It’s well worth spending a few weeks seeing Cambodia because it offers some of Southeast Asia’s greatest experiences, including stunning beaches, historic temples, and amazing wildlife.
The place to check the pulse of modern life in Cambodia is Phnom Penh, the once-ravaged but now-resurgent city. But with its upscale dining options, vibrant bars, and stylish shops, Siem Reap is beginning to challenge the capital. Additionally, it’s a great starting point for visiting Angkor, which is a World Heritage site and contains some of the most breathtaking temples on the planet.
There are a number of new beach resorts and a few tropical islands that are just starting to gain popularity down on the South Coast. While the untamed east of the country is home to freshwater dolphins, waterfalls, and elephants, the French-colonial city of Battambang in northwest Cambodia offers a more conventional glimpse of Cambodian life and several isolated jungle temples.
It’s quite a package all around. With this compilation of the top Cambodian tourist destinations, you may begin your journey right now.
1. The temples of Angkor
Greatest for dazzling spirituality
The temples of Angkor, one of the most famous places in the world, are frequently ranked first on lists of the best places to see in the world. The most famous buildings in this area are the Bayon, one of the most unusual temples in the world with its mysterious collection of carved stone faces, and Angkor Wat, the biggest religious complex in the world. Then there’s Ta Prohm, where ancient carved stonework has been overrun by wild nature.
It is worthwhile to spend some time exploring because the ancient Khmers crammed the equivalent of all the cathedrals in Europe into a space the size of Los Angeles. The beautifully carved Banteay Srei, the overgrown remains of Beng Mealea, and the Mayan-style pyramid temple of Prasat Thom at Koh Ker are just a few of the many outlying temple sites that draw smaller audiences.
Planning tip: If you intend to visit the uppermost level of Angkor Wat, it is very necessary that you dress modestly out of respect for the temple. You must wear shorts that cover at least your knees and cover your upper arms to be allowed in.
2. Cambodia’s Southern Islands
Best for beaches
Though not as well-known as the beaches of Thailand or Indonesia, the sand-sprinkled Cambodian coast nonetheless provides the entire tropical getaway experience—minus the wild crowds. The most visited islands are nearby Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem, which are surrounded by turquoise waters and a wealth of white sand.
Along the shore are numerous other islands, such as the big, nearly undeveloped Koh Kong and the mainly unexplored Koh Sdach Archipelago. The smaller islands around the intrusive Sihanoukville, such as Koh Ta Khiev with its modest backpacker bungalows and Koh Russey with its luxurious resorts, should not be overlooked.
3. Kampot and Kep
Best for countryside scenery
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). Visits to rustic pepper farms, secret cave pagodas from the 7th century, and the long climb to the evocative Bokor Hill Station are examples of rural excursions.
Planning tip: While laborers harvest the area’s white gold using baskets and a traditional yoke, spend some time cruising the salt flats around twilight.
4. Phnom Penh
Best for fine dining and nightlife
The capital of Cambodia is a vibrant, turbulent city that has emerged from the shadows of its war-torn past and is looking forward to a better future. With one of Southeast Asia’s most alluring riverfronts, Phnom Penh is becoming a chic, contemporary metropolis with an amazing array of boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants, and bohemian pubs.
In addition to experiencing the breathtaking National Museum and the terrifying Tuol Sleng jail, which showcases both the best and worst of Cambodian history, urban adventurers may feast all day and party all night. Phnom Penh, formerly referred to as the “Pearl of Asia,” is reclaiming its prominence.
Planning tip: Visit Bassac Lane, a narrow lane lined with unique, closet-sized pubs offering delectable cocktails, to experience the city’s distinctive nightlife.
5. The Cardamom Mountains
Best for motorcycle adventures
The isolated Cardamom Mountains, one of Southeast Asia’s last big wilderness areas, are part of the expansive 20,746 sq km (8010 sq miles) Cardamom Rainforest Landscape protected area. This green corridor, which encompasses several of Cambodia’s most notable natural features, is a region of spectacular beauty and astounding biodiversity.
To fully experience the area, try exploring on a motorcycle if you can. Highlights include award-winning ecolodges in Botum Sakor National Park, the remote Stung Areng Valley, the stunning drop-offs and rolling grasslands of Khnong Phsar, the Tatai Wildlife Sanctuary with its famous waterfall, a variety of eco-adventures, and accommodations straight out of a fairy tale.
The Cardamom Mountains are the ideal destination for anyone seeking an adventure.
Planning advice: Stay on your motorcycle a little while longer and take one of our top five two-wheeled road adventures in Cambodia.
6. Siem Reap
Best for a taste of local life
Although Siem Reap’s sole purpose is to serve as the entry point to the Angkor temples, this quaint town has become a top travel destination in and of itself because to its excellent dining options, cafes, and bars, as well as its vibrant marketplaces, hip shops, and daring galleries.
Otherworldly floating communities on Tonlé Sap Lake, adventure sports like quad biking and ziplining, and cultural interests like martial arts and cooking lessons can be found beyond the town center.
Visit neighboring traditional villages for an alternative experience, where you can stay in warm, basic homestays and get a taste of local culture. The COVID-19 pandemic severely damaged Siem Reap, causing many companies to close. However, there have been significant efforts to “build back better” with the city’s roadways, riverbank gardens, and bike lanes all being repaired.
Planning tip: Ride a Vespa around the streets of Siem Reap for a unique city tour.
7. Mondulkiri
Best for wildlife-spotting
The untamed rolling hills of Mondulkiri, home to the Indigenous Bunong people, contrast with the unending rice fields and sugar palms that define the landscape of most of Cambodia in the northeast.
With chances to “walk with the herd” at Elephant Valley Project (a fantastic substitute for dangerous elephant riding) or see douc langurs or gibbons while trekking through the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary, wildlife is a major attraction here. An ecotourism journey is made possible by the addition of a jungle zipline and roaring waterfalls.
8. Battambang
Best for contrasting historic architecture
Battambang, one of the best-preserved colonial-era cities in Cambodia, is the traditional face of urban Cambodia, winding along the banks of the Sangker River. From art galleries to Fairtrade cafes, the streets are lined with shophouses. There is a collection of historic temples in the countryside beyond the town; they are not as impressive as the temples of Angkor, but they are nonetheless lovely and less visited.
The inspiring Phare Ponleu Selpak, a well-known arts non-profit organization that teaches performers and presents motivational performance art performances that blend storytelling, drama, and circus techniques, is also based in Battambang. A world away from the bustle of Angkor and Phnom Penh, Battambang is well worth a detour from the usual tourist route.
9. Preah Vihear Temple
Best for ruins with a view
Standing magnificently atop the Dangkrek Mountains, the forested crest that formerly marked the border between Cambodia and Thailand is Prasat Preah Vihear, the mother of all mountain temples. The views of northern Cambodia are really stunning, and the temple’s foundation stones extend all the way to the edge of a cliff that plunges sharply down to the plains below.
Built more than three centuries ago, the temple is a three-dimensional depiction of Hindu mythology’s center of the cosmos, Mount Meru. It provides some intriguing new perspectives on the development of Angkorian sculpture and carving. However, location is everything, and this is the best option available—it’s far away and difficult to get to, but well worth the effort.
Planning tip: When buying an entry ticket (US$10), you will need to provide your passport.
10. Kratie
Best for Mekong River adventures
Kratie, a popular intersection on the overland route between Phnom Penh and northeastern Cambodia or southern Laos, is the starting place for excursions to see the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins on the Mekong River. Aside from dolphins, the town features some of the nicest Mekong sunsets in the nation and a certain deteriorating colonial beauty.
Koh Trong island, which is nearby, is a tranquil spot to enjoy genuine Khmer hospitality in a homestay or while exploring on a rented bike. The Mekong Discovery Trail, located north of Kratie, offers a variety of experiences and adventures centered around the mother river, such as boat tours, bicycle rides, and community-based homestays.
Cost Of Travel In Cambodia
Depending on how much time you spend in Phnom Penh compared to Siem Reap and smaller places, your daily spending will change. The priciest city in Cambodia is undoubtedly Phnom Penh! We discovered that sightseeing consumed the lion’s share of our budget. It is worthwhile to visit all of Cambodia’s temples and museums, even though it does add up!
- Hotel room: $50–$100 a night
- Hostel room: $10–$20 a night
- Lunch/Dinner: $3–$20
- Beer: $1-$2 (local beer) / Cocktail: $6–$8
- Drinking water: $0.80 for 1.5L
- TukTuk: $1.00–$3.00 a trip
- Intercountry Buses: $10–$15
Overall, for two people, you would spend $962 in Cambodia on tickets, meals, and drinks. You can use apps to track expenses, so you can confidently tell exactly how much you spent.
Pack for Cambodia
- shoes for walking. You will need a nice pair of walking shoes for your trip, even if Phnom Penh isn’t the most walkable city.
- When visiting the temples and memorials, wear modest, light attire and a scarf. In Cambodia, it’s crucial to wear modest clothing. Lightweight blouses with sleeves, flowing, airy jeans, and a scarf that may be used to cover your shoulders are what you’ll need. Just wearing a scarf over your shoulders won’t be sufficient for certain temples. You’ll need to dress modestly.
- A water bottle that can be reused. Although plastic pollution is a problem in Cambodia, Phnom Penh’s tap water is safe to drink! Don’t forget to include a reusable water bottle. The Penh House Hotel and the majority of eateries will be more than pleased to refill it for you. The fact that this water bottle has a top for coffee or smoothies will make you adore it!
- IV fluid and hydration salts. It can be quite simple to become dehydrated on days spent wandering because it gets so hot. Always have hydration salts
- Tissues and wet wipes. Toilet paper is uncommon in Southeast Asian bathrooms, so you should have tissues and wet wipes in your purse. Having hand sanitizer on hand also doesn’t hurt.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best time to visit Cambodia?
Ans: November to February is the “cool-dry” season, best for exploring temples and natural landscapes.
Q2. How long should we stay in Siem Reap, Cambodia?
Ans: You can spend at least 3-6 days exploring Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Q3. How costly is Cambodia?
Ans: It’s an affordable travel destination for budget travelers.
Q4. What is the famous cuisine in Cambodia?
Ans: Cambodia’s most iconic national dish is Fish Amok. You can also try other popular dishes like Kuy Teav (Noodle Soup), Kampot Pepper Crab, and Twa Ko (Cambodian Sausage).
Q5. Name the biggest city of Cambodia.
Ans: It’s Phnom Penh. The economic, commercial, cultural, and tourist center.
