10 Best Places to Visit in Cambodia

Anderson

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If you’re tired of relaxing on Thailand’s beaches or exploring Vietnam’s natural wonders, you might be interested in visiting ancient ruins elsewhere. Cambodia is the perfect destination for that.

Although the big cities there are becoming more modern, you can still visit Angkor, a famous site known for its magnificent temples that are unmatched in size and beauty in all of southeast Asia. Cambodia has more to offer than just Angkor, with smaller towns and villages allowing you to experience a traditional way of life.

You can even go on treks through the jungle and discover more captivating ancient ruins.

10. Battambang

Battambang, the second most populous city in Cambodia, attracts many visitors who are interested in Cambodian history. It was originally established as a trading center in the 18th century and later became a part of French Indochina. Some colonial buildings from that time can still be seen today.

The town is home to several Angkor-style temples and Buddhist shrines, and it is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Throughout the city, you will find statues, mostly depicting animals and gods, with the most famous one being an ancient Khmer king located on the road to Phnom Penh. Don’t miss the Central Market, which is also worth a visit.

9. Kampot

Kampot is a river town near the Gulf of Thailand that is becoming increasingly popular among tourists. It is more well-known for its delicious peppers that are loved by gourmet cooks worldwide.

Kampot is also the starting point to explore Bokor National Park, which is famous for its abandoned French hill station, pleasant weather, and lush rainforests. Visitors can also enjoy boating and rafting on the river, and admire beautiful waterfalls along the way.

Those interested in history can explore the ancient ruins in the Kampot Kompong Trach caves. Additionally, a popular local dish in Kampot is crab curry.

8. Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville, named after the former king Norodom Sihanouk, is a popular beach resort in southern Cambodia, located on the Gulf of Thailand. Also known as Kompong Saom, it holds historical significance as the site of the last battle of the Vietnam War involving the United States.

The city boasts a mix of sandy and rocky beaches, although not considered the finest in Southeast Asia. After exploring Khmer attractions across Cambodia, many travelers find Sihanoukville a must-visit destination. The beaches attract a diverse crowd, from backpackers in beach huts to those opting for luxury hotels. Snorkeling is a favorite activity around some offshore islands.

For those not into water activities, renting a motorbike to explore the surrounding jungles is a great option. Additionally, a day trip to the beautiful Ream National Park, just a short ride from Sihanoukville, offers a chance to discover pristine landscapes and observe over 200 bird species.

7. Angkor

Angkor

Angkor, the capital of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 14th centuries, holds immense historical significance, making it a standout archaeological site in Southeast Asia.

Spread across farmlands and rice fields, the ruins of a thousand temples include iconic structures like Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument, the Bayon temple at Angkor Thom featuring massive stone faces, and Ta Prohm, a Buddhist temple entwined with towering trees. Many of these temples have undergone restoration, transforming Angkor into a marvel of the ancient world and providing a captivating glimpse into Khmer history.

Over its long history, Angkor underwent religious shifts, transitioning between Hinduism and Buddhism multiple times. Symbolizing Cambodia, it proudly appears on the national flag and stands as a premier tourist attraction in Southeast Asia.

6. Kep

Kep is a small resort by the sea where you can enjoy a variety of activities on the beach. If you like snorkeling, you can see coral on the shallow sea floor. Rabbit Island is a popular beach near Kep, but it has limited electricity and is mostly visited for day trips.

Kep was originally created as a retreat for the wealthy French in 1908, so you can still see the remains of their old villas destroyed during the Khmer Rouge time. If you visit Kep, you can also go to Kep National Park to admire the beautiful ocean views, visit a butterfly preserve, or learn about organic pepper farming.

5. Siem Reap

Siem Reap, meaning “Siam Defeated,” is Cambodia’s rapidly growing city and a delightful gateway to the renowned Angkor temples. Thanks to these attractions, it has become a significant tourist hub, offering a laid-back and pleasant atmosphere for visitors exploring the temples. The city provides a variety of accommodations, from luxurious 5-star hotels to numerous budget-friendly guesthouses, along with a diverse selection of restaurants serving various cuisines.

4. Kratie

Kratie-1

Kratie is a charming little town by the Mekong River, known for its bustling central marketplace and beautiful old French colonial buildings. Although it’s not a popular tourist destination, it attracts many backpackers during the peak season.

One of the main reasons people come here is to catch a glimpse of the rare Irrawaddy dolphins, which are becoming increasingly scarce in the Mekong River. Experts estimate that there are only 66 to 86 dolphins left in the upper Cambodian Mekong area.

3. Koh Ker

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Koh Ker, situated around 120 kilometers northeast of Siem Reap, served as the Khmer empire’s capital for a brief period from 928 to 944 AD. During this time, impressive buildings and massive sculptures were crafted, with Prasat Thom, a 30-meter tall temple pyramid, standing as a prominent feature amidst the jungle.

Left untouched by civilization for almost a thousand years, Koh Ker was once among Cambodia’s most secluded temple sites. Recent developments, including de-mining efforts and the introduction of a new toll road, have now made this remote destination more accessible to visitors.

2. Banlung

If you love outdoor activities, Banlung in northern Cambodia is a fantastic place to visit. Many tour companies offer overnight or multi-day trips into the jungles, allowing adventurous travelers to experience nature up close.

These trips provide the chance to observe different types of monkeys and wildlife, although some people might not enjoy encountering leeches. For a shorter excursion, you can visit Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake and witness its mesmerizing deep lakes. Moreover, you can also observe Cambodian women engaged in the traditional art of weaving.

1. Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s largest city and capital since French colonial days, was once dubbed “the pearl of Asia.” Despite the impact of war and revolution, the city retains its French influence and charm. Situated on the Mekong River, Phnom Penh traces its roots back to the 15th century.

Key attractions include the Royal Palace, home to Cambodia’s royal family, and the Silver Pagoda adorned with 5,000 silver tiles housing a life-size gold Buddha embellished with diamonds. For handcrafted items and souvenirs, the night market, Phsar Reatrey, is a bustling spot.

However, the city also bears witness to the grim history of the Khmer Rouge regime, with sites like the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the notorious Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. The Killing Fields, containing 129 mass graves and a memorial stupa with over 8,000 skulls, solemnly memorialize the tragic events that unfolded at this site.

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