Cambodia deserves a place at the top of any Asian travel itinerary. From unrivaled natural landscapes and unspoiled beaches to a wealth of cultural and historical sites to explore, Cambodia has something for everyone.
Here we take a look at just a few of the country's highlights so that, whether you're heading to Cambodia for rest and relaxation or a cultural experience, you can plan your perfect trip.
Angkor Wat UNESCO World Heritage Site
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest religious monuments in the world, Angkor Wat rightfully tops many Cambodia must-see lists.
Millions of people flock here each year, and it's easy to see why. Few places offer such a stunning sunset whilst the temple walls decorated with thousands of bas-reliefs are truly awe-inspiring. So iconic is Angkor Wat that it features on Cambodia's flag and on its banknotes.
For centuries the capital of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat UNESCO World Heritage Site holds more than just religious importance. The monuments, urban plans, and communication routes give visitors an unparalleled insight into the Khmer civilization. Here you can find more information about Angkor Wat.
The site's most noteworthy elements include lotus-bud shaped Khmer towers and elaborate decorative elements whilst the basins and canals are also not to be missed.
Cambodia's Street Food Experience
Cambodia's gastronomic scene is buzzing and there is no better place to try the delights of Cambodian cookery than to join the locals at one of the many street food vendors throughout the country. From breakfast through to dinner, the most delicious traditional dishes are prepared at stalls in the street and eaten outdoors at plastic tables.
Some of the best street food specialties to try include:
● Lort Cha stir-fried egg noodles
● Nom Ka Chai chive cake snacks
● Nom Pao steamed pork buns.
Opt for a vendor with plenty of local customers for the most authentic, and tasty, experience.
Tropical Islands with Beautiful Beaches
Visit Cambodia's tropical islands and you'll be blown away by the natural beauty of the beaches with white sand and clear blue waters. Less developed than the shores of neighboring Thailand, beach-goers can enjoy some truly unspoiled landscapes.
Koh Ta Kiev is one of the islands that travelers seeking relaxation and tranquility should head to whilst Koh Thmei is a great choice for wildlife. Take a hike or go bird watching in Koh Thmei and you'll be sure to spot a vast array of creatures.
With no internet, Koh Totang offers the perfect opportunity to really disconnect from it all. Feel in touch with nature as accommodation is fully eco-friendly and the showers use rainwater. A million miles from the stresses of everyday life.
Phnom Penh, a Vibrant Capital City
Phnom Penh is Cambodia's bustling capital city. Expect motorbikes speeding through the streets, colorful markets and the general buzz of city life in full swing.
Travelers from across the globe can feel at home here amongst the many cafes, bars, and excellent restaurants. The central market is an impressive spectacle with stalls selling absolutely everything from unique clothes and accessories to street food of every kind.
When in Phnom Penh, the National Museum of Cambodia is well worth a visit and a great way to learn about the country, from ancient times right up to the 21st century.
Spend Time in Nature at The Elephant Valley Project
Elephant tourism is popular and widespread in Cambodia but it is very important to choose activities that are ethical and have the wellbeing of the animals at heart. One of the best places to spend time with these beautiful animals in Cambodia is The Elephant Valley Project.
A once in a lifetime opportunity to walk alongside elephants in their natural jungle habitat, The Elephant Valley Project is the largest captive elephant sanctuary in Asia with over 1,500 hectares of forest.
With just 10 resident elephants, the animals have abundant space to roam, supporting the project's mission to protect and care for these majestic creatures. Visitors can take a day trip or even stay overnight for an immersive experience and a chance to volunteer on projects such as reforestation. The Elephant Valley Project is located in Cambodia's Mondulkiri province.
If all this is enough to convince you to visit Cambodia, here are some practical considerations to take when planning your trip:
When's the Best Time of Year to Visit Cambodia?
The tropical climate of Cambodia means average annual temperatures range from a mild 68ºF to 80ºF (20ºC - 30ºC).
Most travelers head to Cambodia during the cold season, from November to February, as cooler temperatures provide optimal conditions for exploring.
Cambodia experiences a wet season from June to October, despite the heavy rainfall, you shouldn't immediately rule out visiting during these months. As downpours are generally in the early afternoon, it's possible to organize your day to miss the worst of the rain.
What's more, going to Cambodia during the wet season is a good way to avoid crowds at some of the best-known monuments which get busy in peak season.
How to Get around Cambodia
The best of Cambodia can be seen by traveling between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. The most convenient ways to do so are by domestic flight or by private car with a driver.
Several airlines offer domestic flights between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports and, with the flight taking just 45 minutes, this is the quickest option. Private cars, on the other hand, offer greater flexibility and the chance to learn from the driver's expert knowledge.
If you are seeking the ultimate authentic experience, however, try out some of the local transport options such as the Remork-moto, Cambodia's version of the tuk-tuk and Motodups, a speedy motorbike taxi service.
What Should I Take with Me on a Trip to Cambodia?
What to wear: Clothing should be lightweight and light-colored to protect from the hot sun. Opt for materials such as linen and cotton which offer the most comfort in humid climates such as that of Cambodia. Footwear suitable for walking and trekking is a must. If traveling during the wet season, be sure to pack a good waterproof coat and shoes in case you get caught in a heavy downpour.
What to take: high-factor sunscreen is essential, especially when visiting exposed sites such as Angkor Wat. Also, carry a refillable water bottle with you at all times and stay hydrated.
It's very important to make sure you have the correct visa for Cambodia. If you're traveling from a country eligible for the Cambodia eVisa you can apply online in advance and should take a printed copy along with your passport to present at the border.
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