Embark on a journey of discovery and enchantment as you explore the hidden treasures of Cambodia.
From the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor to the pristine beaches of Koh Rong, this captivating
kingdom promises an unforgettable adventure for every traveler. Experience the warmth of
Khmer hospitality, savor the flavors of traditional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant
tapestry of Cambodia's culture and heritage. Start planning your trip today and
uncover the magic of this extraordinary destination.
Beach Resorts:
Popular beach destinations in Cambodia include Sihanoukville, Koh
Rong, and Koh Rong Samloem. The best time to visit these beach
resorts is during the dry season, from November to April.
Ski Resorts:
N/A
Spa Resorts:
Siem Reap and Phnom Penh offer a range of luxurious spa
resorts where visitors can indulge in traditional Khmer
massages and wellness treatments throughout the year.
Travel Adventure Locations
Mountain Locations:
Explore the lush landscapes and hidden temples of the
Cardamom Mountains or embark on a trekking expedition
in the remote northeastern provinces.
Seaside Locations:
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Koh Rong or go snorkeling
amidst vibrant coral reefs in Koh Rong Samloem.
Cultural Travel Locations:
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Cambodia by
visiting traditional villages, attending Apsara dance performances,
or exploring ancient temples and ruins scattered across the country.
Ethnicity and Languages:
The majority of Cambodia's population is ethnically Khmer, with
smaller communities of Cham, Chinese, and Vietnamese descent.
Khmer is the official language, but English and French are also
widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Average Weekly Budget for Accommodation:
Hostel: $70 - $100 per week
Hotel: $200 - $300 per week
(Depends on season, location and category)
Average Daily Budget for Food:
Street Food: $5 - $15
Restaurant: $20 - $40
(Depends on season, location and category)
Best Season to Visit:
The best time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season, which
runs from November to April. The weather is generally sunny
and dry during this period, making it ideal for exploring
temples, trekking, and enjoying outdoor activities.
Brief Travel Information about Cambodia
Drinks
Teuk Chhou (Palm Wine): A traditional Cambodian alcoholic
beverage made from the fermented sap of palm trees, offering a
slightly sweet and sour flavor with a mild alcoholic kick.
Tuk-A-loc (Tamarind Juice): A popular Cambodian drink made
from fresh tamarind pulp mixed with water and sugar, creating a
tangy and refreshing beverage perfect for quenching thirst on hot
days.
Sraa Tram (Lime Soda): A fizzy and refreshing Cambodian drink
made by mixing fresh lime juice with soda water and sugar, offering
a delightful combination of tartness and sweetness.
Srae Chrouk Chien (Iced Coffee): A beloved Cambodian
beverage made with strong black coffee brewed with condensed
milk and poured over ice, creating a sweet and creamy pick-me-up.
Lok-Lak Cocktail: A modern twist on the classic Lok Lak dish,
this cocktail combines rum, lime juice, simple syrup, and Angostura
bitters, offering a flavorful and aromatic alcoholic beverage.
Num Krouk (Coconut Milkshake): A creamy and indulgent
Cambodian drink made with fresh coconut milk blended with ice
and sweetened with palm sugar, creating a luscious and satisfying
treat.
Sraa Roy (Herbal Tea): A traditional Cambodian herbal tea made
from a blend of locally sourced herbs and spices, such as
lemongrass, pandan leaves, ginger, and kaffir lime leaves, offering
a fragrant and soothing beverage.
Cha Kreung Sach Ko (Lemon Grass Tea): A fragrant and
invigorating Cambodian tea made by steeping fresh lemongrass
stalks in hot water, offering a citrusy and aromatic flavor profile.
Sugar Cane Juice: A popular street drink in Cambodia, fresh
sugar cane stalks are pressed to extract the sweet juice, which is
often served over ice for a refreshing and energizing beverage.
Ting Mong (Watermelon Juice): A delicious and hydrating
Cambodian drink made by blending fresh watermelon chunks with
ice, creating a sweet and juicy beverage perfect for cooling down
on hot days.
Foods
Amok (Fish Curry): This traditional Cambodian dish features
fish, usually catfish or snakehead fish, cooked in a thick coconut
milk-based curry with kroeung (a paste made from lemongrass,
turmeric, garlic, shallots, galangal, and other herbs and spices),
and then steamed in banana leaves.
Lok Lak: A popular Khmer dish consisting of marinated and stir-
fried beef (or sometimes chicken or pork) served with a tangy
dipping sauce made of lime juice, black pepper, and salt,
accompanied by fresh vegetables and rice.
Bai Sach Chrouk (Grilled Pork and Rice): A breakfast favorite,
this dish features thinly sliced pork marinated in coconut milk,
garlic, and soy sauce, grilled over hot coals, and served with rice,
pickled vegetables, and a side of chicken broth.
Num Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles): A traditional Cambodian
breakfast dish comprising rice noodles topped with a fish-based
green curry gravy made from lemongrass, turmeric root, and kaffir
lime leaves, accompanied by fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and
banana flower.
Kuy Teav (Noodle Soup): A beloved Cambodian noodle soup
made with rice noodles in a flavorful broth, typically garnished with
bean sprouts, green onions, cilantro, and your choice of meats
such as beef, pork, or chicken, often served with lime and chili
sauce on the side.
Prahok K'tis (Pork and Fermented Fish Dip): A pungent yet
flavorful Cambodian dish made with minced pork, coconut cream,
and prahok (fermented fish paste), seasoned with garlic, shallots,
and palm sugar, often eaten with fresh vegetables and rice.
Cha K'dam (Stir-Fried Crab): A popular seafood dish featuring
fresh crab stir-fried with Kampot pepper, garlic, and green onions,
creating a deliciously aromatic and spicy flavor.
Samlor Machu Kreung (Sour Soup with Mixed Vegetables): A
tangy and refreshing Cambodian soup made with a variety of
vegetables, tamarind paste, lemongrass, and sometimes fish or
meat, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Kralan (Bamboo Sticky Rice): A traditional Cambodian snack
made by stuffing bamboo tubes with a mixture of sticky rice, black
beans, grated coconut, and sugar, then roasting them over an open
flame until cooked.
Nom Banh Chok (Rice Noodle Salad): A refreshing Cambodian
salad featuring rice noodles tossed with fresh herbs, vegetables,
shredded banana blossom, and a sweet and tangy dressing made
from fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and garlic, often topped with
grilled fish or shrimp.
Cambodia, with its rich history and diverse culture, boasts a
culinary tradition that reflects its unique heritage. Here's a glimpse
into the most popular typical local foods and drinks in tha country.
Cambodia Cusine and Beverages
Siem Reap: Gateway to Cultural Splendor. Siem Reap, a
vibrant city adjacent to the Angkor Archaeological Park, not only
serves as a gateway to Angkor Wat but also offers a rich tapestry of
cultural experiences. Beyond its historical significance, the city
teems with life, from bustling markets brimming with local delicacies
to traditional dance performances that mesmerize spectators.
Quaint cafes and boutique shops line its charming streets,
beckoning travelers to immerse themselves in the warmth of
Cambodian hospitality.
Angkor Wat: A Marvel in the Cambodian Jungle. Nestled amidst
the dense Cambodian jungle, Angkor Wat stands as a testament to
the architectural brilliance of the Khmer Empire. Its intricate
carvings and towering spires tell tales of a bygone era, where
Hindu and Buddhist influences converged seamlessly. As the sun
rises, Angkor Wat emerges from the mist, casting an ethereal glow
over the ancient ruins, offering visitors a spiritual experience like no
other.
Sihanoukville: Beach Bliss and Coastal Charms. Located on
Cambodia's southern coast, Sihanoukville lures travelers with its
pristine beaches and azure waters, making it a haven for sun-
seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike. While its lively nightlife
scene draws revelers from far and wide, tranquil retreats await on
nearby islands such as Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem.
Despite recent development, Sihanoukville maintains its laid-back
charm, with fresh seafood markets and beachfront cafes offering a
glimpse into coastal Cambodian life.
Phnom Penh: Where History Meets Modernity. Phnom Penh,
the capital city of Cambodia, captivates visitors with its blend of
colonial grandeur and modern development. Along the bustling
riverfront, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda stand as
shimmering symbols of the nation's rich heritage, adorned with
intricate gold leaf and precious gems. Yet, amidst the city's vibrant
present lies a somber past, with sites like the Killing Fields and Tuol
Sleng Genocide Museum serving as poignant reminders of
Cambodia's tumultuous history under the Khmer Rouge regime.
Battambang: A Journey Back in Time. Battambang,
Cambodia's second-largest city, exudes an old-world charm with its
French colonial architecture and tranquil riverside setting. Its
streets, adorned with quaint cafes and art galleries, provide a
canvas for the creativity of local artisans to shine. Not to be missed
is the unique bamboo train, offering visitors a thrilling ride through
the picturesque landscapes of the countryside, showcasing
Battambang's timeless allure.
Kampot: An Enigmatic Charm. Nestled serenely along the
winding banks of the Kampot River, the enchanting town of Kampot
embodies a tranquil retreat amidst Cambodia's verdant landscapes.
Its allure lies in the harmonious blend of colonial-era architecture,
bustling markets exuding vibrant hues, and the untamed allure of
Bokor National Park nearby. However, what truly sets Kampot apart
is its reputation as the birthplace of the world-renowned Kampot
pepper, inviting visitors to delve into the intricate process of its
cultivation and savor its distinctive flavors.
Koh Rong: Jewel of the Cambodian Coast. Emerging as a
shimmering jewel off the coast of Sihanoukville, Koh Rong lures
wanderers with its pristine beaches and crystalline waters, evoking
a sense of paradise found. Beneath the shade of swaying palms,
visitors find solace in the gentle embrace of hammocks and the
allure of vibrant coral reefs beckoning beneath the surface. Yet,
beyond its tranquil shores, Koh Rong unveils a realm of exploration,
with verdant jungles concealing hidden waterfalls and trails inviting
intrepid trekkers to immerse themselves in nature's splendor.
Koh Ker: Lost City in the Jungle's Embrace. Concealed within
the dense embrace of Cambodia's northern jungles, Koh Ker
emerges as a silent testament to the grandeur of ancient Khmer
civilization, shrouded in mystery and adorned with timeless temples
and monuments. At its heart stands the towering Prasat Thom, a
majestic pyramid temple offering a breathtaking panorama of the
surrounding wilderness. To wander amidst Koh Ker's overgrown
ruins is to embark on a journey of discovery, where the echoes of a
bygone era whisper secrets of the Khmer Empire's splendor.
Kep: Seaside Serenity and Culinary Delights. Situated along
the tranquil shores of Cambodia's southern coast, Kep enchants
travelers with its idyllic blend of fresh seafood delicacies and
captivating sunsets painting the horizon with hues of gold and
crimson. Amidst the bustling crab market, visitors indulge in
succulent dishes while the town's serene beaches offer moments of
quiet reflection. For those seeking communion with nature, Kep
National Park unveils trails meandering through lush foliage, while
Rabbit Island beckons with its secluded shores, a sanctuary for
solitude amidst nature's embrace.
Preah Vihear Temple: Sentinel of Ancient Majesty. Perched
majestically atop a precipitous cliff, Preah Vihear Temple stands as
a formidable testament to the ingenuity of ancient Khmer
architecture, its silhouette commanding the Cambodian plains
below. Accessible only through rugged terrain, the temple's remote
location adds an aura of mystique to the journey, as visitors
traverse pathways steeped in history and legend. From its lofty
vantage point, Preah Vihear Temple offers not only panoramic
vistas but also a poignant glimpse into Cambodia's rich cultural
heritage, a legacy etched into the very fabric of its landscape.
Interesting Places to Visit in Cambodia
The Flourishing Khmer Empire: A Legacy of Architectural
Marvels. The Khmer Empire, spanning from the 9th to 15th
centuries, was a dominant force in Southeast Asia, leaving an
indelible mark on the region's history. One of its most remarkable
legacies is Angkor Wat, an awe-inspiring temple complex that
stands as a testament to Khmer architectural prowess. The
empire's architectural achievements reflect its cultural
sophistication and engineering brilliance, captivating the
imagination of historians and tourists alike.
Cambodia's Dark Chapter: The Khmer Rouge Genocide. From
1975 to 1979, Cambodia experienced a horrifying genocide under
the Khmer Rouge regime, resulting in the tragic loss of millions of
lives. This dark period in Cambodia's history has left deep scars on
the nation's psyche, profoundly impacting its people and culture.
The legacy of the Khmer Rouge genocide serves as a solemn
reminder of the atrocities committed during this tumultuous era,
prompting reflection and remembrance to prevent such horrors
from happening again.
Angkor Wat: The Magnificent Icon of Khmer Architecture.
Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument globally, sprawls over
400 acres of Cambodian landscape, showcasing the pinnacle of
Khmer architectural ingenuity. Its intricate design and grandeur
continue to mesmerize visitors from around the world, offering a
glimpse into Cambodia's rich heritage and cultural significance. As
a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat stands as a symbol of
national pride, embodying the enduring legacy of the Khmer
Empire's architectural achievements.
Theravada Buddhism: Shaping Cambodia's Cultural Identity.
Theravada Buddhism holds a central place in Cambodian society,
profoundly shaping its cultural and spiritual landscape. Practiced by
the majority of the population, Buddhism influences daily rituals,
societal norms, and national festivals, emphasizing principles of
compassion, mindfulness, and inner peace. The integration of
Buddhist values into Cambodian life reflects a deep spiritual
connection that permeates every aspect of society, fostering a
sense of harmony and communal belonging.
Phnom Penh: Bearing Witness to Cambodia's Turbulent
Past. The bustling capital city of Phnom Penh serves as a poignant
reminder of Cambodia's turbulent past, housing significant sites
such as the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.
These sobering landmarks bear witness to the atrocities committed
under the Khmer Rouge regime, honoring the memory of those who
perished and preserving the nation's collective history. Despite its
painful past, Phnom Penh's resilience shines through as it strives
towards healing and reconciliation, embodying the spirit of
endurance amidst adversity.
Tonle Sap Lake: A Vital Ecosystem and Cultural Hub. Nestled
in the heart of Cambodia, the sprawling Tonle Sap Lake stands as a
testament to the country's natural wonders. As the largest
freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, it teems with a diverse array of
flora and fauna, offering sustenance to both wildlife and local
communities alike. However, its significance extends beyond
ecological boundaries, as it serves as a bustling cultural hub
adorned with floating villages and vibrant markets that epitomize
the rhythm of life in this region.
Preserving Tradition: Cambodia's Rich Heritage of Dance
and Music. In the soul of Cambodia lies an age-old tradition of
dance and music, a heritage that resonates deeply with the nation's
identity. Rooted in ancient Hindu epics and Khmer folklore, these
performances are not mere spectacles but living embodiments of
history and culture. With each graceful movement and ornate
costume, Cambodia's rich artistic legacy is preserved, echoing the
stories of generations past and captivating audiences with its
timeless allure.
The Mighty Mekong: A Source of Life and Inspiration. Flowing
serenely through the heart of Cambodia, the Mekong River weaves
tales of life, sustenance, and inspiration. As a vital lifeline for local
communities, its waters nourish the land and its people, sustaining
livelihoods and fostering a deep connection to the natural world.
Yet, beyond its practical significance, the Mekong serves as a muse
for poets, artists, and explorers, whose imaginations are stirred by
its majestic currents and verdant landscapes, igniting a sense of
wonder and creativity that flows as freely as its waters.
Angkor: From Ancient Capital to UNESCO World Heritage
Site. Steeped in the sands of time, the ancient city of Angkor
stands as a testament to Cambodia's glorious past. Once the heart
of the mighty Khmer Empire, it now stands in majestic ruins, its
temples and palaces whispering tales of a bygone era. Designated
as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor's grandeur continues to
awe visitors from around the globe, offering a glimpse into the rich
tapestry of Cambodia's history and architectural marvels.
Symbolism in the Cambodian Flag: Angkor Wat's Iconic
Presence. Emblazoned against the backdrop of the Cambodian
flag, the silhouette of Angkor Wat stands as a poignant symbol of
the nation's enduring spirit. Representing Cambodia's rich cultural
heritage and historical legacy, it serves as a reminder of the
resilience of its people. With each fluttering of the flag, Angkor
Wat's iconic presence inspires pride and unity, weaving together the
threads of Cambodia's past, present, and future.
Interesting Historical Facts about Cambodia
Situated in the heart of Southeast Asia, Cambodia boasts a
captivating blend of ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes,
and a resilient spirit that has endured through centuries of triumphs
and tribulations. From the magnificent temples of Angkor to the
vibrant rhythms of Phnom Penh, this enchanting kingdom beckons
travelers with its allure of discovery and adventure.
Cambodia