Bangkok to Cambodia

Bangkok to Cambodia by land

Traveling from Bangkok to Cambodia by land is a popular route for tourists who wish to explore both Thailand and Cambodia. The journey allows travelers to see more of the Southeast Asian landscape and experience the transition between the two countries. The most common route is from Bangkok to Siem Reap, home to the famous Angkor Wat temple complex, but other destinations like Phnom Penh can also be reached by land. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make the journey:


1. Route Options from Bangkok to Cambodia

A. Bangkok to Siem Reap

1. By Bus:

  • Route: Direct buses are available from Bangkok to Siem Reap. Buses typically leave from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Northern Bus Terminal or Khao San Road.
  • Duration: The journey takes about 8-10 hours, including the time required for border crossing at Poipet.
  • Cost: Prices range from 750-1,200 THB depending on the bus company and class (standard, VIP, etc.).
  • Border Crossing: The bus will stop at the Aranyaprathet-Poipet border, where passengers need to go through Thai immigration to exit Thailand and Cambodian immigration to enter Cambodia. Be prepared for a wait at the border, as it can get busy.
  • Tips: Ensure your visa requirements are sorted out in advance (e-Visa or visa on arrival for most nationalities). Also, watch out for scams and touts at the border.

2. By Train and Bus Combination:

  • Step 1: Train from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet:
    • Take the train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station to Aranyaprathet, which is the nearest Thai town to the Cambodian border. The train journey takes about 5-6 hours.
    • The train is a budget option, costing around 50-100 THB for a third-class ticket.
  • Step 2: Tuk-Tuk/Taxi to Poipet Border:
    • From Aranyaprathet train station, take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the Poipet border, which is a short ride away.
  • Step 3: Cross the Border at Poipet:
    • Go through Thai immigration, cross the border, and go through Cambodian immigration.
  • Step 4: Bus or Taxi from Poipet to Siem Reap:
    • After crossing the border, there are buses and shared taxis available from Poipet to Siem Reap. The journey takes about 2-3 hours.
  • Cost: The total cost for this combination can range from 300-800 THB depending on the mode of transport used after the border crossing.

B. Bangkok to Phnom Penh

1. By Bus:

  • Route: Direct buses from Bangkok to Phnom Penh are available, but they often involve a change at the border.
  • Duration: The journey takes about 12-15 hours, including the time required for border crossing at Poipet.
  • Cost: Prices range from 800-1,500 THB depending on the bus company and class.
  • Border Crossing: The bus will stop at the Aranyaprathet-Poipet border for exit and entry procedures.
  • Tips: As with the route to Siem Reap, be prepared for potential delays at the border and ensure you have your visa sorted.

2. By Train and Bus Combination:

  • Step 1: Train from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet: Follow the same steps as for the Bangkok to Siem Reap route.
  • Step 2: Tuk-Tuk/Taxi to Poipet Border: Similar steps apply for reaching the border.
  • Step 3: Cross the Border at Poipet:
  • Step 4: Bus from Poipet to Phnom Penh:
    • After crossing the border, you can take a bus or shared taxi from Poipet to Phnom Penh. The journey takes about 8-10 hours.
  • Cost: The total cost for this combination can range from 500-1,200 THB depending on transport options.

2. Key Tips for Traveling by Land:

  • Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the correct visa for Cambodia. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival at the Poipet border crossing or apply for an e-Visa online in advance.
  • Currency: Bring both Thai Baht (THB) and US Dollars (USD). While Cambodian Riel is the local currency, USD is widely accepted in Cambodia, especially near the border.
  • Border Crossing: Be aware of scams at the border. Only pay visa fees at the official immigration counters, and avoid touts offering “fast track” services or transport at inflated prices.
  • Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents, and any potential travel disruptions.
  • Health and Safety: Stay hydrated, especially when traveling during the hotter months. Watch your belongings at the border and during transport transfers.

3. Places to Visit En Route and in Cambodia:

  • Aranyaprathet (Thailand): While not a major tourist destination, Aranyaprathet has a market and a few restaurants that can be a good place to rest before or after the border crossing.
  • Poipet (Cambodia): Poipet is primarily a border town with casinos and basic amenities. Most travelers don’t stay here long, moving on to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh.
  • Siem Reap (Cambodia): Famous for the Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other attractions include the Angkor National Museum, Tonle Sap Lake, and local markets.
  • Phnom Penh (Cambodia): The capital city, known for its historical sites such as the Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and the Killing Fields. The riverside area is popular for dining and nightlife.

4. Conclusion

Traveling by land from Bangkok to Cambodia offers a more immersive experience than flying, allowing you to see the countryside and get a sense of the local way of life. With careful planning, awareness of visa requirements, and attention to safety, the journey can be a memorable part of your Southeast Asian adventure.