Cambodia is a beautiful Southeast Asian country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. From the ancient temples of Angkor to the southern islands, Cambodia has so much to offer visitors. Use this comprehensive travel guide to help you plan the perfect trip to Cambodia.
Cambodia Travel Facts
General Information
Cambodia, officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a Southeast Asian country located in the southern part of the Indochinese Peninsula. It shares borders with Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Here is some general information about Cambodia:
- Capital: Phnom Penh
- Population: As of 2021, the estimated population of Cambodia is around 16 million.
- Language: Khmer is the official language. English and French are also widely spoken.
- Religion: The majority of the population practices Theravada Buddhism. There are also significant Muslim and Christian minorities.
- Currency: The official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), although the United States dollar is widely used.
- Geography: Cambodia has a diverse geography that includes the Mekong River, the Tonle Sap Lake, and the Cardamom and Elephant Mountains. It is primarily a flat country, with a coastline along the Gulf of Thailand in the south.
- Climate: Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons: rainy (May to October) and dry (November to April). The hottest months are usually April and May.
- Economy: Cambodia’s economy is mainly based on agriculture, with rice being the primary crop. Other important sectors include garment manufacturing, tourism, and construction.
- History: Cambodia has a rich and complex history, including the ancient Khmer Empire, which built the famous temples of Angkor. In the recent past, the country went through the dark period of the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979.
- Tourism: Cambodia is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical sites, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, located near Siem Reap, is one of the most famous attractions in the country.
Please note that this information provides a general overview of Cambodia, and there is much more to explore and learn about this fascinating country.
Regions
The main regions and provinces to visit in Cambodia include:
- Siem Reap – Home to the famous Angkor temples and archeological park.
- Phnom Penh – Cambodia’s capital and largest city located on the banks of the Mekong River.
- Sihanoukville – A port city on the Gulf of Thailand known for its beaches.
- Battambang – Cambodia’s second largest city, located in the northwest by the Sangker River.
- Kampot – A small riverside town surrounded by limestone hills and pepper plantations.
Major Cities
Cambodia has several major cities, including:
- Phnom Penh: The capital and largest city of Cambodia, located in the southwestern part of the country. It is the political, economic, and cultural center of Cambodia.
- Siem Reap: Known for its proximity to the famous Angkor Wat temple complex, Siem Reap is a popular tourist destination. It is located in the northwest of Cambodia.
- Battambang: Situated in the northwest region of Cambodia, Battambang is the second-largest city in the country. It is known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture.
- Sihanoukville: Located on the coast in the southwest, Sihanoukville is a rapidly developing city known for its beaches and tourist resorts. It is a popular destination among locals and tourists alike.
- Kampong Cham: Situated in the central part of Cambodia, along the Mekong River, Kampong Cham is the third-largest city in the country. It is known for its picturesque landscapes and rural charm.
- Pursat: Located in the western part of Cambodia, Pursat is a small city known for its natural beauty, including the Cardamom Mountains and the Pursat River.
- Preah Sihanouk: Located on the coast, Preah Sihanouk is a province with a major city bearing the same name. The city is a popular beach resort area, commonly referred to as “Kompong Som” by locals.
- Kampong Thom: Situated in central Cambodia, Kampong Thom is a provincial capital known for its historical sites, such as ancient temples and pre-Angkorian ruins.
These are some of the major cities in Cambodia, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions.
How do I get a Visa to Cambodia?
Most visitors need a tourist visa to enter Cambodia. Here are some key tips on getting your Cambodian visa:
- Many nationalities can get an e-visa online prior to arrival for $30-70 USD depending on visa duration.
- Visas on Arrival (VOA) are available at major airports and borders. You’ll need a passport photo and fees range from $30-50 USD.
- Tourist visas are valid for 1 month for a single entry. Extension options are available.
- Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months upon entry into Cambodia.
- Check visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling to Cambodia.
Places to Visit in Cambodia
Places to Visit in Siem Reap
- Angkor Archaeological Park – See Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm and many other incredible temple ruins here.
- Tonle Sap Lake – Take a boat trip on Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake to see floating villages.
- Angkor National Museum – Excellent introduction to Angkorian history and culture.
- Phare Circus – Creative performing arts show combining theater, music, dance and acrobatics.
- Pub Street – Lively street with restaurants, bars, souvenir shops and nightlife.
- Angkor Butterfly Centre – Tropical garden home to thousands of butterflies and insects.
Places to Visit in Phnom Penh
- Royal Palace – ornate palace complex that’s still the royal residence. See the Silver Pagoda.
- National Museum – Houses a impressive collection of Khmer art and artifacts.
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum – Former prison and harrowing reminder of the Khmer Rouge regime.
- Wat Phnom – Peaceful temple on a hill that gave the city its name. Nice views.
- Russian Market – Bustling market selling everything from souvenirs to silks. Good spot for bargaining.
- Killing Fields – Memorial site outside the city marking mass graves from the Khmer Rouge regime.
Places to Visit in Battambang
- Battambang Bat Caves – See hundreds of thousands of bats departing the caves at sunset.
- Bamboo Train – Ride this unique bamboo platform on rails powered by a motorbike engine.
- Phnom Sampeu – Climb this sacred hilltop temple for gorgeous views and a golden reclining Buddha.
- Wat Ek Phnom – Atmospheric 11th century Angkorian temple with intricate carvings.
- Battambang Market – Wander this large local market selling fresh produce, meat and fish.
- Psang River – Take a boat ride along this river that passes by French colonial buildings.
Places to Visit in Sihanouk Ville
- Ochheuteal Beach – Sihanoukville’s most popular beach with golden sand and beach bars.
- Otres Beach – More relaxed and laidback beach with rustic bungalow accommodations.
- Ream National Park – Paths lead through mangroves and rainforest to secluded beaches.
- Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem – Take a boat trip to these nearby tropical islands with stunning beaches.
- Independence Beach – Quiet and clean beach away from the crowds.
- Wat Krom – cliff top pagoda with sweeping bay views at sunset.
Places to Visit in Kampot
- Bokor National Park – Explore ghostly abandoned French hill station within the national park.
- Kampot Pepper Farms – Learn about the famous Kampot pepper on a farm tour.
- Kep Beach – Relax on this pretty crescent beach near Kampot.
- Rabbit Island – Escape to this small car-free island off the coast of Kep.
- Kampot Night Market – Browse souvenirs, silks, and snacks at this outdoor night market.
- Salt Flats – See traditional sea salt production methods on day trips to the salt flats.
Places to Visit in Kep
- Crab Market – Sample freshly caught crab cooked right on the dock. Famous local delicacy.
- Kep National Park – Small coastal park protecting rare forest and wildlife. Good for hiking.
- Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) – Relax on this car-free island’s picturesque beaches.
- Kep Beach – Enjoy sunset on this small but lovely crescent-shaped beach.
- Kep Butterfly Farm – See thousands of butterflies fluttering around this butterfly sanctuary.
- Phnom Kep – Get panoramic views hiking up this forested hill outside Kep.
Places to Visit in Kratie
- Kampi Dolphin Pool – Spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins at this river pool north of Kratie.
- Wat Roka Kandal – Marvel at thousands of bats streaming out at sunset from this riverside pagoda.
- Phnom Sambok – Hike through lush countryside to three sacred hilltop pagodas with panoramic Mekong river views.
- Koh Trong Island – Relax on this peaceful island in the middle of the Mekong River.
- Mekong Riverview – Enjoy a leisurely riverside stroll and great sunset views in Kratie.
- Kratie Market – Wander through the local market to sample tropical fruits and street food.
Places to Visit in Mondulkiri
- Bou Sraa Waterfall – See Cambodia’s largest and most powerful waterfall surrounded by nature.
- Elephant Valley Project – Learn about elephant conservation at this ethical elephant sanctuary.
- Minority Villages – Interact and homestay with the Bunong and other indigenous minority groups.
- Sen Monorom Waterfall – This multi-tiered waterfall flows through lush jungle just outside town.
- Samot Cheur Vineyard – Sample tropical fruit wines at this family-run organic vineyard.
- Mayura Zipline – Zip through the jungle canopy on cables up to 600m long.
Where and What to Eat in Cambodia
Fish Amok
Fish amok is a quintessential Khmer curry dish, often considered the national dish of Cambodia. It consists of fish, coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal and kaffir lime leaves, all combined and steamed in a banana leaf cup. The creamy curry has a lovely mild flavor.
Where to eat?
- Khmer Kitchen Restaurant – Street 2 Thnou the corner of Street 9, Old Market, Siem Reap.
- Amok Restaurant – Street 9, Siem Reap, Cambodia.
- Viroth’s Restaurant – #99 Wat Bo Street Corner Wat Bo St and Tep Vong St, Siem Reap.
- Frizz Restaurant
- Malis Restaurant – No. 136 Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh.
- Eleven One Kitchen – #37 Street 123 (corner of 460), Tuol Tom Poung, Phnom Penh.
- Romdeng Restaurant – # 74 Oknha Ket St. (174), Phnom Penh.
Samlor Korkor
Samlor korkor is a hearty chicken and vegetable soup. It typically contains pumpkin or squash, long beans, cabbage, tomato, Khmer noodles and chicken. The broth is flavored with kroeung, a Khmer spice paste. It’s a comforting meal perfect for any time of day.
Where to eat?
- Khmer Kitchen Restaurant – Street 2 Thnou the corner of Street 9, Old Market, Siem Reap.
- Mie Café – #0085, Phum Treng Khum Slorgram, Siem Reap.
- Malis Restaurant – No. 136 Norodom Blvd, Phnom Penh.
Nom Banh Chok
Meaning “Khmer noodle”, num banh chok is a breakfast staple and snack in Cambodia. Rice noodles are poured into a curry-like gravy made from coconut, turmeric, lemongrass and chilies. Toppings include fried shallots, cucumber, green banana, dried shrimp and fresh herbs.
Where to eat?
- David’s Restaurant – Homemade Noodles – 13, #166 Preah Ang Eng St. (13), Phnom Penh.
- Boat Noodles – Sothearos Blvd, Phnom Penh Center, Phnom Penh.
- Tbal Khmer Restaurant – 40 Street 432, Phnom Penh.
- Khmer Fungus Noodles – House 15 200, Phnom Penh.
Pepper Crabs
In coastal regions like Kampot, pepper crab is a signature dish. Mud crabs are stir-fried in a black pepper garlic sauce along with cloves, spring onion and oyster sauce. The crabs are cracked open at the table for scooping out the sweet, spicy meat.
Where to eat?
- Seafood Restaurants in Crab Market in Kep Town: So Kheang, Diamond Jasmine, Holy Crab, La Mouette, La Baraka, Kimly Seafood Restaurant.
Fried Insects
Fried insects are popular snack in Cambodia, especially in rural areas. Some common fried insects are crickets, grasshoppers, spiders, beetles, ants, dragonflies, bugs and larvae. They offer locals a crunchy snack full of protein. Tourists can find them sold at markets and street stalls.
Suggested Cambodia Itinerary
Culture & Classic Tours
- 3 days in Siem Reap: See Angkor’s top temples like Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm. Visit Tonle Sap Lake, museums and markets.
- 1 day in Battambang: Explore colonial architecture, bamboo train ride and hilltop temples.
- 2 days in Phnom Penh: Tour Royal Palace, National Museum, Killing Fields and other landmarks.
- 1 day trip to silk villages: Visit silk weaving villages to learn traditional techniques.
Adventure Tours in Cambodia
- 1 week beach and nature: Relax on tropical beaches in Sihanoukville and Kep. Hike in Bokor and Kep National Parks. Visit Rabbit Island.
- 1 week ecotourism: See wildlife like dolphins, gibbons and elephants. Jungle treks to waterfalls and minority villages.
- 1 week temple explorer: More off the beaten path temple adventures like Koh Ker, Beng Mealea, Phnom Kulen and Preah Khan Kampong Svay.
Luxury Cambodia Tours & Holiday Packages
- Stay in 5 star hotels in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. Private guides and drivers. Luxury cruises on the Mekong. Pampering spa treatments. Fine dining.
- Combine favorite cultural sites like Angkor Wat with beach relaxation on tropical islands or at exclusive coastal resorts.
- Unique experiences like private blessings by monks, personal cooking classes, golfing at world class courses and more.
Cambodia Beach Vacation Packages
- 1 week of sun, sand and sea: Relax on beautiful beaches in Sihanoukville, Kep and Koh Rong island. Swim, snorkel, sail, and enjoy sunset views.
- Mix culture and coast: Combine classic temple visits in Siem Reap with beach time in Sihanoukville or laidback Kampot/Kep.
- Slow travel by the sea: Spend 1-2 weeks really immersing into coastal life. Go fishing, learn Khmer cooking, meet locals.
Best Time to Travel to Cambodia
Overview of climate in Cambodia
Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons:
- Hot, dry season from November to April. Dry, sunny weather and cool nights. Peak tourism season.
- Green, wet season from May to October. High humidity, frequent rain and storms. Low season for tourism.
Temperatures range from 22-35°C throughout the year. The coast is always a few degrees cooler than inland areas.
When is the best time to visit Cambodia?
The best time to visit Cambodia depends on your interests, budget and tolerance for crowds.
- Dry season (Nov-Feb): Ideal for outdoor activities. Busiest tourist season with higher prices.
- Shoulder season (Mar-Apr, Oct-Nov): Compact travel season. Avoiding peak crowds. Cheaper options.
- Wet season (May-Sep): Budget travel time. Significant discounts. No crowds. Risk of rain/storms.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling to Cambodia:
Is Cambodia safe to visit?
Cambodia is generally safe for tourists who exercise common sense. Petty theft does happen so keep valuables secure. Avoid political demonstrations.
What vaccinations do I need for Cambodia?
Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B and Typhoid. Malaria medication may be taken as a precaution.
What is the best way to get around Cambodia?
For long distances, buses and shared minivans are good options between major cities. Tuk tuks and motos (motorcycle taxis) work well for shorter city trips.
When is the best time to visit Angkor Wat?
The ideal times are sunrise, early morning and late afternoon to avoid crowds and get great photos. Buy your pass the day before to arrive early.
What currency should I use in Cambodia?
US dollars and Cambodian riel are widely accepted. ATMs dispense USD but you’ll get change in riel. Carry small bills.
