Wanderlust in Cambodia: 12 Enchanting Attractions to Discover
Cambodia is positioned in the Southern part of the Indochina Peninsula within Southeast Asia. It shares borders with Thailand to the Northwest, Laos to the Northeast, Vietnam to the East, and is surrounded by the Gulf of Thailand to the Southwest. Cambodia's captivating cultural legacy and unspoiled nature are significant draws for travelers to visit the country.
Angkor Wat (Siem Reap)
Angkor Wat is undoubtedly a top Cambodia tourist attractions
Known as the "Temple City" in Khmer, this UNESCO World Heritage site holds significant cultural and historical importance, boasting stunning architecture and an impressive scale. It was initially built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu and later transformed into a Buddhist temple. Angkor Wat is the largest religious structure worldwide, showcasing intricate bas-reliefs, majestic spires, and symmetrical layouts. The views of sunrise and sunset over the temple complex are particularly awe-inspiring.
Location: Located 5.5km North of the town of Siem Reap.
Opening hours: The temple is open from 5:00 am to 5:30 pm, allowing visitors to witness its mesmerizing sunrises.
Ticket:
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$37 for a one-day pass.
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$62 for a three-day pass.
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$72 for a seven-day pass.
You can purchase tickets online to avail of discounted prices compared to regular rates. The majestic Angkor Wat is a vast architectural marvel, and it would be challenging to fully explore within a single day. The ticket booth is located 1 km away from the Angkor complex, and you will need to have your photo taken for printing on the ticket. It is crucial to ensure the safekeeping of your ticket throughout your visit.
Angkor Thom (Siem Reap)
Impressive architecture of the last great capital of the Angkor empire
Angkor Thom is widely known as the last and longest-lasting capital city of the Khmer civilization. It is considered to be one of the largest pre-industrial cities in the world. Archaeologists have determined that during the peak of the Khmer Empire, the city had a population of nearly one million people. Its scale is believed to be comparable to present-day Los Angeles.
The historical site extensively utilizes laterite, a type of stone, as a construction material. The city's architecture is particularly notable for its intricate decorative style, featuring elaborate carvings of faces on various structures.
Location: This notable Cambodia tourist attraction is 6 km Northwest away from Siem Reap town and 2,8 km from Angkor Wat.
Ticket: The entrance fee for exploring Angkor Thom is already included in the ticket price for the overall Angkor complex.
Opening hours: 5 am - 5:30 pm Daily
Royal Palace (Phnom Penh)
Phnom Penh Royal Palace - one of the best place to visit in Cambodia
The Royal Palace serves as the official residence of the King of Cambodia, the royal family, as well as facilitating the King in accommodating foreign dignitaries. Additionally, this palace is where significant royal ceremonies, important royal rituals, and formal protocols to receive diplomatic delegations take place, and it serves as the venue for major and significant events of the nation of Cambodia.
The palace complex is a stunning display of intricate craftsmanship and elaborate detailing. The stunning Throne Hall, mesmerizing Silver Pagoda, and beautifully manicured gardens are some of the highlights that attract visitors.
Location: Samdach Sothearos, Phnom Penh.
Opening hours: From 9 am - 5 pm (Daily)
Ticket: Free.
The complex is considered an iconic representation of Cambodia tourist attractions. Therefore, except the Khemarin Palace which serves as the residence of the royal family, all other sections of this architectural ensemble are freely accessible to visitors.
Tonle Sap Lake (Siem Reap)
A grocery store in Tonle Sap Lake
This magnificent body of water is Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, also recognized as a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The lake's flooded forests, wetlands, and open water areas create a haven for a variety of bird and underwater species.
Tonle Sap Lake is a remarkable destination among the list of places to go in Cambodia. featured with floating villages, which are captivating self-contained communities constructed on stilts. These extraordinary settlements boast houses, schools, and even markets that gracefully hover above the water surface. It is truly captivating to delve into the water flow and witness people's inhabitant way of life. Tonle Sap Lake is one of Cambodia's tourist attractions that you definitely should not miss!
Location: 25 km from Siem Reap City Center. In essence, this lake is situated within the territories of five provinces, but the most popular route to visit the lake is from Siem Reap.
Boat ticket: approximately $20/pax.
Sihanoukville Beaches
Tourists sit back and relax on comfortable chairs near the serene coastline of Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville is one of the best cities to visit in Cambodia. This is a bustling coastal city located in Southern Cambodia, boasting the country's only deep-water port and surrounded by stunning beaches and islands.
Sihanoukville is home to several picturesque beaches such as Ochheuteal Beach, Serendipity Beach, and Otres Beach. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters and golden sands - a perfect setting for relaxation and water activities. You can visit nearby islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem to go on island-hopping tours, indulge in snorkeling or diving to explore vibrant coral reefs and underwater marine life.
For a broader perspective, consult our post on Cambodia travel guide!
Bokor Hill Station (Kampot)
Bokor Hill Station is an enticing combination of untouched natural beauty and abandoned architectural structures
Bokor is one of the best Cambodia tourist attractions with a unique geographical location, surrounded by lush green scenery, fresh air, and dense fog covering the ancient ruins on the hill. In the 20th century, the French colonialists built a high-end resort here. After 1017, France withdrew from Cambodia, and Bokor Plateau was owned by the Sihanouk royal family and later became an upscale resort for the aristocracy in the 40s and 50s of the previous century.
After some time, the plateau was abandoned, and very few people set foot here. The architectural structures deteriorated, collapsed, and quickly became covered in moss. The fog on the plateau created a haunting and terrifying feeling, which is why Bokor Plateau is also known as the "ghost city." In the 90s, the plateau was reopened and welcomed a large number of tourists every year for sightseeing, relaxation, and entertainment.
Location: 10 km Southwest of Kampot town.
Opening hours: 24 hours
Beng Mealea Temple (Siem Reap)
The elevated pathways built over the water moat facilitate easy movement within the temple complex and also add an intriguing element to the overall sightseeing experience
Beng Mealea is another ancient Angkor-era temple that dates back to the 12th century. The temple is partially collapsed and engulfed by dense jungle, giving it a captivating "Indiana Jones" atmosphere. The Beng Mealea stands as a remarkable testament to a once mighty empire, adorned with impressive remnants of large stone structures scattered amidst the ravages of war, finding solace amidst the lush surrounding forests.
Despite its partially ruined state, Beng Mealea displays impressive sandstone carvings, intricate bas-reliefs, and complex layouts. Exploring the temple's corridors and hidden chambers provides a glimpse into the grandeur and craftsmanship of the Khmer Empire.
Location: 58 km from Siem Reap town.
Opening hours: 7 am - 5:30 pm Daily.
Ticket: $5 - $20.
Battambang Countryside
Bamboo train in Battambang Cambodia
Wondering where to go in Cambodia, Battambang is a must. The town is like a gentle painting for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Located in the heart of Cambodia's rice bowl, if you love the serene landscapes of rural villages, fields, and waterways, away from the hustle and bustle of high-rise buildings, Battambang is an ideal choice. Here, you can explore the villages and countryside by bike, discover the city by tuk-tuk, ride the bamboo train, or paddle a boat in the floating village of Ksach Poy.
Mondulkiri Plateau
Local life in Mondulkiri
Mondulkiri is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia. It is a highland located in the eastern part of Cambodia. The year-round temperature here is cool and pleasant, making it a perfect destination for all seasons. It is characterized by lush green pine forests, rolling hills, and three stunning waterfalls that create a picturesque landscape.
To explore the majestic and mysterious mountains along with experiencing the unique culture of ethnic minorities in Cambodia, there is no better place than Mondulkiri. You can visit Phnom Kraol Cultural Resort, Pahlung Village, local fairs, and temples to learn about the local culture, or indulge in nature at the Phnom Nam Lear Conservation Area, Bou Sra Waterfall, and Elephant Valley.
Krampi (Kratie) - Observing Dolphins in the Mekong River
A moment captured of an Irrawaddy freshwater dolphin surfacing from the water
The Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong River are a rare and endangered species that require conservation efforts due to their declining numbers. Watching Irrawaddy is one of the best things to see in Cambodia. You can hire a boat for a few USD to witness the breathtaking sight of these dolphins swimming in the river, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Additionally, you can rent a motorcycle to explore the riverside villages, other tourist attractions, and indulge in local cuisine such as grilled corn cakes, dried buffalo meat, and grilled beef.
Location: 20 km North of Kratie. You should visit in the early morning or late afternoon hours as it increases the chances of encountering more Irrawaddy dolphins - this is the time when they are most active.
The Coastal Town of Kep
Spider Crab - the town symbol says hello to visitors to Kep
This place was built by the French colonialists in 1908. From a pristine coastline, Kep has grown into a resort area, making it a great getaway for the French officials. The name "Kep" is also given by the French. In French, "Kep" means "le cap," implying a protruding cape into the sea.
Nowadays, Kep is one of the best cities to visit in Cambodia with its attractive coastal nature. Its beach has a gentle slope, with calm waves, surrounded by mountains and charming local houses. Spider Crab is the iconic symbol of this city, so do not forget to visit the spider crab market or savor this delicacy.
Preah Vihear Temple (Preah Vihear)
Preah Vihear Temple perches on the top of Dangrek mountain
Preah Vihear Temple, dedicated to the deity Shiva and featuring a series of ancient monuments, was involved in a longstanding dispute between Cambodia and Thailand due to its location in the border region between the two countries. However, on November 11, 2013, the International Court ruled that the Preah Vihear Temple belonged to Cambodia, resolving years of conflict and litigation.
Presently, the Preah Vihear Temple serves as a renowned UNESCO world heritage site in Cambodia, captivating countless visitors who are drawn to its stunning aesthetics and desire to delve into its profound historical importance.
Location: Dangrek Mountains, Preah Vihear.
Ticket: 5 USD.
Opening hours: Everyday from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Handy travel tips for you to visit Cambodia
Here are some essential tips for you before setting up your plan for Cambodia's tourist attractions.
Tuk Tuk transportation is easy to find in Cambodia famous places
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Best time to visit Cambodia tourist attractions: typically runs from November to March during the dry season. During this time, the weather is generally warm and pleasant with lower chances of rainfall. The dry season is ideal because it allows visitors to explore popular destinations like Angkor Wat and other historical sites without being hindered by heavy rains or extreme heat.
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Cambodia is a country known for its magnificent ancient temples, some of which are located within forests. It is advisable to dress appropriately and carry necessary items when visiting these sites.
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The official currency in Cambodia is Riel, however, the US dollar is widely accepted and frequently utilized for convenient transactions in the country due to its wide acceptance and simplicity.
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Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Cambodia. They are a unique form of three-wheeled vehicles that are commonly used as taxis or for short-distance travel in urban areas. In Cambodia, tuk-tuks are a convenient and affordable way to navigate through busy city streets and explore tourist destinations. Hopping on a tuk-tuk is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the city at a leisurely pace.
Cambodia places to visit
Cambodia is truly a captivating and wonderful country to visit, isn't it? Here is a list of top 12 Cambodia tourist attractions to visit by New Asia Tours. And if you want to explore by yourself, please contact us for best Vietnam and Cambodia package tour!
