CAMBODIA
COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
ABOUT
CAMBODIA
Welcome to the country that gave the world Angkor Wat and Angelina Jolie's most famous film role—both requiring serious reverence but unforgettable to witness.
Cambodia is where ancient Khmer empires meet modern resilience, where temple complexes stretch beyond horizons, and where the Mekong River pulses through daily life. This isn't your typical Southeast Asian temple-hopping destination.
It's where jungle-covered ruins meet bustling markets, where you can explore millennium-old architecture and witness communities rebuilding with extraordinary spirit.
Here's the thing about paradise: it's surprisingly profound. Landscapes that actually hold thousand-year secrets. Locals who genuinely transform tragedy into hope. And yes, those Instagram-worthy sunrise reflections happen daily—no filter required.
From Angkor's stone faces to floating villages that seem almost too resilient to be real, this country delivers on every archaeological fantasy while exceeding expectations you didn't know you had.
Cambodia doesn't just amaze visitors—it serves you the best amok you've ever tasted.
Cambodia attracts travelers who understand that the most meaningful journeys require emotional engagement. This is a destination for people who value depth over surface experiences—and know how to handle both beauty and complexity.
The authenticity here is raw. Think ancient temples where monks still pray at dawn, not tourist attractions. Silk weaving workshops that come with survival stories, not just demonstrations. Cultural experiences where resilience creates genuine inspiration.
This is where you'll discover that the best adventures often happen between scheduled activities. That perfect num banh chok from a street vendor whose grandmother perfected the recipe. The impromptu temple blessing that turns into a meditation on impermanence.
Whether you're exploring 12th-century bas-reliefs, cycling through rice paddies with farmers who've survived everything, or simply mastering the art of Khmer hospitality, Cambodia rewards openness with transformation.
You don't just visit—you're humbled by a culture that finds joy despite hardship. And trust us, it's a lesson worth learning.
POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN
CAMBODIA
PLACES TO SEE
Angkor Wat
Majestic temple complex and symbol of Khmer civilization.
Bayon Temple
Stone faces and intricate carvings in Angkor Thom.
Ta Prohm
Jungle temple famously wrapped in massive tree roots.
Phnom Penh Royal Palace
Ornate complex with golden spires and the Silver Pagoda.
Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
Sobering memorial to victims of the Khmer Rouge.
Tonlé Sap Lake
Floating villages and birdlife on Southeast Asia’s largest lake.
Kampot
Riverside town known for pepper farms and colonial charm.
QUICK FACTS
GETTING AROUND
Between Cities
Buses and shared taxis connect major cities. Domestic flights available to main destinations. Boat services on Tonle Sap Lake and Mekong River.
Around Cities
Tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, and rental bikes in most areas. Walking possible in city centers. Many temples require organized transport.
CRUISING & ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation
From luxury resorts near Angkor to boutique hotels in Phnom Penh. Siem Reap offers temple-focused accommodation. Coastal areas provide beach resort options.
Cruises
Mekong River cruises and Tonle Sap Lake boat tours. Cultural tours include temple complexes, traditional villages, and historical experiences.
SHOP, EAT & DRINK
Shop
Silk textiles, silver jewelry, traditional sculptures, and Kampot pepper. Support social enterprises and fair trade cooperatives.
Eat
Amok coconut curry, nom banh chok noodles, beef lok lak, and tropical fruits. Don't miss prahok fermented fish and sticky rice desserts.
Drink
Angkor beer, rice wine, sugarcane juice, iced coffee with condensed milk, and fresh coconut water.
TIME ZONE
Indochina Time (ICT), which is GMT+7. No daylight saving time observed.
RIDE SHARE & TAXIS
Grab is the primary rideshare app (cars, motos); local tuk‑tuk apps also exist; metered taxis are rare outside Phnom Penh.
ELECTRICITY & PLUGS
Grab is the primary rideshare app (cars, motos); local tuk‑tuk apps also exist; metered taxis are rare outside Phnom Penh.
CLIMATE
Tropical monsoon climate with dry season (November-April) and wet season (May-October). Cool season (November-February) is most pleasant.
FILM/TV & FAMOUS FACES
Cambodia’s ancient temples were famously featured in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, sparking a surge in tourism to Angkor Wat. The country has produced celebrated filmmaker Rithy Panh, known for his work spotlighting Cambodian history and resilience.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
Emergency Services: 117
Police: 117
Medical Emergency: 119
Tourist Police: 012-942-484
Country Code: +855
POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN
CAMBODIA
EXPERIENCES TO HAVE
Angkor Wat Temple Complex
World's largest religious monument with sunrise views and intricate bas-relief carvings.
Bayon Temple
Mysterious temple with 216 stone faces and central location in Angkor Thom.
Ta Prohm Temple
Jungle temple where massive trees intertwine with ancient stones creating natural art.
Royal Palace Phnom Penh
Active royal residence with Silver Pagoda and traditional Khmer architecture.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Former prison documenting Khmer Rouge atrocities with survivor testimonies.
Tonle Sap Floating Villages
Traditional communities living on boats and stilts adapting to seasonal flooding.
Banteay Srei Temple
Exquisitely carved pink sandstone temple known as the jewel of Khmer art.
Preah Vihear Temple
Mountaintop temple complex with dramatic cliff views and architectural significance.
Kampot Pepper Plantations
World-famous pepper growing region with plantation tours and tastings.
Koh Rong Island
Pristine beaches with bioluminescent plankton and unspoiled tropical paradise.
Battambang Colonial Architecture
French colonial town with traditional architecture and nearby temple complexes.
Mondulkiri Elephant Sanctuary
Ethical elephant experiences in highland forests with indigenous Bunong communities.
YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING ABOUT
CAMBODIA
FAQ's
Is Cambodia safe for tourists?
Generally safe with standard precautions. Landmines remain in some remote areas. Stick to marked paths and use reputable guides. Petty crime possible in tourist areas.
How many days do I need in Cambodia?
5-7 days for Angkor and Phnom Penh. 10-14 days to explore thoroughly including coastal areas. Add extra days for rural experiences and cultural immersion.
When is the best time to visit Cambodia?
November-February offers cool, dry weather. March-May is hot but good for temple visits. June-October brings rain but fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
LEARN MORE ABOUT
TRAVELING IN
CAMBODIA
Temples, Tuk-Tuks, and Tables Shared with Strangers: The Real Cambodia
Wander beyond Angkor Wat into villages where monks bless your path, families serve amok from backyard pots, and stories unfold between bites and smiles. Cambodia’s magic lives in the everyday moments locals are proud to share.
From Khmer Dance to Morning Markets: Cambodia Through Local Eyes
Step into shadow puppet workshops, sunrise alms offerings, and buzzing stalls where tradition is served on banana leaves. In Cambodia, culture isn’t curated—it’s lived, felt, and always ready to welcome you in.
Saffron Robes and Coconut Soup: Cambodia’s Quiet Power and Bold Flavor
Hear ancient chants echo through forested temples, then swap stories with street vendors over fragrant bowls of kuy teav. The deeper you go, the more Cambodia’s past and present rise up to meet you.
A perfect blend of culture and kindness
From temple ruins to floating villages, every experience felt meaningful. The people were warm, the food was incredible, and the memories will stay with us forever.
The Lawson Family
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