Where to Visit in Cambodia?

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Cambodia, officially the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a Southeast Asian country bordering Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the north, Vietnam to the east and the Gulf of Thailand to the west. Cambodia is largely a land of plains and great rivers that serves as an important trade route linking China to India and Southeast Asia.

Best known for its colossal temples and dark history of the brutal Khmer Rouge era of the 1970s, Cambodia has a rich history and culture. This flourishing country boasts amazing nature, a thriving art scene, friendly people and relaxing islands. The Buddhist country has much to offer to travellers.

In short, Cambodia has a lot more to offer than just the Angkor Wat.

1. Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital, sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers. The capital was once known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’. Founded in 1372, the ancient city is notable for its colonial structures, a remnant of the French colonisation from 1863 to 1941. You’ll quickly notice that the tree-lined boulevards, stunning churches and impressive villas are distinctively French.

After Cambodia gained independence from France, the country developed its own architectural style known as New Khmer Architecture — which incorporated post-modern and traditional Angkor styles.

What are some things that you can do in the capital city? If you like good old fashioned markets, head to the Central Market for some shopping. For the history buff, The Killing Fields and S21 prison also known as Tuol Seng Genocide Museum are eye-opening experiences. Emotions are bound to kick in as you stroll through the prison-turned-museum exhibits and learnt about the gruesome genocide that left behind lasting scars.

To deepen your understanding of the Khmer culture, pay a visit to the National Museum, Silver Pagoda, and the Royal Palace. Be sure to also check out the local markets for souvenirs shopping.

For more light-hearted fun, spend the night chilling and drinking cocktails with your buddies at the rooftop bars.

2. Sihanoukville’s Islands

Sihanoukville is a seaside town featuring Cambodia’s best beaches. It was once the jewel of Cambodia’s tourism. The two recommended beaches are Koh Rong and Koh Krabey. Often described as an island paradise by visitors, Koh Rong boasts pristine white sandy beaches and warm crystal-clear waters.

For an adventurous time in Koh Rong, you can climb a secret waterfall, jungle trek your way to Long Beach, explore Sok San Village and swim with glowing plankton. If you prefer a more luxurious escapade, you can check into a private villa in Koh Krabey and pamper yourself with the private pools and sundecks.

One might not associate scuba diving or snorkelling with Cambodia but wait till you try them at the Sihanoukville’s Islands!

3. Siem Reap

Siem Reap is located in northwest Cambodia and it is a major tourist hub in Cambodia. Home to the iconic and world-famous temples of Angkor. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 2.6 million tourists visit Angkor Wat every year. Tourists' visits fell drastically during the pandemic and hence, now is a good time to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The vast religious complex of Angkor Wat comprises more than a thousand buildings, and it is one of the great cultural wonders of the world. In the past, one will need to wait for a good photo opportunity due to the large crowds at the attraction site. But not at this moment when international tourism is still slowly picking up. All the more why you should visit Cambodia now before everyone else does.

For some adrenaline-pumping activity, try the Zipline Canopy tour within Angkor Park. Visit cultural sites like Ta Phrom, Preah Dak Village, Banteay Srei, Bayon Temple and Angkor Thom to learn more about the history of the Angkor kingdom. To immerse even deeper into the Khmer communities, witness how ‘hero rats’ are trained to save lives as well as attend the different local workshops that include stone sculpting, woodcarving and polychrome.

4. Koh Rong

Koh Rong is a group of islands off the Cambodian coast, near Sihanoukville. It's a hidden gem with 5 tiny islands in the area, 3 of which are uninhabited. The main island of Koh Rong is famous for backpackers and party animals. There are some excellent dive sites around Koh Rong, particularly around Koh Rong Sanloem. You can be mesmerised by colourful fish and corals, sea turtles, stingrays, parrotfish and nudibranchs. Alternatively, you can explore the area from a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. For a photo opportunity, check out the Sok San Waterfall located near Sok San Village.

5. Angkor

Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Home to the iconic and world-famous temples of Angkor that is located 6km away from Siem Reap. For several centuries, Angkor was the centre of the Khmer Kingdom. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly 2.6 million tourists visit Angkor Wat every year. Tourists' visits fell drastically during the pandemic and hence, now is a good time to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The vast religious complex of Angkor Wat comprises more than a thousand buildings, and it is one of the great cultural wonders of the world. In the past, one will need to wait for a good photo opportunity due to the large crowds at the attraction site. But not at this moment when international tourism is still slowly picking up. All the more why you should visit Cambodia now before everyone else does.

6. Battambang

Battambang is easily the most underrated city in Cambodia. Founded in the 11th century,

Battambang is the second most populous city in Cambodia. It’s a riverside town and home to some of the most well-preserved French colonial architecture in the country. One of the key highlights of Battambang is the Wat Banan Temple, which is less frequented than Angkor Wat. The temple has 5 towers in the classic Angkor-architectural style. For travellers who are looking to explore off the beaten path in Cambodia, Battambang is the place for you.

7. Kampot

Kampot is a small quaint town in Cambodia that's less decorated than the prominent Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. The town is famously known as the land of salt and pepper. So,

be sure to check out some pepper farms while you're there. Kampot’s quietness is part of its charm. You can spend the afternoon lazing in hammocks or swimming in the river. The riverside at the foot of the Elephant Mountains is an alluring part of the town. Tourists and locals alike often go for strolls and simply enjoy the stunning sunset before going for happy hour cocktails.

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