Things To Do
in Cambodia
Cambodia, located in Southeast Asia, is a country renowned for its stunning landscapes that range from lush rainforests and rice paddies to white sandy beaches and the mighty Mekong River. It is home to the magnificent Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world and a symbol of Khmer architectural mastery, attracting millions of tourists annually.
Despite its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Cambodia continues to recover from the scars of its recent history, including the brutal rule of the Khmer Rouge, but strides forward with resilience and an ever-growing economy.
- "Soksabai?" - How are you?
- "Arun sua" - Good morning
- "Orkun" - Thank you
- "Som tos" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Chhnang" - Very good
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a sunrise visit to Angkor Wat, one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Enjoy the stunning reflection of the temple in the surrounding moat as the sun rises.
Explore the nearby temples of Angkor Thom and the Bayon, known for its many serene stone faces. Don't forget to capture the intricate bas-reliefs that tell stories from Cambodian history.
As dusk settles, head to a local restaurant to taste authentic Khmer cuisine. Enjoy a traditional Apsara dance performance to cap off the day.
Visit the Angkor National Museum to learn about the rich history of the Khmer Empire. Engage with interactive exhibits and ancient artifacts to better appreciate the temples.
Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant markets of Siem Reap, where you can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs. Don't miss out on trying local street food for an authentic experience.
Relax at Pub Street with its lively atmosphere and numerous dining options. Enjoy live music and mingle with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with ancient temples like Angkor Wat
- Affordable cost of living
- Warm and welcoming local population
- Growing tourism industry providing job opportunities
- Diverse ecosystems and beautiful landscapes
- Limited infrastructure and public services
- Political instability and issues with governance
- Corruption in various sectors
- Healthcare facilities may not meet international standards
- Environmental challenges such as deforestation
Best Activities in Cambodia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the ancient temples and ruins of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Discover the diverse wildlife and lush landscapes of the Cardamom Mountains through trekking and hiking.
Paddle through the scenic Tatai River and explore the mangroves, waterfalls, and remote villages.
Enjoy scenic bike rides through the picturesque countryside of Kampot, with its rice paddies and local villages.
Explore the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life of the Koh Rong Archipelago through snorkeling and diving.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cambodia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cambodia
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the most iconic and popular sites in Cambodia, known for its stunning architecture and dramatic sunrises.
Offers beautiful views of waterfalls, jungle landscapes, and opportunities to visit ancient ruins.
Provides a unique and scenic experience, with picturesque countryside views as you ride on a bamboo train through the countryside.
Known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, offering captivating coastal views and beautiful sunsets.
Food in Cambodia
Cambodia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular coconut milk-based curry steamed in banana leaves, typically with fish or chicken, and flavored with lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. Found in local eateries and restaurants throughout Cambodia.
Must-Try!
Stir-fried marinated beef served with a tangy dipping sauce, often accompanied by fresh vegetables and rice. Widely available in restaurants and food stalls across Cambodia.
A traditional breakfast dish consisting of thinly sliced pork marinated in coconut milk and grilled, served with pickled vegetables, and rice. Easily found at traditional morning markets or street food vendors.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cambodia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This iconic market offers a variety of local street food, snacks, and fresh produce. Visitors can savor dishes like num pang (Cambodian sandwich) and nom krok (coconut rice cakes) in the bustling market atmosphere.
A vibrant night market where one can find a plethora of street food options such as fried insects, grilled meats, and Khmer desserts. It's a great place to experience the energy of Cambodia's street food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cambodian culture, it is important to show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures.
When entering a Cambodian home or temple, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect.
When giving or receiving objects, especially when offering something to an elder, it is polite to use both hands as a sign of respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cambodia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cambodia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cambodia, tipping is not expected but appreciated. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount of money as a tip, especially in restaurants and for the services of tour guides and drivers.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Cambodia, although credit cards are increasingly being accepted in larger establishments. It's also important to have small denominations of currency as larger bills may not always be accepted, especially in rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cambodia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Cambodia with pleasant weather, clear skies, and lower humidity. Popular tourist season with ideal conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional flooding. Lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists. Good for witnessing natural beauty and experiencing local life.
Cambodia at Night
Hiking in Cambodia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A sacred mountain area featuring waterfalls, ancient temples, and beautiful jungle scenery, making it a popular hiking destination.
One of Southeast Asia's last rainforests, this area offers various hiking trails through lush vegetation and diverse wildlife.
Known for its stunning views, misty hills, and remnants of colonial architecture, hikers can explore trails leading to the hilltop.
A lesser-known spot that provides challenging trails with a scenic view of the surrounding landscape.
Known for its pine forests and cool climate, it features several trails that are ideal for both casual and experienced hikers.
Offers a variety of hiking options with its unique flora and fauna, along with stunning vistas of the surrounding areas.
This area includes trails that navigate through dense forests and diverse wildlife, providing an adventurous hiking experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cambodia through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Cambodia by plane.
The primary airport serving Siem Reap, Cambodia, known for connecting to tourist destinations such as Angkor Wat.
The main international airport in Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh, facilitating both domestic and international flights.
Located in Bangkok, Thailand, this is one of the oldest international airports in Asia and serves a significant number of low-cost carriers.
The main international airport in Bangkok, Thailand, it is one of the busiest airports in Southeast Asia.
Located in Hanoi, Vietnam, this airport serves as a hub for international flights to and from Vietnam.
The busiest airport in Vietnam, located in Ho Chi Minh City, it connects to many international destinations.
Located in Singapore, it is one of the best airports globally, serving a wide range of international flights.
The main international airport in Malaysia, located in Sepang, it serves as a major transit hub in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Cambodia, comprising approximately 90% of the population. They primarily speak the Khmer language and have a rich cultural heritage.
A significant ethnic minority group in Cambodia, often engaged in trade and commerce. They contribute to the diverse cultural landscape of the country.
Another notable ethnic minority, the Chinese community in Cambodia has historically been involved in business and trade. They have a long-standing presence in the country.
The Cham people are an ethnic group with a distinct culture and language, primarily practicing Islam. They are known for their unique traditions and customs.
Including groups such as the Phnong and Kavet, these populations reside primarily in the mountainous regions of Cambodia, maintaining their distinct languages and traditions.
The Soul of Cambodia
Discover the essence of Cambodia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Cambodia, with a passionate following and numerous local leagues and clubs.
Kun Bokator is a traditional Cambodian martial art, known for its effectiveness and is a source of national pride.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Cambodia, especially with women, and is played both recreationally and competitively.
Basketball has grown in popularity in Cambodia, particularly among the youth, facilitated by various local and international competitions.
Badminton is a widely played sport in Cambodia, with many people participating at both recreational and competitive levels.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Cambodia, with many participating in it for fitness and leisure.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in tourist areas like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Traditional Cambodian cuisine incorporates a variety of plant-based ingredients, making it relatively easy to find suitable options.
While gluten awareness is still emerging in Cambodia, some eateries are beginning to offer gluten-free choices. Communicating dietary restrictions clearly to the restaurant staff is advisable to ensure a safe dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cambodia with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cambodia.