Cambodia - The 10 places you need to visit
Cambodia offers an array of remarkable experiences, ranging from ancient temples to pristine beaches and diverse wildlife, making it a destination worthy of several weeks of exploration.
Phnom Penh, the capital that has risen from its tumultuous past, serves as a vibrant hub for experiencing modern Cambodian life. Meanwhile, Siem Reap is increasingly becoming a strong contender, boasting upscale dining options, energetic nightlife, and stylish shops. It also serves as an ideal starting point for visiting the World Heritage-listed Angkor, which features some of the most breathtaking temples globally.
Along the South Coast, several emerging beach resorts and a selection of tropical islands are gaining popularity. In the northwest, the French-colonial city of Battambang provides a glimpse into traditional Cambodian culture, alongside several secluded jungle temples. The eastern region of the country is characterized by its untamed nature, where elephants wander, waterfalls cascade, and freshwater dolphins play.
In summary, Cambodia presents a diverse and captivating travel experience. Begin your journey now with our compilation of the top destinations to explore in Cambodia.
One of the most renowned destinations globally, the temples of Angkor consistently rank at the top of lists featuring the world's premier attractions. Among the most notable structures are Angkor Wat, recognized as the largest religious edifice in the world, and the Bayon, celebrated for its distinctive array of intricately carved stone faces. Additionally, Ta Prohm stands out, where nature has exuberantly intertwined with the ancient stonework.
The ancient Khmer civilization managed to construct a collection of temples equivalent to all of Europe's cathedrals within an area comparable to Los Angeles, making it essential to dedicate time for exploration. Numerous lesser-known temple sites, such as the beautifully adorned Banteay Srei, the overgrown remnants of Beng Mealea, and the Mayan-inspired pyramid temple of Prasat Thom at Koh Ker, offer a more tranquil experience away from the larger crowds.
Siem Reap may primarily serve as the gateway to the Angkor temples, yet this delightful town has developed into a premier destination in its own right. It boasts an impressive array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, alongside vibrant markets, stylish boutiques, and contemporary galleries.
Outside the town center, one can discover enchanting floating villages on Tonlé Sap Lake, partake in adventure activities such as quad biking and ziplining, and engage in cultural experiences like cooking classes and martial arts training.
For a unique experience, visit nearby traditional villages where one can immerse themselves in local life through simple and hospitable homestays. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Siem Reap, leading to the closure of numerous businesses; however, there have been substantial efforts to "build back better," including the renovation of roads, the creation of riverside gardens, and the establishment of cycling paths throughout the city.
The capital of Cambodia presents a vibrant yet disordered atmosphere, having emerged from the shadows of its tumultuous history to pursue a more promising future. With one of the most captivating riverfronts in Southeast Asia, Phnom Penh is evolving into a refined modern capital, characterized by its remarkable array of boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants, and eclectic bars.
Those who venture into the city can indulge in culinary delights throughout the day and enjoy lively nightlife, or visit the enlightening National Museum and the somber Tuol Sleng prison, which reflect the duality of Cambodian history. Once referred to as the "Pearl of Asia," Phnom Penh is in the process of reclaiming its former brilliance.
The renowned Prasat Preah Vihear, often regarded as the mother of all mountain temples, is situated majestically atop the Dangkrek Mountains, a forest-covered ridge that historically delineates the border between Cambodia and Thailand. The temple's foundation stones extend to the precipice of a cliff, which dramatically descends to the plains below, offering stunning vistas of northern Cambodia.
Dating back over 300 years, this temple serves as a three-dimensional embodiment of Mt Meru, which is considered the center of the universe in Hindu cosmology. It provides intriguing insights into the development of carving and sculpture during the Angkorian era. The location is paramount; it is remote and challenging to access, yet the journey is undeniably rewarding.
Winding along the banks of the Sangker River, Battambang represents the traditional essence of urban Cambodia and stands as one of the nation’s most well-preserved colonial towns. The streets lined with shophouses feature a diverse array of establishments, ranging from Fairtrade cafes to art galleries. Outside the town, the surrounding countryside is home to a collection of ancient temples that, while not as renowned as those of Angkor, possess their own beauty and attract fewer visitors.
Additionally, Battambang is the base of the esteemed Phare Ponleu Selpak, an influential arts NGO dedicated to training performing artists and presenting captivating performance art shows that blend circus skills with theater and storytelling. This city offers a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh and the throngs at Angkor, making it a worthwhile detour from the typical tourist route.
The Cambodian coastline, though not as renowned as the beaches of Thailand or Indonesia, provides a complete tropical retreat experience, free from the overwhelming crowds. The islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are the most frequented, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand.
In addition to these popular destinations, there are numerous other islands along the coast, such as the largely unexplored Koh Sdach Archipelago and the expansive, nearly untouched Koh Kong. It is also worth considering the smaller islands near the bustling Sihanoukville, such as Koh Russey, which features upscale resorts, and Koh Ta Khiev, known for its relaxed backpacker accommodations.
For visitors looking for a more comprehensive experience than the stop-and-flop atmosphere on the islands, these twin provinces in the south provide the ideal balance of travel conveniences and genuine culture. The little town of Kampot has a variety of boutique hotels, riverbank resorts, and backpacker hostels where you may stay as you explore the French architectural legacy, paddleboard or kayak the picturesque river, or ride a bicycle through the picturesque countryside.
Charming beachside boutique Kep is a nice place to get away from the bustle, with its well-known Crab Market, trekking in Kep National Park, and adjacent Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island). Undiscovered subterranean pagodas from the 7th century, the steep climb to the evocative Bokor Hill Station, and excursions to rustic pepper are examples of rural activities.
The expansive Cardamom Rainforest Landscape, covering 20,746 square kilometers (8,010 square miles), encompasses one of Southeast Asia's last remaining wilderness areas—the secluded Cardamom Mountains. This region is characterized by its stunning natural beauty and remarkable biodiversity, serving as a vital green corridor that features many of Cambodia's most exceptional natural attractions.
For a more immersive experience, consider exploring the area by motorcycle. Notable highlights include the remote Stung Areng Valley, the undulating grasslands and steep cliffs of Khnong Phsar, award-winning eco-lodges within Botum Sakor National Park, and the Tatai Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its iconic waterfall, numerous eco-adventures, and enchanting accommodations. For those seeking an exhilarating experience, the Cardamom Mountains offer the perfect opportunity.
In the northeastern region of the country, the expansive rice paddies and sugar palm trees that predominantly define Cambodia's landscape transition into the untamed, undulating hills of Mondulkiri, which is inhabited by the Indigenous Bunong community.
The area's wildlife serves as a significant attraction, offering experiences such as the opportunity to "walk with the herd" at the Elephant Valley Project, which presents a commendable alternative to the detrimental practice of elephant riding. Additionally, visitors can observe douc langurs or gibbons while trekking through the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary. When combined with the resounding cascades of waterfalls and an exhilarating jungle zipline, these elements create an ideal setting for an ecotourism experience.
Kratie serves as the primary departure point for excursions aimed at observing the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins inhabiting the Mekong River. This bustling hub is strategically located along the overland route connecting Phnom Penh with northeastern Cambodia and southern Laos. In addition to its dolphin-watching opportunities, the town exudes a unique, dilapidated colonial charm and is renowned for offering some of the finest sunsets over the Mekong.
Adjacent to Kratie, Koh Trong Island provides a tranquil setting to immerse oneself in genuine Khmer hospitality through local homestays or to explore the area via rented bicycles. To the north of Kratie lies the Mekong Discovery Trail, which offers a variety of adventures and experiences centered around the river, including community-based homestays, cycling excursions, and boat journeys.