top cities to visit in cambodia

The 10 best places to visit in beautiful Cambodia

Nov 16, 2023 • 7 min read

Wander through the timeworn gateways of Angkor Wat, one of the highlights of Asia © Sestovic / Getty Images

Packed with some of Southeast Asia's best experiences, from temples to beaches and wonderful wildlife, it truly pays to spend a few weeks exploring Cambodia .

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s once ravaged but now resurgent capital, is the place to check the pulse of contemporary life in Cambodia. However, Siem Reap, the gateway to the majestic temples of Angkor, is starting to give the capital a run for its money with its sophisticated restaurants, lively bars and chic boutiques. Then there's World Heritage-listed Angkor, home to some of the most spectacular temples on earth.

Down on the South Coast are several up-and-coming beach resorts and a smattering of tropical islands that are really beginning to take off. Northwestern Cambodia is home to the French-colonial city of Battambang, offering a more traditional slice of Cambodian life and several remote jungle temples, while the country’s wild east is where elephants roam, waterfalls thunder and freshwater dolphins frolic.

All in all, it's quite a package. Here are the best places to visit in Cambodia to start your adventure.

1. The temples of Angkor

Best for spectacular spirituality

One of the world’s most iconic destinations, the temples of Angkor regularly take the number one spot on lists of the world’s top sights. The most iconic structures here are Angkor Wat , the world’s largest religious building, and the Bayon , one of the world’s most unique temples, with its enigmatic collection of carved stone faces. Then there's Ta Prohm , where wild nature has run riot over ancient carved masonry.

The ancient Khmers packed the equivalent of all Europe's cathedrals into an area the size of Los Angeles, so it pays to take time to explore. There are plenty of outlying temple sites that see smaller crowds, including exquisitely carved Banteay Srei , the overgrown ruins of Beng Mealea and the Mayan-style pyramid temple of Prasat Thom at Koh Ker.

2. Cambodia's Southern Islands 

Best for beaches

While the sand-sprinkled Cambodian coast may not be quite as famous as the beaches of Thailand or Indonesia, it still offers the full tropical hideaway experience, only without the crazy crowds. Neighboring Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are the most popular islands, fringed by azure waters and abundant powder-white sand.

There are many more islands along the coast, including the largely undiscovered Koh Sdach Archipelago and the large, almost undeveloped Koh Kong. Don't overlook the smaller islands close to overbearing Sihanoukville , like Koh Russey with its upscale resorts and Koh Ta Khiev with its low-key backpacker bungalows.

3. Phnom Penh

Best for fine dining and nightlife

The Cambodian capital is a chaotic yet charming city that has stepped out of the shadows of its war-torn past to embrace a brighter future. Boasting one of the most beguiling riverfronts in Southeast Asia, Phnom Penh is emerging as a sophisticated modern capital thanks to its impressive collection of boutique hotels, epicurean eateries and boho bars.

Urban explorers can feast all day and party all night, or experience the inspiring National Museum and the harrowing Tuol Sleng prison , showcasing the best and worst of Cambodian history. Once known as the "pearl of Asia," Phnom Penh is regaining its shine.

4. Kampot and Kep

Best for countryside scenery

These twin provinces down south offer a perfect combination of travel comforts and authentic character for those seeking a more rounded experience than the stop-and-flop vibe on the islands. Charming Kampot town offers a wide range of backpacker hostels, riverside resorts and boutique hotels where you can base yourself while you take in the French architectural legacy, explore the pretty river by paddleboard or kayak, or venture into the bucolic countryside on two wheels.

Beachside boutique charmer Kep has its famous Crab Market, hiking in Kep National Park and nearby Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) , a great spot to escape the hubbub. Rural adventures include the winding ascent to the atmospheric Bokor Hill Station, hidden cave pagodas from the 7th century, and visits to rustic pepper farms. Take time to cruise through the salt flats at sunset as workers use a traditional yoke and baskets to harvest the region's white gold.

5. The Cardamom Mountains

Best for motorcycle adventures

The vast 20,746 sq km (8010 sq miles) Cardamom Rainforest Landscape protected area includes one of the last great wilderness regions of Southeast Asia – the remote Cardamom Mountains. An area of breathtaking beauty and astonishing biodiversity, this green corridor includes many of Cambodia’s most outstanding natural sites. 

If you can, explore by motorbike to immerse yourself in the landscape. Highlights include the isolated Stung Areng Valley, the rolling grasslands and dramatic drop-offs of Khnong Phsar, award-winning ecolodges in Botum Sakor National Park and the Tatai Wildlife Sanctuary with its iconic waterfall, myriad eco-adventures and fairytale accommodation. If you want to take a ride on the wild side, the Cardamom Mountains are the place to do it.

6. Siem Reap

Best for a taste of local life

Siem Reap’s only reason for existence may be as the gateway to the temples of Angkor, but this charming town has emerged as a world-class destination in its own right, thanks to a superb selection of restaurants, cafes and bars, not to mention energetic markets, cool boutiques and edgy galleries. Beyond the town center lie otherworldly floating villages on the Tonlé Sap lake, adventure activities such as quad biking and ziplining, and cultural pursuits such as cooking classes and martial arts courses.

For a different experience, head to nearby traditional villages where it's possible to experience local life in simple, welcoming homestays. Siem Reap was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw many businesses close, but there have been some real moves to "build back better" with renovated roads, riverside gardens and cycle lanes throughout the city. 

7. Mondulkiri

Best for wildlife-spotting

In the northeast of the country, the endless rice fields and sugar palms that characterize the landscape in most of Cambodia give way to the wild rolling hills of Mondulkiri , home to the Indigenous Bunong people.

Wildlife is a big draw here, with opportunities to "walk with the herd" at Elephant Valley Project (a great alternative to harmful elephant-riding) or spot douc langurs or gibbons on a trek through the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary . Add thunderous waterfalls and a jungle zipline to the mix, and you have the perfect ingredients for an ecotourism adventure.

8. Battambang

Best for contrasting historic architecture

Winding along the banks of the Sangker River, Battambang is the traditional face of urban Cambodia and one of the country’s best-preserved colonial-era towns. Streets of shophouses host everything from fairtrade cafes to art galleries. Beyond the town in the countryside is a cluster of ancient temples, which, while not in the same league as the temples of Angkor, are usually less crowded.

Battambang is also the home of the inspiring Phare Ponleu Selpak , a renowned arts NGO that trains performing artists and hosts inspirational performance art shows that combine circus skills with theater and storytelling. Battambang is a world away from the crush of Phnom Penh and the crowds of Angkor, and definitely worth a deviation from the tourist trail. 

9. Preah Vihear Temple

Best for ruins with a view

The mother of all mountain temples, Prasat Preah Vihear , stands majestically atop the Dangkrek Mountains, the forest-cloaked ridge that forms a once-contested border between Cambodia and Thailand. The foundation stones of the temple stretch right to the edge of a cliff that falls precipitously away to the plains below, and the views across northern Cambodia are absolutely breathtaking.

Constructed over 300 years ago, the temple is a three-dimensional representation of Mt Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu mythology. It offers some fascinating insights into the evolution of carving and sculpture during the Angkorian period. It’s all about location, though, and it doesn’t get better than this – remote, hard to reach, but well worth the effort. 

Best for Mekong River adventures

The jumping-off point for trips to spot rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins on the Mekong River, Kratie is a busy junction on the overland route between Phnom Penh and northeastern Cambodia or southern Laos. Dolphins aside, the town has a certain decaying colonial charm and boasts some of the country’s best Mekong sunsets.

Nearby Koh Trong island is a relaxing place to experience authentic Khmer hospitality at a local homestay or explore by rented bike. North of Kratie lies the Mekong Discovery Trail, with a host of adventures and experiences themed around the mother river, including community-based homestays, bicycle rides and boat trips.

This article was first published Mar 23, 2022 and updated Nov 16, 2023.

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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.

1. Angkor Wat (Angkor Archaeological Park)

2. phnom penh, 3. koh rong samloem, 4. siem reap, 5. ratanakiri, 6. prasat preah vihear, 7. battambang, 9. tonlé sap lake, 10. koh kong conservation corridor, 12. sambor prei kuk, 13. banteay chhmar, 14. mundulkiri, 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.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Cambodia

By Carl Austin · Last updated on February 5, 2024

Travelers who are bored with the beaches of Thailand or the natural sights of Vietnam may be up for more ancient ruins viewing. In this case, Cambodia can satisfy these urges. While the larger cities are rapidly modernizing, a visit to the famous site of Angkor offers a chance to see temples unrivaled in scale and grandeur in southeast Asia.

Among the best places to visit in Cambodia are also some smaller towns and villages that provide a chance to experience a more traditional way of life, including treks into the jungle and to see even more fascinating ancient ruins.

10. Kep [SEE MAP]

Kep is a small sea-side resort that offers a variety of beach activities. Snorkelers can enjoy viewing the corals on the bottom of the shallow sea. Rabbit Island is a popular beach near Kep; conditions are rustic, however, with electricity being provided only a few hours in the evening. Most people visit the island on day trips.

Kep was founded as a colonial retreat for the French elite in 1908 and the town is still full of ruined shells of old villas, destroyed in the Khmer Rouge days. Visitors can also take in panoramic ocean views at Kep National Park, visit a butterfly preserve or see how peppers are grown organically.

9. Banlung [SEE MAP]

Banlung in northern Cambodia makes a great destination for travelers who enjoy being outdoors. Several tour companies overnight or multi-day trips into the jungles allowing adventuresome travelers to get up close and personal with nature.

They offer visitors the opportunity to view a variety of monkeys and other wildlife, though some visitors don’t appreciate getting that close to leeches. A sorter trips to Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake offers the opportunity to see deep lakes as well as see Cambodian women doing traditional weaving.

8. Battambang [SEE MAP]

Battambang is Cambodia’s second most populous city, and is especially popular with visitors interested in Cambodian history. Established as a trading center in the 18th century, Battambang later became part of French Indochina, with some colonial buildings still in existence.

The town has many Angkor-style temples and Buddhist shrines. It is easy to get around by foot or bicycle. Statues, mostly of animals and gods, can be found in most public places, the most famous of which is an ancient Khmer king that is located on the road to Phnom Penh. The Central Market also is worth a visit.

7. Kampot [SEE MAP]

Located on a river not too far from the Gulf of Thailand is more famous for its peppers than for tourists, though it is gaining more tourists all the time. Kampot’s black peppercorns are famous with gourmet cooks around the world because of their unique flavor.

Kampot is the gateway to Bokor National Park, famed for its abandoned French hill station, pleasant climate and lush primary rainforest. Kampot also offers visitors the opportunity to go boating and rafting on the river that winds through town, as well as take in scenic waterfalls along the route. The Kampot Kompong Trach caves offer spelunkers the chance to see ancient ruins. Crab curry is a popular local dish.

6. Kratie [SEE MAP]

Kratie is a small town located on the banks of the Mekong River and is dominated by a central marketplace surrounded by old, French colonial buildings. There’s no large scale tourism, but plenty of backpackers pour through here during the peak season.

It is the place in Cambodia to see the rare Irrawaddy dolphins, which live in the Mekong River in ever-diminishing numbers. It is estimated that there are between 66 and 86 dolphins left in the upper Cambodian Mekong area.

5. Sihanoukville [SEE MAP]

Named after a former king, Norodom Sihanouk, Sihanoukville is the most popular Cambodian beach resort on the Gulf of Thailand. Also known as Kompong Saom, Sihanoukville is where the United States fought its last battle in the Vietnam War.

This southern Cambodia city offers both sandy and rocky beaches. Though none of Sihanoukville’s beaches would qualify as southeast Asia’s finest it is one of best places to visit in Cambodia after visiting all the Khmer and other attractions in the rest of the country. The beaches are popular with a variety of travelers from backpackers who stay in huts on the beach to those who prefer the luxury of five-star hotels. Snorkeling is popular on some of the offshore islands.

If water activities are not your thing, you can always rent a motor bike and check out the jungles surrounding Sihanoukville. And if you have the time, take a ride to pretty and pristine Ream National Park, which is an easy day trip from Sihanoukville and home to more than 200 different bird species.

4. Siem Reap [SEE MAP]

Siem Reap (literally “Siam Defeated”) is undoubtedly Cambodia’s fastest growing city and serves as a small charming gateway town to the world famous destination of the Angkor temples. Thanks to those Cambodia attractions, Siem Reap has transformed itself into a major tourist hub.

It is laid-back and a pleasant place to stay while touring the temples. Siem Reap offers a wide range of hotels, ranging from several 5-star hotels to hundreds of budget guesthouses while a large selection of restaurants offer many kinds of food.

See also: Where to Stay in Siem Reap

3. Koh Ker [SEE MAP]

Koh Ker is a remote temple area about 120 kilometers (75 miles) northeast of Siem Reap. For a very brief period, from 928 to 944 AD, Koh Ker was the capital of the Khmer empire.

In this short time some very spectacular buildings and immense sculptures were constructed. The site is dominated by Prasat Thom, a 30 meter (98 ft) tall temple pyramid rising high above the surrounding jungle.

Left to the jungle for nearly a millennium, Koh Ker was one of Cambodia’s most remote and inaccessible temple destinations. This has now changed thanks to recent de-mining and the opening of a new toll road.

2. Phnom Penh [SEE MAP]

Phnom Penh, the largest city is Cambodia, has been its capital since French colonial days. Once known as “the pearl of Asia,” Phnom Penh is considered one of the prettiest of the cities the French built in Indochina though the city is still recovering from war and revolution. French influence can still be found today. Located on the Mekong River, the city actually dates back to the 15th century.

Top attractions include the Royal Palace, which is the residence of Cambodia’s royal family, and the Silver Pagoda, which is covered in 5,000 silver tiles and contains a life-size gold Buddha that is covered in diamonds. The night market or Phsar Reatrey is a good place to pick up handcrafted items and souvenirs.

Of course, there are also more somber sites in Phnom Penh that recount the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime, including the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the infamous Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. There are 129 mass graves in the Killing Fields and its memorial stupa contains the skulls of more than 8,000 people who were murdered at this site.

1. Angkor [SEE MAP]

Angkor served as the capital of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 14th centuries. As such, it is filled with historic treasures, making it one of the most significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia.

Ruins of a thousand temples can be found scattered over farm lands and rice fields. These include the famous Angkor Wat temple, the world’s largest single religious monument, the Bayon temple at Angkor Thom with its multitude of massive stone faces and Ta Prohm , a Buddhist temple ruin entwined with towering trees. Many of the temples at Angkor have been restored, making the huge palace one of the wonders of the ancient world while offering an outstanding look of Khmer history.

During it’s long history Angkor went through many changes in religion converting between Hinduism to Buddhism several times. It has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is one of the prime tourist attractions in Southeast Asia.

Map of Cambodia

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Best Cities To Visit In Cambodia

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Jan 24, 2023 | Asia , Cambodia , Travel Tips

If you are wondering what to do in Cambodia, you’re in the right place! Here’s my Cambodia itinerary 7 days (or more) – featuring the best places to visit in Cambodia !

As I’m writing these lines, it’s my last day in Cambodia . The journey has been great, although it started the wrong way.  I had a plan; traveling across Cambodia with Busabout Asia. If you’re not familiar with the concept, first you need to know it’s great! You’ll be on a tour featuring the best destinations around the country and you’ll still feel free!

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Busabout is a freestyle travel tour which basically means that you hop on a bus while enjoying nice hotels and you’re free to participate in excursions or you can also discover the surrounding beauty by yourself.

The best part is probably the fact that you won’t have to worry about anything, you simply need to follow the guide and make sure you’ll be there on time for the next part of the trip!

As a backpacker, I wouldn’t usually opt for tours. But, fair enough, I was looking forward to being part of this trip as it’s always nice not to have to worry about anything. No planning, no hostel searching, no rip-off.  Just smiles and a lot of fun!

So, here I was in Cambodia, waiting for the tour to start.  I was beginning to be low on cash and I was barely enjoying my very cheap USD 3 bed without AC. It started the wrong way… Yeah.

I don’t know when this happened, but I had a lot of money stolen when I arrived and I could see that my bank account was nearly having a major heart attack here (So was I!).

But what could I have done about it anyway?  Praying for a better karma, I was so ready to be worry-free for a 9-day trip.

If you’re traveling to Cambodia , these destinations should be on your list! (And if you do book your trip with Busabout Asia , then, you’ll be enjoying every single of these stops on the way). Let’s plan your Cambodia adventure!

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Phnom Penh is the capital.  It’s quite busy and you’ll find markets everywhere. The city is huge and even though you think you’re not that far from your destination, you might have to “enjoy” the peaceful traffic.

Then, you’ll pick a day and you’ll face the truth; the sad Cambodian past. Find a kind tuktuk driver and head to the killing fields . I strongly recommend you take an audio-guide as it’s the best way to understand what really happened there.

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I’m not a history teacher (and my memory is not the best one either), but long story short; the killing fields are the place where a lot of Cambodians were killed between 1975 and 1979 during the genocide by the Khmer Rouge.

Basically, in less than 4 years, they killed about the third of the Cambodian population. Please, look at the dates again; this is not a long time ago. Cambodians are still pretty sad and this is understandable, everybody here has been touched somehow by this brutal reality.

Your next stop should be the S-21 Prison . Same story here; prisoners were sent to the killing fields to be executed. You’ll face tons of pictures; pictures were taken before their execution.

Sad. That’s what it is. So sad. It’s going to be an emotional day, but this will truly help you understand the past of Cambodia.

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Kampot (& Kep)

Kampot and Kep have a pretty good reputation in terms of food products. Do you hear me yelling crab and pepper here?  If you’re not a fan of seafood or simply not a foodie, Kampot is still pretty!

Hop on a boat for the sunset and enjoy the sky pornography. The scene is stunning!  If you’re lucky enough, you’ll also be able to spot fireflies after the sunset.

If you walk around Kampot, you’ll realize one of the bridges looks pretty weird. It has been destroyed three times and you can see that when you look at it! One bridge; three different parts!

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Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville was my favorite spot and I wish I’d have had more time around!  Okay, perhaps, I’m sold on Koh Rong Samloem Island.  If I was dead, I wish heaven would look like it! 

This was paradise. I don’t even know enough English words to describe it! Crystal clear water, white sand, palm trees and a bikini. That’s all you need, right? Is this happiness?

Have you ever heard of Song Saa? Look at these best honeymoon destinations in Asia to learn more about this private island!

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The journey to get there can be done by ferry or by boat!  The boat cruise was great!  It was pretty wavy that day and I wished I had taken a motion sickness tablet, but the atmosphere on the boat was as crazy as it can get! 

Have you ever snorkeled ON a boat? I’m not going to spoil the surprise here, but you should just try it!

If you are in love with Koh Rong, you can also book a cheap room directly on the island!

On your way to Battambang, you can also stop for a short cruise on the floating villages which is very impressive too.

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Battambang is well known for its circus and I also strongly recommend this one!  Let’s be a kid for an hour again… please?Plus; it’s for a good cause!

The circus is basically a social empowerment experience; they help stranded kids (or kids who need help), work with them by teaching them awesome skills and some of them, will become professional acrobatic athletes later on!   Going to the circus is basically helping out kids!

On your way to Siem Reap, you can also stop at the Bamboo train which is so much fun!  Forget about everything you know about trains for an hour; this is going to be it!

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Cambodia Bamboo Train

Ever heard of Angkor Wat? Siem Reap is the most popular spot around Cambodia as tons of people are coming to visit Angkor Wat and other temples around! Wake up early and join the sun as it rises. 

Okay, you might have to share this moment with hundreds of people, but I’m pretty sure you’ll appreciate the view!

Then, you can pick a few other temples and go temple hopping while you are in the area!

Be sure to follow our 2 days in Siem Reap itinerary to get the most out of your time here.

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A few other Cambodia Busabout Asia Bonus

They’ve got this social angle; during your trip you’ll have the privilege of eating in two NGO restaurants which is basically the same kind of thing the circus does.

It teaches skills to people so they can get out of poverty (or at least, try).Obviously, Cambodia is the poorest country among its neighbors and considering its past, I was happy to see that these organizations exist.

They’ve got this young power; the trip is made to be fun and it’s also made by young people which mean that the people on tours are also young! 

If you want to party, you’ll happily go to the pub crawl or even to the cocktail class. The trip isn’t meant to be boring. At. All. Plus, guides are also energetic and dynamic (or at least, mine was!). So, you’ll get all the good vibes you’ll need!

They’ve got it; they understood our needs and made it happen.  After your trip, you won’t feel like if you missed out something, instead, you’ll feel like you have ticked off everything on your Cambodian bucket list!

Disclaimer: I was invited to the Cambodia Adventure Tour by Busabout Asia, but as always, all opinions are my own.

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Best Cities to Visit in Cambodia

When it comes to traveling to Cambodia, there are many things to do and see. The most popular cities are Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, and Sihanoukville. If you aren’t sure where to start, read on. We’ll go over some of the best places to see in each city.

If you want to visit a place with a mix of ancient and modern energies, Phnom Penh is the place to go. It blends the best of both worlds and is one of the safest cities in Cambodia. There are very few other cities that offer modern amenities and well-preserved historical sites.

One of the best things to do in Phnom Penh is to visit the Royal Palace. This building is stunning and is often used for major national ceremonies. The Silver Pagoda, which has a floor made of silver, is also a must-see.

If you’re on a budget, you can get around the city on a budget by taking a tuk-tuk or motorbike taxi for $1. You can also take a bus to nearby towns and cities for $10. You can spend as little as $25 per day exploring the city. Otherwise, you’ll spend at least $40 per day.

The Angkor National Museum is another attraction worth visiting. Here, you can learn about the history of the Khmer empire. You can also catch a show at the Phare The Cambodian Circus, which is a unique blend of acrobatics, theater, and music. For nature lovers, the nearby Ratanakiri is an ideal getaway. A trip to this town offers you an opportunity to witness the unique lifestyle of the local ethnic minority population.

Despite the modern vibes of the city, Phnom Penh still has some ancient sites that you should not miss. You can tour the Royal Palace, the Throne Hall, and the Silver Pagoda, as well as a host of other smaller buildings. The pieces of art here date back thousands of years and are in excellent condition.

You can easily reach this charming city by air from the nearby Siem Reap International Airport. It’s famous for its waterfalls, and the city has a variety of attractions to offer. For instance, the Memang Gold Mines area is well worth a visit, and the Bou Sra waterfall is one of the most popular. Another must-see attraction is the Mayura Zipline, a thrilling ride over the waterfall.

If you’re looking for souvenirs, head to the Old Market, the original market in Siem Reap. You can find pretty much anything here for less than $5, from t-shirts to silk. You can also check out the floating villages on the Tonle Sap Lake. There are also many edgy galleries and cool boutiques in Siem Reap. There are plenty of other things to do in the city, including taking cooking classes.

Besides the Central Market, you can also check out Preah Vihear, the former capital of the Khmer Empire for 20 years. This site is a beautiful combination of old and new. Among its highlights is the opulent Royal Palace complex and silver pagoda. Another popular spot is the buzzing local area along the Mekong River. The Killing Fields are also close to town.

Besides the Angkor temples, Siem Reap is home to a thriving and modern city. This city was voted the fourth best city to visit in 2014 by Travel and Leisure Magazine. Although the city is booming with restaurants and shops, it still retains its traditional culture.

If you are looking for an exciting city to visit in Cambodia, Battambang is a great choice. Its low-key vibe and many cheap food stalls are sure to appeal to foodies. You’ll also find many arty cafes along quiet sidestreets. The city’s restaurants focus on local Khmer dishes, as well as French and Western fare.

The city is smaller and less crowded than Phnom Penh, but it still offers an entirely different experience. It has an atmosphere of colonial charm, and the French-era buildings give it a dream-like feel. The city also boasts a thriving expat community that has brought the city’s artistic spirit. There are many boutique hotels, unique cafes and restaurants, and the city’s beautiful surroundings are sure to make your trip memorable.

Battambang is also home to a famous bat cave. If you’re into exploring caves, Battambang’s Bat Caves are a must-see on your Cambodia itinerary. Not only are these caves home to a huge population of bats, but they are also home to Cambodia’s only winery. You should plan two days to experience the city’s attractions.

You may also want to take a ride on the Battambang Bamboo Train. This train is not your typical modern train, but instead is powered by a tractor engine that can speed up to 45km/30mph. The trip takes around 30-40 minutes and costs about $5 USD per person. The ride is a good way to see the city in a new light.

If you’re interested in art, you may want to check out the Sangker art gallery. This privately owned gallery features around 300 works of art. It’s an excellent place to see the work of local artists. Another popular place is the Phare Ponleu Selpak art school, which often organizes theme-based temporary exhibitions.

Sihanoukville

One of the best things about Sihanoukville is its vibrant nightlife. The city has a thriving expat community and plenty of bars and pubs. It’s also close to many Buddhist temples, the Kbal Chay waterfall, and the Ream national park. The city is also a great place to do some snorkeling.

While Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are popular tourist destinations in Cambodia, Sihanoukville is not as crowded. It has casinos and plenty of souvenir shops, but is much more relaxed and has less tourist traffic than its neighboring cities. It’s also home to five or six beaches, including Serendipity Beach, a popular destination for backpackers. The quieter Otres Beach is also great for scuba diving.

One of the most interesting attractions in Sihanoukville is Wat Leu, a hill temple that is part of the city. Located in a forest, this temple has elegant architecture, as well as fantastic views of the coast. The town is also home to the Killing Fields, which were used as a prison where prisoners were shot to death. It’s the perfect place to see Cambodia’s history and culture.

The town is also close to many islands. The main town of Koh Kong, surrounded by lush greenery, is an hour and a half bus ride away from the city. From here, you can take a long boat to Koh Ta Kiev, which is a small island off the southern shore. There you’ll find several floating villages, schools, temples, and churches.

If you’re traveling to Cambodia by air, you’ll want to fly into Sihanoukville. The Sihanoukville Airport receives flights from many Asian cities. You can also take a coach, which is inexpensive and comfortable.

Kampong Thom

If you are looking for a relaxed city to stop in between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, Kampong Thom is for you. It is also a good starting point for a trip to remote temples such as Sambor Prei Kuk, which was once the pre-Angkorian capital. The city is also well-known for its Tonle Sap Lake.

Kampong Thom is an important transportation and trade center for southern Cambodia. The city is home to several ancient temples, including the famous Sambo Prei Kuh and Andet temples. Other notable temples include Wat Kuhak Nokor and Prasat Preah Tee. These beautiful temples were built with bamboo and eucalyptus trees.

Despite the recent hardships faced by the Khmers, the people of this city remain welcoming and warm. The city offers a rich variety of activities, including exploring historical sites and local markets. Visitors can also indulge in fine dining and souvenir shopping. The city is fast becoming a popular tourist destination.

If you want to get a feel for old Cambodia, this is a must-see city. The city is located three hours outside Phnom Penh. This is a great place for a road trip as it will give you the chance to explore some of the country’s rural provinces. Only by doing so will you get an appreciation for Cambodia’s complexities.

The central district of Kampong Thom is a charming place to stroll. Many of the old shop houses have been restored, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a pleasant place to explore. You can also take day trips to nearby attractions. A day trip from the city to Boker Hill Station will provide you with an opportunity to see the old temples inside the limestone caves.

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Best time to visit cambodia.

The dry season is a popular time to visit Cambodia, but it can also be quite crowded. We recommend visiting the country in November or January. The monsoon season is also the best time to visit Cambodia, but be aware that it is not the only time to visit. The southern islands also experience hot weather, but the temperatures are comfortable and great for water activities. April and May are the hottest months, and you will want to avoid these unless you can stand the humidity. March is a bit cooler and is a good compromise.

The monsoon season is the best time to visit Cambodia

From May to September, Cambodia is subject to the monsoon season. During this time, the humidity decreases and the temperatures drop. Although Cambodia is still hot during the day, the rains in the afternoon bring relief from the heat. The countryside will become lush and green again. Locals refer to this season as the “green season”. It is also the time when you will find some of the best hotel deals.

The best time to visit Cambodia depends on your interests and your budget. If you are looking for sunshine, you can visit in November or early February, when temperatures are in the mid-30s. However, if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy the beach, you should travel in the cooler months. During this time, you can take advantage of package tours and special deals. The temperature is also lower during this time, and you will be able to avoid the high season prices.

The monsoon season in Cambodia is between late May and early September. During this time, it rains for up to 20 days, and the rains usually last for an hour or so. During this time, you should bring a rain poncho or light raincoat. It is also the safest time to visit Cambodia compared to other seasons, and you’ll be able to avoid the crowds, but you’ll have to be prepared for the rain.

During this time, Cambodia’s landscape is dotted with beautiful scenery. The country’s yellow national flower, the Rumdul, is especially gorgeous during this time. It is also the time when you can take in the many natural tourist attractions.

The dry season is crowded with tourists

The dry season is the most popular time to visit Cambodia. From December to March, temperatures are comfortable but humid and the country experiences little rain. Travelers should pack sunscreen and lip balm and stay hydrated to avoid high temperatures. In the early months, temperatures are in the mid-twenties, but as the month’s progress, temperatures rise into the high 30s.

The dry season is the most popular time to visit Cambodia, but this also means that prices rise and crowds grow. This can spoil the overall experience, and you may not be able to see your favorite destinations. However, the low season also presents the opportunity to get great deals on flights and accommodations.

While the rainy season may not be as crowded as the dry season, you can still enjoy a trip to Cambodia. The country is divided into two seasons: the wet season, which lasts from June to October, and the dry season, which runs from November to April. The dry season is the best time to visit Cambodia because temperatures are cooler and the roads are more suitable for outdoor activities.

Cambodia’s climate is tropical, meaning temperatures range from 26 degrees Celsius to 35 degrees Celsius. Regardless of the season, there is always something to do in the country. The warmest months are November to May, while the coolest months are September to April. But the dry season is the most popular time to visit Cambodia because it attracts the most tourists.

November is the best month to visit Cambodia

The country of Cambodia lies in Southeast Asia, straddling the Gulf of Thailand and low-lying plains. Its capital, Phnom Penh, is home to the glittering Royal Palace, art deco Central Market, and National Museum. In the northwest of the country, you can visit the monumental stone temple complex known as Angkor Wat. Its massive stone structures were constructed during the Khmer Empire.

The best time to visit Cambodia is in November, as it is cooler, with less rainfall than other months of the year. This is the peak tourist season, so you can expect to see large groups of tourists. This is also the best time to explore the ancient temples of Angkor, where you can take some excellent photographs and enjoy beautiful sunsets.

If you’re looking to see the best scenery of Cambodia, you should visit in late October or early November. Temperatures in these months are usually in the 20s Celsius. The country is also very crowded during this time, but it’s worth it if you’re visiting during the dry season.

The weather in November is not as hot as it is in other months, so you can travel to outlying provinces with relative ease. This is also the best time to see the annual water festival. It’s three days long and includes dragon boat races and live music concerts. During the festival, Cambodians from all over the country gather in Phnom Penh for a colorful celebration.

November is also a popular tourist month in Cambodia. The average temperature in November is around 25C, so it’s not too hot and less crowded. In addition, this is the month when the Cambodian Water Festival takes place.

January is the driest and coolest month to visit Cambodia. Temperatures are generally between 26 and 27 degrees Celsius, with a few days of rain. It’s still pleasant enough to explore the temples and take in the greenery but expect some rain. The south coast can see a lot of rain, which can make roads impassable.

The weather in January is perfect for outdoor activities, such as cycling. Bike rentals are an excellent way to cover distances in Siem Reap between temples. Because the land is mostly flat and the roads are not too congested, cycling is very comfortable. Alternatively, you can hire a tour guide and tour both Siem Reap and neighboring countries.

During February, the weather in Cambodia is comfortable and sunny. Temperatures remain moderate, with little rain and warm water temperatures. The northeast region is relatively cooler, but the southern coastal regions are hotter and more comfortable. The southern beaches are perfect for swimming and diving. You should pack light-colored clothing and comfortable footwear to enjoy the weather in Cambodia.

If you want to avoid the tourist rush of December, you should visit Cambodia in January. The temperatures will be a bit cooler, with temperatures hovering around 25 degrees. The countryside will be greener during this time, and the country will be less crowded. However, it is important to know that you may experience some flooding and rain during this period. The best month to visit Cambodia depends on your personal preferences and the activities you plan to undertake.

October is the coolest month to visit Cambodia

Cambodia’s cool season runs from November through February. During this period, temperatures are relatively cool and there are fewer crowds. From March through May, the country experiences the hot season. From June through October, monsoon rains transform the country into a lush rainforest. Travel during this time to avoid the crowds and the hot sun. During these months, you can visit the temples and admire the lush greenery. You can also visit the Tonle Sap Lake, flooded forest, and stilted villages. However, mid-September and October can be dangerous due to flooding, so make sure you avoid these months.

October is also one of the hottest months in Cambodia, so pack your sunscreen! It’s a good time to see the country’s waterfalls. During this month, Pchum Ben falls, a waterfall located near Siem Reap province. As the rainy season comes to an end, the rivers and lakes begin to dry. However, the coolest month to visit Cambodia is still pleasant and you can expect temperatures to reach 25C.

Best Beaches to Visit in Cambodia

Cambodia is a beautiful Southeast Asian country with a diverse landscape of low-lying plains, the Mekong Delta, mountains, and a Gulf of Thailand coastline. The country’s capital, Phnom Penh, features an art deco Central Market, glittering Royal Palace, and National Museum. To the northwest is Angkor Wat, a massive stone temple complex built during the Khmer Empire.

Koh Ta Khiev

There are several islands off the southern coast of Cambodia that are worth exploring. One of them is Koh Ta Kiev, an idyllic island close to the Vietnamese border. Koh Ta Kiev is one of the few Cambodian islands that remain untouched. It is an ideal place to go snorkeling and swimming, as well as to go cliff diving or spearfishing.

This sweeping crescent beach has crystal waters and golden sand. It’s also lined with palm trees. It’s an island that’s less popular than Kampot, but worth the trip. The only tourist accommodation on the island is a single guesthouse. Although it’s not a big tourist destination, it’s popular with locals.

The island is accessible via boat from Sihanoukville. Many day-tour boats stop off here for snorkeling. If you’d prefer, you can also go overnight on the island. Several day-trip boats stop here for the day, so make sure to bring a daypack or a bag with you.

The island of Koh Ta Khiev is 28 square kilometers, and its interior is home to hundreds of species of birds. There are also rare orchids and pitcher plants. You can also explore rocky cliffs and freshwater ponds. Koh Ta Khiev is a great place to explore if you are looking for a bit more seclusion.

The island is remote and has limited accommodations. If you’re traveling on a budget, there are guesthouses and inexpensive hotels on the island. Some of these guesthouses are Coral Beach, Ten103 Treehouse Bay, Kactus, Koh Ta Kiev Bungalow Resort, and The Last Point.

Sok San Beach

Located on the picturesque Koh Rong Island, just off the coast of Sihanoukville, Sok San Beach is a hidden paradise replete with white sands and crystal-clear waters. The resort has a wide range of accommodations, including secluded beach chalets, beach villas, and a luxurious beachfront villa. The property offers a number of chalet options, including king-size beds and lofts with sweeping views of the ocean and the surrounding countryside.

Getting to Sok San Beach is easy – you can take a short boat ride from Sihanoukville. This is a great way to see the surrounding natural beauty and small villages. If you enjoy snorkeling, you’ll also want to visit the mangroves of Koh Kong. Other options for snorkeling include Koh Seh Island, Koh Thmei Island, and Koh Sampoach Beach, which is a deserted beach in Ream National Park.

Sok San Village is located on the northern end of the beach and has a charming community. The village’s residents were concerned about the influx of tourists who had been staying at nearby Koh Touch village, so they converted several houses into guesthouses and built many new basic bungalows. In addition, the beach resort is located south of the village.

Coconut Beach is also worth a visit, with its clean white sand and nodding palms. A guesthouse and restaurant are located here. You can also visit Freedom Waterfall, which is a natural pool of fresh water that is popular with snorkelers. Getting there is easy, but you may need to go a bit out of the way.

While the temples of Angkor have long been a highlight of a Cambodia vacation, the country’s southern coast is quickly becoming a destination for vacationers. Despite being next to Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia, Cambodia’s stunning beaches can compete with the most popular beach destinations.

For those looking for a quiet and scenic beach, Koh Tonsay offers plenty of possibilities. The island’s seven beaches, located on the western coast of the country, are lined with coconut palms and lush vegetation. Many of the beaches are also located at the mouths of streams. One of the best beaches is Lagoon Beach, which features a narrow channel leading to a hidden lagoon.

While the beaches on the west side of the island are more pristine, those on the east are more ecologically conscious. The Moonlight Resort offers luxurious accommodations, while the Sun Island Eco Village is an affordable family-run resort. While these beaches are not suitable for a party, they do offer a peaceful escape for those who want to get away from it all.

Visiting the best beaches in Cambodia is a must for anyone visiting the country. Aside from being unspoiled by tourism, these beaches offer the perfect setting for relaxing, catching rays, and reconnecting with nature. The pristine waters and beautiful vistas are guaranteed to make any traveler feel at home.

Another island in the area is Koh Thonsay, which is known locally as “Rabbit Island.” It has a very small population of tourist bungalows and is still a relatively untouched island. It is a 20-minute boat ride from Kep and is a great spot for hiking and snorkeling.

The island is also home to a variety of wildlife. The mud flats are home to endangered species like the milky stork and painted stork. The tourism industry threatens to destroy this natural habitat, and visitors can help preserve it by participating in conservation efforts.

Otres Beach

Otres Beach is a 20-minute drive from Serendipity. It is a popular beach for families, and the area has both cheap bungalows and higher-end hotel complexes. It is known for its pristine white sand beaches and excellent food. Nearly every place has a spectacular view of the Gulf of Thailand.

Although the town of Sihanoukville is a busy place during the tourist season, it takes on a completely different feel during the rainy season. Many foreigners enjoy the peaceful atmosphere during this time. Thunderstorms typically come in the afternoon, which makes it perfect for watching them while sipping on a cold drink.

Near Sihanoukville, Otres Beach is one of the least developed but still beautiful beaches in Cambodia. The white sands are lined with small seafood cafes. You can even rent a cheap bungalow for a few dollars. While the beach itself is quite pristine, there are still plenty of other places to go and see in this part of the country.

While many other beaches in Cambodia have nightclubs and bars, Otres is relatively quiet. It is also home to the weekly expat market with live music on Saturday nights. If you plan on spending the night at Otres Beach, you’ll want to leave valuables at home and lock up your bicycle.

The beaches of Cambodia are pristine and unspoiled, so they are an ideal place for a relaxing getaway. These beaches are also perfect for catching rays and reconnecting with nature.

Kep is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Cambodia. Its white sand beach is a crescent-shaped oasis. The temperatures are warm and the water is calm, making it an ideal beach for swimming. The town is dotted with seafood vendors and a beachfront road that circles the coastline to the beach. Cars are required to pay an admission fee to drive the loop, but motorbikes are allowed to go around for free. This road is one way, and the police occasionally fine drivers who don’t follow the rules.

Kep is easily accessible from Phnom Penh. The road is well-maintained and paved, and you can book a bus online. There are several bus companies that go to Kep. You can also take a taxi, which will cost you $40-50 for a 2.5-three-hour journey. The road is also well-signposted. You can also take a minibus from Sihanoukville to Kep, which takes about 2 hours and costs $8.

Kep was once a bustling seaside resort. It was popular with both French settlers and the Cambodian elite. Today, it’s a quiet beachfront town ideal for peaceful families and couples. Although the Khmer Rouge regime wiped out most of the town’s infrastructure, it has recovered its former glory. With a long sandy beach and a vibrant market, Kep has a great deal to offer tourists. The main Kep beach is located on Koh Tonsay Island. The island is home to several rustic beach restaurants. There’s also a market and a variety of seafood available for sale.

The South Coast of Cambodia is home to many beaches. While the temples of Angkor are still the main attraction, the beaches on the South Coast are quickly becoming an equally popular attraction for travelers. Located near neighboring Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, Cambodia’s beaches can compete with any of those countries.

Top 10 Things to Do in Cambodia

Cambodia is a fascinating Southeast Asian country that spans mountains, low-lying plains, and the Mekong Delta, along with a coastline along the Gulf of Thailand. Its capital, Phnom Penh, features a glittering Royal Palace and art deco Central Market. Nearby is the famous Angkor Wat, an immense stone temple complex built during the Khmer Empire.

Angkor Wat is a world-renowned temple complex. It is the largest religious monument in the world, and even features on the national flag. Designed as a representation of Mount Meru, the axis of the universe, the temple complex is filled with artistic treasures. Its bas-relief galleries depict stories from Cambodian history.

While Angkor Wat is beautiful year-round, it is best to visit between December and February. Between these two months, temperatures are relatively cool, and humidity is low enough to be comfortable. Most visitors choose to visit the temples during these times.

For the best views of Angkor Wat, take a helicopter tour. This breathtaking view gives visitors a sense of scale. However, helicopter tours cannot land at individual temples, and are therefore best accompanied by land tours. Most helicopter tours also fly over the Tonle Sap Lake, which is best viewed from above. They also give you a general overview of Siem Reap’s attractions.

Another place to see is Sambor Prei Kuk. These temples are in the north of Cambodia. The walls are adorned with clear carvings. They can be reached from Kompong Thom. The Banteay Chhmar temple complex is a popular day trip destination from Siem Reap.

If you are looking for a way to enrich your experience while in Cambodia, taking part in a cultural experience is a great idea. The country has several festivals and celebrations throughout the year. In addition to visiting Angkor Wat, you can go on a tuk-tuk ride through the Angkor area and catch the sunrise. This ride takes you past the Angkor Archeological Park and Angkor Wat.

While touring the temple complex, you can also take in some culture by watching the local performance artists. Phare the Cambodian Circus is not your usual circus; it focuses on performance art, social commentary, and other cultural expressions.

Preah Vihear temple

Preah Vihear temple is one off-the-beaten-path gem in Cambodia. Located in the jungle near the Dangkrek Mountains, it’s a beautiful location with comfortable temperatures year-round. It is also a great place to see the ancient relics of the Khmer Empire, including the Golden Pillar.

If you’re visiting Cambodia, don’t miss this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s located on a cliff, and the view from the top is spectacular. The temple was built during the Khmer Dynasty, which ruled Cambodia from the eighth to the fourteenth centuries.

The temple’s walls are covered in beautiful bas-reliefs and carvings, and depict scenes of Hindu myths and Apsaras, daily life, and heaven and hell. While there, you might not want to stay outside all day, as the heat can be unbearable, and it’s best to remain indoors in the cool air.

The temple has a rich history. It is a prime example of Khmer architecture, and has been the focus of royal interest for over four centuries. The construction of the temple began in the ninth century, under the guidance of Prince Indrayadha (son of Jayavarman II), who was inspired by the Hindu god Shiva. The Khmer people regarded Shiva as their supreme protector.

Another top place to visit in Phnom Penh is the National Museum. The museum is home to many ancient Angkorian structures and pieces of ultimate cultural significance. This is a must-see attraction for tourists in Cambodia. It is considered one of the top 10 things to do in Cambodia. This museum houses an impressive bronze reclining Vishnu statue, and there are also many other fascinating exhibits to see here.

The temple was built on a hillside and is oriented along the north-south axis. The upper part of the image is actually Cambodian territory, while the lower part is the Thai side. The temple has been the subject of numerous disputes and even military combat. While the Thai troops subsequently departed the area, the ruins of the ancient battles are still visible on the site.

Tonle Sap lake

Visiting the Tonle Sap lake in southeast Cambodia is a must-do for anyone traveling to the country. This lake is home to vibrant water-based communities and self-sustaining floating villages. The area is also home to numerous churches, markets, post offices, and supermarkets. It is situated in the city of Sihanoukville.

There are two ways to tour the lake. The first is to take a day tour. This tour lasts about an hour and costs around $10 per person. Another option is to take a boat trip on the lake. Day trips depart from the Chon Khneas boat ferry jetty and cost around $15.

Another great option is a cruise on the Tonle Sap lake. The lake is part of the lower Mekong River system and the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Boat tours will take you on a journey through this lake, which is accessible by tuk-tuk.

Visiting the Tonle Sap lake is one of the top 10 things to do in Cambodia. The lake is an important natural area that provides a habitat for numerous species of wildlife. You can see crocodiles, turtles, and otters along the lakeshore. Fishing is one of the main industries on the lake, and it is the source of livelihood for 1.2 million people. The lake also feeds a significant portion of the country’s fish.

Another way to explore the lake is to visit one of the floating villages. There are four villages open to tourism on Tonle Sap Lake, each of which is a different distance from Siem Reap. The nearest one, Chong Kneas, is the most popular and touristed of them.

Nightly food markets

If you’re looking for authentic Cambodian cuisine, you can’t go wrong at a nightly food market. The food is often a mix of noodle soup, fried rice, spring rolls, and grilled meats. While you’re there, be sure to sample the local specialty of amok trey, or fried rice. It’s a popular dish in Cambodia and is cooked with coconut milk, turmeric, garlic, and shallot. Be sure to try it with soy sauce and an oyster.

While you’re in Phnom Penh, make time for a night market. These are small but vibrant areas, filled with food stalls and street performers. They’re the perfect spot to grab a bite after visiting a museum. If you have time, you can also take part in a Cambodian dance show.

You can shop for fresh produce, seafood, and other local produce at these markets. They also have a variety of unique Cambodian dishes and street snacks. Make sure to arrive early so you have plenty of time to browse. If you don’t have a big budget, you can buy some inexpensive snacks from local vendors, such as Chinese sweet sausages.

You can try authentic Khmer cuisine and buy souvenirs at these markets. Many stalls sell traditional Cambodian items, such as clothing and paintings. There’s also an ATM at these markets. A portion of the profits from the markets goes to the Happy Family orphanage.

While you’re in Phnom Penh, don’t miss a night market. You’ll discover many unique souvenirs and learn more about the local culture. Besides the fun you’ll have, you’ll also have a chance to sample local dishes while enjoying live music.

Exploring the Mekong Delta

If you love bird watching, you’ll love exploring the Mekong Delta. This beautiful region is home to many rare species of birds. It is a great place to spot bird migrations and take photos. You can stay in a homestay in the Delta to experience the local culture and meet the locals.

The Delta is dotted with small towns, each with their own unique charm. You can enjoy the floating markets and enjoy a delicious meal at a riverside restaurant. There are also plenty of activities to do at the water’s edge.

The Mekong Delta is best experienced by boat, but you can also take a flight to reach the area. It’s also easy to organise a day trip to explore the Mekong Delta. You can also book a multi-day tour if you’d like to see more of the area.

Whether you choose a motorbike or bicycle for exploring the delta, it is an excellent way to explore the area. You can rent bicycles and motorbikes in most major towns. There are also bicycles and motorbikes for rent near the Cambodian border. There are also dedicated two-wheel tours available, such as those with Vespa Adventures and Sinhbalo Adventure Travel.

A luxury cruise on the Mekong River is a great option if you love nature. Cruises on the Mekong are typically overnight experiences, with lots of water-related activities. You can also opt to take a package tour which includes both a land tour and a river cruise.

Getting to the Mekong Delta is a popular activity. You can reach the Mekong Delta by bus from major cities in Vietnam. The most common route is from Saigon to Can Tho. It is about 165 kilometers long, and buses run several times a day. If you prefer a faster and more efficient way, you can also take a 45-minute flight from Saigon to Can Tho. VietJet Air and VASCO operate these flights, and a one-way ticket costs 600 VND.

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12 Of The Best Places To Visit In Cambodia

Cambodia still manages to straddle the line between tourist hotspot and untrodden eastern destination, and is dotted with an array of unforgettable places, views, and experiences. Below are some of the best places to visit in Cambodia.

The home of the famous Angkor Wat is unquestionably one of Cambodia’s must-see places. Angkor served as the capital of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 14th centuries. As such, it is filled with historic treasures, making it one of the most significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Ruins of a thousand temples can be found scattered over jungle, farmland and rice fields, emerging from the canopy in a medley of historic Khmer towers and enchanting one-time Hindu shrines.

These include the famous Angkor Wat temple, the world’s largest single religious monument. Watching the sun rise from behind the temple’s iconic towers is an unforgettable experience and well worth the untimely wakeup call. However, don’t expect to have the temple to yourself as this is peak time when masses of other early birds flock here to capture this magical moment.

2. Phnom Penh

Located on the Mekong River and once known as “The Pearl of Asia,” Phnom Penh is the largest city in Cambodia, and has been its capital since French colonial days. French influence can still be found today. Top attractions include the opulent Royal Palace complex, which shimmers with the spires of the Silver Pagoda at its center. For a taste of local life, be sure to hit the buzzing Sisowath Quay, which runs along the Mekong in a medley of markets and picnic spots. The Killing Fields just on the edge of town are sobering and stark reminders of the horrors of Cambodia’s 20th-century past.

3. Siem Reap

It’s true that most people flock to Siem Reap (literally “Siam Defeated”) to hop across to the UNESCO wonder of Angkor Wat. However, thanks largely to the influx of folk coming in recent decades, Cambodia’s fastest growing city has developed into a fine place to visit in its own right. You can delve into an old town of elegant French mansions and enchanting Chinese shops, all of which are punctuated by the heady fray of Psah Chas market, where you should check out the sizzling noodle soups. Museums include the sobering Cambodia Landmine Museum and the War Museum.

Kratie is a small town located on the banks of the Mekong River and dominated by a central marketplace surrounded by old, French colonial buildings. A trip to this remote eastern province brings with it a wealth of wildlife opportunities. This includes rare Irrawaddy dolphins, which can be spotted swimming in stretches of the Mekong River, and Cantor’s giant softshell turtles that can be seen at the Mekong Turtle Conservation Center.

Located on a river not too far from the Gulf of Thailand, the quaint town of Kampot is famous for its uniquely flavored black peppercorns. The famous Cambodian dish of Kampot pepper crab was born here, and a visit to the Crab Market serves up an authentic taste. You can watch the women wade into the sea to haul in the crab baskets before being served the freshest dish in the Kingdom.

There are several neighboring shacks to enjoy an accompanying beer. View ancient ruins at the Kampot Kampong Trach caves, go boating on the river and discover glistening waterfalls.

6. Preah Vihear

Cambodia’s lesser known UNESCO site of Preah Vihear is well worth getting off the beaten track to visit. This stunning temple complex, which sits on the border of Thailand, draws fewer crowds and a more accurate flavor of the Khmer kingdom. Breath-taking views from its summit can be enjoyed.

7. Mondulkiri

Asian elephants stalk the fields and bushlands of far-flung Mondulkiri Province; water buffalo and timber longhouses ring the wetlands and peaks of forest-clad rock rise to meet the border with Vietnam . This eastern jewel is a far cry from the sun-scorched lands and steamy tropical climes that dominate the rest of the country and is slowly becoming famed for its second-to-none elephant conservation project. Cultural encounters with the earthy Bunong tribespeople are also possible, and ecotourism of that ilk is now the main driver here.

The Bokor National Park is home to the Popokvil Waterfall, a giant Buddhist statue, an abandoned French hill station, a giant casino, derelict church, mesmerizing views, and a refreshingly cool climate.

Koh Ker is the smaller, lesser-known brother of Angkor Wat. Located deep within the jungles of northern Cambodia, 75 miles northeast of Siem Reap, it was − for a very brief period, from 928 to 944 AD − the capital of the Khmer empire. In this short time some very spectacular buildings and immense sculptures were constructed.

The site is dominated by Prasat Thom, a temple pyramid that soars 98 feet above the surrounding jungle. You’ll also be able to see an elaborate array of fortifications dating from the 10th century, and crumbling ruins of shrines now almost entirely claimed by the roots of giant teak trees.

10. Battambang

Established as a trading center in the 18th century, Battambang is Cambodia’s second most populous city. Battambang later became part of French Indochina, with some colonial buildings still in existence. The town has many Angkor-style temples and Buddhist shrines and is easy to get around on foot or by bicycle. Statues, mostly of animals and gods, can be found in most public places, the most famous of which is an ancient Khmer king located on the road to Phnom Penh.

The Central Market also is worth a visit. Around Battambang is where you’ll find the fruit-bat-filled Wat Baydamram and the eerie Wat Samraong Knong, which was once used as a Khmer Rouge prison.

11. Koh Rong

The island of Koh Rong sits where the waters of the Thai Gulf meet the South China Sea. It is a picture of tropical perfection, complete with 23 individual stretches of sand. Rustic, salt-sprayed bungalows line the coast sporadically, and there are plenty of opportunities for trekking through the forests or hitting the coral-colored sea for a spell of snorkeling. Koh Rong is also famed for its bioluminescent waters, which glimmer under the dark skies at night.

12. Koh Kong

The rugged, salt-sprayed rocks of the Koh Kong coast mark the point where the primeval woods of the Cardamom Mountains Rainforest cascade down to meet the Indian Ocean. Undeveloped and untouched by the onset of modern tourism, the place remains a picture of wild Southeast Asia. A smattering of casinos and sleazy massage parlors do still linger on from the days when this was a smuggler passage town on the Thai border, but the real attractions are the gushing waterfalls, the wild jungles, and the legendary white-sand beaches.

While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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9 Things to do in Cambodia + Tourist Spots

Do not miss Cambodia, if you love to go on temple runs.

This country to home to Southeast Asia’s grandest archaeological site — the ancient city of Angkor.

Most travelers only go to Siem Reap to see Angkor Wat.

Hopefully, this list will inspire you to visit the country longer and see to other destinations that are worth a peek.

Read on to discover must-visit places and top things to do for first-time travelers.

1. Siem Reap

Location : Cambodia (west) . Save on Google Maps .

Angkor Wat is a good reason to wander into this part of the world. It is but one temple in the ancient city of Angkor, which is filled with many other ruined structures worth visiting as well. Travelers arrive by way of Siem Reap, the tourist hub to Angkor and busiest international gateway to Cambodia.

How to go :

Siem Reap International Airport (REP) is Cambodia’s busiest airport. This airport serves direct flights from Kuala Lumpur (2h flight duration), Bangkok (1h), Singapore (2H), Hong Kong (2H 40m), Seoul and other cities in Southeast and East Asia. Popular airlines include AirAsia, Cambodia Angkor Air, SilkAir, Sky Angkor Airlines, Thai Airways & Vietnam Airlines.

Siem Reap is a popular route along the Thailand-Cambodia-Vietnam “Banana Pancake” trail. It is possible to travel by land to Siem Reap from Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) via several border crossings. Travel time to Siem Reap from Bangkok is 10 to 12 hours. Meanwhile travel time from Ho Chi Minh may take 12 hours.

From the Philippines, direct Manila to Siem Reap flights are operated by Cebu Pacific Air. Flight duration is around 3 hours.

Siem Reap Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Check Fares

Top discounts

Angkor Wat & Little Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Banteay Srei & Angkor Grand Circuit Guided Join-In Tour

Siem Reap Private Car Charter

See more : Siem Reap travel tips

Cambodia Travel Essentials:

Where to stay in Cambodia (click below to see rates and book online) Cheapest Rates |

Cambodia Fares & Transport

Cambodia Tours & Discounts

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. I’ve also shared photos from my  Instagram feed . Use Instagram’s save feature for quick access to your travel/feed goals.

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Destinations + tourist spots

Location : Angkor Archaeological Park, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia . Save on Google Maps .

Siem Reap Bike Angor Temples Tour

Angkor Small Circuit

Siem Reap Uncovering Angkor Tour

Banteay Srei & Angkor Grand Circuit

Koh Ker & Beng Mealea

Location : east of Siem Reap city center, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia . Save on Google Maps .

Koh Ker and Beng Mealea Day Tour

Phnom Kulen

Location : Phnom Kulen National Park, north of Siem Reap city center, Siem Reap, Cambodia . Save on Google Maps .

Siem Reap-Kulen Mountain Motorbike Adventure

2. Phnom Penh

Location : Cambodia (south central) . Save on Google Maps .

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital city, is a popular spot on the famous Thailand-Cambodia-Vietnam Indochina trail. This city is home to the Royal Palace, found on the riverside along with the impressive National Museum. Phnom Penh is also a jump-off point to several sites of the infamous Killing Fields.

Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) is Cambodia’s second busiest airport. This airport serves direct flights from Kuala Lumpur (1h 45m), Bangkok (1h), Singapore (2H), Hong Kong (2H 40m), Taipei, Seoul and other cities in Southeast, East Asia and the Middle East. Popular airlines include AirAsia, Cambodia Angkor Air, SilkAir, Sky Angkor Airlines, Thai Airways & Vietnam Airlines. Flight duration between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh is 1 hour.

Phnom Penh Travel Essentials

Phnom Penh half-day join-in city tour

Phnom Penh – Ho Chi Minh, Kampot, or Kep Bus by Giant Ibis

Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Bus (Shared transfer by Giant Ibis)

See more : Phnom Penh travel tips

3. Sihanoukville

Location : Preah Sihanouk Province, Cambodia (south coast) . Save on Google Maps .

This seaside resort town on the southern coast of Cambodia boasts of some of mainland Southeast Asia’s best white sand beaches. If Thailand’s islands are too touristic for you, the off-shore islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, near Sihanoukville, might be a more worthwhile visit.

The quickest way is to go by flight. Sihanouk International Airport (KOS) serves flights from Kuala Lumpur (1.5 hours flight duration), Ho Chi Minh (1h 20m), Siem Reap (1h) and Phnom Penh (30m). Flights are operated by AirAsia, Cambodia Angkor Air, Cambodia Bayon Airlines & JC International Airlines. Sihanoukville is also popular reached by bus or car. The land trip from Phnom Penh take between 3.5 and 6 hours.

Sihanoukville Travel Essentials

Sihanoukville-Koh Rong Sanloem ferry

Sihanoukville-Koh Rong Island ferry

See more : Sihanoukville travel tips

4. Koh Rong Sanloem

Location : near Sihanouville, Preah Sihanouk Province, Cambodia (south coast) . Save on Google Maps .

Koh Rong Sanloem Travel Essentials

Where to stay Check Fares

Koh Rong Samloem Snorkeling and Diving Experience from Sihanoukville

Koh Rong Samloen Snorkeling with Bioluminescent Plankton from Sihanoukville

See more : Koh Rong Sanloem travel tips

5. Koh Rong

Koh Rong Travel Essentials

Asia 4G LTE WIFI Hotspot (Manila Airport Pick Up)

See more : Koh Rong travel tips

Location : Cambodia (south coast) . Save on Google Maps .

The provinces of Kampot and Kep are situated on Cambodia’s southern coast. They are popular destinations among Cambodians for weekend getaways and foreign travelers who want to get away from the tourist crowds at Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. Though only under an hour’s travel apart, each has distinct attractions to offer. Kampot, popular for trips to Bokor National Park, has a riverside setting, while Kep, is known for sandy beaches and upscale resorts.

Kampot and Kep are about a 4 to 5-hour drive south of Phnom Penh. You can go by bus, mini-bus, taxi or private car charter. Kampot and Kep are located close to each other. Travel time between the two towns usually takes 35 to 45 minutes.

Kampot Travel Essentials

Kep Travel Essentials

8. Tonle Sap

Location : west of Siem Reap city center, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia . Save on Google Maps .

Location : Cambodia (north) . Save on Google Maps .

Kratie is a small riverside city in North Cambodia that is a popular stopover on the long overland journey from Cambodia to Laos. It is the place to go if you want to see Irrawaddy dolphins and enjoy blissful sunsets along the Mekong River.

Kratie is 6 to 7 hours north of Phnom Penh or eight hours from Siem Reap. Buses from Pakse, Laos to Kratie take around 8 hours.

Kratie Travel Essentials

On My Bucketlist

Modulkiri Travel Essentials

Location : Cambodia (southeast coast) . Save on Google Maps .

Preah Vihear

Preah Vihear Travel Essentials

Location : Cambodia (east) . Save on Google Maps .

Battambang Travel Essentials

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Cambodia that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Cambodia

Cambodia tourist spots, things to do in Cambodia, where to go in Cambodia & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Cambodia

How much does it cost to travel to Cambodia? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Cambodia

Click below & search recommended Cambodia hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Cambodia Essentials & Top Discounts

Cambodia mobile data sim card/pocket wifi.

Travel with ease & confidence throughout your trip. Get a data SIM card or pocket WIFI device! Access Google Maps and all your favorite travel apps. Share your travel stories instantly with all your friends. Click below and choose your pick-up location:

See all discounts

Popular discounts and tours booked by other travelers:

Rosana Broadway Show in Siem Reap

Origins Spa Siem Reap

Siem Reap Destination Dining Experience

Siem Reap Private Photography Guide

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December 24, 2018 at 12:45 pm

I love temple and one of my dream place ti visit is cambodia to see angkok wat. Glad I cam across to your blog. We’ll list down this place to visit in cambodia. Thank you.

February 14, 2024 at 10:38 pm

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Top 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Cambodia

Situated across the Mekong delta and Gulf of Thailand Coastline, you have to visit Cambodia to get the real taste of ancient South Asia. Home to various ancient temples, archaeological ruins, and aesthetic beaches, this beautiful country is renowned for some of the greatest artistic and cultural achievements.

Cambodia is also known for its brutal history from the Khmer Rouge era and the Civil war, evidence of which can be found in the National Museums and the mass graves. Every year travellers visit this country to soak in the rich, timeless history, and buzzing, lively atmosphere. It is a must-visit place in Cambodia to enjoy the confounding wildlife and partake in the adventure its tropical jungles offer.

Drafting your itinerary for your vacation but don’t know where to go in Cambodia ? Here is a list of the top 15 places you can have guaranteed fun and gain experience and knowledge by exploring some of the most breathtaking places in Cambodia .

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

15 Top-Rated Places to visit in Cambodia

1. krong siem reap.

Krong Siem Reap is most famous for its UNESCO world heritage of Angkor Wat. You have to experience the oldest Buddhist temple at Wat Bo village as well as Ta Prohm Temple, which was built in Bayon style.

Besides this, you can book boat tours on Tonle Sap Lake and enjoy the spirited, lively night markets, silk markets, and rice paddies. You can also visit the Angkor National Museum as well as see the internationally renowned Phare the Cambodian Circus .

Also, you have to remember to watch the Apsara dance in which women dressed in traditional dresses perform a myth or religious story. Pub street is also one of the popular tourist attractions of Cambodia .

What is the best time to visit Siem Reap?

You should visit Krong Siem Reap between November and March to enjoy cooler weather and manageable humidity.

To reach Siem Reap, you can just book a flight to Siem Reap International Airport and enjoy travelling here without any difficulty.

You can easily finish visiting every place in Siem Reap in 3 days.

2. Phnom Penh

Popular as the city of Brahma’s face, this capital city is full of life with chaotic streets and honking of the vehicles on the road. Phnom Penh is a famous cosmopolitan destination that has bounced back as one of the most dynamic cities in Southeast Asia.

It is the home of various crucial historical ruins that play an unrivalled role in deciphering both Cambodia’s modern and ancient history. You must visit the Royal Palace as well as Wat Phnom to see the pieces of evidence of Cambodian majestic traditional artistry.

One of the most famous Cambodian tourist places includes the National Museum, where you can witness the Khmer sculptures firsthand. There is also the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum as well as the Killing fields of Choeung Ek you can visit. 

These places hold the proof of the horrors Cambodia’s people suffered at the haad of the Communist Party of Kampuchea, popularly known as the Khmer Rouge.

What is the best time to visit Phnom Penh?

The best time to visit Phnom Penh is between October to May.

You will have no trouble travelling to Phnom Penh as the Phnom Penh International Airport is well-connected to the world’s major cities.

You can finish visiting every location in Phnom Penh in about two and a half days.

3. Koh Rong

One of the famous tourist attractions of Cambodia , You have to come down here to bask in the glory of the paradisical island of Koh Rong. It has numerous charming beaches where you can partake in various activities.

One of those activities is snorkelling and swimming among seahorses, jumping fishes, blue-spotted Ribbon-tail Rays, squids, and Diamond fishes. Also, you can go kayaking, diving as well as zip-lining.

Also, you must visit the lonely beach and Coconut Beach to see the Bio-Luminescent Plankton. Also, it is worth a visit to experience the abundant wildlife on Police Beach. It has a mini zoo and a butterfly farm!

What is the best time to visit Koh Rong?

The best time to visit Koh Rong is between October to January for favourable weather.

You will have to travel to Sihanoukville International Airport and, from here, take a ferry to reach Koh Rong.

You have to stay at least two nights on this paradisical island before moving forward to the next location on your itinerary.

4. Preah Sihanouk

Named after the king Norodom Sihanouk , this coastal city of Cambodia is one of the popular attractions among backpackers. This is the beaches are a must to visit during both the day as well as the night! Backpackers stay in the hostels with tin roofs and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this town.

You can also stay in various establishments offered around Ochheuteal beach and rent water sports aplenty.

What is the best time to visit Preah Sihanouk?

The best time to visit Preah Sihanouk is between October to January.

You can book your flight to Sihanoukville International Airport or get connecting flights from Phnom Penh.

You can fully enjoy Sihanoukville in 3 days before moving forward to the next location on your itinerary.

5. Banteay Srei

One of the sacred places to visit in Cambodia is the Banteay Srei temple, located in the Banteay Srei District. It is a very important part of Cambodia’s Heritage treasure.

The most special thing about this temple is that it was carved out of pink shades of stone. Banteay Srei means ‘Citadel of the Women’, and this Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is proof of fine craftsmanship.

What is the best time to visit Banteay Srei?

The best time to visit the Banteay Srei temple is early morning or late evening. The temple walls don’t provide many shades, so it’s ideal to visit here when it’s cooler.

Also, you can get some awesome pictures of the changing colours during sunrise and sunset.

You can visit Banteay Srei in one long day, including exploring the Banteay Srei temple as well as the local areas. You can also plan a trip to the river of Thousands of Lingas located at Kbal Spean and Beng Mealea.

6. Krong Kampot

Kampot is a riverine town where you can wind down in its old-world ambience and enjoy the easygoing, laid-back atmosphere. This charming town used to be a major trading port during the French Colonial era, and it has several buildings from that time.

Pièce de résistancelies of Kampot is the Durian roundabout which is a landmark traffic roundabout. You can explore the main market of Kampot, also famous as ‘Old Maket’. Its shops range from clothing and jewellery to fruits, meat, vegetables, etc.

You must explore Rabbit Island,   Preah Monivong National Park, as well as the Kampot Salt fields, and Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple.

Also, you have to try the delicious crab curry, a local speciality of Kampot.

What is the best time to visit Krong Kampot?

The best time to visit Krong Kampot is from October to January.

You need at least 3 to 4 days to fully experience Kampot, partake in fun activities like boat cruise, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and relax by enjoying sunsets from riverside restaurants.

To reach Krong Kampot, you need to take a flight to Phnom Penh International Airpot and then another flight to Kampot Airport. You can also take a bus or cab to Kampot.

7. Krong Battambang

Battambang is a rather sleepy town, missing the buzz of other cities in Cambodia, but you can’t underestimate the beauty of this lush countryside!

Battambang has rightly earned its place among the top places to visit in Cambodia with its various quirky cafes and peaceful ambience. You can go biking along the streams and rice paddy. You also have the option to go kayaking along the peaceful Stung Sangkae River.

Also, visit the Well of Shadows, though; it is not for the faint-hearted. It is a memorial for the lives lost during the Khmer Rouge’s reign of horror.

Another thing you must remember is to catch a ride on the bamboo train that takes you outside the town in half an hour at a speed of no more than 40 km/h.

Don’t forget to catch a performance of one of Cambodia’s best Circus called Phare Ponleu Selpak and a Cambodian dance performance.

What is the best time to visit Krong Battambang?

The best time to visit Krong Battambang is from October to January.

You need only two days to fully experience Battambang, explore the city, visit art galleries as well as visit the Damrey Sor Pagoda and Wat Ek Phnom.

To reach Krong Battambang, you need to take a flight to Siem Reap International Airpot and then another flight to Battambang Airport.

8. Tonlé Sap

Tonlé Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Cambodia and a vital source of food and irrigation for its people. Because of its high biodiversity, It has also been designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

It has a fascinating local community and the main reason behind the tourist attractions – It has a floating Village!

It is a must for a day of exploration for its sprawling village of Kompong Luong on Tonle Sap’s western shore and Chong Kneas near Siem Reap.

What is the best time to visit Tonlé Sap?

The best time to visit Tonlé Sap is from December to April, which are the dry months when the water level lowers and birds cluster in a smaller area.

You need only one day to fully experience Tonlé Sap, explore this floating village, and then move forward to the next location o your itinerary.

You can easily reach Tonlé Sap via a boat trip from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and Angkor Temples. Then, you can either hire a cab or catch the commonly used tuk-tuk rides.

9. Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the largest temple in the world and the biggest tourist attraction in Cambodia. Its unrivalled glory and prestige made it a part of the UNESCO World Heritage list.

It was built in the 12th century as a tribute to Lord Vishnu. It is also a popular destination because the movies the Tomb Raider and Lara Croft were shot here.

It is a must to visit the Ta Prohm Buddhist temple ruin with its picturesque views and towering trees.

What is the best time to visit Angkor Wat?

The best time to visit Angkor Wat is between November to March, when it’s relatively cooler weather.

You need only three days to fully explore Angkor Wat and experience these archaeological treasures before moving forward to the next location o your itinerary.

To visit Angkor Wat, you can take a direct flight to Sein Reap International Airport. From there, you can either hire a taxi or take a tuk-tuk.

10. Ratanakiri

Ratanakiri is the best place to visit in Cambodia if you are tired of temples and ruins. It is full of nature with endless dirt roads and serene scenery. It is perfect for quenching your thirst for adventure as well.

You can go trekking, hiking, and plan an overnight trip which can include spotting buff-cheeked gibbons and sleeping on hammocks. You can visit Virachey National park, which houses elephants, sun bears, and tigers.

Yeak Loam Lake is another quite popular Tourist attraction in Cambodia . It was formed by a volcanic eruption that took place about 4000 years ago.

However, according to local folklore, it was formed by a giant who dug a pit to retrieve his runaway daughter. It also has a small museum on its shore showcasing Tampuan culture.

If you love waterfalls, You must visit the mesmerizing Chaa Ong and Ka Tieng waterfalls.

What is the best time to visit Ratanakiri?

The best time to visit Ratanakiri is between October and February. During these months, you can enjoy mild weather, and it is also the perfect time to hike mountains. These months are after the monsoon season, so the waterfalls are at their best.

Depending on what activities you are planning, you can have a fulfilling time in Ratanakiri in 3-5 days.

You can easily reach Ratanakiri via a flight or a bus, or a taxi ride from other places in your itinerary.

11. Koh Russey

Also known as the Bamboo Island, Koh Russey is the best place to visit in Cambodia for a relaxing retreat to the beachside. Koh Russey is also one of the busiest Islands in Cambodia!

It’s quaint yet one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cambodia and Thailand. You can go hiking through the jungle or swim or just enjoy the view of aquamarine water and golden sand with a drink in hand.

Don’t forget to try out the local food and nightlife. It is always vibrant in the evening on the beach with the locals performing Khmer dance and everyone just relaxing.

What is the best time to visit Koh Russey?

Although the water is suitable for swimming all year round, the best time to visit Koh Russey is between December and March.

You should spend at least three days and enjoy various water activities like scuba diva, which is quite popular there.

As it is located 6 miles away from the coast of Sihanoukville, you have to get on a ferry.

12. Koh Kong

Stretching within the Cardamon Mountain range, Koh Kong is another one of the best places to visit in Cambodia . It has dense rainforest, mesmerizing waterfalls, and rivers you can go exploring on a hike or by joining a boat tour.

It has a few boutique eco-resorts along the Tatai River, which offer tourists activities like kayaking. Further south, you can visit Chi Pat village, which is an eco-tourism centre. It offers accommodations as well as other tourist activities like wildlife spotting and multiday trekking.

What is the best time to visit Koh Kong?

The best time to visit Koh Kong is between December and February, when you can enjoy cooler weather as compared to other months of the year.

According to the time you are vacationing in Cambodia, you can fully explore Koh Kong for two days if you are here for no more than two weeks. If you are planning for a longer time, 4-5 days are more than enough.

To reach Koh Kong, you have many options. The most convenient would be to first take a flight to Sihanouk International airport. From there you can either take a bus or hire a cab.

Kratie is a charming little town of well-preserved buildings from the times of French colonization. It is also one most the popular tourist attractions of Cambodia that lies on the bank of the Mekong Rivers

You can visit the Phnom Sombok Pagoda, a small hill Buddhist temple, as well as the lovely island of Kaoh Trong to enjoy its lush view and unspoiled surroundings.

It is a must to make time to sit and watch the incredible and magical sunset at Mekong River.

If you love dolphins, it is the perfect place to come and watch incredibly rare Irrawaddy Dolphins.

What is the best time to visit Kratie?

The best time to visit Kratie is in the winter season, which are the months of December and January.

You have to stay at least three nights in this town before moving forward to the next location on your itinerary.

To reach Kratie, you have many options. The most convenient would be to first take a flight to Phnom Penh International airport. From there you can either take a flight to Kratie airport or hire a cab or take a bus.

14. Koh Ker

Koh Ker is one of the best and most famous Tourist attractions in Cambodia because of a prevalent local legend. It is a belief that if you drop a coconut at Koh Ker Temple’s well, it will emerge at the pond near Neang Khmao temple.

Koh Ker consists of various temples, starting with the Neang Khmai temple, which lies on a small hill. It is made from sandstone and shaped like a stupa.

Don’t forget to visit the Prasat Thom Complex, Pram temple, Preng Temple as well as Chen Temple.

What is the best time to visit Koh Ker?

The best time to visit Koh Ker is between October and February when the humidity is tractable, and the weather is cool.

You can fully explore Koh Ker and its temples in 1 day.

Koh Ker is only two and half an hour away from the town of Seim Reap, so it is totally up to you whether you want to hire a taxi. The Travel to the temples will also include a trek of around 20 minutes.

15. Sambor Prei Kuk

Among the top places to visit in Cambodia , Sambor Prei Kuk has to be included because of its majestic Pre-Angkorian monuments. It has around 100 temples scattered throughout the forest.

Sambor Prei Kuk has rightly earned its place on the list of UNESCO World Heritage of Cambodia.

It is a place of rich history. These temples are dedicated to the incarnations of Lord Shiva, and their walls have remarkably clear carvings, the structures covered in enormous roots.

What is the best time to visit Sambor Prei Kuk?

The best time to visit Sambor Prei Kuk is between November and February, when you can enjoy cooler weather as compared to other months of the year and humidity manageable.

To reach Sambor Prei Kuk, you have to make a drive from Kompong Tom.

Top Tips when you visit Cambodia

To help you plan accordingly, here are some top tips to follow when you visit Cambodia, as well as answers to some frequently asked questions.

What to pack when you travel to Cambodia?

Appropriate Clothes :

Cambodia has a hot, humid climate. So, even if you pick the best time to visit Cambodia, make sure that the clothes you are packing are breathable and able to absorb heavy sweating. Also, stow in a light rain jacket if you are visiting during the Monsoon season.

When you would be visiting any religious place here, you have to cover your shoulders and knees. For this reason, pack suitable, proper clothing.

Protection against bugs

Cambodia is a tropical country and home to various insects. So, Make sure you are packing stuff that protects against bugs and mosquitoes, like Mosquitoe spray and insect repellent.

First Aid Kit

Make sure to pack your first aid, which must contain essentials like painkillers, antibiotic cream, bandages, and any prescription meds, especially the medicine for your allergies.

A Power bank is a worthful investment because you never know when your phone’s battery dies and never want that to happen in case of an emergency.

You have the option to pick as many places to visit in Cambodia But to protect your skin against the ruthless sun of Cambodia; Sunscreen is a must.

In the case of Power Cut, it serves well to have a torch handy. Also, while visiting various locations, it can be pretty helpful to look in the dark areas.

How much does a Cambodia trip cost?

Cambodia is the best country to vacation under budget. It would cost around $350 for a person to enjoy one whole week here. You can enjoy food and use public transportation for under $20 a day. To save further money, you can choose your accommodation in a Hostel Dorm, which costs around $7 per night only!

Is Cambodia safe to Travel alone?

If you want to travel around Cambodia solo, then rest assured that Cambodia is a relatively safe country to travel to. Cambodia has been ranked higher than countries like Thailand and Nepal in terms of safety by the UN. Of course, you have to be careful of scams and petty criminals.

What is the best time to visit Cambodia?

The best time to visit Cambodia has to be between November and February. These months have the perfect weather for a perfect vacation as it is neither too hot nor cold in these months in Cambodia. There can be light rainfall, but it would still be mildly warm.

However, keep this in mind that these months are also the peak tourist season which raises the prices, airfares as well as a higher crowd.

Does Visiting Cambodia needs a visa?

The answer is yes and no. If you want to visit Cambodia, then you will need to apply for a visa before entering the country. However, there are some exceptions to this rule and you can get easily one in online. Here is How to Get Cambodia e-Visa in 3 Easy Steps

Suffice to say that Cambodia should be on your bucket list if you want to experience true cultural history with its classic ruins. All the best places to visit in Cambodia provide an unparalleled experience with its archaeological treasures, floating villages, and a tropical adventure in its jungles and breathtaking, pristine beaches.

This country is the perfect holiday destination if you are planning under a budget because everything is so cheap here!

Don’t you want to wind down and just relax under the warm sun by the lovely beaches and then go biking, snorkelling, and even cruising to see Dolphins!?

For more travel  Inspiration under budget, Check out our other blogs- Before you know it, you’ll be planning your trip!

Ready to take on this adventure? Leave a comment down below, and Remember to share your adventurous story with us because we would love to hear from you.

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Backpacking in cambodia: the ultimate guide to thrilling backpacking adventures in cambodia.

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Cambodia Travel Guide: The Best Places to Visit in Cambodia

Wedged in between Vietnam, Laos and Thailand, this small but beautiful country is a much-loved stop on most South East Asia itineraries. Once mostly popular with just backpackers, Cambodia and the surrounding countries now have plenty to offer all travellers. There has been a raft of new luxury hotel openings, more family-friendly activities and better flight paths into the country.

Cambodia is most famous for Angkor Wat, a mammoth temple complex near Siem Reap. Visiting here has long been the main draw for most visitors to the country. But as local roads and public transport has improved, dozens more historically and culturally important attractions have become easier to access. All of which are well worth including on any Cambodia itinerary.

So this Cambodia travel guide aims to cover all the key information to know before visiting.

To ensure this guide is comprehensive and covers all the best things to do in Cambodia, I’ve enlisted the help of some other travel bloggers. They’ve all shared their own contributions, so read on to find out more!

History of Cambodia

Cambodia has a dark past. There’s no getting round it, and reminders of this are visible across the country. The country was torn apart by a brutal genocide in the late 1970s led by Pol Pot, the ruler of the Khmer Rouge. The genocide meant nearly 1.7 million Cambodians lost their lives over the course of 4 murderous years. Based on an ideology of creating an ‘equal’ or ‘classless’ society, the regime’s goal was to torture, and kill anyone who had an education. The Khmer wanted all members of society to be rural farmers and agricultural workers, rather than educated living in the cities. The Khmer regime shut down schools, factories, hospitals and universities. They then sought to murder teachers, doctors, engineers and lawyers – and their families.

No visit to Cambodia can be undertaken without confronting this harrowing time in history. Any visit to Phnom Penh should include, at the very least, a visit to the killing fields at Choeung Ek, as well as the Tuol-Sleng S-21 prison.

My experience of visiting these places was challenging, but eye-opening. It beggars belief how this barbaric genocide went unnoticed by the rest of the world for so long. It explains why you see so few elderly Cambodians in the country. Every Cambodian you speak to will have had at least one person in their family murdered by Pol Pot’s Khmer Rouge, and that alone requires some time to process.

I highly recommend reading further on the genocide before visiting, and this article here is a useful starting point.

Cambodia Travel Guide: Useful Information

How to get to cambodia.

The two main airports in Cambodia are in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. No long-haul international flights land directly in Cambodia, but you can fly in from other major destinations such as Hong Kong, Bangkok and Singapore.

There are also very efficient bus services from major cities in the surrounding countries, such as from Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok. You can buy your tickets at any travel agents’ stall in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Ho Chi Minh City or Bangkok.

Cambodia visas

Most nationalities need a visa for Cambodia, but fortunately, you can easily obtain these on arrival at both land borders and airports.

The visa lasts for 30 days and can only be paid for in cash, and you should have $30 USD in crisp notes. Some land borders ask for passport photos too, so I advise keeping these at hand.

There is also now the option to get an e-visa online before arriving. This costs the same but is subject to an $7 processing fee. You can apply for this here on the official website and you need to do this at least 5 working days before you travel. As in-person visas are straight-forward to obtain, I recommend doing this on arrival but following the global Coronavirus pandemic, I do advise checking your country’s official website for the most up-to-date entry and visa requirements.

How to get around Cambodia?

Unlike Vietnam and Thailand, train travel isn’t well established in Cambodia and the main way to get around is by bus. The buses ply dozens of routes and although slow, they can connect travellers across the country.

Departure times are listed, but buses rarely depart according to the schedules. Never leave short connection times, particularly if you’re planning on heading to the airport. Leave as much time as possible. And if you travel around Cambodia in the rainy season, prepare for your bus journeys to be further delayed due to heavy rainfall. This can make many roads impassable!

Another option to going by road between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is to go by river cruise. Although this is a long journey, it is a beautiful one and if time allows, one of the best ways. Arrange your full day cruise tickets here .

The north-east of the country is the least developed and the hardest to access, but if you head off the beaten track here, you’ll meet some of the friendliest people and discover remote tribal villages.

For shorter trips within towns, tuk-tuks are by far the easiest way to get around and relatively inexpensive compared to taxis. However, if you want the comfort and convenience of a private taxi, you can certainly do so. For example, for Phnom Penh to Siem Reap it can be much faster to travel by private taxi. You can arrange a Phnom Penh to Siem Reap taxi here .

When is the best time to go to Cambodia?

The rainy season stretches from May to around October time, with July and August seeing the heavy rainfall. I’ve been to Cambodia in August, and experienced complete wash-out days. It wasn’t just a heavy tropical rainfall in the evening like in Thailand. My beach days were spent undercover, ordering endless smoothies and watching the waves crashing under the heavy, unrelenting rain.

Cycling around Angkor Wat in torrential rain is an experience, to say the least. And I spent hours taking shelter inside the temples, hiding from the rain. Whilst it was still a brilliant visit, I think it could have been better in dry weather.

However, this did help to deter the crowds and it is certainly magical enjoying entire temples in Angkor Wat to yourself.

The best time to visit Cambodia is from November to March, with little rain and long, sunny days. The humidity is also far more manageable too. With the better weather, crowds will be bigger and hotels more expensive – but I recommend this over having a wash-out trip!

One of the most useful things to know is that Cambodia uses two currencies – the US dollar and the Khmer riel.

The Khmer Rouge banned money up until the late 1970s – the country didn’t have any currency. So the US dollar was introduced in order to stabilise the economy in the early 90s, as the Khmer Route regime was brought down.

The US dollar is the main currency used by tourists for things such as accommodation, transport, local tours, most attractions, tourist-focused restaurants and tourist shops. You can easily withdraw US dollars at ATMs or change money up at local currency exchange stalls.

The main times you’d use the Khmer riel is at market stalls, street vendors and any other informal setting – but you can also pay in USD with no issues, especially as you are more likely to have this currency at hand.

It has been reported that crumpled USD notes have been rejected many places before, so try and keep your currency in good condition. At the Cambodia border and at the airport, you will need crisp USD to make sure to have these or you may not get in!

Cambodia is pretty cheap to visit, and noticeably cheaper than other destinations in South East Asia.

Accommodation  

Expect to pay upwards of $30 USD (£23) for a room in a comfortable guesthouse, and $60 USD (£46) plus for a nice hotel room.

Dorm rooms in backpacker hostels can be as cheap as $4 USD (£3) per night, but if you’re travelling as a pair, you can get a private room in a hostel for a little as $10 USD (£7.60).

Food  

Food, especially from street food vendors, is inexpensive Cambodia. You can eat for as little as $1-2 USD (75p-£1.50) per meal, and simple meals in local restaurants are around $3-5 USD (£2.30-£3.80). At restaurants aimed at tourists, expect to pay a little more – around $5-15 USD (£3.80-£11.40) per person.

Using local public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around. Tuk-tuks are easily to hail and very cheap, just make sure to confirm the price before you jump in. You can also rent a driver for the day or to wait for you at an attraction to take you back again.

Buses are a little more expensive as they connect larger towns or areas. As a guide, the bus from Phnom Penh to SIem Reap costs around USD $10 (£7.60) per person.

Attractions

Most attractions are reasonably priced, for example the Choeung Ek Killing Fields near Phnom Penh which costs just USD $5 (£3.80) to enter. However, Angkor Wat has pretty steep entry prices and you need to factor these in to your visit.

You can buy passes as either one day ($37/£28), three day ($62/£47) and seven day ($72/£55) tickets. They do not have to be used on consecutive days (but must be used within a given time frame). For example, the three day pass has to be used within 10 days.

Cambodia: The Best Places to Visit

Submitted by Samantha at intentionaldetours.com

After leaving  southern Laos  and crossing the border, one of the most interesting places you can visit in Cambodia is its capital, Phnom Penh.

Phnom Penh is rich in history, but its location alongside the Mekong gives it a sweet, riverside vibe.

When visiting the city, taking in the horrifying history at both the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields is essential to understanding Cambodia’s harrowing past. These sites both tell a story that’s sadly unknown to most of the world.

Arrange your tour to the S-21 prison and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields here.

The beautiful Royal Palace located near the city centre is also absolutely worth checking out while you wander throughout Phnom Penh. The beautiful grounds have been occupied by Kings of Cambodia since the 1860s.

Aside from its main tourist attractions, Phnom Penh is home to a number of markets where you can find everything from leggings to seafood to jewellery and everything in between. The Russian Market is great for all things shopping, while the Phnom Penh night market is a great place to pop into for some nighttime eats. The best way to get to both is via tuk-tuk, which is the city’s most popular form of transportation. This tour here is a great option for combining the National Museum, the Russian Market and Wat Phnom Temple.

Phnom Penh is also well known for its numerous Happy Pizza parlours- which is your normal pizza with a bit of a “happy” topping twist. These shops tend to be situated near the riverwalk that stretches adjacent to the Mekong.

Where to stay in Phnom Penh

There’s no shortage of great places to stay in the city. There are some amazing high-end hotels that have opened up in the city such as the Rosewood Phnom Penh (£167 per night), Raffles Hotel Le Royal (£165 per night) and the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra (£116 per night).

Some great mid-range options include the Hotel Emion (£66 per night) and the Pavilion Hotel (£31 per night).

But the quality of the hostels in Phnom Penh is surprisingly good, with Sla Boutique Hotel , Feliz Hostel and Bar and RS III Location Hostel being some of the most recommend. Mad Monkey is the hostel to go to for partying!

Choeung Ek Killing Fields

Submitted by Arabela from thespicytravelgirl.com

The Choeung Ek Killing Fields are another poignant reminder of Cambodia’s very dark past under the rule of the Khmer Rouge from 1975 to 1979. Millions of Cambodians lost their lives to starvation, overwork, or systematic executions in Cambodia’s infamous killing fields. One of the most well-known ones being the Choeung Ek Killing Fields just outside of the capital Phnom Penh.

You might be wondering why anyone would visit such a gruesome place where countless numbers of innocent men, women, and children were subjected to extreme torture and died agonising deaths. However, this chilling destination should be high on your list during any visit to Phnom Penh for a very concrete reason: history books may inform you about the horrors of the past but the only way to fully grasp their actual extent is to visit the place where it happened in person and listen to the victims’ stories.

It certainly is an emotional experience but it is crucial to learn for the future and honour the victims’ lives. Seeing all the skulls, mass graves, and sites of torture, accompanied by a very informative audio guide, will likely be one of your most eye-opening experiences ever.

Arrange your half-day guided tour to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields here.

Getting to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields from Phnom Penh is very easy. You can hire a tuk tuk for the 30-minute drive for a small fee and have your driver drop you off at the entrance. Be aware that you must follow a modest dress code out of respect for the victims. You should also keep in mind that the experience is very intense and is not recommended for children.

No-one comes to Cambodia without visiting Siem Reap. Home to world-renowned temples, including of course Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is a popular stop on all South East Asia itineraries.

When you’re not temple hopping, there are dozens of other attractions such as the Cambodian Land Mine Museum or the floating village of Kompong Phluk. Siem Reap itself is a beautiful town to spend a few days in, with pretty waterways criss-crossing the city. It’s certainly far less frenetic than Phnom Penh.

The unimaginatively named Pub Street is the commercial epicentre of the city. At night, it has a Khao San vibe to it but during the day, there are plenty of excellent cafes for breakfast and lunch, often with pretty, sun-drenched terraces too. In the evening, make sure to stop at one of the excellent French restaurants or go to the Old Market to sample some of the local street food. Another up-and-coming area is Wat Bo Road, not too far from Pub Street which is home to a colourful mix of bars and restaurants.

Another idea is to get to grips with Cambodian cuisine, with a Khmer cooking class or purchase tickets to the Apsara Theatre to take in one of the local dances shows.

Arrange tickets to an Apsara dance show here!

Where to stay in Siem Reap

You’re likely to be out and about for a lot of your time in Siem Reap, with some very early starts if you’re planning on visiting Angkor Wat at sunrise.

That being said, with there being so much to do in Siem Reap from day to night, I recommend picking somewhere quite restful and comfortable. After longs of walking and sightseeing, you’ll want somewhere to crash. I don’t recommend a dorm room!

Some of the best luxury stays include the Park Hyatt Siem Reap (£77 per night), the Anantara Resort & Spa (£80 per night) or the Shinta Mani Shack (£153 per night). For an ultra-opulent stay, consider Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor (£148 per night).

For the best mid-range stays, Navutu Dreams Resort is a good pick (£48 per night) as is Templation (£68 per night).

On the other end of the scale, if you are looking for a lively hostel stay, make sure to consider One Stop Hostel on Pub Street. Or if you want an affordable oasis, then check out Bokre Angkor Hostel .

Temple-hopping

Submitted by Mal from rawmalroams.com

A trip to Cambodia would not be complete without a visit to Angkor Wat temple complex. Angkor Wat is the country’s most important landmark, receiving more than half a million visitors per year.

Angkor Wat itself is the largest religious monument in the entire world, and covers a huge 400 acres of land. It was the centre of the powerful Khmer empire for several centuries. At the time, Angkor Wat was the most impressive, advanced city in the world, with as many as 750,000 people residing within the complex.

The temple dates back to the 12th century. In order to build Angkor Wat, the sandstone blocks were floated down the Siem Reap River on rafts, covering a distance of over 50km. It’s estimated that around 6000 elephants and 300,00 works helped with the construction of the temple complex. and in the 90s it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Angkor Wat was left abandoned (there are several theories why), and the surrounding jungle reclaimed the temple complex. It was later ‘re-discovered’ by European explorers and has since become a highly popular attraction in South East Asia.

The main temple is the largest and most impressive, and is best to be enjoyed at sunrise or sunset when the spires reflect in the nearby lake creating a magical aura.

Angkor Wat is situated around 7km from Siem Reap where there is an excellent choice of accommodation choice. The best way to visit Angkor Wat is with a local guide who will give you more insight into the history and the importance of the temples, so you know what you’re looking at!

As mentioned above in the budget section, the entry fee to the temple complex costs USD $37 (£28) for a one day pass. The park is open daily from 5am to 6pm.

Another way to visit Angkor Wat is to join a guided tour. There are dozens of different options, mostly small groups with a local, professional guide who can talk you through all of the different temples.

Some tour suggestions include:

• Angkor Wat full-day sunrise tour
• Angkor Wat temple hopping tour with sunset
• 1-day jeep tour to Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm
• Full day temples of Angkor Wat bike tour

Note: No tours include the Angkor Wat entry passes, and you’ll need to buy these separately.

Submitted by Chris from aquariustraveller.com

Also located in Siem Reap, the Ta Prohm temple is another unique attraction well worth visiting. Built as a Buddhist monastery in the 13th century in the Bayon style, King Jayavarman VII dedicated it to his mother. Visiting it today is like a real adventure, with the ruins completely taken over by the jungle.

Ta Prohm has become a popular site for tourists to visit, as it is unusual in that its most distinctive feature are the trees growing out of the ruins. The temple also found global fame after being featured in Angelia Jolie’s Tomb Raider movie back in 2001. In fact, this led to the temple receiving its western name, Tomb Raider Temple.

Within the temple, you can explore the closed courtyard, as well as the narrow corridors. Some of the pathways can’t be passed or accessed as the trees roots have dislodged some of the stone blocks to restrict certain areas. Towering trees filter the sunlight, and together with the moss, creeping plants and shrub sprouts lining the walls of the temple, it’s a mysterious and eerie place to visit.

Visits to Ta Prohm are included in the ticket pass to Angkor Wat, but there are also opportunities for private and small group tours, inclusive of transport from Siem Reap.

Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom

Submitted by Angela from whereangiewanders.com

Bayon is one of the many temples in the Angkor Thom complex and another of the best places to visit in Cambodia.  It is easily recognisable by the huge smiling stone faces on its towers. Bayon Temple dates back to the late 13th century when Angkor was the centre of the Khmer Kingdom and it is widely considered that this was one of the most important of all the temples in the Angkor Thom complex.

From a distance, Bayon looks like a simple grey stone temple, but as you get closer the 216 faces appear clearer.

Some say the faces represent King Jayavarman Vll, adorned as a deity during his reign. Others say they are of  Lokesvara , the Buddhist bodhisattva of Compassion. As you wander through Bayon’s labyrinth of passageways, it feels as if the 4-metre-high faces on four sides of each tower gaze down at you from every angle.

Inside the temple, the crumbling interior, intricate stone carvings and smiling stone faces transport you back over 900 years. This was when this spectacular Buddhist temple sat at the centre of the walled city of Angkor Thom, now a World Heritage Site.

Today the lure of Angkor Thom’s lost civilisation and  abandoned ruins reclaimed by Mother Nature  are why visitors flock to the area. Head out in the late afternoon as the sun is setting, and the crowds have left, and you may have Bayon all to yourself. It is then that you will realise why this temple is truly one of the most remarkable places to visit in Cambodia.

Banteay Srei

Submitted by Nicholas from ramblingfeet.net

Banteay Srei  (‘Citadel of Women’ in Khmer) lies about 37 m from Siem Reap. Despite being further from the city than Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei receives a fair share of visitors. The ride takes about an hour or so in a tuk-tuk each way, so can easily be visited in a half-day trip. If you can, it’s best to plan to arrive as soon as the temple entrance is open. Do note that an Angkor pass is needed for this trip and it will be punched if it is a brand new day.

The grounds are not very big but that means more time to explore the intricate statues and reliefs. The carvings go deeper than those you see elsewhere in Angkor. So those who named Banteay Srei believed only the delicate fingers of women could have created them. The doorframes and lintels of the inner shrines and the archways are full of such sculptures that retell Hindu epics. An hour is sufficient to explore the site; by then, the tour buses would have arrived to unload the masses.

The visit to Banteay Srei typically also includes a stop at the Cambodia Landmine Museum on the return leg. If you’re peckish, ask your driver to stop at the Preah Dak junction for a bowl of num ban chok. This is a dish of rich noodles in mildly spicy gravy served with fresh herbs, chicken and blood curd. It’s very tasty and nutritious!

This tour here is an excellent option for visiting Banteay Srei temple from Siem Reap.

Submitted by Soumya from storiesbysoumya.com

The ancient city of  Koh Ker , also known as Lingapura, is home to one of the oldest temple complexes in Cambodia. Hundreds of temples dedicated to the Hindu God, Shiva, were built here between the 9th and the 10th centuries. Today, they are empty. They barely see a handful of tourists each day, even though Koh Ker is only a couple of hours away from Angkor Wat.

Koh Ker is unique because it is the only place in the region that has a huge pyramid-shaped shrine. Somewhat similar to the lost Mayan pyramids of the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico. Prasat Thom in Koh Ker or the Pyramid Temple are very similar. Even today, you can climb up 180 stairs to get to the top of the temple for some stunning views of the Cambodian jungles.

Apart from Prasat Thom, there are more than 200 hundred other temples in Koh Ker, many in ruins. The Linga temples, Prasat Damrei, and Prasat Krahom are especially striking. Look out for intricately carved reliefs and ancient inscriptions in Sanskrit and Khmer language at these temples. Also, make sure to check out the beautiful Prasat Neang Khmau which is nicknamed the “Lady in Black”. Tall, slender, and dark – this is one of the most photogenic temples in the entire Cambodia.

It’s easiest to visit Koh Ker and the surrounding temples on a tour, such as this one .

Sambor Prei Kuk

Submitted by Ben from the sabbaticalguide.com

Sambor Prei Kuk  is overshadowed by its big brothers 150km up the road. Although this is hardly a surprise if you’re neighbour to one of the most famous places on Earth. But don’t miss out just because of the distance. Anywhere else in the world, Sambor Prei Kuk would be visited by tourists far more often.

So why would you choose to make the journey here?

Sambor Prei Kuk was once capital city of the Chenla Kingdom. They were the rulers of this part of Southeast Asia just before the Khmer gained power. The temples here are different to those at Angkor. They occupy a different gap in Cambodia’s history, making them well worth a visit in their own right.

After the horrific wars in Cambodia, Sambor Prei Kuk remained almost inaccessible. It wasn’t until 2007 when the last of the landmines were cleared that visitors could finally go. Because of this its very different to the crowded tourists hotspot of Angkor. On a Saturday in the mid-season, you might only see just a handful of other tourists. Even in the high season, maybe only 100 people a day make the trip there.

However, the temples are being quickly restored, with money used from gaining UNESCO status. So its ‘off-the-beaten track’ status won’t last long.

Visit Sambor Prei Kuk as soon as you can, and get your own Tomb Raider style adventure at an ancient capital city.

Book your tour to Sambor Prei Kuk here!

Other things to do and see in Siem Reap

Kompong phluk floating village .

Submitted by Arrianne from travelhabeat.com

Another interesting area to visit near Siem Reap is the Kompong Phluk Floating Village , built upon the floodplains of Tonle Sap Lake. During the rainy season (May to November), the village floats on stilts. There are three floating villages near Siem Reap, but Kompong Phluk is the easiest to get to.

If you visit during the rainy season, then you can jump on board a small boat with a local, and get a close-up glimpse of how the villagers uniquely live on stilts. You can see how the community carries on with life over the water, doing all their daily activities as usual.

Kompong Phluk also has a beautifully flooded mangrove forest you can explore with a short yet scenic canoe ride provided by the village’s rowing boat cooperative. It is an encouraging adventure as the women of the village spearhead each ride.

Discovering Kompong Phluk with the mangrove forest only takes around a half day. There are a number of group tours available in the area and you can easily find one. Indeed, there is more to Cambodia than just temple run. And spending time at Kompong Phluk Floating Village will definitely give you an inspiring experience.

Arrange your tour to the floating villages of Tonle Sap here!

Cambodia Land Mine Museum

Submitted by Bec from wyldfamilytravel.com

Another interesting attraction to visit is the Cambodian Land Mine Museum. It is located just a short tuk-tuk ride out of Siem Reap.

The museum was originally started by Aki Ra who was a soldier for the Khmer Rouge. As part of his role, he laid land mines all over Cambodia.

Now as a sign of remorse, Aki chooses to spend much of his time defusing unexploded land mines.

He now considers this his life’s work. In fact, many of the bombs and landmines at the museum are ones he has found. Dozens of Cambodians are still killed every year by unexploded landmines, so his work is crucial. Millions have been cleared, but sadly the country still remains one of the most heavily land-mined countries in the world.

This is a result of decades of conflict. From the brutal Khmer Rouge regime a civil war, the Vietnamese occupation and American bombings.

Wandering around the museum is an emotional experience. Although, not a big museum there is so much to learn here. There are a few rooms that hold information about the Khmer Rouge and the atrocities they committed in Cambodia. But mainly the focus is on the finding and defusing of the land mines. There’s also an area with simulated Khmer Rouge soldiers and what they would have looked like. 

Entry is USD $5 (£3.80) per adult and children under 10 are free.  If you are visiting Siem Reap  this is one experience you should not miss.

The Bamboo Train

Submitted by Daniel and Ilona from toptravelsights.com

When planning a trip to Cambodia, most visitors will first think about Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh. However, this country offers a lot more places that are worth visiting.

If you want to experience a more rural and quiet side of Cambodia, you should head to Battambang. While the city itself has more than 100,000 inhabitants, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside.

Riding a bamboo train through the rice fields is one of the most  fun things to do in Battambang . This train consists of a bamboo platform, wheels and an engine. That’s it. You will hop on, your driver will start, and then you’ll race through the fields at up to 40 km/h.

The bamboo trains, also sometimes called norry, used to be popular with locals all over Cambodia who liked them due to their low prices. As they were slow and unreliable, operations eventually stopped, and these days, bamboo trains mostly operate for tourists.

After 7km, the bamboo train ride ends. You can now watch as your driver dismantles the train by taking off the engine and the platform. You’ll get a 10 minutes break before going back again.

When visiting Battambang, make sure to go to the right bamboo train. You can find both the “original” bamboo train and a newer, far more touristy version. Find the original one for the unique experience of racing through the ricefields on nothing but a bamboo board.

Killing Caves in Battambang

Submitted by Mark from Travels in Gippslands

Riding in the tuk-tuk on the bumpy road out to the Killing Caves gives you time to contemplate your upcoming visit. Situated just outside of the town of Battambang are a small set of mountains called Phnom Sampov. It is here that members of the Khmer Rouge brought people, having torn them for them family, before brutally murdering them. It is truly gut-wrenching to consider the atrocities that took place at these caves. To visit these caves, you’ll be dropped at a small settlement at the base of the hills. From here, it is either around a 1 hour hike to the peak where the caves are located. Or you can jump in a 4×4 with a local driver to get to the top. This option takes just 15 minutes.

One of the mountains, Phnom Sampeau, has a series of caves that open into large caves further down the shaft. At the top, the victim was beaten or hit in the head and then pushed into the shaft falling into the cave. Some victims were just pushed down the shaft and left to die from the fall.

The larger of the caves is now a memorial to the victims of the Khmer regime. There is a memorial with skulls of some of the 10,000 victims from the cave. 

Eastern Cambodia

Submitted by Lauren from theplanetedit.com

Kratié is a town in eastern Cambodia, situated on the banks of the Mekong river. It’s a whole 240km north of hectic Phnom Penh, making it a great place to enjoy rural Cambodia and unwind for a few days.

The biggest draw of Kratié is without a doubt the  Irrawaddy dolphins . These are a species of river dolphin found in stretches of the Mekong across South Asia, particularly in Cambodia and Laos. They look a little like beluga whales, and have a flat, curved face and a mouth that seems to pull up into a smile. Because of this, they’ve earned the adorable nickname “the smiling face of The Mekong.”

Just 11km north of Kratié, in a small village called Kampi, there is a pod of about 20 Irrawaddy dolphins who reside in the Mekong there, which makes Kratié an excellent launching pad to visit the dolphins.

I recommend hiring a bicycle or motorbike from Kratié and heading towards Kampi. As you come into Kampi, you should spot a group of yellow boats waiting by the bank. These are there waiting to escort tourists out onto the river, in search of the dolphins. The expert boatmen know exactly where the dolphins will be, so you’re very likely to see them. However, early morning or late afternoon are the best times to go, as the dolphins tend to be more active. They only surface for a brief moment, so the biggest challenge is to try and get a photo!

Elephant Valley Project in Mondulkiri

Submitted by Lora from explorewithlora.com

The Elephant Valley Project in Cambodia is one of the most  ethical elephant encounters  in all of Southeast Asia. The project was started to rescue, rehabilitate, and return overworked and abused elephants to their natural environment.

EVP is a sanctuary setup, but deep in the jungle terrain of Cambodia. It’s located in Sen Monorom, in the Mondulkiri Province. It’s a long day of travel to get there, but absolutely worth it. This part of Cambodia is gorgeous and often overlooked by tourists.

The elephants who live there are in their natural environment, going about their daily lives as usual. As a visitor, you observe them from a safe distance. There is no handling, riding, washing, or feeding involved. While this might sound disappointing, these experiences don’t have the elephant’s best interest at heart. The goal of EVP is to give elephants back their independence, natural behaviour, and dignity.

If you’re planning to visit EVP, you have a few different options. You can either visit the sanctuary on a half-day or full-day tour, or go as a volunteer and stay overnight or longer. As a volunteer, half the day is spent working on projects that support the elephant’s conservation. The other half is spent watching the elephants in their natural environment. If you have the time, I recommend staying overnight. It’s a wonderful experience waking up in the jungle to the sounds of the elephants.

Coastal, Riverside & Mountain Towns

Submitted by Lotte from phenomenalglobe.com

Kep is a village in the south of Cambodia, close to the Vietnam border. It’s a lovely place to visit with a relaxed vibe, plenty of restaurants and accommodation options for all type of travelers. If your Cambodia itinerary allows, try to visit during the week instead of the weekend – Kep is also a popular weekend getaway from people living in Phnom Penh. During weekdays the beach is much quieter and accommodation prices are lower.

Being along the coastline, Kep serves up some great seafood, including pepper crab which is a local delicacy sold at the cafes at the Crab Market. Freshly caught crab is prepared in a pan with locally grown green peppercorn. Make sure to try some during your time in Kep! You can also visit a pepper plantation to see how pepper is grown that’s used to cook the delicious pepper crab. There are several plantations that offer tours, Sothy’s Pepper Farm is a good place to learn about pepper cultivation.

One of the other best things to do in Ker is to go hiking in Kep National Park. In this tropical forest you can follow a cool 8km jungle trail. This hiking route is well-maintained and well- signposted, and along the way you can enjoy lovely views and maybe even spot a few monkeys!

Another unusual attraction to see in Kep are the decaying French-style villas that are dotted around the town. They were built in the 1950s when Kep was Cambodia’s party town, but today lie rotting. Most of the villas were abandoned during the horrible Khmer Rouge regime and haven’t been inhabited since.

Submitted by Emily from wander-lush.org

No trip to Cambodia is complete without spending a few nights in the peaceful riverside city of Kampot. A relaxing retreat from the capital, it’s also a convenient place to break the journey between Phnom Penh and the beaches and islands in the south.

Sitting on the banks of the Preaek Tuek, Kampot moves at the same languid pace as the river. Chilling out in your rustic (or luxury) bungalow, taking a sunset cruise and trying watersports such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are among  the top things to do in Kampot.

Kampot boasts some beautiful French colonial architecture, art galleries that showcase local creatives, and one of the country’s top café and restaurant scenes. Authentic Portuguese, Israeli and Italian offerings can be found alongside contemporary Khmer cuisine. Twenty Three Bistro and Café Espresso Roastery are both must-trys.

Other actives to do include hiring a bike to cycle through the salt pans and Kampot pepper plantations, join a cooking class, or perhaps go in search of the ‘secret lake’. Or for something more relaxing, book a massage treatment at social enterprise Banteay Srey (ladies only!).

Kampot is located 150km south of Phnom Penh and takes around 3.5 hours to reach by minibus. I suggest travelling with Giant Ibis, which has a good road safety record. For accommodation, I highly recommend Hotel Old Cinema, which is located inside a refurbished movie house.

Bokor Mountain

Submitted by Marya from thebeautraveler.com

Bokor Mountain  is located around 40km from Kampot. The area was initially constructed as a mountain luxury resort for French colonial residents in the early 1920s. In fact, the late Cambodian King Sihanouk still used his summer house, called The Black Palace, in Bokor until the late 1950s when he was forced to abandon it. However, there’s more to it than just the late king’s favourite summer destination.

Today, the ruins of The Black Palace (or  Veang Khmao  for the locals) offer a stunning views. While the building is no longer in use, some corners of the summer house are now painted with stunning graffitis by local artists.

Not far from the deserted palace, you can also visit the goddess statue that is believed to protect the forest and coastal provinces of Cambodia in peace, Lok Yeay Mao. The statue in Bokor is the largest statue of the goddess in Cambodia.

In addition, the highest Buddhist pagoda in Cambodia, Wat Sampov Prav is also located around the mountain. Make sure to also visit the famous Bokor Old Church. The church was entirely abandoned during the Khmer Rouge era due to the prohibition of showcasing faith and religious symbols under the communist government.

There are several options to go to the national park from either Kampot or Kep. The tour package start from as low as USD $15 (£11.40), and it’s worth the day trip!

The Islands

Cambodia’s islands are located off the southwest coast country, accessed through the gateway town of Sihanoukville.

The islands are still unaffected by mass tourism. Therefore offer the charming and understated experience you would have had on neighbouring Thailand’s islands a few decades back. The main islands are Koh Rong, which is thd largest and most popular, as well as Koh Rong Samloem. There are also the tiny Koh Kong and Koh Ta Kiev island to visit too.

It’s worth mentioning too that some of the most incredible hotels in Cambodia are located around these islands. One out-of-this-world stay is at the Song Saa Private Island although a villa with a private pool here will set you back £1,202 per night. Or consider the Six Senses Krabey Island (£1,170 per night), a beautiful tropical stay.

As mentioned, you have to travel to Sihanoukville first and from here, you can catch your ferry to the islands. Although Sihanoukville used to be one of the best party places in South East Asia around 10 years ago, today it is not a nice town. I don’t recommend visiting, unless you need to spend a night before taking the ferry.

Over the past two years, investors from China have pumped billions into Sihanoukville. The main goal has been to transform the town into an attractive Chinese holiday destination, however much of the development has not been completed. Today the town is a mish-mash of half-built construction sites, unfinished roads and it has destroyed the local ecosystem.

It has also led to a huge degree of corruption and crime, with unknowing tourists being the main targets. On my most recent visit, I did not feel safe in Sihanoukville, and sadly couldn’t wait to leave.

Submitted by Bilyana from owlovertheworld.com

Koh Rong is a true paradise and a must-visit destination on any  trip to SE Asia ! Located just half an hour boat ride away from the coast of Sihanoukville, Koh Rong is the second-largest island of Cambodia.

There are 43km of white sandy beaches across the island, all perfect to watch one of the breathtaking sunsets each evening. The crystal-clear ocean water is warm year-round, making Koh Rong one of the best places to visit in Cambodia. Falling in love with the island is easy and often happens at first sight. The serene beauty of Koh Rong is welcoming all types of travellers: solo travelers, couples, families, groups, etc.

While the main tourist beach creates a vibrant party atmosphere, there are many peaceful and less-busier parts around the island. So whatever kind of trip you’re looking for, you’ll find something to suit in Koh Rong.

Snorkelling and scuba diving are among the best things to do on the island. Koh Rong is home to some of the most exquisite marine life. Other water activities that you can do include kayaking, windsurfing, and paddle boarding. Having the opportunity to choose between all of these guarantees that you won’t get bored in Koh Rong.

But of course, there’s more that Koh Rong has to offer. Another highlight is to join an island hopping tour that finishes with an opportunity to swim with the glowing plankton. Although you can see the plankton on the beaches in other areas in Cambodia, Koh Rong is one of the best places to see them away from light pollution.

Koh Rong Samloem

Submitted by Cecilie from wowiwalkers.com

Koh Rong Samloem is everything you imagine a tropical island to be. White sandy beaches, a clear turquoise ocean with nothing on the horizon, and fresh coconuts ready to be consumed.

Koh Rong Samloem is the sister island to popular Koh Rong. It’s a small island with poor Wi-Fi. But this will finally give you the opportunity to go offline and enjoy that book you never got to finish. There are also no roads on the island, but you can go jungle hiking from beach to beach or grab a water taxi.

But there is more to this island than hanging in a hammock all day. In fact, there are plenty of  things to do on Koh Rong Samloem . You can go jungle trekking, kayaking, diving and snorkeling, or see the bioluminescent plankton at night.

Book an afternoon snorkelling tour and see the bioluminescence plankton here!

If you do want to lay back and relax, then some of the bests beaches to visit are the popular white sandy beach at Saracen Bay, the quieter Sunset Beach or the local M’Pay Bay. There’s something for everyone on this slice of island paradise!

But prepare yourself before your departure. Koh Rong Samloem doesn’t have an ATM and you can’t pay with a credit card. So book your hotel before arrive, and make sure to stock up on cash before you get to this beautiful paradise island in Cambodia.

Cambodia Travel Guide

So there’s my guide to travelling around Cambodia. As you can see, there’s so much more to the country than just Angkor Wat. In particular, other temples that are so worth visiting and don’t have the crowds. From the stunning paradise islands, to the outdoor adventures in eastern Cambodia or the unusual bamboo train in Battambang. There’s plenty to see and do in Camdodia!

I do hope this Cambodia guide has been helpful and inspires you to explore more of this beautiful South East Asian country. Please, as always, do let me know if you have any questions!

Cambodia works really well as a twin-centre trip with Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. Check out my other South East Asia blog posts here:

• Best things to do in Luang Prabang, Laos
• Ethical elephant experience in Laos
• Island-hopping the Phi Phi Islands in Thailand
• Mai Khao paradise beach in Phuket, Thailand

Disclaimer:  This guide has no involvement from the local tourism board or a hotel .

Enjoyed my guid e to the best things to do in Cambodia?  Pin it !

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This is a very good tip particularly to those fresh to the blogosphere. Short but very accurate info… Thanks for sharing this one. A must read article!

can you quote for an itinerary for 8 to 10 nights with sightseeing of important places with relaxed stay. Accommodation 3 star hotels with breakfast on double occupancy basis. We are two elderly couple who will arrive around 11th of March in Phnom Penh airport. we will leave also from this airport to India via KUL.

Best regards Nair

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• 34 Places To Visit In Cambodia In 2024 – The Erstwhile Khmer Empire

23 Mar 2023

Get a taste of ancient Southeast Asia on your trip to Cambodia. The erstwhile Khmer empire boasts of stunning landscapes, pristine beaches and exotic temples. The top places to visit in Cambodia attract tourists and travelers with varied interests. There’s a mix of both the old and the new that will leave you in total awe. Whether you are visiting the iconic Angkor temples or the sophisticated and contemporary, capital Phnom Penh.

Bordered by Thailand to the northwest and Vietnam to the east, Cambodia is a land of elusive wildlife and tropical adventures. Traverse the timeless landscapes of this mighty realm of the Gods by visiting popular tourist spots in Cambodia. But before that, here are some important details:

34 Places To Visit In Cambodia In 2024

Confused about where to go in Cambodia? As we share the list, get set to have a fun and knowledgeable experience at some of the most scenic places to visit in Cambodia and explore every one of these riveting destinations on your vacation. Keep scrolling down and read along!

• Kampot: The Scenic Riverside City
• Kratie: The Little Charming Town
• Sihanoukville: The Snorkeling Spot
• Siem Reap: The City Of Ancient Ruins
• Koh Ker: The Temple With A Legend
• Phnom Penh: The Temple With A Legend
• Angkor: The UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Krong Ta Khmau : The Best Of Cambodia
• Koh Rong : The Paradisiacal Island
• Koh Tonsay: The Rabbit Island
• Mondulkiri: The Most Beautiful Province
• Central Market : A Surprising Place
• Preah Vihear: The Province With Lush Countryscapes
• Tonle Sap Lake : The Serene Freshwater Body
• Kep: The Province With Quiet Beaches
• Poipet : The Land Of Casinos!
• Battambang: The Lush Countryside!
• Preah Khan: The Royal Sword!
• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum : For The Dark Tales
• Banlung: The Shopping Paradise
• Virachey National Park: The Wildlife Spot
• National Museum of Cambodia : For A Unique Collection
• War Museum: The Civil War Memorial
• Bamboo Island: The Busiest Island
• Landmine Museum: The Weapon Spot
• Bayon Temple: The Ancient Architecture Marvel
• Bokor Hill Station : The Quaint Resort Town
• Silver Pagoda: The Temple Of The Emerald Buddha
• Ta Prohm: The Temple Of The Emerald Buddha
• Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center: The Wild Spot
• Battambang Bat Caves: The Scariest Tourist Attraction
• Ream National Park: The Land Of Endangered Species
• Killing Fields: The Massive Graveyards
• Banteay Srei : The Sacred Spot

1. Kampot: The Scenic Riverside City

Image Credit: foursorefeet for Pixabay

Besides being the land of black peppercorns, Kampot is a scenic riverside promenade that has a number of colonial structures. Also, the quaint riverside town provides a gateway to the French hill station of Bokor National Park which has mesmerizing views and a pleasant climate. Needless to say, it is one of the most exotic and famous places in Cambodia too. 

View ancient ruins at the Kampot Kampong Trach caves, go boating on the river and watch glistening waterfalls in this idyllic location.

Best Time To Visit: October – January Places To Stay: Nary Garden, Kampit Riverfront, Candy Pepper, Banyan Tree Hostel, Maya Bungalows Things To Do: Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Kampot Salt Fields, Rabbit Island, Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple Don’t miss: Try the crab curry here for a lip-smacking treat. Tourist Attractions: Preah Monivong National Park, Durian Roundabout How To Reach: Take a flight to Phnom Penh International Airport and then you can hire a cab or take a bus till Kampot. You can also take a flight from Phnom Penh International Airport to Kampot Airport.

Must Read: 9 Best Cambodia Resorts 

2. Kratie: The Little Charming Town

Your answer to where to visit in Cambodia in winter is here. View well-preserved French colonial buildings at the little charming town of Kratie which lies on the banks of the Mekong River. Enjoy a magical sunset at the Mekong River here and also watch the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in action. The French buildings here are definitely among the top places to visit in Cambodia .

Best Time To Visit: October – January Places To Stay: Sorya Guest House, Balcony Kratie, Rajbori Vilas Resort, Star Backpackers Guesthouse, River Dolphin Hotel, Arun Mekong Guest House Don’t miss: Take a boat ride along the Mekong River to view the dolphins in action Tourist Attractions: Kaoh Trong, Phnom Sombok How To Reach: Phnom Penh International Airport is well-connected with all major cities in the world. Board a flight to this airport and then you can either take a flight to Kratie Airport or a bus and reach this town.

3. Sihanoukville: The Snorkeling Spot

Image Source

The spot where the United States fought its last battle in the Vietnam War is now a land of sunny beaches. Relax at the shores of these less populated beaches and enjoy watersports like snorkelling and kayaking. Spend the day at a beach shack on any one of these pristine six beaches here to enjoy a fun holiday. There are a lot of things to do in Sihanoukville like exploring the marine life, relaxing at the beaches, swimming and more.

Best Time To Visit: October – January  Places To Stay: Naia Resort, Sok Sabay Resort, Sea Breeze Resort, RedHouse, Bake and Bake GuestHouse, Lakshmi Bungalow Things To Do: Leu Pagoda: Enjoy a visit to the serene temple, Kbal Chhay Waterfalls: Get mesmerized by nature’s beauty, Bamboo Island: Spend blissful moments by the beach, Beaches: Explore the many gorgeous white-sand sites Don’t miss: Try windsurfing at the quiet and serene Otres Beach. Tourist Attractions: Otres Beach, Ochheuteal Beach How To Reach: Board a flight to Sihanoukville Airport and you will comfortably reach this city. Connecting flights from Phnom Penh are available till Sihanoukville Airport.

Suggested Read: 10 Cheapest Cities In Asia 

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4. Siem Reap: The City Of Ancient Ruins

Wondering where to go in Cambodia which is popular yet peaceful. Consider the Siem Reap River and the rice paddies that make this town much more than just a stopover to witness the Angkor temples. Siem Reap has vibrant night markets, silk farms, traditional craft shops, fun road tours through rice paddies, bird sanctuaries, fishing villages and boat tours on Tonle Sap Lake. This should definitely be on your list of the top 30 places to visit in Cambodia. Angkor Wat temples, Bayon and Angkor Thom are some of the best places to visit in Siem Reap .

Best Time To Visit: November – March Places To Stay: Xing Angkor Hotel, Ta Prohm Hotel, Chronicle Angkor Hotel, The Privilege Boutique, The Privilege Boutique Don’t miss: Rejuvenate yourself at the oldest Buddhist temple at the Wat Bo village. Also don’t forget to watch Apsara dance performances and visit Pub Street that are the best of Cambodian tourist attractions. Tourist Attractions: Bayon, Ta Prohm Temple How To Reach: Siem Reap International Airport is well-connected with all major cities in the world. All you need to do is to board a flight and you will reach this city.

5. Koh Ker: The Temple With A Legend

Explore the innumerable temples at Koh Ker that lie to the northeast of the Siem reap town. Koh Ker is known as one of the best places in Cambodia. The temples in Koh Ker are one of the famous Cambodia tourist spots. The temple complex here is around 3 km long and consists of a number of temples and is considered one of the places to see in Cambodia in 3 days.

Start with the sandstone Neang Khmao temple which is shaped like a stupa and lies on a small hill. Other temples worth visiting here are the main complex of the Koh Ker temple, the Pram temple, Chen temple, the Preng well and the Kuk temple. According to local legend, if you drop a coconut at the well at the Koh Ker temple it will appear at the pond near Neang Khmao temple.

Best Time To Visit: October – February Don’t miss: The 30 m Prasat Thom complex that rises majestically over the surrounding jungle.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Restaurants In Kampot 

6. Phnom Penh: The City Of The Brahma’s Faces

Image Credit: JoelleLC for Pixabay

Phnom Penh still retains its charm as the leafy capital city of Cambodia with its palaces and wats. Located at the conjunction of three grand rivers- the Tonle Sap, the Mekong and the Bassac river, this city now houses a number of hotspots like cool cafes and bustling bars. It is one of the top Cambodia tourist places.

French colonial houses lie nestled besides roadside pagodas here and makes this city one of the topmost places to visit in Cambodia. View some unique Khmer artifacts at the National Museum or visit the Phsar Reatrey to pick up some handcrafted souvenirs.

Best Time To Visit: October to May  Places To Stay: Christian Homestay, VS Sweet Home, Family Homestay, Meas Family Homestay, Christian Garden House Things To Do: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Illuminating Hours, Royal Palace And Silver Pagoda: A Royal Tour, Phsar Thmey: Bargains And More, Killing Fields: Paying Homage Don’t miss: The beautiful complex of the Royal Palace with its golden spires is a must see Cambodia tourist attraction. Tourist Attractions: Royal Palace, Wat Phnom How To Reach: Phnom Penh International Airport is well-connected with all major cities in the world. All you need to do is to board a flight and you will reach this city.

7. Angkor: The UNESCO World Heritage Site

One of Cambodia’s greatest tourist attractions, the Angkor Wat temple lies in Angkor and is one of the largest religious monuments to behold. Regarded as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the UNESCO World Heritage site Angkor Wat is a definite must visit on a holiday to Cambodia. It lies to the south of Angkor Thom that is also one of Cambodia’s tourist spots. It pulls a huge crows as it is one of the sites where Lara Croft and the Tomb Raider movies were shot. The Angkor Wat temples are on of the must visit temples in Cambodia .

Angkor Wat has a 650 feet wide moat, a stone gateway with guardian lions, a seven headed naga and the Mt Meru tower. Around 300,000 workers and 6,000 elephants were used to construct this temple whose sandstone blocks were brought all the way from the holy mountain of Phnom Kulen.

Don’t Miss: The outstanding Ta Prohm Buddhist temple ruin that is the ideal place to capture picture-perfect shots and is surrounded by towering trees.

Suggested Read: 10 Lavish Hotels In Cambodia 

8. Krong Ta Khmau: The Best Of Cambodia

This is the capital of the largest city in central Cambodia. Just 11 km away from the Cambodian capital, Krong Ta Khmau is one of the best places to see in Cambodia if you are on a leisure trip. You will find a variety of temples, pagodas, including the famous Wat Kropeu overlooking the peaceful of Wat S’ang by the side of lake Boeng Cheung Loung. It is a true sight to behold as you feel like living in a different world.

Don’t miss : Since there are plenty of pagodas, you must visit Wat crocodile Hassan pagoda and Wat Puth Yetndy

9. Koh Rong: The Paradisaical Island

One of the most beautiful places in Cambodia, those looking for adventure will love the island paradise Koh Rong that has several beaches like the Koh Toch beach. It is among the top Cambodia tourist attractions. A lot of activities on these lovely beaches makes Koh Rang one of exciting places to see in Cambodia.

Here, you can go snorkelling and see diamond fish, seahorses, sergeant fish, parrot fish, jumping fish, diamond fish, blue-spotted ribbon tail rays, and squids. If you are a hardcore water sports lover, go diving and kayaking. Also, pay a visit to the rope adventure park where you can go zip lining. To witness some abundant wildlife head over to Police Beach which has a butterfly farm and mini zoo during your sightseeing in Cambodia.

Best Time To Visit: October – January Places To Stay: Onederz Koh Rong Sanloem, Dahlia Guest House, Ing Ing Guest House, Longvek Hostel, Saracen Bay Resort Don’t miss: Lonely Beach and Coconut Beach are perfect spots to view bio-luminescent plankton. Tourist Attractions: Long Set Beach, Sok San Beach How To Reach: Board a flight till Sihanoukville International Airport and then you can take a ferry and reach Koh Rong.

Suggested Read: 9 Best Homestays In Cambodia 

10. Koh Tonsay: The Rabbit Island

Counted among the best places to travel in Cambodia, Koh Tonsay is also known as the Rabbit Island as local inhabitants believe that the island resembles a rabbit. This island provides the perfect break from the regular grind as it is a peaceful abode lined with coconut palms and is one of the top tourist spots in Cambodia.

There is a lot to do here – relax on a hammock on the sandy shores of the 600 m long main beach, go swimming, enjoy some delicious local seafood and interact with the friendly locals at this rustic island. There are also comfy beach shacks where you can unwind and chill.

Don’t miss: Go snorkelling at the main beach or take a trip to the nearby Koh Pos or snake island. How To Reach: Located 4.5 km from Kep, this island is best accessed by boat from Kep. The ride costs $7 for a day return.

11. Mondulkiri: The Most Beautiful Province

Located in the eastern part of Cambodia, Mondulkiri is an interesting place to visit in Cambodia due to its abundant wildlife and natural beauty. As you step foot into this province, you will be greeted by rolling lush hills, thick forests, flora and fauna, and one of the best waterfalls in Cambodia .

Get a taste of the traditional culture here by visiting the hill tribes who stay in Phnong houses and use big jars and traditional gongs for various purposes. The Bou Sra and Chrey Thom waterfalls as well as the Memang Gold Mines area are must-see tourist places in Cambodia.

Best Time To Visit: October – February Places To Stay: Route 76 Guest House, Gibbon Lodge, Manel Guesthouse and Restaurant, Mondulkiri Pizza Bungalows, Greenhouse Retreat Don’t Miss: Experience the adrenaline rush by enjoying a Mayura Zipline ride that goes over the Bou Sra Falls. Tourist Attractions: Bou Sra Waterfall, Phnom Prich Wildlife. How To Reach: Board a flight to Siem Reap International Airport and then you can hire a cab.

Suggested Read: Koh Rong Samloem Island Guide

12. Central Market: A Surprising Place

One of the top places for shopping in Cambodia is the Central Market, which is mostly an Art Decoration market. It might not top your list of the best places to visit in Cambodia yet it will equally surprise you with its range of items. It was built way back in 1937 and served as a marketplace for the local traders at that time. The building is shaped like a cross with a central dome. There are four wings filled with shops selling antiques, watches, jewellery and many such items. 

Timings : Open from 7 AM till 6 PM every day Don’t miss : The food stalls that serve authentic and delicious Cambodian food

13. Preah Vihear: The Province With Lush Countryscapes

The Preah Vihear province is known for its tropical hardwood forests and lush countryscapes but its main alluring factor is the Prasat Preah Vihear complex. Pay a visit to this large Hindu temple complex that is situated atop a cliff in the Dangrek Mountains. Witness the marvellous carved stone ornamentation as well as the staircases, pavements and sanctuaries at this temple devoted to Lord Shiva which is one of the top tourist spots in Cambodia.

Best Time To Visit: October – February Places To Stay: Koh Ker Temples Garden Hotel and Restaurant, Preah Vihear Boutique Hotel, Sok San Guesthouse, Koh Ker Jungle Lodge, Javier Guesthouse  Don’t Miss: The stone-paved Nagaraj Courtyard at the World Heritage Prasat Preah Vihar complex which is surrounded by heads and tails of snakes. Tourist Attractions: Temple of Preah Vihear, Koh Ker How To Reach: Board a flight to Siem Reap International Airport and then you can hire a cab and reach Preah Vihear.

Suggested Read: 10 Popular Hostels In Cambodia

14. Tonle Sap Lake: The Serene Freshwater Body

Image Courtesy: publicdomainpictures.net

The Tonle Sap Lake – one of the popular and good places to go in Cambodia – is also among Cambodia’s best freshwater bodies. It stretches across the northwest of Cambodia and is surrounded by some floating villages, where you can witness a myriad of migratory birds, 200 species of fish, crocodiles, and macaques. The quiet villages of Kompong Phluk and Kompong Kleang along the lake are also the epitome of cultural life in Cambodia.

Places To Stay: Prek Toal Home Stay, Chamkachuk Home, The Green Home, Homestay Villa Dani, Green Life Cottage  Don’t Miss: Spot the Black-headed Ibis, Milky Stork, Painted Stork, the Grey-Headed Fish Eagle and the Spot-billed Pelican at the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary .

15. Kep: The Province With Quiet Beaches

Image Credit: Stefan Rohner for Wikimedia Commons

Charming locations, quiet beaches and friendly people make Kep one of the cool places to visit for Cambodia sightseeing. Take a lazy stroll along the shiny white shores of Kep Beach, view the bottomless statue and enjoy some delicious fare from the seafood vendors here. And do try some delicious crabs at the Crab Market while sitting under quirky umbrella trees. A walk at the Kep National Park which is filled with waterfalls, elusive monkeys, the Stone House and Little Buddha is recommended.

Best Time To Visit: November-January Places To Stay: Sea Lovers Guesthouse, Khmer House Hostel, Rusty Keyhole Kep, Darica Resort, Le Ponton Hotel  Things To Do: Eating delicious crab dishes in the market, hiking in the park Don’t miss: Enjoy an evening filled with good food and good instrumental music at the Led Zepplin Cafe at the Kep National Park. Tourist Attractions: Kep National Park, Kep Beach How To Reach: Board a flight to Siem Reap International Airport and then you can hire a cab and reach Kep.

Suggested Read: Island Hopping In Cambodia

16. Poipet: The Land Of Casinos

Poipet is the land of casinos and karaoke bars where the locals join in with the tourists to enjoy a fun time. Explore the beer gardens here or enjoy some Khmer coffee at the local shops here. The Kingdom Gate at the border between Thailand and Cambodia is an embodiment of Cambodian architecture with its stone engravings.

Best Time To Visit: October – January Places To Stay: Hak Huot Hotel, Hao Lai Deng Hotel, Holiday Poipet, Holiday Palace, Poipet Resort & Casino Don’t miss: The Grand Diamond City and Tropicana casino resorts are a fun way to destress on this holiday in Cambodia. Important Tip: This is the border station between Cambodia and Thailand and as such there is a huge rush at 8 am so avoid going there in the morning.

17. Battambang: The Lush Countryside

The lush countryside and the quirky cafes at Battambang make it one of the tourist places in Cambodia. Enjoy a bike ride along the rice paddy fields that are lined by lakes and streams and learn the art of rice wine cultivation as well as weaving beautiful traditional clothing. Go kayaking on the quiet stretch along the Stung Sangkae River. A must is the ride on the bamboo train which takes around 30 minutes to travel just outside the town and can reach speeds of up to 40 km/hr.

Best Time To Visit: October – January Places To Stay: Pomme Hostel , Sangker Villa, Battambang Resort, Sky Palace Boutique Hotel, Por Chey Things To Do: Explore The City, Art Gallery: Get Enchanted By The Local Art, Phare Ponleu Selpak: Don’t Miss The Cambodian Dance, Gecko Private River Cruise: Float Around Battambang Don’t Miss: Take a scenic river trip from Battambang to Siem Reap. Also, try to catch a performance of Cambodia’s best circus ‘Phare Ponleu Selpak’. Tourist Attractions: Wat Ek Phnom, Damrey Sor Pagoda How To Reach: Board a flight to Siem Reap International Airport and then you can take a flight to Battambang Airport.

Suggested Read: Snorkeling In Cambodia

18. Preah Khan: The Royal Sword

Translating to Royal Sword, Preah Khan is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cambodia. It is located northeast of the Angkor Archaeological Park and is an infamous imprint of the rich history of Cambodia. It was constructed by King Jayavarman VII. It is also situated in the vicinity of the Ta Prohm Temple.

Timings : Open from 5 AM to 6 PM every day Don’t miss: Explore around the temple and make sure to look through the plants and flowers around the place.

19. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: For The Dark Tales

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum holds one of the darkest history and secrets and is one of the oddest best places to visit in Cambodia. The museum serves as a reminder of the heinous crimes of the Khmer Rouge back in the 1970s. The leaders were very much involved in cruel practices in their genocidal behavior and the museum attempted to reflect the same. The rooms of the museums display photographs of men, women and children who were tortured. Perhaps, it reminds of the atrocities that humans are capable of committing. In fact, it is best to not visit the place with kids as it might be very disturbing for them. And if you are a real history buff, only then the museum requires your presence.

Places To Stay: V Boutique Hotel, Rambutan Resort – Phnom Penh, Stay Inn Hostel, Stay Inn Hostel, Dutch Hosted B&B Timings : Open from 8 AM till 5 PM every day Entry Fee : INR 350 for adults Don’t miss : It’s better to hire a guide as you get to hear stories about the displays 

Suggested Read: 10 Best Indian Restaurants In Cambodia 

20. Banlung: The Shopping Paradise

Next on the list of amazing spots around Cambodia is Banlung. This is an amazing change of scenery from the traditional beaches and seaside. This is a part of the town that caters to all your shopping needs. It is a commercial and urban marketplace to help you take back souvenirs for your loved ones. Banlung is one of the best places for shopping in Cambodia . Make sure to put your bargaining skills to good use while buying anything from the shops around. It is also the capital city of the Ratanagiri Province.

Best Time To Visit:  Places To Stay: Y eak Loam Hotel, Coffee Tanam Resort, Terres Rouges Lodge, Bee Bee’s Chalets, Ratanak Tep Rithea homestay   Things To Do: River rafting and tubing, wildlife tours Don’t miss : Explore around and make sure to visit the Yak Lom Crater Lake. Tourist Attractions: Katieng Waterfall, Kachanh Waterfall How To Reach: Board a flight till Phnom Penh. International Airport and then hire a cab till Banlung.

21. Virachey National Park: The Wildlife Spot

The Virachey National Park is one of the most beautiful nature spots around in Cambodia. The wildlife around the place is more than enough to keep the kids and the adults enticed. It is also rich in not just wildlife but fountains, waterfalls, and mountains as well. It is home to some of the extravagant timberlands and savannahs and the bamboo bushes around definitely catch the attention of the visitors.

Best Time To Visit: October – February  Don’t miss: Make sure to go trekking through the wilderness and experience the vivid range of wildlife around.

Suggested Read: Baphuon Temple In Cambodia

22. National Museum of Cambodia: For A Unique Collection

Home to one of the finest Khmer sculpture collections, it is one of the top museums in Phnom Penh , the capital. Considered as the best places to visit in Cambodia, if you are a history enthusiast or looking to explore the culture of this beautiful Asian country to its fullest. One of the first things to see in the museum is a bronze reclining Vishnu statue. As you take a look further into the museum, you get to see the ancient Angkorian structures and pieces of ultimate cultural significance.

Places To Stay: The Plantation Urban Resort and Spa, TAO Riverside Residence, Sla Boutique Hostel, Saravoan Royal Palace, Blue Lime Phnom Penh Timings : Open from 8 AM till 5 PM every day Entry Fee : INR 700 Don’t miss : The odd scriptures of animals, Gods and rulers from the past

23. War Museum:  The Civil War Memorial

Image Source If history and the varying happenstances dating back is something that tickles your senses, you would definitely want to visit the War Museum . The museum is like a perfect time machine to take you back to the days of the war that the place witnessed. From jet fighter planes to artillery guns, the varying range of rich history is what one needs to witness.

Timings : Open from 8 AM till 5:30 PM every day Don’t miss: Get a guide around the museum because it is the soldiers who explain you about the place.

Suggested Read: 10 Restaurants In Cambodia 

24. Bamboo Island: The Busiest Island

Image Source The Bamboo Island is one of the most popular sightseeing spots around in Cambodia. Also known as Koh Russei, this is one of the busiest islands in the entirety of Thailand and Cambodia with tourists infiltrating the place. Even though the island is quite quaint, the tourism around is beyond amazing for you to look into.

Don’t miss : Make sure to indulge in the local food and culture during the evenings on the beach. Also, indulge in the Khmer dance done by the locals.

25. Landmine Museum: The Weapon Spot

Yet another one of the unique and amazing museums around Cambodia is the Landmine Museum. This museum, just as the name suggests, is the perfect place to explore around knowing every little nitty gritty about landmines, their usage and even the risks associated with them. You can also witness a wide range of weapons around in the showcase. There is also a relief camp located just behind the museum.

Places To Stay: Bong Thom Forest Lodge, The Bong Thom Homestay, Dontrei Villa Angkor, Jaya House River Park, Yanick’s Angkor Cottage Timings: Open from 7:30 AM till 5:30 PM every day Don’t miss: Go visit the relief camp behind and meet the small kids who are taken care of there.

Suggested Read: 13 Things Not To Do In Cambodia 

26. Bayon Temple: The Ancient Architecture Marvel

Image Source The Bayon temple is one of the most beautiful renditions of the intricate art and architecture around in Cambodia. It is located in the popular site of Angkor Thom, the capital of the Khmer Empire. This ancient temple is part of the rich history of the place and holds a significant place in the tourism of Cambodia. The gigantic face designs on the walls of the building are what makes it step out as one of the best places to visit.

Places To Stay: Sok Phen Homestay, Shintana Saya Residence, Green Empire Resort, Temptation Hotel, Grand Venus La Residence Don’t miss: Make sure to explore the entire temple around and pay close attention to the detailing and intricate architecture that the majority of the people rave about.

27. Bokor Hill Station: The Quaint Resort Town

Another one of the must-visit attractions is the Bokor Hill Station. Built back in the 1920s, this hill station served as a quaint resort town for the famous French fighters who resided in the area. The best thing about the place is the eerie feeling around because of the dense blanket of fog that covers the environment.

Don’t miss: Walk along the place and explore the local places. If required, feel the chills and the amazing weather.

Suggested Read: Wedding Venues In Cambodia

28. Silver Pagoda: The Temple Of The Emerald Buddha

Image Source Also popularly known as the Wat Preah Keo and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Silver Pagoda is situated inside the Royal Palace compound. The manicured gardens and the majestic royal statues and structures add to the authority of the place even further.

Places To Stay: The Plantation Urban Resort and Spa, PAVILION, Penh House & Jungle Addition, Saravoan Royal Palace, Hotel Emion Phnom Penh Timings : 7:30 AM to 11 AM and 2 PM to 5 PM Don’t miss: Explore the entire place around, with a special focus on the popular Italian marble staircase and the Emerald Buddha.

29. Ta Prohm: The Temple With Unexplored Ruins

Image Source If unexplored places and ruins intrigue you, you are definitely going to love visiting Ta Prohm . It is one of the most popular Angkor sanctuaries and is one of the most celebrated spots following Angkor Wat. The entire place is not just encapsulated by wilderness but the amazing majority of landmarks around the place further do add to the amazing beauty of the place.

Don’t miss: Explore the wilderness around and walk through the dense presence of the banyan and kapok trees around.

30. Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center: The Wild Spot

For the wildlife lovers the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue will be a perfect place to head to in Cambodia. Spread across an area of 6,000 acres, this reserve is considered as the largest zoo in the country which is managed by the administration of Cambodian Forestry. This administration rescues the animals and nurtures them in all the facilities. This place now home to around 1200 rescued animals among which 102 species are endangered. From the endangered Asian elephants to the Siamese crocodile and Malayan sun bears, the zoo has provided a shelter to preserve the wildlife.

Places To Stay: Eco Garden Residences, Eco Garden Residences, iRoHa Garden Hotel & Resort, Rambutan Resort  Location: National Road No 2, Tro Pang Sap Village, Tro Pang Sap Commune, Ba Ti District, Takeo Province, Cambodia Tickets Price: $40 per person Timings: 8 AM -5 PM (Open Daily)

31. Battambang Bat Caves: The Scariest Tourist Attraction

It might be a freaking out location, but the Battambang Bat Caves is a must-visit. Situated at Mount Sampeou, this place is one of the top tourist attractions where people come to take a glimpse of the bats. The best time to visit this place is in the evening when all the bats fly out from the caves. Travellers willing to visit this cave can take a bike and drive to the mountaintop to spot the bats.

Location: Battambang Timings: In the evening Price: USD 3 for trekking up to the hill

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32. Ream National Park: The Land Of Endangered Species

Another retreat for nature lovers is the Ream National Park in Cambodia. The beauty of this place makes it stand out from the other places in this kingdom land. A home to a vast number of wild animals among which most are endangered species which are on the verge of becoming extinct. There are around 155 species of birds, and numerous waterfalls resting amidst the lush greenery. The visitors can take a safari or voyage through the mountains to experience the beauty of the national park.

Places To Stay: AZ Crowne Plaza, Amazing View Bungalows, KB Hotel, Mei Hao Deng Hotel, Patchouly Chill House Location: Sihanoukville, Cambodia Price: Starting from $15 to $65

33. Killing Fields: The Massive Graveyards!

It might give you chills but Killing Fields is one of the massive graveyards in Cambodia and counted among the best cities to visit in Cambodia. It is said that thousands of people were tortured here to death during the time the Khmer Rouge ruled Cambodia. Around 20000 mass grave sites were discovered around this area and at the present day there is a statue of Choeung Ek which is adorned with skulls of the people who died here. So, if you’re a brave heart make sure to mark this place while in Cambodia.

Places To Stay: iRoHa Garden Hotel & Resort, Dutch Hosted B&B, Rambutan Resort, La Belle Residence, Double Leaf Boutique Hotel Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia Best Time To Visit: Any time of the year Entry Fee: $6 for tourists, Free for locals

34. Banteay Srei: The Sacred Spot!

Banteay Srei is one of the sacred places in Cambodia which holds a major importance in the country’s heritage treasure. One of the gems among the Angkorian craftsmanship, this heritage place is made out of carved-out stone which is pink in shade. Signifying the “Citadel of Women”, the walls of this sanctuary are very finely carved and it is quite a view to capture while in Cambodia.

Location: Banteay Srei, Cambodia Entry Fee: $20-$40 per person

How To Reach Cambodia

The best way to travel to Cambodia is by flight. The Phnom Penh International Airport connects tourists to the capital city and the Siem Reap International Airport connects tourists to the Angkor temples. The Sihanoukville International Airport only has domestic flights to Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

Best Time To Visit Cambodia

Wondering what is the best time to visit Cambodia? The peak season to visit Cambodia is from November to February . November is considered the best month to visit Cambodia.The weather is neither too sunny nor too cold and provides the perfect holiday experience in Cambodia. 

Further Read: 25 Of The Kickass Visa On Arrival Countries For Indians

All those bitten by the travel bug must try and make sure that they visit these places to visit in Cambodia and have the holiday of a lifetime. From ancient temple complexes to pristine beaches, floating villages and crab markets, there is something for everyone here. Plan your trip to Cambodia with TravelTriangle now!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Cambodia

Which are the best places to visit in Cambodia for backpackers?

The best places to visit in Cambodia for backpackers are Kampot, Mondulkiri, and Kep.

Which are the best places to visit in Cambodia in December?

The best places to visit in Cambodia in December are Phnom Penh, Battambang, Siem Reap, and Angkor Wat.

What should I pack for Cambodia?

You should pack cotton clothes, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunglasses. Do carry decent clothes for visiting temples.

How many days are enough for a vacation in Cambodia?

A vacation of around 4 to 5 days is perfect for exploring all the main tourist attractions in Cambodia.

Which is the best month to visit Siem Reap?

November is the best month to visit Siem Reap as the weather is pleasant and you will surely enjoy your stay.

What is the best city to visit in Cambodia?

However, there is no particular city that's the best in Cambodia simply because each has its own characteristic. However, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are two top cities you must keep in mind while planning your trip.

Is Cambodia cheap?

Cambodia is one of the cheapest destinations to visit in Southeast Asia. If you are planning for a trip under budget, then you can visit all the Cambodia tourist places within a reasonable range.

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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.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Cambodia, created by local experts

22 days  / from 4799 USD

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.

21 days  / from 4545 USD

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.

4 days  / from 1025 USD

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 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 traveling to Cambodia

• Eating and drinking in Cambodia
• Getting around Cambodia: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Cambodia for planning and on the go
• 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

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updated 29.04.2024

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Best Places to Visit in Cambodia

Though a rather small country along the Indochina peninsula, Cambodia is bound to steal your heart. One common struggle is picking the best places to visit in Cambodia. Brimming with culture and tradition, Cambodia continues to exist in coherence with urban trends. Primarily associated with the Angkor complex, Cambodia is a lot more than these temples.

The ancient ruins and picture perfect islands give you an insight into Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage . It caters to all types of travellers, irrespective of whether they’re backpackers or luxury travellers. Here’s our list of the best places to visit in Cambodia and all that it has to offer.

Look at a Two Week Cambodia and an One Week Cambodia itinerary 

The provincial town of Siem Reap has acclaimed world recognition as a gateway to the Angkor complex. A UNESCO world heritage site, Angkor is a collection of 400 temples, the most renowned being Angkor Wat. But besides these awe-inspiring temples and ruins, Siem Reap has a lot more to offer , especially once you’re weary of the temple excursions.

Siem Reap has revamped itself to be the ideal blend of modernism and tradition . Throw in a creative cultural scene, that includes Cambodia’s leading contemporary circus. The Chinese inspired shop-houses and French colonial architecture all add to its charm. The relaxed vibe, cozy cafes and restaurants, great hotels are other aspects you ought to explore.

Activities you must indulge in include countryside bicycle or quad tours or a visit to the National Museum. Additional highlights of this region are day trips to Tonle Sap lake and Phnom Kulen National Park. You can learn about local crafts and art at Artisans Angkor, Rehash Trash or Theam’s Gallery. Visit the many charming markets, and purchase handicrafts and textiles manufactured by local communities to shop with a social conscience. Basking by the pool, local food tours and the drinking capital of Pub street- Siem Reap with its access to Angkor give it a top spot on our list of best places to visit in Cambodia.

Cambodia is an extremely affordable destination to travel

The capital city of Phnom Penh is situated at the confluence of the Mekong, Bassac and Tonle Sap rivers. Phnom Penh is known for its vibrant culture, impressive architecture, religious significance and royal heritage. Add to this its major economic and tech infrastructure, and it makes for one of the best places to visit in Cambodia. It’s pre and post colonial history play a crucial role in shaping the character of this town, once known as the Pearl of Asia.

Tourists from around the world visit to learn about the Khmer Rouge era at the Tuol Sleng Genocide museum and the Killing Fields. Other popular sites we recommend are the National Museum, Royal Palace and the Russian market. Visit the Wat Phnom, a Buddhist temple on the only hill in the region.

For an offbeat experience, head to the countryside across the Mekong and to the Silk Island. You can go there either by tuk tuk or bicycle, to see the peaceful, rural countryside. You will witness an absolute contrast from the city, devoid of high rises and crowded streets. Visit a silk and weaving community that has been around for 400 years and learn about the process. If you’re a foodie, take a street food tour for an authentic culinary experience. Cambodian cuisine has several influences, and is also evidently influenced by its history. It’s easy to visit both Siem Reap and Phnom Penh , so make sure you do.

Sihoukville tends to be the first destination that comes to mind when one mentions beaches in Cambodia. However, this town no longer has the charm that once drew travellers from all over. No reason to be disappointed though; Koh Rong and its surrounding islands make for splendid beach destinations . Koh Rong is an island 40min off the coast with beautiful white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters.

With accommodation ranging from hostels to uber luxury resorts , it’s all here. Ferries leave from the mainland all through the day. You can book it along with a driver or bus services as well. Boat trips from the island take you to some gorgeous snorkel sites. Better still, see the bioluminescent plankton at night, where no air pollution disturbs the sight.

Come seeking peace and relaxation, or indulge in activities ranging from water sports to sunset boat rides. Koh Rong makes for an ideal choice after all the sightseeing in Cambodia. The nightlife here can be exciting and fun as well. Bit of advice – Go quick before rampant development takes over these islands too!

Leave all the planning to us, get in touch for a non obligation travel plan .

KAMPOT & KEP

A quaint town with a vintage vibe, it’s hard to resist the charm of Kampot. Streets bearing crumbling French influences, shop-house architecture and a range of tourist accommodation. Pick from boutique resorts to backpacker hostels that offer water sport activities like kayaking on the river. Known for the unique flavour of it’s black peppercorns, it attracts tourists from across the world. Despite the growth in tourism,

Kampot continues to maintain its peaceful serene vibe. It is also a base to visit Bokor National Park, an abandoned French hill-station and Kep, the neighbouring seaside town. Authentic cuisine, fascinating history and alluring ambience, this small town is definitely one of the best places to visit in Cambodia.

Kep may not be your first choice if you’re looking for a beach holiday. Nonetheless, it still attracts a relatively large number of tourists. The scrumptious sea food, range of boutique resorts and gorgeous sunsets by the shore are unmissable. Hikes in the butterfly-filled Kep National Park (yes you read that right) is a prime highlight of this region. Kep, unlike Sihanoukville, is an exotic luxury destination that keeps most backpackers away.

Looking for some pampering at some of the most stunning beach side resorts? Kep is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia for you.

Battambang is the ideal example of a modern take on a local, small town. Brimming with colonial architecture, Angkor style temples and Buddhist shrines, it is a popular tourist spot among history enthusiasts . We highly recommend a heritage walk around this town for better insight into the varied forms of architecture and colonial history. Most locals would agree that it is a replica of what Siem Reap was 15 years ago.

The splendid riverside setting and quirky laid back cafes are a highlight of Battambang. A quiet, artsy town with several offbeat experiences, Battambang gives you a whole new perspective of Cambodia. Go on a hike or bicycle tour, take a local cooking class and take a ride on the bamboo train. Other attractions include the Battambang Circus School, the Central Market and the bat caves on the town outskirts. Getting around on foot or on bicycle is most convenient.

Six hours north of Phnom Penh is Mondulkiri, a province that’s a world apart from the lowlands devoid of the Cambodian rice paddies and palm tree clusters. This upland area is a beautiful blend of grass laden hills, pine groves and rainforests . This region has some of the best waterfalls including Bou Sraa, Romanear Waterfall and Dak Dam Waterfall. Ecotourism projects taken up to conserve the area are a fascinating learning experience.

One can indulge in activities like hiking, visit a responsible elephant sanctuary and engage in bird watching. The Mondulkiri province is also home to a large wildlife population consisting of leopards, bears, wild pigs and especially elephants. The regions of Sen Monorom and Koh Nhek village are the highlight of this province with accommodation limited to a few resorts and homestays.

A holiday in Cambodia should definitely make it to your travel bucket list. The best places to visit in Cambodia is a never-ending list, but these are definitely our favourites. Merely visiting Siem Reap before heading to another destination on your Indochina route would certainly be injustice to this exotic nation that has so much more to offer. Take a look at some of our Cambodian as well as Indochina itineraries to help cover all the hidden gems of this region. If you are looking to explore the region in a manner that fits your personality best, get in touch with us and we’ll make it possible.

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Posted: 02/05/24

5 Awe-Inspiring Places to Visit in Cambodia

Author: Lucy Kirkpatrick

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Welcome to the land of ancient wonders and natural splendour. Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Cambodia beckons travellers with its rich tapestry of history, culture and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, Cambodia promises plenty of places to visit which will leave you in awe.

A short distance to the north of Siem Reap lies Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, spanning over 400 acres . The ancient city ruins stand as a testament to the ingenuity of the Khmer Empire and is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Cambodia. Built in the 12th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning blend of intricate carvings, towering spires, and expansive courtyards. Witness mesmerising sunrise or sunset views over the temple complex, explore the inner sanctuaries and then climb to the top of the central tower for views over the surrounding jungle.

Koh Rong Island

Just off the coast of Sihanoukville lies Koh Rong Island, the second largest island of Cambodia, famed for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear warm waters, and hot tropical climate. Commonly described as an ‘island paradise’ by visiting tourists, Koh Rong is a popular destination for families, couples, and travellers.

The island has an array of tourist locations with over 23 individual beaches varying in length and colour. From Koh Touch—the main beach, known for its wide selection of hotels, bars and clubs and vibrant party atmosphere—to the quieter beaches like Long Set, there is something for every kind of traveller.

Tonlé Sap Lake

Tonlé Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, is a dynamic ecosystem that sustains a vibrant community of floating villages and diverse wildlife. Located in Siem Reap, this massive lake spans 250km in length and 100km across at its widest point, making it appear like an inland ocean. Despite this, the lake remains fairly shallow, with a maximum depth of only 10 metres. However, this changes during the annual flooding season, transforming the surrounding landscape. Take a boat tour to explore the floating villages, where you can observe rare bird species and freshwater dolphins in their natural habitat, socialise with the locals living in stilted houses, and gain an insight into the unique way of life shaped by the rhythms of the lake.

Phnom Kulen

Nestled amidst the lush forests and cascading waterfalls of Cambodia’s Phnom Kulen National Park lies a sacred sanctuary steeped in history and mystique. One of the most popular attractions in Cambodia, Phnom Kulen gets its name from the abundance of lychee trees it once hosted. The National Park is home to a sacred site with multiple easily accessible temples. One of the most noteworthy sites is Thousand Lingas at Kbal Spean. Located at the top of the mountain, this spiritual site attracts those seeking blessing from its holy ‘life-giving’ waters. Phnom Kulen, revered as the birthplace of the Khmer empire, beckons travellers with its serene beauty and spiritual significance.

Kep National Park

Kep, a charming coastal town tucked away along Cambodia’s southern coast, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Known for its idyllic beaches, fresh seafood, and lush countryside, Kep invites visitors to unwind and reconnect with nature. Relax on pristine beaches and indulge in freshly caught seafood at bustling crab markets. Alternatively, you can explore Kep National Park for scenic hikes. Embark on an 8km path snaking through a thick tropical jungle, with pagodas and vantage points that provide panoramic views over the villages, farmlands and the Gulf of Thailand.

In summary, there are plenty of places to visit in Cambodia which will leave you awestruck. Travellers can explore these sites at their own pace by joining guided tours or embarking on independent adventures. Each destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and immersive experiences for travellers seeking the best of Cambodia.

Love Cambodia? Discover more in our destination guide , and contact us today to secure your perfect property.

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10 Best Things To Do In Cambodia On Your Next Visit

C ambodia is an interesting country renowned for its vibrant culture that mostly revolves around religion and its handful of some of the best natural attractions in the world . A visit to this historic country will surely impress any visitor as there are many incredible sights for one's viewing pleasure and several memorable things to do.

From exploring different temples in Angkor Wat to sampling various local dishes, market shopping, and swimming with elephants (and so much more), here are some of the top things to do in Cambodia when visiting for an unforgettable experience.

Related: Tropical Ruins: 10 Best Ancient Sites To Check Out In Bali

Explore Angkor Archaeological Park & See The Most Famous Temples In Cambodia

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Archaeological Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Cambodia. The park is renowned for hosting the iconic 12th-century lost city of Angkor Wat - the world's largest and most famous temple, which is a monumental complex with several fascinating temples.

Several ancient ruins of Angkor city are found here, including other top Cambodian attractions such as Ta Prohm temple - famed by the movie Tomb Raider , and the magnificent Bayon Temple within the walled city. Tour guides are available to immerse guests in the wonders and amazing experiences of this historic place.

• Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
• Tickets: $37 for one day, $62 for three days, and $72 for seven days

While here, check out the Bayon Temple in Angkor Wat , which is one of the most popular temples in the complex.

Related: Why Everyone Should Visit The Giant Lost-City Temple Complex Angkor Wat

Cruise The Mekong River With Dolphins

The Mekong River is a scenic and historic water body in South East Asia worth exploring. Get the best experience of this river by cruising on a local Cambodian boat from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Along the cruise, enjoy splendid views of jaw-dropping green landscapes and the exciting feeling of watching Mekong River dolphins swim near the swim and play in their natural habitat.

The cruise becomes sensational during sunset as the view on the horizon is simply magical. With a camera handy, one can capture this beauty to cherish forever.

• Top-Rated Mekong River cruise to take: Inside Travel's Mekong River Cruises

See The Apsara Dance Performance

The Apsara Dance Performance is an impressive cultural display that offers a unique perspective on Cambodian culture. The iconic cultural dance, also known as Khmer Dancer, has survived many centuries, tracing its origin to the mythological courts of the gods.

Following a series of modifications to make it captivating, the Khmer Dance is a delight to watch, with attractive costumes and dramatic displays that keep one's eyes glued to the scene while it lasts.

• Where to watch Aspara Dance: It's usually a paid show, but one can enjoy it for free in Siem Reap at the Temple Balcony on Pub Street, provided that one pays for the food.

Relax On The Most Beautiful Beaches In Cambodia

Exploring Cambodia's best beaches, where charming aquamarine waters and pristine sandy shores can be enjoyed, is one of the best things to do on a visit. Saracen Bay and sunset beach at Koh Rong Samloen are some of the most incredible beaches around the world , but there's more.

These unique beaches in Cambodia do not just offer incredible natural scenery but also a variety of water sports like snorkeling, fishing, swimming, and diving. Alternatively, one can just relax on the beach sand while enjoying breathtaking ocean views. Some more pretty beaches in Cambodia to visit include:

• Otres Beach at Sihanoikville city
• Sner beach in Koh Rong Province
• Long Beach in Koh Rong

Related: Budget Guide: This Is What Visiting Cambodia Might Cost You

Sample Authentic Cambodian Dishes & Experience Cambodian Food Tours

A visit to Cambodia is incomplete without tasting its variety of mouthwatering dishes. Across the many restaurants in Cambodia, one can sample numerous traditional cuisines and be impressed at how delicious they are. Meals in Cambodia typically involve seafood and rice, but there are plenty of other meals in the country that may not be typical, although they all have their unique tastes and will satisfy travelers.

Some popular meals worth trying in Cambodia when visiting include sweet and sour soup with fish, Khmer noodles and curries, and sticky rice cake. Food tours are the best ways to enjoy the food experience in Cambodia, and there are plenty out there to choose from. Some popular food tours in Cambodia include:

• Phnom Penh Food Tours
• Siem Reap Food Tours

Swim With Elephants At The Elephant Valley Project At Mondulkiri

Swimming with Elephants in their sanctuary is one of the adventurous and exciting things to do in Cambodia. These elephants are protected in the Elephant Valley Project at Mondulkiri, which is an organization formed by individuals passionate about the well-being and security of elephants.

A visit here means one can play and swim with the elephants in the river and join in feeding them while taking amazing pictures.

• Location: Mondulkiri, Cambodia

Visit the Elephant Valley Project website for more information and bookings.

Tour The National Museum In Phnom Penh

The national museum in Cambodia is an interesting place for history and art lovers who desire valuable insight into the rich history and cultural heritage of the country. Several artworks, artifacts, and galleries commemorating the Khmer era are abundant in this museum.

Some of the artworks here include carvings of gods and goddesses, stonework, weapons of warfare, statues of historic people, sculptures, and relics dating back to the Khmer era. Guided tours are available for a complete and fascinating experience.

• Location: Preah Ang Eng St. (13), Phnom Penh
• Admission: $5 for foreigners (10 - 17 years), $10 for foreigners (18 years and above), 500 riels for Cambodians

Visit The Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center

The Phnom Tamao Wildlife Center in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is one of the best places to experience wildlife in Cambodia. There are up to 1,200 animals, cutting across 102 species in this sanctuary for rescued animals. Some of these animals include lions, tigers, gibbons, leopards, and elephants, rescued by the park's Wildlife Rapid Rescue Team created in 2001.

Embark on a full guided tour to explore the amazing wildlife diversity in this zoological park, including behind-the-scenes feeding and caregiving activities for the animals.

• Location: Takeo Province, Cambodia
• Animals to see: Bears, elephants, tigers

Experience Cambodian Wellness

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Cambodia is getting pampered with wellness treatments. After touring and exploring all the country's natural and man-made wonders, relax with a traditional spa treatment that offers a unique style of helping people achieve the whole body and mind calmness.

Enjoy several spa therapies, including regular and hot oil massages, traditional Khmer herbal spas, facials, and scrubs with several unique ingredients and methods. These spa treatments are available across the country in certified massage parlors and spa centers. Some of the best spas in Cambodia include:

• Bodia Spa located at Corner Sothearos Bld & Street 178
• Aqua Spa located at street 478, No. 35 Tuol Tompoung Phnom Penh, 12310
• The spa at Nagaworld Resort located at Samdech Techno Hun Sen Park, Phnom Penh

Shop At Local Markets In Cambodia

Shopping at a local market for goods and souvenirs before departing is the best way to end a trip to Cambodia. Several local markets fill the cities of Cambodia, with traders flaunting their wares, and most of them are relatively affordable.

Some handy and impressive items to purchase include handcrafted bags, carved wooden items, silk and scarves, sculptures, rice-papered prints, and nice T-shirts. Popular markets in Cambodia for shopping include:

• Kandal Market: for all kinds of products, including the best street food in Cambodia
• Phnom Penh night market: for all kinds of products from clothing to handbags to fresh fruits & vegetables
• Phsar Chas Market: for souvenirs like buddhas, stone carvings, and silverware