Phnom Penh), quiet beaches and friendly people. Founded as a colonial retreat for the French elite in 1908, the town is still full of ruined shells of old villas, destroyed in the Khmer Rouge days.

Tourists can take a lazy stroll along the shiny white shores of the Kep Beach, and enjoy some delicious, inexpensive seafood, freshly plucked from the ocean at the well-known Crab Market. Day trips to nearby Rabbit Island can be arranged for snorkelers to enjoy viewing lots of colorful fishes on the bottom of the shallow sea. A visit to the  Kep National Park is also recommended for nature lovers. The park is filled with waterfalls, elusive monkeys, the Stone House and Little Buddha.

Stunning sunset over the mighty Mekong River in Kratie.

Kratie is a small town spreading along the banks of the mighty Mekong River. The town itself is dominated by a central marketplace surrounded by old, French colonial buildings. Even there’s no large scale tourism in this town, plenty of backpackers pour through here during the peak season. The main reason tourists come to Kratie because it’s an excellent base for dolphin-watching tours. Kampie , over 20km north of Kratie, provides the best riverside vantage point to view a pod of rare freshwater  Irrawaddy dolphins .

These dolphins are endemic to the Mekong River in ever-diminishing numbers. It is thought that there are between 66 and 86 dolphins left in the upper Cambodian Mekong area. Therefore, local authority puts environmental measures in place to try and help their dwindling numbers. If you are willing to spend more time in this tranquil town, check out our guide on other things to do in Kratie .

Mondulkiri offers excellent chances for tourists to interact with elephant in an ethical way.

Mondulkiri, 7 hour drive north east of Phnom Penh, is the largest but most sparsely populated in Cambodia. It is also home to the majority of country’s tribal minorities, including the Cham and Phnong people, who have maintained their way of living for centuries in the region’s forests and hills. One of the largest and easiest to access is the Phlung village inhabited by Phnong people , where their curious huts have woven, wooden walls and thatched roofs that slope almost to the floor.

Mondulkiri is also an interesting place to visit in Cambodia for adventures due to its wildlife and natural beauty, with thickly forested mountains, powerful waterfalls and the lush green rolling hills of the western side. Don’t miss the chance to visit the impressive, two-tiered Bou Sraa Waterfall , the highest in Cambodia.

Being known for a number of projects and sanctuaries in the region for rescuing and protecting elephants, Mondulkiri offers excellent chances for tourists to interact with elephant in an ethical way. The most popular project is included in our itinerary is The Elephant Valley Project , where helps elephants and their mahouts, as well as educate visitors about the importance of protecting these wonderful creatures.

V. Where and What to Eat in Cambodia

Khmer cuisine is profoundly influenced by water, rice and freshwater fish due to Cambodian geographical location and climate. Indeed, Cambodian food shares many commonalities with that of its neighbors – Thailand and Vietnam. However, Khmer food is full of distinct flavors and spices and really a must-try when you’re in the country.

The trip to Cambodia won’t be completed without trying fish amok and Angkor beer.

Being known as one of the most popular and signature dish of Cambodia, fish amok can be easily found on menus in tourist hubs all over the country. Diced fillets of freshwater fish are smothered in creamy curry like sauce. When done properly, the fish is silky smooth and melting in your mouth with each bite.

* Where to eat?

• Khmer Kitchen Restaurant – Street 2 Thnou the corner of Street 9, Old Market, Siem Reap.
• Amok Restaurant – Street 9, Siem Reap, Cambodia.
• Viroth’s Restaurant – #99 Wat Bo Street Corner Wat Bo St and Tep Vong St, Siem Reap.
• Frizz Restaurant
• Malis Restaurant – No. 136 Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh.
• Eleven One Kitchen – #37 Street 123 (corner of 460), Tuol Tom Poung, Phnom Penh.
• Romdeng Restaurant – # 74 Oknha Ket St. (174), Phnom Penh .

Locals voted samlor korkor as the true national dish of Cambodia.

While amok is sometimes called the country’s signature dish, and very familiar to tourists, locals voted samlor korkor as the true national dish of Cambodia. It has been eaten by Cambodians for hundreds of years and can be found in restaurants, roadside stands and family homes alike. This type of soup is rich in both flavors and nutrition. * Where to eat?

• Mie Café – #0085, Phum Treng Khum Slorgram, Siem Reap.

Nom banh chok is served as typical breakfast food in Cambodia.

Nom banh chok is simply called in English as “Khmer noodles”. It’s a typical breakfast food, consists of fresh and thin rice noodles, topped with a fish-based green curry. * Where to eat?

• David’s Restaurant – Homemade Noodles – 13, #166 Preah Ang Eng St. (13), Phnom Penh.
• Boat Noodles – Sothearos Blvd, Phnom Penh Center, Phnom Penh.
• Tbal Khmer Restaurant – 40 Street 432, Phnom Penh.
• Khmer Fungus Noodles – House 15 200, Phnom Penh.

Kep’s freshest and finest crabs are best matched with Kampot pepper.

If you make a plan to visit the coastal town of Kep, you surely know that this place is famous for freshest and finest crabs. The freshest of catches are fried, quickly cooked and simply flavored with immature green peppercorns from Kampot and garlic chives, which turn out to be one of the best dishes in Cambodia. * Where to eat?  Seafood Restaurants in Crab Market in Kep Town: So Kheang, Diamond Jasmine, Holy Crab, La Mouette, La Baraka, Kimly Seafood Restaurant.

Deep fried insects are widely sold in Cambodian public markets as a popular snack among locals.

In Cambodia’s public markets, tourists can easily see local peddlers selling fried insects like: tarantulas, crickets, cockroaches, locusts. They are an excellent source of protein and often go well with a cold glass of beer. More than a popular snack among locals, these creepy crawlies are advertised as a culinary delicacy for tourists, and can be found in markets and on restaurant menus all around the country. If you want to explore more about Cambodia gastronomy, check out our detailed article on what to eat in Cambodia .

VI. Suggested Cambodia Itinerary

1.1. Spirit of Angkor 3 days

Bayon Temple is one of the highlight in 3 day tour Spirit of Angkor.

– Destinations: the most highlighted temples in Angkor Park (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, Banteay Srei, Rolous Group) and Tonle Sap Lake. – Overview: Immerse yourself in the magic and history of Cambodia’s famous Angkor temples on this three-day tour of the ancient Khmer Kingdom. With Cambodia Travel to explore ancient monuments, cruise through Tonle Sap Lake’s charming floating villages and watch the sunset from the foot of Phnom Krohm Mountain. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/spirit-of-angkor/

1.2. Colors of Cambodia 7 days

National Museum in Phnom Penh is an excellent introduction into ancient Khmer art and civilization.

– Destinations: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap. – Overview: Enjoy a weeklong holiday to explore our bustling capital Phnom Penh and peaceful Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Archaeological Park. Colors of Cambodia package is a perfect blend of Cambodia’s finest elements: combining historical temple visits with cultural immersion and urban exploration. Experience the country’s natural beauty along with the subtleties of Khmer culture on this journey from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/colors-of-cambodia/ 1.3. Cambodia In Style 10 days

Banteay Srei is home to Angkor’s finest stone carvings.

– Destinations: Siem Reap, Kampong Thom, Kratie, Kampong Cham, Phnom Penh. – Overview: This 10-day package takes visitors to travel across the country from Siem Reap to Kratie – one of Cambodia’s eastern provinces then travel along the bank of Mekong River to Phnom Penh Capital. Cambodia In Style package gives you a closer look in to the countryside of Cambodia Kingdom, meet locals at their villages and experience some of local daily life. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/cambodia-in-style/

2.1. Biking Through Angkor 5 days

Exploring Angkor by bike is the best way to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery and ancient history of the region.

– Destinations: the most highlighted temples in Angkor Park (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, Banteay Srei, Rolous Group), Kulen Mountain and Tonle Sap Lake. – Overview: Spice up your visit to the ancient Khmer Kingdom on a bike tour through Cambodia’s legendary temples. Exploring Angkor by bike is the best way to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery and ancient history of the region. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/biking-through-angkor/

2.2. Explore Preah Vihear Temple 2 days

Preah Vihear Temple – an outstanding masterpiece of Khmer architecture, was listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

– Destinations: Siem Reap, Beng Mealea, Koh Ker, Preah Vihear. – Overview: Cambodia Travel arranges the 2 day trip to discover the famous Hindu temple located on the top of mountain by northern border of Cambodia Kingdom. The journey brings you to the less traveled area of Angkor – Beng Mealea with thousands of great hands carving on ancient sandstone and explore Preah Vihear and border area. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/explore-preah-vihear-temple/

2.3. Explore Cambodia 13 days

Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace is an excellent introduction of the ancient Khmer art and civilization.

– Destinations: Phnom Penh, Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri, Kratie, Stung Treng, Preah Vihear, Siem Reap, Tonle Sap Lake. – Overview: For 13 days Explore Cambodia’s rich culture and history on a tour that takes you deep into the heart of the Khmer Kingdom. Discover the ancient Angkor temples and enjoy a rustic homestay; see the endangered freshwater dolphins that inhabit the Mekong and visit Cambodia’s bustling capital city. This vacation includes all of Cambodia’s highlights, offering something for everyone. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/explore-cambodia/

2.4. Absolute Cambodia 15 days

Ancient temple ruins in Cambodia.

– Destinations: Siem Reap, Tonle Sap Lake, Kampong Thom, Kratie, Mondulkiri, Kampong Cham, Phnom Penh, Koh Kong. – Overview: No matter where you travel in Cambodia, the past is always present. History, both ancient and modern, is everywhere here; whether you’re cycling in the shadows of the mighty Angkor Wat, wandering the streets of cosmopolitan Phnom Penh, exploring the Mekong in search of river dolphins, trekking in Mondulkiri or relax on the beach in south of Cambodia, you can’t escape the pull of time that shaped – and continues to shape – this arresting land. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/absolute-cambodia/

3.1. Luxury Cambodia & Song Saa Island 7 days

Overwater villas in Song Saa Private Island Resort.

– Destinations: Siem Reap, Sihanouk Ville, Song Saa Island, Phnom Penh. – Overview: A week long journey to visit top attractions of Cambodia: Angkor Temples and experience world-class services at luxurious Song Saa Private Island. Cambodia Travel invites you to experience the best of Cambodia on this package. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/luxury-cambodia-song-saa-island/

3.2. Cambodia Luxury Holiday 7 days

Khmer professional hospitality ensures your stay in Cambodia to be private and comfortable.

– Destinations: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanouk Ville. – Overview: Cambodia Travel creates this luxury adventure for those who would like to take in all the main highlights of this fascinating country within a week long holiday. The combination of history, culture, architecture, countryside and coastal relaxation provides the opportunity for travelers to get under the skin of the country. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/cambodia-luxury-holidays/  

4.1. Truly Cambodia 11 days

– Destinations: Phnom Penh, Battambang, Siem Reap, Koh Rong Samloem. – Overview: A perfect journey through the ancient and modern Cambodia for 11 days exploring capital city of Phnom Penh to the wonders of the temples of Angkor, some of the most iconic places around Siem Reap as well as being witness the rural Cambodian lifestyle at Battambang. The trip includes couple of relaxing days on the white sand beach in Koh Rong Samloem before driving to Phnom Penh for departure. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/truly-cambodia/

Sunrise hunting moments in front of magnificent Angkor Wat.

4.2. Cambodia Cities & Southern Coast 12 days

– Destinations: Siem Reap, Kampong Thom, Phnom Penh, Takeo, Kep, Kampot, Sihanouk Ville. – Overview: This package is perfect for those who want to explore the main sights of Cambodia at a leisurely pace, allowing for plenty of time to get under the skin of the country. The trip start in bustling city of Siem Reap – home of amazing Angkor temples. Spend 12 days to explore the most famous temples some of our favorite temples away from the tourists. Our journey continues to Cambodia ‘s capital- Phnom Penh before going to countryside of Khmer people and end up on the laid-back coast in the southern of Cambodia, wake up the sleeping beauty of Kep and beautiful nearby islands. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/cambodia-cities-southern-coast/

Sihanouk Ville’s white sand beaches and warm waters combine with a laid back, beachy atmosphere to provide a great little tropical getaway.

4.3. Sihanouk Ville Beach Break 4 days

– Destinations: Phnom Penh, Sihanouk Ville. – Overview: Sihanouk Ville is Cambodia’s premier beach town. Sihanouk Ville’s white sand beaches and warm waters combine with a laid back, beachy atmosphere to provide a great little tropical getaway. Sihanouk Ville is an ideal place to unwind by the beach, enjoy the fresh from-the-ocean seafood, take in a snorkeling or scuba trip, and generally slow-down, lay back and chill-out. Cambodia Travel arranges the package of Sihanouk Ville Beach Break with pick up and transfer from Phnom Penh Capital. – Details: https://cambodiatravel.com/tour/sihanoulk-ville-beach-break/

VII. Best Time to Travel to Cambodia

Sunset over Angkor Wat.

Cambodia has the simpler weather system in Southeast Asia with two distinct seasons: dry and wet season. The dry season in Cambodia runs from October to April/ early May, when hot wind caused by the dry north-east monsoon blowing across the whole country. With the average temperature at around 24°C-26°C, November to January are the coolest months of the year. Characterized by dry and sunny weather, low humidity and relatively cool temperatures, it is no surprise that dry season is when the number of tourists coming to Cambodia reaches its peak.

From May to early October is the wet season in Cambodia. During these months, southwest monsoon brings almost 75% of annual rainfall to Cambodia. During this rainy season, daytime temperature still remains high between 25°C and 27°C. May, June and July are the hottest months and rainfalls comes infrequently in the form of short downpours. Toward the latter months of the wet season (late July – September), rains tend to be more intense and can be heaviest along the south coast.

Angkor is suitable destination for families travelling with kids.

The high season for travel in Cambodia is from November until April, with dry and favorable weather conditions throughout almost main tourism destinations. Consequently, that is also when the cost of travelling tends to increase. The travel expenses are particularly acute during special occasions, like Christmas and New Year Eve, Khmer New Year Celebration in mid-April. If traveling during this period, tourists are suggested to reserve travel services as early as possible to avoid fully booked situations.

During November – April, Cambodia has comfortable conditions with brilliant sunshine and extremely low chance of raining. Beach and island lovers can enjoy relaxing sunny days in pristine white sand coastlines and islands, such as Sihanouk Ville – Koh Rong – Koh Rong Samloem. In north east regions of Cambodia, journey time to Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri is shorter thanks to good road conditions in dry season. Sunny daytimes and cooler temperatures make adventure activities like trekking into jungles or interact with wildlife in these places are much more pleasant.

Although November to January are quite cool, April is one of the hottest months in Cambodia with average temperatures of 35°C. Rather than all day visits to Angkor Temples , tourists are recommended to take early morning or late afternoon tours, and have short break by the hotel swimming pool or at air-condition restaurants or tourist venues at midday. On the other hand, the summer heat somehow helps to lower the crowd numbers at the main temples in specific time of the day.

You may also like: Best time to visit Vietnam &  Cambodia

Coming to Cambodia between May and early October, tourists can experience a quieter holiday. Actually, wet season is not as bad as the label implies because it depends on what you want to do in these countries. And sometimes, tourist numbers may be taken into consideration rather than the weather factor. Visitors can still come to Cambodia during monsoon season when the dust is gone and the countryside returns to its lush greenery thanks to downpours. The iconic tourism site – Angkor Temples , gets a severe decrease in visitor numbers. In some extends, these spectacular temples are more stunning in wet season with fully watered moats surrounding, which provides perfect chances to snap shots of temple reflections in the water.

Rainy season is also the perfect time of the year to visit floating villages in Tonle Sap Lake by boat. During wet season, the lake swells to six or seven times its normal size of approximately 2,600 square kilometres.

On the downside, heavy rainfalls make travelling to north east regions ( Kratie , Mondulkiri , Ratanakiri ) and southern coastal destinations ( Sihanouk Ville , Kampot , Kep ) fairly difficult. “Off the beaten path” travel should be avoided, particularly in August. Remote tracks can become unpassable due to flooding of road system there. For those who are planning some relaxing days on the beach should forget Cambodia’s south coast during these months.

Overall, the best time to visit Cambodia falls between November and January because the weather in these months are cooler by Cambodia’s standards ( around 20 °C ) and there’s not much possibility of raining.

Related Posts

Electric plugs and power sockets in Cambodia

Things to Do in Battambang, Cambodia

Cambodia Weather in November

Travel from HCM City to Cambodia 2022

Top 9 things to do in Phnom Penh

The 8 Best and Most Beautiful Beaches in Cambodia

Good information

Leave a Comment Cancel comment

Request a free quote, thank you we have received your travel request. you will receive an email shortly. please check your email and verify the information. your request will be processed after your confirmation..

You have chosen a tour duration longer than 20 days. Please specify the exact number of days you want to travel in the message box below, so that we can have enough information and make a program for you. Thank you for your cooperation.

You have selected a number of travellers greater than 20. Please let us know the exact number of people in your group in the message box below so that we can quote you accurately. Thank you for your cooperation.

You have selected a number of travellers and duration greater than 20. Please let us know the exact number of people in your group and the exact number of days in the message box below so that we can quote you accurately. Thank you for your cooperation.

• Travel Guides
• Travel Planning
• Food & Drinks
• Travel Blog
• Travel News

Our Recommendations

10 Best Things to Do in Cambodia

The 8 Most Fascinating Travel Destinations in Cambodia

10 Interesting Attractions in Cambodia Besides Angkor Wat

Best Cambodia Day Tours

Cambodia Weather: General Information & Best Time to Visit

Cambodia Trips: 30 Unique Itineraries for Your Dream Vacation

You may also like

Cambodia weather in May

Best Hospitals and Medical Centers in Cambodia

Best Cambodia Private Tours You Should Know Before Travelling

Top Attractions in Kratie

Cambodia weather in March

Phnom Penh Travel Guide

Sign up today and receive a customized itinerary based on your own travel style, budget… by our Cambodia Travel consultants

* To be sure you'll receive our itinerary (email failure case...)

(We'll get back to you within 8 business hours)

• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

28 Must-Visit Attractions in Cambodia

Cambodia is full of diversity and offers a variety of activities for visitors to quickly fill up their agendas with. From its array of glorious temples and religious structures, rich heritage and culture to the rare wildlife and stunning eco-tourism spots, the country has it all.

Angkor wat archaeological park.

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Home to world-famous Angkor Wat , this UNESCO heritage site stretches across more than 400 kilometers squared and contains hundreds of temples and structures dating back to the Khmer Empire era. The most popular are Angkor Wat, Bayon and its multiple faces and root-riddled Ta Prohm, which was the location for parts of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider , starring Angelina Jolie.

National Museum of Cambodia

The Royal Palace

Architectural Landmark

Unmissable thanks to its glittering golden roofs, the Royal Palace serves as the official royal residence of King Sihamoni, meaning parts of the sprawling palace grounds are closed to the public. However, the Throne Hall and surrounding buildings, as well as neighboring Silver Pagoda, can be visited, and you can take in intricately decorated temples and buildings, among manicured tropical gardens.

Phnom Kulen

Park, Natural Feature

Phnom Kulen, or Kulen Mountain in Siem Reap province, offers a great day trip away from Angkor. The sacred site doubles up as a national park and is especially popular with Khmers during religious holidays, when offerings are left at the hilltop temple. The area is also home to two waterfalls for swimming, picnic areas, and Kbal Spean, an archaeological spot where The River of a Thousand Lingas is located.

Cambodian Living Arts

Cambodia has a rich culture and heritage that is well worth exploring while visiting the country. The most common cultural activity is apsara dancing – Cambodian classical ballet – which has its roots steeped in Angkorian times. Evidence that the dance form existed as early as the 7th century can be seen in carvings at Sambor Prei Kuk temples in Kampong Thom province, where ethereal beings have been immortalised in stone. Cambodia Living Arts has spent more than two decades working to revive traditional Cambodian arts, while steering it into the contemporary sphere. The organisation puts on daily shows at 7pm in its dedicated theatre at Cambodia National Museum. Its traditional dance show features song, music, dance and theatre.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,058 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Banteay Srei Butterfly Centre

Cambodia Landmine Museum

Standing as the capital’s only hill, this well-manicured park offers welcome respite from the capital’s heat. Wat Phnom pagoda and its intricately-detailed temple sits atop and welcomes visitors, with foreigners paying a $1 fee. Steer clear of the mischievous, and often vicious, monkeys.

Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center

Nature lovers will be in their element at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center , where animals rescued from the clutches of poachers and illegal traders are nursed back to health by Wildlife Alliance. Animals include elephants, monkeys, tigers, and sun bears. A behind-the-scenes tour is also available.

Sambor Prei Kuk

Historical Landmark

This collection of 50 pre-Angkorian temples, which sit between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap in Kampong Thom province, recently received the coveted title of Cambodia’s third UNESCO World Heritage site. The ancient capital of Sambor Prei Kuk pays testament to some of the country’s earliest architecture and, for now, remains away from the crowds.

Phare, the Cambodian Circus

Dubbed Cambodia’s alternative to Cirque du Soliel, jaw-dropping performances blend theatrics, music, dance, acrobatics, and modern circus art to retell Khmer folktales with a modern take. Daily Phare performances take place in Siem Reap, with two or three shows a week in Battambang, depending on the season.

Bokor Mountain, Kampot

Natural Feature

The 42-mile drive from Kampot town to Bokor’s peak is a bikers’ dream, with it only accessible to motorbikes and cars. It is home to the Popokvil waterfall, a giant Buddhist statue, an abandoned Bokor Hill Station, a giant casino, derelict church, unparalleled views, and a refreshingly cool climate.

Crab Market, Kep

Market, Seafood

Nestled a short ferry ride from Phnom Penh, this small island sits a million miles away from the capital’s hustle and bustle. Perfect to explore on the back of a bike, Koh Dach , also known as Silk Island, is renowned for its silk weaving, with a center dedicated to ancient techniques open to the public.

Phnom Sampeau, Battambang

This pretty hilltop pagoda and surrounding area offers stunning views across the province’s pristine paddies. The sobering Killing Caves pay tribute to the lives lost there during the Khmer Rouge reign while spending sunset at the base of the site—the bat caves—has a seemingly endless stream of bats spiraling to the sky for a night of hunting.

Bamboo Train, Battambang

Train Station

Rumors have been circulating for the last few years about the famed bamboo train’s demise . However, it was recently confirmed it will be rebuilt to pave way for a train line. This unique trip sees passengers transported seven kilometers on a bamboo train, or norry , which is a wooden frame connected to an engine. Hitting speeds of 15 kilometers per hour, this is a fun way to watch the scenery whizz by.

Preah Vihear

Hindu Temple

Bassac Lane

Russian Market

Cambodia has a pretty cool collection of deserted tropical islands , and the best part is hordes of tourists are yet to discover the majority. Koh Rong is the largest, most developed and popular. The term “developed” is used loosely, so don’t expect an island akin to Thailand’s Phuket. Infrastructure is basic, with electricity and wifi limited. The liveliest part of the jungle-clad island is the stretch of beach at Koh Touch, which is packed with guesthouses and backpacker bars. Southwestern Long Beach boasts kilometres of powder white sand, barely any people and the more exclusive Sok San Beach Resort and super-luxurious The Royal Sands Koh Rong.

Cardamom Mountains

Cambodia is home to the Cardamom Mountains , Southeast Asia’s largest remaining rainforest. While the last few decades have seen the jungle pillaged by illegal loggers and poachers, huge efforts are now underway to preserve the endangered and rare wildlife that calls the forest home. For the adventurous traveller who wants to explore this rugged terrain, several treks take place in the Cardamoms. These vary in length, difficulty and location, depending on what you’re after. It bodes well to remember this is the jungle, a real tropical jungle. There are no hospitals nearby, there are scary insects, snakes and spiders, and you will get eaten by mosquitoes so go prepared.

Street food

Cambodians love their food and are constantly snacking throughout the day. This means the country’s streets are awash with street food vendors selling a variety of local delicacies for visitors to sample. Breakfast, lunch and dinner times will see pavements fill with plastic tables and chairs, as locals gather to feast on rice dishes, num banh chok or Khmer noodles and curries. If you fancy sampling street food, then a good tip is to buy from a vendor that has crowds of Cambodians feasting at it. Alternatively, several tours run in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh that take guests on a guided tour of the swathe of food available on the streets

The Mekong River

The Mekong River is a Southeast Asian icon, slicing through six countries as it makes its way from Tibet to Vietnam. In Cambodia, it enters at the northeastern province of Stung Treng from Laos, passing through Phnom Penh on its way to Vietnam. Trans-country cruises are available that take passengers along the Mekong from Laos to Cambodia and onto Vietnam , or a mix of the countries. These tend to span several days, or a few weeks, depending on the itinerary. Alternatively, a sunset cruise along the Mekong is a must while in Phnom Penh. At dusk, the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers light up with boats of varying sizes hitting the water for an evening of cruising.

Beer Gardens

Cambodians’ love of beer is apparent during any drive through the country. Towns, villages and cities are smattered with adverts for Angkor, Anchor and Cambodia beer – the top three tipples – and hip beer gardens that come alive at night. An evening in a beer garden sees a pretty uniform set-up: chairs and tables scattered throughout sheltered space, a small stage with live music or entertainment and heaps of beer towers. The friendly and curious nature of locals means it is more than likely that barangs (foreigners) will be invited to a table to join in the celebrations. It’s worth noting that Cambodians love to “cheers” or “chul mouy” – in fact they do it before every sip – so drinking a beer can take a while.

The delicacies of 'Tarantula Town'

If you can stomach it, then go really local with your food and sample some of the insects Cambodians love to eat . The town of Skuon in Kampong Cham is famous for serving spiders and is dubbed ‘Tarantula Town’. Situated mid-way between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, villagers head into the jungle to catch the spiders before defanging them with their bare hands and selling them onto the vendors. They are deep-fried in chilli and garlic before being served as a roadside snack. If deep-fried tarantulas don’t tickle your fancy, then how about a buffet of grasshoppers, silkworms and crickets – they’re packed full of protein. In Phnom Penh, street vendors selling edible creepy crawlies can be found on Riverside in the evenings, or at Pub Street in Siem Reap.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

For a really harrowing look at Cambodia’s recent past, Tuol Sleng – or S-21 – is a former prison camp in Phnom Penh city centre. During the Khmer Rouge reign of 1975 to 1979, it is estimated 17,000 people were sent to Tuol Sleng, and ultimately to their deaths. This was a torture centre and many died at the site. The remainder were rounded up and sent to nearby Choeung Ek to be executed. Today, visitors can walk around S-21 – which ironically was a school prior to the Pol Pot-led regime. Having been pretty much left undisturbed after being discovered by the liberating Vietnamese troops in 1979, blood remains on the walls, torture tools dot the site, and a moving exhibit showing the portraits taken of each prisoner – young and old – as they entered Tuol Sleng takes up several of the rooms. Only seven men are said to have survived S-21.

Choeung Ek, or the Killing Fields

Cambodia is littered with killing fields, with an estimated two million people perishing under the Khmer Rouge regime. Choeung Ek – or The Killing Fields – is one of the largest sites, sitting about 20km outside of Phnom Penh. As well as being the place where those detained at S-21 were murdered, swathes of other Cambodians were killed here. The remains of 8,985 people – many were bound and blindfolded – were exhumed in 1980 from mass graves. Bone fragments and scraps of clothing litter the site, with more than 8,000 skulls arranged at a memorial stupa to the dead. Visitors are given an audio tour, featuring informative stories from Khmer Rouge survivors and former soldiers.

7 Beautiful Temples to Visit in Siem Reap

The 5 Best Day Trips from Siem Reap, Cambodia

The Most Beautiful Temples in the World

The 17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Cambodia

13 Unusual and Non-Touristy Things to Do in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The 6 Best Day Trips from Phnom Penh, Cambodia

The 8 Most Beautiful Beaches in Cambodia

15 Bucket List Experiences You Must Have in Cambodia

The History of Cambodia's Killing Fields

The Best 16 Things To Do in Siem Reap, Cambodia

5 Best Markets for Shopping in Phnom Penh

Culture Trip Fall Sale

Save up to $1,058 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 1466661
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Useful Resources

• Tourist Information Center
• CBET Destinations
• Advice for Travelers
• Where to Shop
• Public Holidays
• Currency Exchange
• Video & Tourism Spot
• Weather & Forecast
• Tourism Law

THE MINISTER OF TOURISM

This website, Tourismcambodia.org, the official website of Ministry of Cambodia of the Kingdom of Cambodia, is designed and maintained collaboratively by RED DOT (Cambodia) Co., Ltd and Cybernetics Ltd a full service branding and advertising agency in Cambodia. While efforts are made to ensure that all the information hereto are good, accurate and up to date, by visiting the website Tourismcambodia.org, viewing, accessing or otherwise using any of the services or information created, collected, compiled or submitted to Tourismcambodia.org, you agree to be bound by the our Terms and Conditions of Use, (Click here). If you do not want to be bound by our Terms, your only option is not to visit, view or otherwise use the services of Tourismcambodia.org. You understand, agree and acknowledge that these Terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you and Tourismcambodia.org and that your use of Tourismcambodia.org shall indicate your conclusive acceptance of this agreement.

© 2024 | DESIGNED & HOSTED BY: RED DOT (CAMBODIA) CO., LTD | All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer

Travel Guide Cambodia

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

The Cambodia Travel Guide will help you discover one of Southeast Asia’s most enjoyable destinations. Visit Cambodia, and you’ll find plentiful attractions ranging from unspoilt beaches and colonial townscapes through to dense forests and majestic rivers and lakes. The legendary temples of Angkor continue to attract millions of visitors each year. Away from the temples, Cambodia is refreshingly untouristy. Cambodia remains largely unexplored in many places. New roads now bring once remote destinations within easy reach.

Cambodia travel facts

Where to go in cambodia, best time to go to cambodia.

• How to get to Cambodia

Cambodia’s cities

Phnom Penh is the capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia. The city is an alluring attraction in its own right. The centre has broad appeal, and its French influence is evident in the open-fronted colonial shophouses that line the streets. There are a mind-boggling number of restaurants, bars and cafes to try. Many tourists that travel to Cambodia linger here for the culinary experience. You can also take a boat trip from Phnom Penh along the mighty Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers.

Siem Reap is Cambodia’s principal tourist town. This city offers a gateway to the temples of Angkor. More than one hundred Angkorian monuments lie spread over some 3000 square kilometres of the countryside around the town. Siem Reap retains its small-town charm despite its popularity. It’s a lively city with many activities and attractions including lively Psar Chas Market, buzzing cafes, bars, boutique shops and plentiful nightlife. It’s also a good spot from which to visit the nearby floating villages on the Tonle Sap.

Laidback Battambang is Cambodia’s second biggest city. It is worlds apart from Phnom Penh’s urban bustle. It has a growing number of ex-pats fuelling the growth of arty cafes, restaurants and bars. It’s also home to impressive colonial architecture. You can take a countryside ride on its quirky bamboo railway.

Kompong Cham is Eastern Cambodia’s largest city. The waterfront is particularly attractive, with a string of colonial buildings lined up along the Mekong.

Temples of Angkor

For most tourists that choose to come here, their Cambodia trip is not complete without a visit to the unforgettable temples of Angkor. Understandably, this is high on the list for many who travel Cambodia as it is one of the most important archaeological sites of Southeast Asia. The awe-inspiring Angkor Wat is the most famous of the temples dominated by five corncob towers. Visit early in the morning to avoid some of the crowds. The temples attract some two million visitors per year. Visit How to see Angkor Wat without the crowds for more tips.

Southwest Cambodia & The Southern Islands

Visit the Southwest to discover miles of unspoilt beaches, hidden coves and idyllic Cambodian islands. Sihanoukville is the most popular beach resort. Ochheuteal Beach and Serendipity Beach Road justify their party town reputation. There are quieter spots too, particularly around Otres, 6km away. Sihanoukville is also the entry point to the islands of Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem and Koh Ta Kiev. Koh Rong has a buzzing backpacker strip at Koh Toch. The beaches at Long Set and Long Beach along the west coast are more laidback. Peaceful Koh Ta Tiev retains a real castaway vibe. Remember to take cash as there are no ATM’s on the islands.

Ream National Park is 18km east of Sihanoukville. It’s a great place to explore Cambodia’s unspoilt natural environment. The park is evergreen with mangrove forests, sandy beaches, coral reefs, and offshore islands. The riverside town of Kampot with the backdrop of misty Bokor mountains is one of Cambodia’s most appealing towns to add to your Cambodia trip itinerary. 25km southeast of Kampot, Kep is a favourite with ex-pats and Cambodians who descend at the weekend. They are attracted by its delicious, inexpensive seafood, freshly plucked from the ocean.

Eastern Cambodia

If you travel to Cambodia and you like nature and wildlife, the east is the place to be. There are patches of dense, unspoilt rainforest that remain in Eastern Cambodia . The riverside town of Kratie is an excellent base for exploring the nearby countryside. Just over 20km from Kratie is Kampie which provides the best riverside vantage point to view a pod of rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins . It’s thought that only around eighty remain in the entire Mekong river.

Tucked away in the forest near the sleepy capital of Banlung in the Rattanakiri province, there is a trio of impressive nearby waterfalls Ka Chhang, Katieng and Chha Ong.

Discover more places in Cambodia

• Battambang Travel Guide

Figuring out the best time to travel Cambodia depends on what you plan to do when you arrive. Cambodia is warm all year round, but it has a rainy season too.

If you visit Cambodia between March and May, the temperatures and humidity are higher. Visiting at this time can still be a good choice if you are hitting the coast. If you are travelling Cambodia to explore the temples, the season between November and February is cool enough for sightseeing. December and January can be the most popular time for tourists.

Travel Cambodia in the rainy season, and you’ll find the countryside at its lushest. Travelling around Cambodia during this season can present some practical challenges and flooding is commonplace. However, the mornings are usually dry as the rain mainly falls in the afternoon. If you do choose to go visit in the rainy season, you’ll avoid the crowds too.

The busiest International Airports are Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. There aren’t any direct flights from Europe to Cambodia. You can reach Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap via Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City and several other destinations. Take a look at Skyscanner for more options.

It’s also possible to travel overland into Cambodia from neighbouring countries. You can cross the border at several spots in Thailand, Vietnam and Laos.

Find out more Cambodia travel information in Getting to Cambodia .

When planning how to travel around Cambodia, consider the transport as part of the adventure.

Roads have seen massive improvements in the past five years, so getting around the country is much easier than it once was. The bus system provides connections between all major towns. The bus offers the cheapest and usually the most convenient way to travel.

Minibuses and ‘share taxis’ are also other options to travel by road. Share taxis are faster than taking the bus, but they do get absurdly packed. You can ask to pay roughly double the standard fare to have a front seat to yourself. You could also pay to hire the entire taxi.

For short local trips, you can hire a motorcycle or ‘moto’ for the day or a tuk-tuk. A tuk-tuk is a passenger carriage pulled by a motorbike. It’s virtually impossible to rent a self-drive car in Cambodia, but you can hire a car with a driver. Three-wheeled cycle rickshaws called cyclos are also available in Phnom Penh for short trips.

You may also end up travelling Cambodia by boat. Boat trips run between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and between Siem Reap and Battambang. In the south, regular ferries and fast catamarans run between Sihanoukville and Koh Rong. Find out more about how to travel to Cambodia in our Cambodia guide to “ Getting Around ”.

Why travel to Cambodia? Here are 10 of the best places to travel in Cambodia. These highlights are sure to convince any traveller to include Cambodia on their itinerary when taking a trip to Southeast Asia.

• The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh: The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh are the city’s finest example of twentieth-century Khmer influenced architecture. The Royal Palace is set back from the riverbank on Sothearos Boulevard. You can stroll this complex of regal structures and perfectly manicured grounds. While there, you will gain an insight into Cambodia’s past and present. A blue flag flies when the King is in residence. While the palace itself is off-limits, it’s possible to visit several buildings within the grounds. The Silver Pagoda is named for its floor which is covered in gleaming silver.
• Temples of Angkor: The Temples of Angkor are world-renowned and house some of the country’s finest monuments. More than one hundred Angkorian monuments lie spread over some 3000 square kilometres of the countryside. The best-known monuments are the vast temple of Angkor Wat and the walled city of Angkor Thom. During the Angkorian period, the ruling god-kings built imposing temples as a way of asserting their divinity. They left a legacy of more than one hundred temples constructed between the ninth and fifteenth centuries. The full magnificence of Angkor Wat represents the height of Khmer art. The pretty tenth-century temple of Banteay Srei is unique, made from unusual pink sandstone and with intricate ornamentation.
• Koh Ta Tiev: Peaceful Koh Ta Tiev is one of the southern islands, and it’s a tropical paradise retaining a real castaway vibe. There are several types of accommodation to choose from, and you can even camp or sleep in a hammock between two trees over the sand. There is limited electricity on the island and no wifi. Spend your days’ jungle trekking, snorkelling, or experiencing authentic Khmer cooking.
• Battambang: Battambang is Cambodia’s second largest city, but it’s often overlooked. It’s a bustling city that is both welcoming and laidback. Its lush surrounding countryside is ideal for bike rides, and it’s easy to get out on the water by kayak. You can whizz past rice paddies and rattle over bridges when you ride the quirky bamboo railway too.
• Kampot: The riverside Kampot is one of Cambodia’s most appealing towns with the backdrop of misty Bokor Mountains. At Kampot, you can potter along the river for a swim or sunset cruise. You could also head into the mountains to explore caves. Kampot is also a base from which to explore the region’s famed pepper plantations. Bokor National Park is home to an abandoned 1920s hotel and casino. Kampot has a friendly but low key nightlife.
• Kep: Kep is renowned throughout Cambodia for its delicious, inexpensive seafood. It’s heaven for seafood connoisseurs. You can get fresh crab straight from the sea at the crab market on the western seafront. It’s also a good base from which to go on an island boat tour. Head over to the palm-fringed beach of Rabbit Island or Koh Tonsay.
• Floating villages on Tonle Sap: Tonle Sap lake is home to dozens of picturesque floating villages. Explore the fascinating houses built from bamboo and raised on stilts; they are mainly inhabited by Vietnamese fisherman. You’ll pass floating markets, schools and pagodas and learn more about local life.
• Irrawaddy Dolphins: Around 20km north of Kratie is Kampie. It offers the best riverside vantage point to spot the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. It is expected that only around eighty remain in the entire Mekong. The Irrawaddy dolphins look very much like porpoises. The Irrawaddy dolphin has been added to the IUCN Red List as a critically endangered species. The dolphin-watching site is now run as an ecotourism project by the local community.
• Ream National Park: Ream National Park is one of Cambodia’s most accessible national parks. Here you can explore Cambodia’s unspoilt natural environment with mangrove forests, sandy beaches and rich diversity of flora and fauna. You are likely to see kingfishers, eagles and monkeys.
• Trekking in Rattanakiri: Trek into the forest of Rattanakiri, the capital Banlung is surrounded by peaceful countryside. It is dotted with waterfalls and lakes, and it’s also home to the indigenous chunchiet hill tribes. You may spot gibbons, rare birdlife and endangered species in the Virachey National Park.

For more places to visit, check out these gorgeous pictures of Cambodia .

The carefully-curated itineraries in our Cambodia travel guide will inspire you to make the most of your trip. These itineraries take in the most popular destinations for those that travel Cambodia including the cities and infamous Temples of Angkor. You can also take the opportunity to go off the beaten track and take in Cambodia’s natural attractions. There is an itinerary to suit anyboth your interests and your timeframes.

Travel ideas for Cambodia

Created by local experts

The Ultimate Southeast Asia Grand Tour

Explore the highlights of four countries in a bit over 3 weeks: Halong Bay & the Mekong Delta in Vietnam combined with the cities Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Proceed to Cambodia with Angkor Wat before watching the monks in Luang Prabang/Laos. Your trip ends in Thailand with elephants and Bangkok.

Impressions of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos

Start and end your trip in Ho Chi Minh City and visit highlights such as the Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh with the Killing Fields, Angkor Wat, the historic city of Luang Prabang in Laos before heading back to Vietnam - Hanoi, Halong Bay and Hoi An await.

Siem Reap Family Adventure

Traditional ox and carts, sprawling rice fields, majestic temples, glorious food and breath-taking countryside – this is Cambodia. Take some time out in Siem Reap with its Old Market and boutiques, savour local cuisine and be prepared for the trip of a lifetime. Perfect for groups and families.

Cambodia’s Beaches and Temples

See the best of beautiful Cambodia on this amazing tour. Explore the busy capital Phnom Penh, laze on the golden sands of the south coast beaches, discover local villages and Cambodian cuisine before you lose yourself among the mystical temples of Angkor.

Cambodia Explorer

This is a trip to Cambodia for the adventurer. This trip takes you from the glorious temples and rolling countryside of Siem Reap to the attractive riverside capital of Phnom Penh where you can explore the city’s broad boulevards, new restaurants and myriad sights.

A Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos Adventure

Make the most of your time in South East Asia and discover not 1 but 3 exciting countries. From Vietnam to Cambodia and Laos you will get the know the locals, visit ancient temples, relax on a cruise, get a taste of Buddhism and so much more. This itinerary will show you the wonders of Asia.

Cambodia cultural discovery tour takes in Phnom Penh, with its romantic cafes and haute cuisine, ancient, awe-inspiring temples, stunning countryside and one of the greatest wonders of the world.

Cambodia Explorer travel tour takes you from the glorious temples and rolling countryside of Siem Reap to the attractive riverside capital of Phnom Penh where you can explore the city’s broad boulevards, new restaurants and myriad sights.

Combining remote locations that are as yet not overrun with tourists is the aim of the Unseen Cambodia itinerary , which includes trips to quiet tucked away townships and villages.

Travel advice for Cambodia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Cambodia

• Eating and drinking in Cambodia
• Getting around Cambodia: Transportation Tips
• Best time to visit Cambodia
• Weather in Cambodia in May
• Weather in Cambodia in April
• Weather in Cambodia in March

When you plan your Cambodia trip, make sure you have the latest Cambodia travel advice.

Check out the travel essentials section with all the travel advice you need before you go. It will help you to make sure your trip runs smoothly. It covers tips on travelling Cambodia, including keeping healthy, staying safe, money and insurance. Cambodia travel essentials also includes festival and public holiday dates, tips on travelling with children and more.

All foreign nationals except those from certain Southeast Asian countries need a visa to enter Cambodia. Tourist visas are valid for thirty days. The tourist visas are issued on arrival at all border crossings and airports. You will need two passport photos to get your visa. You can also take care of your tourist visa online in advance evisa.gov.kh. The e-visas are only valid at airports and the Poipet, Koh Kong and Bavet land crossings. Check the website for full details. E-visas take three days to process, and you still need to provide a digital photograph.

A tourist visa can be extended once for one month. Many travel agents and guesthouses can help you extend your visa for a commission. You can also buy a business visa, and this can be extended in a variety of ways, and they allow multiple entries. Find out more in the Cambodia guide to travel essentials.

The main cities in Cambodia have several accommodation options and finding something is rarely a problem. There are basic hotels in every provincial town too. The budget accommodation can be very cheap at around $7 to 8$ per night. Most hotel rooms have a double bed as standard. Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville also offer tourist-orientated budget guesthouses and hostels. Hostels can be priced as little as $2 per night. Camping is theoretically illegal in Cambodia, but is a possibility in some places – for example, on the beaches and islands of the south coast.

Mid-range and luxury accommodation is usually only found around the tourist hotspots and major towns. Luxury accommodation is widely available in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, Sihanoukville and Kep. There are choices of five-star chain hotels, chic boutiques and idyllic resorts constructed in traditional Khmer style.

Find out more in the Cambodia guide to accommodation .

Cambodian food has influences from many other countries in Asia and French influence too. Cambodian food is milder than Thai food and often herbs, spices and chilli are served on the side rather than blended into the dish. Dishes are delicately enhanced with flavours like lemongrass and coriander. Cambodia’s national dish is bamboo-leaf infused fish amok. Stir-fries feature on most menus alongside delicious coconut milk curry dishes and rice.

Local variations of typical Vietnamese dishes can also be found too. French influences can also be found on the menus here with endless coffee options and French-style baguettes. You can find Khmer street food at markets and on street stalls. You can fill up on noodle dishes, filled baguettes and stir-fries.

Cambodians drink plenty of green tea and fruit shakes. Stalls are set up in towns all over the country from late afternoon. Also available is iced sugar-cane juice and the juice of green coconuts - all very refreshing. Cambodia’s national beer is Angkor, brewed by an Australian and Cambodian joint venture in Sihanoukville. Find out more about food and drink in Cambodia .

Cambodia has an increasing number of activities and sports. In the northeast, particularly in Banlung and Sen Monorom, local guides can lead groups or individuals on treks into the surrounding jungle and Virachey National Park. Treks can last anything from a day to a week. There is also good trekking in the forested hills around Koh Kong.

Diving in Cambodia

There are excellent opportunities to snorkel and dive in and around Cambodia. There are several PADI dive shops in Sihanoukville and nearby islands offering both certification and fun day trips.

Cycling and kayaking are available in the northeast around the Mekong River. Bike trips can be organised at Kratie, Stung Treng and around Angkor’s temples or the Cardamom Mountains.

Those that travel Cambodia will gain more respect from locals if they are well dressed. Both men and women dress conservatively. It’s best to avoid skimpy clothes and shorts unless you are at a beach resort. When visiting temples, it’s best to have both shoulders and legs covered. Remove your shoes before entering a Cambodian temple or Cambodian home. Cambodians themselves are conservative and do their best to keep clean and well presented.

It’s advisable to avoid any displays of public affection between men and women. Even visitors holding hands can be embarrassing for Cambodians.

Top image © Efired/Shutterstock

The Rough Guides to Cambodia and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration for Cambodia here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Andy Turner

updated 22.05.2024

Ready to travel and discover Cambodia?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

18 Top Tourist Attractions in Cambodia

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Centuries have passed, but we can still feel the magic of the Khmer era in Cambodia. In the heart of South East Asia, the Land of the Khmers is the sort of country that captures the hearts of those who visit and never lets go.

The Mekong River courses throughout, connecting the north to south. As you travel, you’ll see the landscape change and change fast. Bookended by sparkling ivory beaches and towering jungle peaks is an ancient culture that defies imagination.

The stunning temples of Angkor are the obvious draw for most tourists, but there are many other things to do in Cambodia: tropical beaches, colonial buildings and an abundance of natural sights.

But it’s not just the tourist attractions in Cambodia that make a visit to this Southeast Asian country so rewarding. It’s the smiles of those who live there. It’s the richness of their food. It’s the culture that stems from a reign that brought the world some of the most remarkable temples.

18. Beng Mealea

The first of our favorite temples is Beng Mealea. Just over an hour northeast of Siem Reap, Beng Mealea is a giant complex. Where other temples have fought against the surge of nature, this temple has all but been swallowed up by the jungle.

It creates a literal Indiana Jones experience for all who visit. It’s based on the same plans as the famous Angkor Wat and is also surrounded by a vast moat.

Built in the 1100s, it’s a portal back to the time of the Khmer. Just outside of the complex are remnants of ancient roads, including bridges. The engineering is equally captivating inside, including the main tower, barays, and libraries.

17. Koh Rong

All this adventure, the sites and history would wear down even the most seasoned traveler. If you’re looking to kick back for a day or two and reset, then be sure to add a trip to Koh Rong.

Upon arrival to the coastal town of Sihanoukville, take a ferry to the small island. You’ll arrive at the aptly named White Beach. The vibe then splashes over you and you’ll know you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.

You can rent scooters to get around the island fairly quickly. But you’ll want to stop at each beach you see. Some can stretch up to 14 kilometers. Add on a trip to Sok San Waterfall and you’ll feel in heaven.

16. Chi Phat

Deep in the Cardamom Mountains, Chi Phat is a remote traditional village. It’s a wonderful place to experience that helps you discover and understand the country outside of the major attractions in Cambodia.

The town operates under the protection of an ecotourism project that allows locals to improve their lives. This is without having to depart from their heritage and culture.

Surrounded by mountains, sprawling mangroves and flowing rivers, the landscape is something to behold. A trip along the Stung Proat River will confirm that. However, time spent riding through the village opens will be something you remember most from your Cambodian adventure as you interact with locals, learn about their culture and enjoy the local cuisine.

15. Pub Street, Siem Reap

You’ve come to Siem Reap to experience the magic of Angkor. But at night, there’s no point sitting still. Instead, head to Pub Street, where you can take part in arguably the best nightlife scene in Cambodia.

Bustling crowds gather here are the sun falls across northern Cambodia. Yes, it’s touristy. But travelers from across the globe, and plenty of locals too, gather on a nightly basis to share tales of the day gone.

See also: Where to Stay in Siem Reap

The street is covered in bright neon. The atmosphere is equally electric. Bars and restaurants trade places, shops sell goods into the late hours and the Night Market is just around the corner.

14. Battambang Bat Caves

Cambodia is a land of cultural and natural wonders. The Battambang Bat Caves are, of course, a natural wonder, yet they’re enveloped in cultural mythology.

Each evening, as the sun reaches the horizon, millions of bats burst out into the skies. The beaming rapture of black contrasts with the mix of oranges and purples. It’s an enthralling sight. However, the caves are a short jaunt from the killing fields of Phnom Sampeau, leaving some to believe the bats are the souls of those who died. It’s a fascinating historical and spiritual connection.

For the best view of the bats, head up into the mountains behind them for a breathtaking experience.

In southern Cambodia, Kampot lies in opposition to the busy streets of Phnom Penh. But this sleepy, dusty town home to the Kampot River provides an authentic experience which many travelers seek.

Small and irrevocably charming, Kampot presents a lovely collection of both traditional architecture and French colonial designs. Among them all are homely guesthouses, genuine local cuisine and residents simply going about their daily lives.

Its diminutive size makes it a great place to explore on a bike. On two wheels go from market to market, explore plantations and cool off with a dive into the Kampot River.

12. Choeung Ek Memorial

Under the reign of the Khmer Rouge, Cambodia went through a four-year period of unimaginable horror. Mass graves were dug, schools became torture prisons and the exact number of deaths can merely be speculated.

The Choeung Ek Memorial ensures these events are remembered. The memorial is a Khmer-inspired Buddhist stupa and mausoleum that stands in the center of the infamous Killing Fields, where approximately 1.7 million lost their lives. This number could easily be more.

Combine this experience with the equally provoking visit to the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum. Day tours can take you to both. Such was the recent nature of these events, that the memories and stories remain fresh for those that lived through them.

11. Ta Prohm

It’s an odd thing that an 850-year-old temple can jump back into the worldwide consciousness because of a movie. But that’s exactly what happened to Ta Prohm, aka the “ Tomb Raider Temple ”.

Encased in equally ancient root systems and towers that are quickly entering “ruin” territory, there’s something eerily magical about Ta Prohm. Its age is appropriately on display, allowing visitors to sense just how much time has passed since it was first completed.

Ta Prohm is a combo of incredible engineering and the sheer might of Mother Nature, with both now having their time in the sun. As you explore, you’ll still be able to discover the many towers, enclosed courtyards where thousands once gathered.

Bas-reliefs dance among the moss, branches and leaves, while corridors draw you further into the maze-like complex.

10. Tonle Sap

As the largest freshwater lake in Cambodia, Tonle Sap is a vital waterway. Providing irrigation to the surrounding farms and food countrywide, it’s arguably Cambodia’s heartbeat.

Along the shorelines of the enormous lake are over 150 floating villages. The colorful homes bobble on the lake, with the backyard being their main source of food and income. The back porches link to short piers and fishing boats that come and go in the early hours.

Despite the complications from their position, these villages have expanded into vast communities. As you explore, you’ll stumble upon schools, shops, churches and even temples.

The best way to appreciate the sheer size of the lake and the villages it supports is to take a boat trip. Choose between the fascinating Kompong Luong on the western banks or head north to the vibrant Chong Kneas.

9. Preah Vihear

A long, uphill climb stands between you and the historic gates of Preah Vihear. Encased in spectacular winged walls, narrow hallways with a balustrade of windows, you’ll soon forget all about the hike. Ancient archways then guide you down passageways where carvings of warriors and gods are laid out in mesmerizing detail.

Its remote position creates a distinct aura, separate from those in Angkor. Cambodia’s jungle landscape is inevitable, and it combines with the temple’s location to have you feel miles from anything.

The views, too, are just as memorable as you stand in the heart of the Dangrek Mountains, looking down at your kingdom below. You could even gaze into neighboring Thailand. Such was the proximity to Thailand. Both nations claimed Khmer’s highest shrine as theirs.

8. Silver Pagoda

Set inside Phnom Penh ’s Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda is an elegant temple, otherwise known as Wat Preah Keo. The pagoda received its moniker thanks to the 5 tons of silver at its base. The shine immediately captures your attention.

As you wander closer, you’ll see several of the 5,000 gleaming tiles that cover the base. Most are covered for protection, leading you to wonder just how spectacular it would be completely unveiled.

After making your way up the Italian marble staircase, you’ll head inside, where opulent statues welcome you. The most memorable is the Emerald Buddha, a crystal sculpture that stands on a gilded pedestal.

7. Spot the Irrawaddy dolphins

Cambodia has wonders of the ancient world but also plenty of the natural kind. In Kratie, along the Mekong River, you can see the beloved Irrawaddy dolphins in the wild.

These dolphins have unique personalities. They’re unlikely alongside the boats and they can be quite shy. But if you spot them, you’ll notice they’re full of expression. Tours take you along the Mekong towards the Kampi Rapids, where you’ll need to keep your spidey senses alert to spot these beautiful creatures.

Patience is key, and the best time to visit is in the early afternoon. They come and go with great speed, so it’s handy to have a camera with a good zoom and quick shutter.

Deep in the heart of Koh Ker stands an architectural gem that has stood the test of time. The ancient, 10th century Koh Ker Temple once marked the capital of the Khmer empire and is a veritable journey back to the 900s.

The serene complex is an enriching adventure that showcases a unique blend of Hindu and Khmer styles. Pyramid buildings are a clear difference to the Angkor region, divulging a shift between the different eras.

Deities and mythological figures are displayed in bas-reliefs. These tell stories even older than the temples, while central temples provide epic views of the surrounding jungle.

5. Banteay Srei

As the sun climbs over the Angkor complex , it splashes against the rose-colored sandstone of Banteay Srei. This early morning light showcases the ancient complex as it was at its height. The smooth, inviting colors provide Banteay Srei with a captivating charm.

This temple is about an hour north of Siem Reap, close to Phnom Kulen National Park. Compared to Bayon and Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei is much smaller. But therein lies the appeal. The incredible detail shines through evoking a longing to further understand both the process and the culture behind it all.

Everything used to create the temple from the sandstone to the bas-reliefs is meticulous. The best example being the evocative shrines of Shiva and Vishnu.

4. Elephant Valley Project

For travelers, ethical elephant riding is a bit of an oxymoron. While the experience was once popular, times have certainly changed. And for the better. But there are still ways to have that classic South East Asia elephant experience at Mondulkiri’s Elephant Valley Project.

The sustainable organization helps to re-home and rehab overworked elephants and those searching for a retirement home. Spanning an enormous sanctuary in northeastern Cambodia, visitors can discover the important work that has led to the “walking with the herd” project.

Rather than ride the elephants, you can walk among them as you explore a vast mountain valley in unison. It’s an emotional experience that combines the region’s natural beauty with one of the world’s best gentle giants. Among it all, you can learn about the indigenous Bunong culture.

3. Otres Beach, Sihanoukville

There are some amazing beaches in Cambodia , especially considering its relative lack of coastline. At the top of the list for travelers seeking some sun-soaked sand is Otres Beach.

Otres Beaches stares out into the Gulf of Thailand and is based along Cambodia’s Riviera. Its golden sands inspired travelers to flock to Sihanoukville and saw the development of the region’s first resorts.

But don’t worry. Towards the southeastern end of the beach, charm and beauty remain. The warm waters splash against the ivory sand where low-key guest houses provide travelers with a chance to recharge their batteries.

Aside from cracking open a fresh book and a cold Angkor beer, grab some snorkel gear and jump on a night tour. This will showcase a vibrant underwater world where phytoplankton burst to life after dark.

2. Bayon Temple

As you explore the vast temple city of Angkor, there are several sites you can’t miss. Yes, Angkor Wat is the most celebrated, but you must also explore Bayon Temple.

The initial construction of Bayon Temple was hurried to ensure King Jayavarman VII would see it before he passed away. Now, 800 years later, we can see the effect of that decision compared to other temples.

However, Bayon Temple’s incredible reliefs and carved creations make it a must-see. It’s known as the Temple of Faces, and you’ll quickly see why as you gaze upon the many faces of Buddha.

With fifty towers, each with four faces, there are over 200 spread throughout the vast complex. Some also depict themes of the day, from battles to trade.

1. Angkor Wat

No site captures the sheer brilliance, beauty and skill of the ancient Khmer quite like Angkor Wat. The driving force behind much of Cambodia’s tourism has stood for a thousand years and its inspired design continues to captivate.

Surrounded by a glistening moat, the complex rises over 50 meters above the jungle floor. It’s punctuated by a towering structure that connects hundreds of meters of bas-reliefs, creating a spectacular architectural ensemble.

The temple, appropriately, is a representation of the ancient Hindu gods and heaven on earth. History, culture, spirituality and intricate design all combine to fester an incredible feeling within every visitor.

Arrive at sunrise for the most poignant experience. As the sun rises over the darkened surroundings, it bounces over Angkor Wat, splashing it with golden light as it stands like a deity above those who view it.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Cambodia

Share this post:

15 Best Countries to Visit in Asia

10 Best Places to Visit in Cambodia

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Cambodia: DIY Itinerary

12 Best Cities to Visit in Cambodia

6 Best Cambodia Beach Resorts

10 Best Beaches in Cambodia

Visiting Kampong Phluk Floating Village on a Boat Trip from Siem Reap

10 Best Beaches in Sihanoukville, Cambodia

Where to Stay in Siem Reap: 5 Best Neighborhoods

14 Best Things to Do in Siem Reap

Reader interactions.

February 10, 2019 at 1:46 pm

For me, the most amazing and beautiful place in Cambodia is Ratanakiri Province. It’s so natural still. The main attraction there is Yeak Laom Lake, crater lake, located in 4000 years old volcano crater. Water is crystal clear and much colder so it’s a great place for swimming and longer relax. From the Yeak Laom Lake, there is a road to Ou’Sean Lair Waterfall (one of the biggest waterfalls in Cambodia) and two other waterfalls Katieng and Kachanh. At Katieng waterfall living also elephants. Ratanakiri Province, it’s also a place where we can find Zircon mines. The weather is colder so it’s a great place for longer relax.

March 17, 2018 at 7:52 pm

I would love to go to the Silver Pagoda. it looks amazing

July 2, 2017 at 6:49 pm

I was at Angkor Wat temple in June of 2016. It was absolutely amazing and beautiful. I recommend this destination for anyone that is going to the Siem Reap area.

May 17, 2015 at 9:28 am

I’ve been to Cambodia twice to see Angkor Wat and this year in December I plan to go again.

December 11, 2014 at 4:26 pm

For those going to Cambodia I would recommend Kampot. Charming little town that feels off the Beaten Path.

August 23, 2014 at 10:14 pm

Going to Cambodia next year seems like is safe for all visitors. Many wonders to see. Cambodia here we go. Any nice and convenient hotels for two weeks which might had all inclusive?

February 26, 2014 at 12:00 pm

Cambodia tourism is booming and the country is becoming one of “the” travel destinations in Asia. Now, more and more people become aware of the charms that the Khmer empire and the Cambodia tourism infrastructure have to offer visitors.

January 27, 2014 at 7:52 pm

Great post, there’s so much cool stuff to see in Cambodia, and the people/culture are very special indeed 🙂 Nice to see Koh Ker in there too, one of the lesser known temples.

April 11, 2013 at 2:56 am

We went on Business Investment Trip to a few of these location in Cambodia – Ankor Watt tops the list for us!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Wanderlust Travel & Photos

Seeing the world one trip at a time.

• Work With Me
• Travel Journal
• Privacy Policy
• Browse by Continent
• South Africa Travel
• Tanzania Travel
• Thailand Travel
• Dominican Republic Travel
• Italy Travel
• Spain Travel
• Canada Travel
• Australia Travel
• New Zealand Travel
• Ecuador Travel
• Peru Travel
• Browse by Region
• East North Central
• East South Central
• Mid-Atlantic
• New England
• South Atlantic
• West North Central
• West South Central
• Central America
• North America
• South America
• Travel Vlog
• Instagram Photos

Top 15 Things to See in Cambodia: Guide to Must-Visit Attractions

From the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat to the lush tropical landscapes and vibrant cities, Cambodia beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its rich heritage and stunning beauty. Whether you’re seeking to uncover ancient history, immerse yourself in natural splendor, or simply soak up the unique atmosphere, Cambodia offers a truly captivating and unforgettable travel experience. In this article, I outline the top fifteen things to see in Cambodia to help you plan your travel.

At the top of the list is the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, a sprawling temple complex that stands as a testament to the remarkable Khmer civilization. Beyond Angkor, the country’s diverse landscapes provide ample opportunities for exploration, from the lush, jungle-clad hills of the Cardamom Mountains to the serene beaches along the southern coastline. Whether you’re seeking to uncover ancient history, immerse yourself in natural splendor, or simply soak up the unique atmosphere, Cambodia offers a truly captivating and unforgettable travel experience.

Without a doubt, one of the top things to see in Cambodia for any traveler is the amazing Angkor Wat temple complex. This awe-inspiring site, dating back to the 12th century, captivates visitors with its intricate stone carvings, towering spires, and sprawling layout that encompasses over 400 acres. Exploring the complex reveals a labyrinth of galleries, courtyards, and passageways, each adorned with intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and the daily life of the Khmer people.

The sheer scale of Angkor Wat is humbling, with its vast network of interconnected structures and the countless stone blocks that were meticulously carved and assembled to create this architectural masterpiece. Visitors can spend days, even weeks, immersing themselves in the rich history and cultural significance of this amazing site. A journey to Angkor Wat is a truly unforgettable experience, a window into the past that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness its grandeur.

Recommended Tours

Tuol sleng genocide museum.

For travelers who are interested in history and culture, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is one of the top things to see in Cambodia for visitors. Located in the capital city of Phnom Penh, this former high school building was transformed into a notorious prison and torture center during the brutal Khmer Rouge regime in the late 1970s. Rusting hospital beds, leg shackles, and other ominous instruments of torture serve as grim testaments to the unspeakable atrocities committed here.

Stark, black-and-white photographs of the victims line the walls, their haunting gazes bearing witness to the horrors that unfolded within these walls. Rusting hospital beds, leg shackles, and other ominous instruments of torture serve as grim testaments to the unspeakable atrocities committed here. As one of the country’s most somber and powerful historical sites, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum stands as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked power and tyranny.

Ta Prohm Temple

Nestled deep within the lush, verdant jungles of Cambodia lies the enigmatic and captivating Ta Prohm temple. This ancient Buddhist monastery, dating back to the 12th century, stands as a testament to the remarkable resilience of nature and the transience of human civilization. Nicknamed the “Tomb Raider Temple” because of its significant role in the Angelina Jolie motion picture, the temple site is renowned for being engulfed by the surrounding jungle.

As visitors wander the moss-covered ruins, they are transported back in time, surrounded by the gnarled, sprawling roots of towering trees that have reclaimed the once-grand structures, their branches intertwining with crumbling stone walls and doorways. The sheer scale of the temple complex is awe-inspiring, with towering spires, intricate carvings, and hidden chambers waiting to be explored. Without a doubt, it is one of the top temple sites in Cambodia to visit.

Bayon Temple

Not only is the incredible Bayon Temple one of the top things to see in Cambodia, but it may be my favorite thing to see in the country. Tucked away within the ancient city of Angkor Thom, this 12th-century Khmer temple is renowned for its serene, smiling stone faces that gaze out from the towering stone structures. As you approach the temple, you’re immediately struck by the sheer scale and grandeur of the site, with its towers all adorned with these iconic, enigmatic faces.

The Bayon’s mystical atmosphere is further enhanced by the lush jungle growth that has reclaimed parts of the site, vines snaking across the weathered stones and roots pushing up through the earth. A visit to the Bayon Temple is a must for any traveler seeking to immerse themselves in Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and the awe-inspiring legacy of the Khmer empire.

Baphuon Temple

This enormous 11th-century temple, located in the ancient city of Angkor, was once the centerpiece of the Khmer Empire’s capital, standing as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Khmer people. The temple complex is huge, covering an area of over 100,000 square meters and features a massive, three-tiered pyramid structure that rises over 130 feet into the air.

However, the true highlight of visiting the Baphuon Temple is the opportunity to ascend the steep stairways and walkways that lead to the upper tiers of the temple, where one can gaze out over the lush, verdant landscape of Angkor and appreciate the Baphuon’s commanding presence in the heart of this ancient wonder. For those seeking to connect with Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, a visit to this incredible temple complex is a must.

The Silver Pagoda

Without a doubt, the captivating Silver Pagoda is one of the top things to see in Cambodia for travelers. Located within the grounds of the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, this beautiful pagoda is a breathtaking sight to behold, with its ornate architecture and glistening floors covered in thousands of silver tiles. The main altar of the pagoda is adorned with a large statue of the Emerald Buddha, carved from Baccarat crystal and weighing an astounding 90 kilograms.

Visitors can also admire the array of historical artifacts and royal treasures housed within the pagoda, including the Preah Baat, a small gold Buddhastatue that is said to have been used by King Norodom. The sheer opulence and cultural significance of the Silver Pagoda make it a must-see destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Cambodia and bear witness to the country’s enduring spiritual traditions.

The Floating Villages

Cambodia’s floating villages are a captivating and unique aspect of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Situated along the banks of the Tonle Sap lake and Mekong River, these remarkable communities have adapted to their watery environment, constructing entire villages atop floating platforms that rise and fall with the dramatic seasonal changes in water levels. There are shops, churches, restaurants, and even animal holding pens in these floating cities.

It’s a fascinating landscape, where the ability to live, work, and thrive entirely on the water is a testament to the remarkable resilience and ingenuity of the Cambodian people. For the visitor, exploring these floating villages offers a captivating glimpse into a way of life that has endured for generations, providing a window into Cambodia’s vibrant cultural tapestry and a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Elephant Valley Project

Located in the lush, verdant forests of northeastern Cambodia, this ethical elephant sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued Asian elephants, allowing visitors to witness the gentle giants roaming freely and engaging in their natural behaviors without the invasive presence of rides, shows, or other forms of elephant exploitation. When you visit, you will get to see elephants foraging, bathing in the nearby streams, and interacting with one another in their familial social groups.

Beyond the elephant encounters, the project also educates travelers about the critical conservation efforts underway to protect Cambodia’s dwindling elephant population from the threats of habitat loss and poaching, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the importance of responsible, sustainable ecotourism. If you love animals, a visit to the Elephant Valley Project is one of the top things to see in Cambodia for travelers.

Phnom Kulen National Park

If you are a national parks enthusiast like I am, then there is little doubt that Phnom Kulen National Park is one of the top things to see in Cambodia when you visit. Situated just north of the ancient Khmer capital of Angkor, this protected area encompasses a plateau of sacred sandstone mountains that rise dramatically from the surrounding plains, their rugged cliffs and lush, forested slopes concealing a wealth of hidden treasures.

At the heart of the park lies the Kulen Mountain, a revered site that played a pivotal role in the founding of the Khmer Empire, its summit crowned with an 8th-century temple complex that bears witness to the region’s storied past. Cascading down the mountain’s slopes are the famous Phnom Kulen Waterfalls, a series of serene, tiered cataracts that draw visitors from near and far to bathe in their cool, rejuvenating waters.

Beyond the falls, the park’s dense jungles shelter an abundance of rare flora and fauna, from towering trees draped in vines to elusive wildlife like the Pileated gibbon. Whether marveling at the majestic mountain vistas, discovering hidden archaeological gems, or simply reveling in the park’s serene natural beauty, a journey to Phnom Kulen promises to be a truly unforgettable experience for any traveler to Cambodia.

Nestled along the banks of the Sangker River, the charming city of Battambang in northwestern Cambodia beckons travelers with its captivating blend of French colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and serene rural landscapes. Often overlooked by tourists in favor of Cambodia’s more famous attractions like Angkor Wat, Battambang offers a chance to immerse oneself in the country’s authentic provincial culture.

The city’s historic downtown is a delight to explore on foot, with beautifully preserved shophouses, ornate Buddhist temples, and quaint cafes lining the tree-shaded streets. Beyond the urban center, the verdant countryside surrounding Battambang is dotted with ancient pagodas, serene rice paddies, and scenic limestone hills. For those seeking to step off the beaten path and discover a side of the country that remains delightfully untouched by mass tourism, this unassuming provincial city is an absolute must-visit.

Prasat Preah Khan

With so many spectacular temples in the country, it is easy to overlook the amazing Prasat Preah Khan when compiling a list of the top things to see in Cambodia. Located deep within the lush, verdant jungles of the country’s northwest, this sprawling, atmospheric ruin dates back to the late 12th century. The sheer scale of Prasat Preah Khan is humbling, with its winding, labyrinthine layout and the towering, moss-covered towers that pierce the jungle canopy above.

It’s easy to lose yourself in the serene, contemplative atmosphere, imagining the bustling monastic life that once thrived here centuries ago. For those seeking an off-the-grid adventure and a profound connection to Cambodia’s storied past, a visit to the enigmatic Prasat Preah Khan is a must, offering a window into a bygone era of Khmer civilization and the chance to wander among the haunting ruins of this architectural masterpiece.

Sihanoukville

Situated along the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Sihanoukville boasts a number of picturesque beaches that draw visitors from around the world. The city’s main beach, Ochheuteal, is a long stretch of soft, golden sand flanked by swaying palm trees and a lively beachfront promenade lined with restaurants, bars, and hotels.

Further afield, quieter beaches like Otres and Independence offer a more serene and secluded atmosphere, perfect for those seeking to simply relax and soak up the sun. But Sihanoukville offers more than just beaches – the city is also home to a bustling central market, ornate Khmer temples, and a lively nightlife scene, with vibrant bars and clubs that come alive after dark. With its beauty and cultural attractions, Sihanoukville has quickly become a must-visit destination for travelers.

Banteay Srei Temple

This 10th century masterpiece, often referred to as the “Citadel of the Women” due to the delicate, intricate carvings that adorn its walls, stands as a testament to the skill and artistry of the Khmer people. Wandering through the courtyards and corridors, you can’t help but be in awe of the engineering prowess required to construct such an elaborate temple, with its towers, libraries, and shrines all seamlessly integrated.

Yet beyond the architectural splendor, Banteay Srei also offers a peaceful respite, allowing visitors to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the serene, spiritual atmosphere that permeates the site. It’s no wonder this gem of Khmer culture and craftsmanship is considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved temples in all of Cambodia.

Like Siem Reap, the incredible city of Phnom Penh is one of the most popular things to see in Cambodia for travelers. Not only is it the country’s capital, but it is also one of the Cambodia’s most captivating destinations. As one ventures through the city’s winding streets, the sights, sounds, and flavors of this ancient land come alive.

The strikingly beautiful Royal Palace and the dazzling Silver Pagoda are just a few of the city’s treasures that await for you to explore. The lively Central Market, with its maze of stalls overflowing with local handicrafts, spices, and fresh produce, offers a sensory experience like no other, allowing visitors to mingle with the friendly Cambodian people and gain a deeper understanding of their daily lives.

And as the sun sets, the riverside promenade comes alive with street food vendors, lively bars, and the rhythmic beats of traditional Khmer music, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the pulsing energy of this captivating city. Phnom Penh is a destination that captivates the senses and leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of all who visit.

There are a lot of breathtaking spots on this list of the top things to see in Cambodia, but the breathtaking Koh Kong Province may be the most underrated. This remote region, often referred to as the “Cardamom Rainforest,” is a lush, verdant wonderland teeming with towering mountains, winding rivers, and dense, primeval jungles that harbor an incredible diversity of plant and animal life.

Visitors to Koh Kong can explore the area’s network of caves, which are home to ancient rock formations and even hidden waterfalls. For the more daring, the region offers ample opportunities for heart-pumping activities like trekking, kayaking, and even ziplining through the jungle canopy.

Whether seeking adrenaline-fueled exploration or a peaceful communion with nature, Koh Kong presents travelers with an unparalleled experience, inviting them to discover the untamed beauty and captivating essence of this remarkable corner of Cambodia.

Don’t Forget to Subscribe to My Adventures!

Type your email…

Let Me Help You Save On Your Next Adventure!

‘start exploring today’ merchandise available now.

Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

Related Articles

Navigating Peru Entrance Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

Ecuador Entrance Requirements: Everything You Need to Know

Top 15 Things to See in Ecuador: The Must-Visit Destinations

Leave a reply cancel reply.

[…] The 20 Best Travel Accessories for 2024: An Essential Guide – https://wanderlustphotosblog.com/2024/01/24/the-20-best-travel-accessories-for-2024-an-essential-gui… […]

[…] Choosing how to travel depends on what you like and your budget. To plan better, check out this guide.…

[…] more tips on your trip, check out this comprehensive guide. It covers safaris and cruises on the Zambezi River.…

You are very welcome!

Discover more from Wanderlust Travel & Photos

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading

Subscribe To My Adventures!

Visit Cambodia

Botum Sakor National Park: Cambodia’s Largest and Most Biodiverse National Park

Located in the Koh Kong province, southwest of Cambodia, Botum Sakor National Park is Cambodia’s largest biodiverse national park. It features a 35 km wide peninsula that projects out from the Cardamom Mountains. The park’s terrain gently slopes down from the mountains to the coastal wetlands. You’ll find a diverse range of ecosystems within the…

A Travel Guide to Koh Kong: What You Need to Know Before Visiting

Looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Cambodia, look no further than Koh Kong province. This lesser-explored region is full of natural beauty, from the lush Cardamom Mountains to the mangrove forests. The latter is especially noteworthy, as they are home to a diverse range of rare and exotic wildlife. If you’re looking to escape the…

Old Market / Phsar Kronat

Should anyone be interested, this was retrieved from the old visitcambodia.org website (via archive.org) The old market, also called Phsar Kronat is located at the northern part of Kampot town. It is a traditional style market catering primarily to the locals and their daily needs. The vendors at Phsar Kronat sell vegetables, fruits, meat, bulk…

Banteay Samre

Should anyone be interested, this was retrieved from the old visitcambodia.org website (via archive.org) Banteay Samre is an ancient Hindu temple, situated amidst lush rice paddies and small villages. The temple was built in the 12th century during the reign of Kings Suryavarman II and Yasovarman II. Banteay Samre, loosely translated means ‘The Citadel of…

Khun Chhang Khun Phen Koh Kong

Should anyone be interested, this was retrieved from the old visitcambodia.org website (via archive.org) Khun Chhang Khun Phen, a 4m-high concrete stupa on a rock in the middle of a tributary of the sea,  is sited about one kilometer from the provincial town of Koh Kong. The small stupa which contains the remains of a…

Must-see attractions in Cambodia

Temples of Angkor

At the heart of Angkor Thom is the 12th-century Bayon, the mesmerising, if slightly mind-bending, state temple of Jayavarman VII. It epitomises the…

Banteay Srei

Considered by many to be the jewel in the crown of Angkorian art, Banteay Srei is cut from stone of a pinkish hue and includes some of the finest stone…

Beng Mealea

A spectacular sight to behold, Beng Mealea, located about 68km northeast of Siem Reap, is one of the most mysterious temples at Angkor, as nature has well…

Banteay Chhmar

Northwestern Cambodia

Beautiful, peaceful and covered in astonishingly intricate bas-reliefs, Banteay Chhmar is one of the most impressive temple complexes beyond the Angkor…

The traveller's first glimpse of Angkor Wat, the ultimate expression of Khmer genius, is matched by only a few select spots on earth. Built by Suryavarman…

The so-called 'Tomb Raider Temple', Ta Prohm is cloaked in dappled shadow, its crumbling towers and walls locked in the slow muscular embrace of vast root…

Prasat Preah Vihear

The most dramatically situated of all Angkorian monuments, Prasat Preah Vihear sprawls along a clifftop near the Thai border, with breathtaking views of…

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

In 1975 Tuol Svay Prey High School was taken over by Pol Pot’s security forces and turned into a prison known as Security Prison 21 (S-21); it soon became…

Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary

Prek Toal is one of three biospheres on the Tonlé Sap lake, and this stunning bird sanctuary makes it the most worthwhile and straightforward of the three…

Preah Khan of Kompong Svay

For tantalising lost-world ambience, this remote temple complex about 90km south of Preah Vihear City can't be beaten. It's wrapped by vines and trees,…

Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre

This wonderful wildlife sanctuary for rescued animals is home to gibbons, sun bears, elephants, tigers, lions, deer, enormous pythons and a massive bird…

National Museum of Cambodia

The National Museum of Cambodia is home to the world’s finest collection of Khmer sculpture: a millennium’s worth and more of masterful Khmer design…

Silver Pagoda

Within the Royal Palace compound is this extravagant temple, also known as Wat Preah Keo or Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The Silver Pagoda is so named…

Royal Palace

With its classic Khmer roofs and ornate gilding, the Royal Palace once dominated the skyline of Phnom Penh. It's a striking structure near the riverfront,…

Boeng Yeak Lom

Eastern Cambodia

At the heart of the protected area of Boeng Yeak Lom is a beautiful, emerald-hued crater lake set amid the vivid greens of the towering jungle. It is one…

Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

Between 1975 and 1978, about 20,000 men, women, children and infants who had been detained and tortured at S-21 prison were transported to the…

Angkor National Museum

Looming large on the road to Angkor is the Angkor National Museum, a state-of-the-art showpiece on the Khmer civilisation and the majesty of Angkor…

Artisans Angkor – Les Chantiers Écoles

Siem Reap is the epicentre of the drive to revitalise Cambodian traditional culture, which was dealt a harsh blow by the Khmer Rouge and the years of…

A landmark building in the capital, the art deco Psar Thmei (literally 'New Market') is often called the Central Market, a reference to its location and…

Sothy's Pepper Farm

One of the friendliest farms to visit, Sothy is passionate about his product and will gladly elaborate on the history and process behind the 'champagne of…

Kep National Park

The interior of Kep peninsula is occupied by Kep National Park, where an 8km circuit, navigable by foot, mountain bike, or motorbike, begins behind…

Preah Khan Main Temple

The main temple is surrounded by a (now dry) moat similar to the one around Angkor Thom. Once through the grand gateway, the trail meanders past a…

Cambodia Landmine Museum

Established by DIY deminer Aki Ra, this museum has eye-opening displays on the curse of landmines in Cambodia. The collection includes mines, mortars,…

Chong Kos Floating Village

Much less visited than other floating villages near Siem Reap, the Tonlé Sap River hamlet of Chong Kos is a Cambodian village of colourful wooden houses,…

Cambodia finally got a sizable contemporary arts space in 2019, when Kbach moved into three galleries covering 400 sq metres of Factory Phnom Penh. The…

Factory Phnom Penh

This 3.4-hectare Levi's garment factory, 2km south of town, was completely transformed in 2018 into a graffiti-covered hub for entrepreneurs, artists and…

Romcheik 5 Artspace

Expanded from a workshop into a bona fide gallery in 2015, this impressive space has a permanent collection upstairs displaying the edgy, contemporary…

Apopo Visitor Centre

Meet the hero rats that are helping to clear landmines in Cambodia. Apopo has trained the highly sensitive, almost-blind Gambian pouched rat to sniff…

Abandoned to the forests of the north, Koh Ker, capital of the Angkorian empire from 928 to 944 CE, is within day-trip distance of Siem Reap. Most…

The temple of Preah Khan is one of the largest complexes at Angkor, a maze of vaulted corridors, fine carvings and lichen-clad stonework. It is a good…

Angkor Thom South Gate

The south gate of Angkor Thom is most popular with visitors, as it has been fully restored and many of the heads (mostly copies) remain in place. The gate…

Churning of the Ocean of Milk

The southern section of the east gallery is decorated by the most famous of the bas-relief scenes at Angkor Wat, the Churning of the Ocean of Milk. This…

Phnom Kulen

Considered by Khmers to be the most sacred mountain in Cambodia, Phnom Kulen is a popular place of pilgrimage on weekends and during festivals. It played…

A spectacularly carved riverbed, Kbal Spean is set deep in the jungle to the northeast of Angkor. More commonly referred to in English as the ‘River of a…

Sambor Prei Kuk

Cambodia’s most impressive group of pre-Angkorian monuments, Sambor Prei Kuk encompasses more than 100 mainly brick temples scattered through the forest,…

Phnom Sampeau

This fabled limestone outcrop 12km southwest of Battambang along NH57 (towards Pailin) is known for its gorgeous views and mesmerising display of bats,…

If you like the rustic beachcomber lifestyle, Koh Tonsay's 250m-long main beach is for you. This is a place to while away hours or days doing little but…

Terrace of the Leper King

The Terrace of the Leper King is just north of the Terrace of Elephants. Dating from the late 12th century, it is a 7m-high platform, on top of which…

Preah Neak Poan

The Buddhist temple of Preah Neak Poan is a petite yet perfect temple constructed by Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century. It has a large square pool…

Phnom Bakheng

Located around 400m south of Angkor Thom, the main attraction at Phnom Bakheng is the sunset view over Angkor Wat. For many years, the whole affair turned…

More destinations you need to see

Visit Koh Ker - The UNESCO World Heritage List

VIEW DETAILS

Book Tour to Angkor Wat

Book Bus Tickets Domestic and International Now

with Special Rate

• What To See

Angkor Complex

Phnom penh city, sihanoukville - beach, mondulkiri - minority, rattanakiri - ecotourism, kampot - sea foods, kratie - dolphin, kampong thom, preah vihear, kirirom resort, banteay chhmar temple.

What to See in Cambodia - Cambodia Major Attractions

Cambodia is located in the heart mainland of Southeast Asia, which conjures images of a glorious and mysterious past and rich of the cultural heritages, particularly the world's renowned ancient temple city whose magical image draws ever-increasingly tourists from all over the world.

The divergent facets of the Kingdom provoke both the serious and casual traveler, generally charmed and sometimes bewildered by its mysteries. Not only Angkor Wat, Bayon, Taprohm, Sandstone of ancient holy places, the giant roots of ancient trees, the graceful shapes of Apsaras and some temples buried in the jungle, hill tribes settled in the remote areas, colorful pagodas, strings of pristine islands and the century beach, as part of cultural tour that Cambodia is proud of her presentation, but also the splendor of the Khmer civilization and its people who have shown their friendliness everywhere you move in the country.

For most, Cambodia first conjures up the legendary Angkor (the magnificent Empire erected by Kings between the 9th and 13th centuries) that continues to admiration from Khmers and foreigners alike. The humanity and disaster of the nature have failed to compromise the awe of Angkor. The temples remain with an enigmatic grandeur, as a testimony to the Empire that symbolized the country at the present day.

They are the silent witnesses to the perennial cycles of life, which occur with each rainy season. The Kingdom emerges from its lethargy and springs back to life. Clouds, swollen with moisture, burst their monsoon rains to fill in the Tonle Sap (Great Lake ) that bring over thousands tones of fresh water fishes.

Every year, the country is transformed in a nature cycle, which is unique to Cambodia. The flow of the mighty Mekong River swells until it forces the Tonle Sap to reverse its course, pushing up stream from the ancient capital. Every year, the reversal of the river is celebrated with the country's most spectacular Water Festival in November.

Angkor Archeological Park is your guide to Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm (Jungle Temple),...

The capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, is located at the confluence of three...

Sihanoukville's white sand beaches and warm Gulf of Thailand waters combine with a laid back,...

Mondulkiri is chock full of natural beauty, with thickly forested mountains, powerful...

Ratanakiri became a province of Kingdom of Cambodia in 1960 under King Norodom Sihanouk's...

Kampot is a small town on the Tuk Chhou River, 5km inland from the sea. Fishing and farming...

Kratie is a sleepy Mekong River town situated on the east bank of the mighty river. It’s...

Kampong Thom is a province located at the central point of the Kingdom of Cambodia. The...

Battambang is the Cambodia's second largest city lies in the heart of the Northwest and until...

Preah Vihear Temple is located in a pleasant environment with an attractive countryside...

Located at Phnom Sruoch district in the province of Kampong Speu, Kirirom National Park is...

Banteay Chhmar, the enormous complex, which was a temple city, is one of the most intriguing...

Recommended Cambodia Tours

Cambodia Day Tours

Angkor Temple Tours

Cambodia Classic Tours

Promotion Tours

Adventure Tours

Cycling Tours

Trip planner.

• Essential Information
• General Infomation
• Food & Drink
• Events in cambodia
• Travel Maps
• Accommodations
• Flight Details
• Transportation
• Tour Packages
• Travel Guides

Useful Links

• Cambodia Visa
• Useful Contacts
• Tourist Information
• Phnom Penh Postal Code
• Advertise with us

Travel Services

• Cambodia Tours
• Cambodia Flights
• Cambodia Hotels
• Boat/Cruise Ticket

Travel News & Media

• Cambodia Travel News
• Cambodia Events
• Download & Media
• Photo Gallery

Agency offering information about Cambodia on tourism, culture, history, visa, attractions, province guides, trip planner, hotels, flights, cars, tours, news, photo and online bookings.

• Copyright © 1999-2024 Tourism of Cambodia. |
• Privacy Policy |
• Terms of Service |