Places to visit in Cambodia
Cambodia
Population: As of 2023, Cambodia has an estimated population of around 17 million people. The country is predominantly Khmer, with smaller ethnic minorities such as Chinese, Vietnamese, Cham, and indigenous groups.
What is Cambodia Famous For?
Cambodia is most famous for its ancient temples, especially the magnificent Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The country has a rich cultural history, including the powerful Khmer Empire that once ruled much of Southeast Asia. Cambodia is also known for its tragic modern history, specifically the Khmer Rouge regime, and its efforts toward recovery and development. The country’s beautiful natural landscapes, including rainforests, rivers, and coastal areas, along with its vibrant arts and crafts, attract many tourists.
Best Time to Visit Cambodia
- Best Season: The dry season, from November to March, is the ideal time to visit Cambodia. During this period, the weather is cooler, and the skies are clear, making it perfect for sightseeing, especially around the Angkor temple complex.
- Off-Season: The wet season, from May to October, can still be a great time to visit, as the rain brings lush greenery to the countryside and fewer tourists mean quieter attractions. However, heavy rains can make rural roads difficult to navigate.
Highlights of Major Cities and Places in Cambodia
Phnom Penh
- Population: Around 2.2 million
- Highlights: The bustling capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is known for its lively riverside, French colonial architecture, and rich history.
- Famous For:
- Royal Palace: The beautiful palace complex is the official residence of the King of Cambodia and features the famous Silver Pagoda.
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison): A haunting reminder of Cambodia’s dark history under the Khmer Rouge.
- Choeung Ek Killing Fields: Another important historical site, providing insight into the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge.
- What to Do: Visitors explore historical museums, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, visit local markets like the Russian Market, and take sunset boat cruises along the Tonle Sap River.
Siem Reap
- Population: About 250,000
- Highlights: Siem Reap is the gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park, home to the world-famous temples of Angkor, including Angkor Wat.
- Famous For:
- Angkor Wat: The largest religious monument in the world and a symbol of Cambodia.
- Angkor Thom: The ancient capital of the Khmer Empire, featuring the Bayon Temple with its iconic stone faces.
- Ta Prohm: Known for its giant tree roots engulfing the ruins, made famous by the movie Tomb Raider.
- What to Do: Tourists spend several days exploring the temples, take traditional cooking classes, experience the vibrant local market, and enjoy cultural shows like the Apsara Dance.
Sihanoukville
- Population: About 110,000
- Highlights: A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and as a launching point to nearby islands.
- Famous For:
- Otres Beach: A quieter and cleaner alternative to the main beaches.
- Koh Rong: A popular island destination offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs for snorkeling and diving.
- What to Do: Visitors relax on the beaches, go island-hopping, or try water sports like diving and snorkeling.
Battambang
- Population: About 200,000
- Highlights: Battambang is known for its colonial architecture and is considered the cultural hub of Cambodia.
- Famous For:
- Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus: A non-profit circus school that performs traditional and modern circus acts.
- Bamboo Train (Norry): A quirky experience where visitors ride a makeshift train along old rail tracks.
- Wat Banan Temple: A beautiful hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- What to Do: Tourists can enjoy river cruises, explore ancient temples, and take art and culture tours.
Kampot
- Population: Around 40,000
- Highlights: A charming riverside town known for its colonial architecture, relaxed atmosphere, and proximity to natural attractions.
- Famous For:
- Bokor National Park: Offering cooler temperatures, misty views, and abandoned French colonial buildings.
- Kampot Pepper: Renowned worldwide for its quality, Kampot pepper farms offer tours where visitors can learn about pepper production.
- Teuk Chhou Rapids: A scenic and relaxing spot to enjoy the river and surrounding jungle.
- What to Do: Visitors take boat rides along the Kampot River, visit pepper farms, and hike in the nearby national parks.
Koh Kong
- Population: Around 35,000
- Highlights: A gateway to the Cardamom Mountains and one of the most remote and unspoiled provinces in Cambodia.
- Famous For:
- Tatai Waterfall: A stunning waterfall in the jungle, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
- Botum Sakor National Park: A vast, biodiverse area home to endangered wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and gibbons.
- What to Do: Eco-tours, wildlife spotting, and boat tours along the river are popular activities.
Tourist Attractions in Cambodia
Angkor Wat (Siem Reap)
- The crown jewel of Cambodia’s tourist attractions, this massive temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is an absolute must-see for visitors.
- Entrance Fee: $37 USD for a one-day pass, $62 USD for three days, and $72 USD for seven days.
- Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Highlights: Sunrise at Angkor Wat, exploring Angkor Thom and Bayon Temple, and visiting the jungle-covered Ta Prohm.
Tonle Sap Lake (Siem Reap)
- Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, Tonle Sap is famous for its floating villages and unique ecosystem.
- What to Do: Boat tours are available to visit the floating villages, see local fishermen, and learn about life on the lake.
Silver Pagoda (Phnom Penh)
- Located within the Royal Palace complex, the Silver Pagoda is known for its floor covered with 5,000 silver tiles.
- Entrance Fee: $10 USD (includes Royal Palace entry)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Bokor Hill Station (Kampot)
- A French colonial resort built in the 1920s, now abandoned, it offers fascinating ruins and stunning views of the surrounding national park.
Preah Vihear Temple (Preah Vihear Province)
- A stunning temple located on the Thai-Cambodian border, perched on a cliff offering breathtaking views of the plains below.
- Entrance Fee: $10 USD
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
What Tourists Do in Cambodia
- Temple Exploring: Cambodia is famous for its ancient temples, with Angkor Wat being the most popular. Tourists spend days visiting these incredible structures.
- Beach Getaways: Sihanoukville and nearby islands like Koh Rong offer a tropical escape, with pristine beaches and clear waters.
- Cultural Tours: Visitors often explore Cambodia’s rich history, from the Khmer Empire to the Khmer Rouge era, through its museums and monuments.
- Eco-Tourism: Cambodia’s diverse landscapes and national parks provide opportunities for hiking, wildlife tours, and boat trips.
- Markets and Nightlife: Tourists enjoy visiting local markets, particularly in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and exploring the country’s growing nightlife scene.
Cambodia offers a rich mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a fantastic destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and historical immersion.