Cambodia Attractions

Angkor Wat

Cambodia Attractions

Introduction

Welcome to the Kingdom of Cambodia, a land of enchanting beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. Cambodia attractions offer a unique blend of ancient temples, lush landscapes, and vibrant markets that beckon travelers from around the globe. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you on a journey through the must-visit places and hidden gems of Cambodia, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this remarkable country.

Cambodia Attractions

Cambodia attractions are as diverse as the country itself. From awe-inspiring temples to pristine beaches, here's a glimpse of what awaits you:

Angkor Wat: A Marvel of Ancient Architecture

Nestled amidst the jungle in Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is an architectural masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the intricately carved temples and witness the sunrise over this stunning monument.

Breathtaking Beaches

Sihanoukville and nearby islands offer sun-soaked beaches, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're into water sports or simply want to unwind, Cambodia's beaches have something for everyone.

Phnom Penh: The Capital's Charms

Phnom Penh, the capital city, combines historical sites like the Royal Palace with modern attractions like the bustling Central Market. Dive into the city's vibrant culture and cuisine.

Siem Reap: Gateway to Angkor

Apart from Angkor Wat, Siem Reap boasts a lively nightlife scene, traditional Apsara dance performances, and a chance to explore the nearby floating villages.

The Mekong River: A Lifeline

Cruise along the mighty Mekong River and witness local life unfold on its banks. The river is the heart of Cambodia and offers a unique perspective on the country's daily life.

Stunning Waterfalls

The Kulen Mountains are home to beautiful waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day. Discover the hidden gems of Cambodia's natural beauty.

Wildlife Encounters

Visit the Cardamom Mountains to witness diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. Trekking and eco-tours are available for those seeking adventure.

Floating Villages: A Glimpse into Local Life

Experience the unique culture of Cambodia's floating villages, where houses, schools, and markets all float on the Tonle Sap Lake.

Local Cuisine: A Culinary Delight

Local Khmer Dish

Sample traditional Khmer dishes like Amok and Lok Lak, or dive into the street food scene for a culinary adventure you won't forget.

Art and Crafts

Explore the art and craftsmanship of Cambodia, from intricate silk weaving to delicate pottery. Local markets are a treasure trove of handmade souvenirs.

Island Retreats

Escape to the serene islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem for a tranquil beach getaway and underwater adventures like snorkeling and scuba diving.

Historical Marvels

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap

Discover Cambodia's turbulent history at the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh. These sites serve as poignant reminders of the past.

Apsara Dance

Watch a mesmerizing Apsara dance performance, a classical Khmer dance that narrates ancient myths and stories.

Rural Adventures

Explore the Cambodian countryside by bike or on a guided tour, where you'll encounter friendly locals and picturesque landscapes.

Peaceful Pagodas

Visit tranquil pagodas like Wat Phnom in Phnom Penh, where you can soak in the spiritual ambiance and panoramic views of the city.

Art Galleries

Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are home to vibrant art scenes. Explore galleries showcasing contemporary Cambodian art.

Royal Palace

Admire Colonial Architecture

Stroll through the streets of Battambang and admire the well-preserved colonial-era buildings that tell a story of Cambodia's past.

Night Markets

Indulge in shopping at Cambodia's night markets, where you can find handicrafts, clothing, and delectable street food.

Off the Beaten Path

For intrepid travelers, Cambodia offers remote areas like Banlung and Ratanakiri, known for their unique landscapes and indigenous cultures.

Khmer Ceremonies

If you're lucky, you might witness traditional Khmer ceremonies, weddings, or festivals during your visit, providing a deeper cultural experience.

Cycling Adventures

Explore Cambodia at your own pace on a bicycle. Ride through picturesque landscapes and interact with locals along the way.

Caving Expeditions

Venture into the mysterious caves of Cambodia, such as the ones in the Battambang region, and uncover their secrets.

Spa and Wellness Retreats

Relax and rejuvenate in Cambodia's spa and wellness centers, offering traditional Khmer massages and holistic treatments.

Eco-Tourism

Support sustainable tourism by visiting eco-friendly resorts and participating in conservation efforts.

Conclusion

Cambodia attractions offer a tapestry of experiences that will leave you enchanted. From the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat to the serene beaches and vibrant markets, this Southeast Asian gem has something for every traveler. Immerse yourself in Cambodia's rich culture, savor its delectable cuisine, and embark on adventures that will create memories to last a lifetime. Discover the Kingdom of Cambodia, where the past meets the present, and natural beauty abounds.

FAQs

Are Cambodia attractions suitable for families?

Absolutely! Cambodia offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions, including temples, beaches, and wildlife experiences.

What's the best time to visit Cambodia?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

Do I need a visa to enter Cambodia?

Yes, most travelers require a visa to enter Cambodia. Check with the Cambodian embassy or consulate in your country for details.

Are Cambodia's beaches safe for swimming?

Yes, Cambodia's beaches are generally safe for swimming, but it's advisable to follow local guidelines and be aware of currents.

Is it necessary to book Angkor Wat tickets in advance?

While it's not mandatory, it's recommended to purchase your Angkor Wat tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance.

Can I use US dollars in Cambodia?

Yes, US dollars are widely accepted in Cambodia, alongside the local currency, the Cambodian Riel.

Tourism in Cambodia – Angkor wat, Siem Reap

Tourism in Cambodia – Angkor wat, Siem Reap

Angkor Wat is located in the historical and mythical city of Siem Reap. 

Siem Reap

In terms of population, Siem Reap is 5^th largest city of Cambodia. During 2018, out of more than 6.2 million visitors to Cambodia, majority of them visited Angkor temples.  In terms of number of passengers, this city has a second largest airport of Cambodia.

Angkor Wat View

The historical city of Siem Reap is tourism paradise of ancient and world heritage centres.  Angkor Wat Temple, some of the important destinations in Siem Reap are:

• Bayon Temple
• Visit around Tonle Sap Lake 
• Ta Prohm Temple 
• Kulen Waterfall 
• Banteay Srei Temple 
• Baksei Chamkrong temple 
• Classical dancing at Hotel Grande de Angkor 
• National Museum 
• Landmine Museum 
• Preah Khan Temple 
• Bird Sanctuary at Prek Toal 
• Crocodile farm

Crocodile Farm, Siem Reap

Hotels in Siem Reap

Either you are travelling from Phonm Penh or international tourist arrival on Siem Reap airport, first thing to look for is hotel in Siem Reap. You can either book Siem Reap hotel well before arrival but you can get it ranging from few dollars to few hundred dollars.  Beware of peak season when prices are higher.  Anyhow, there are more than 500 hotels in Siem Reap.

Hotel in Siem Reap

Transportation around Siem Reap or to Angkor Compound

Most convenient option is to get a tuk-tuk to get around Angkor or the city.  Depending on your negotiation skills, you may end up paying anything 1 $ or plus. Hotels in Siem Reap have their own services for transportation around city to temples.

Tourists in Siem reap who had 3 to 7 days pass to Angkor Temples, rent a bicycle and roam around according to their choice.  Bicycle parking is available outside temples. 

Angkor Wat - Outside View

Entrance Fees for Angkor Complex

There are three options for International Tourists, 1 day pass for $ 37, 3 days pass for $ 62 and 7 days pass for $72.  There are no charges for local tourists.  Ticket counters accept currency (USD and Cambodia Riels) and credit cards. Once you pay price of respective day(s) visit option, you are asked to stand in front of camera. They issue ticket with your picture on it.  It’s a huge temple complex so you have to plan in advance the priorities are temple options.

Photography especially Sunrise and Sunset

Angkor Wat is considered as one of the favourite destination of photographers for morning or evening shoots to capture sunrise or sunset from Angkor.

Locals also consider this ancient city for their wedding photo shoots.  Anyhow, the whole compound is photography paradise.

Angkor Wat entrance at noon

Food and Drinks:

There are some local food outlets available outside and inside the temple.  Plenty of coconut water sellers are seen around the Angkor Wat.  In order to avoid dehydration, you may choose Coconuts, lemon and honey drinks, cold drinks or water. 

Some of the tourists take a break in noon for lunch and they come back to temple compound afterwards.  Food options in the city are quite diverse, developed according to tourists’ taste and choice. A lot of fast food options are available like KFC, Burger King…..

Tips for Visiting Temples:

Tourists have to consider few precautions before the trip.  Some of the important tips are provided in the link below:

https://likecambodia.blogspot.com/2019/02/tips-of-visiting-angkor-wat-siem-reap.html

Tourism in Cambodia - Important Links:

https://www.thephotoargus.com/finding-great-photography-locations/

https://likecambodia.blogspot.com/2015/01/angkor-temples-cambodia.html

https://likecambodia.blogspot.com/2011/11/angkor-wat-siem-reap.html

Simple Life - Picture of the Day

Picture of the Day: Simple Life

The household of a Cambodian living next to rivers is very basic - just a boat.  Most of their life is being spent on the boat.  In the evening/night they set up fish catching equipment and early morning sell their catch.

Boat house, Prey Veng, Cambodia

View of Kep mountains from Rabbit Island

Picture of the day: View of Kep mountains from Rabbit Island

Afternoon view of Kep beach from Rabbit Island. 

Afternoon view of Kep beach from Rabbit Island, Cambodia

Kep is one of the smallest province in Cambodia and more naturally preserved from concrete developments compared to other beach towns/provinces. A perfect place to enjoy nature. 

Mosques in Cambodia - Al Serkal Mosque, Phnom Penh

Al-Serkal Mosque, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Al Serkal Mosque is the main Mosque in Phnom Penh, located on the Monivong Blvd, few meters away from Phnom Penh Hotel.

Al-Serkal Mosque, Phnom Penh

The new mosque can accommodate thousands of worshipers.  Interior of the mosque is amazing and magnificent.

Interior of the Mosque

Interior of Al-Serkal Mosque

Evening view of Mosque

Ta Prohm, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Ta Prohm, the famous Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) tree.  Best time to visit the temple is early morning when most of the tourists are visiting Angkor Wat temple. 

Morning click of Ta Prohm

Crocodile Farm - Siem Reap, Cambodia

While visiting Angkor Wat, one should experience crocodile farm in Siem Reap, Cambodia.  There is a nominal fee for entrance in the farm.  There are hundreds of crocodile of different size and shape.  You could not stay for long over there especially if it is humid.

Hungry Crocodile

Crocodile in Siem Reap

Tips of visiting Angkor Wat (Siem Reap, Cambodia) – Angkor Wat Guide

Do's and Don't - Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Angkor Wat

Tips

• Spare enough time to explore the staggering 400 Km² area. Better get 7 days pass and hire a bicycle.
• Read history of the temples and schedule your visit accordingly.  Get a guide if you have not invested time in reading history about Angkor Wat, otherwise you may miss some important spots like Ta Proham (Tomb Raider Spot)……
• Make up for Sunrise and don’t miss Sunset at Angkor wat.  As a photographer understands the importance of these two time for best shots, you may get memorable shots of your whole trip at Angok Wat at Sunrise..
• Drink plenty of water and you should have enough with you if you are on bike.
• Wear sandals  and beware of steep stairs that could be more dangerous if its raining.

Angkor Wat

• Use sun block and buy an umbrella to save yourself from sun light and unexpected rain.
• Eat fresh fruits and coconut water instead of cooked food there.
• Beware of monkeys snatching stuff from your hands especially eatables. Monkeys could be aggressive at times.

Monkeys at Angkor Wat Temple, Siem Reap, Cambodia

• Don’t lose ticket otherwise you will end up paying fine and additional amount for a new ticket.
• Don’t underestimate the size of the whole area, covering full area in one day is too hectic. 
• Carry spare camera batteries and water proof camera bag.
• Do read about the Cambodian culture so that you avoid problematic situation like wearing appropriate clothes while visiting temples, wearing caps in temples is not allowed, touching heads of Cambodian (even kids) is inappropriate……..

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Picture of the Week

Picture of the Week: Mekong River, Kratie Cambodia

Kratie, Cambodia

Day trip from Phnom Penh: Leave early in the morning as it takes around four hours (around 240 KM) to reach Kratie from Phnom Penh. Main attraction is Irrawaddy Dolphins. Hire/Rent a boat and explore river for Irrawaddy dolphins, birds and nature.    

Jack Fruit

The jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), is a species of tree in the fig, mulberry, and breadfruit family.  A mature jackfruit tree can produce about 100 to 200 fruits in a year. The jackfruit is a multiple fruit, composed of hundreds to thousands of individual flowers, and it is the fleshy petals that are eaten.

The jackfruit tree is a widely cultivated and popular food item throughout the tropical regions of the world. Cambodia is one of the producer of Jackfruit.

Jack Fruit

Jackfruit Free

Mekong River, Cambodia

Mekong river is the longest river in the Southeast Asia and the 12th Largest on Earth.  It journeys from the Tibetan Plateau to southeast, through Laos and Thailand to the equatorial flood plains of Cambodia and Vietnam and then finally flows to the South China Sea.

A Cambodian child travelling with his family to cross Mekong River near Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.

Phochani Pavillion, Royal Palace Cambodia

Royal Palace Cambodia

Phochani Pavillion of the Royal Palace Cambodia was built in 1912. It is an open hall which was originally constructed as a classical dance theatre.

https://picturesqueasia.blogspot.com/2017/08/royal-palace-cambodia.html

Independence Monument - Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Independence Monument was built in 1958 for Cambodia's independence from France in 1953.

Pchum Ben 11-13 October 2015 at AEON Mall

Pchum Ben is a 15-day Cambodian religious festival, culminating in celebrations on the 15th day of the tenth month in the Khmer Calendar.  On this day Cambodians pay their respects to deceased relatives of up to 7 generations.

October is the month when Cambodian people celebrate the festival of Phchum Ben. Together with Khmer New Year in April, Phchum Ben is the most important festival in the Khmer religious calendar. Cambodians have faithfully observed the festival every year for as long as anyone can remember.

The word 'Ben' in Khmer means to collect; 'Ben' also means to cup or mould cooked rice into portions. To 'Ben Baht' means to collect food to give to monks. The word 'Pchum' means to congregate or to meet together. Regardless how busy they may be during the fifteen days of Phchum Ben.

More Detail about festival: http://www.tourismcambodia.com/tripplanner/events-in-cambodia/pchum-ben.htm

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pchum_Ben

During three days holiday 11-13 October, AEON mall arranged programs to celebrate Pchum Ben Day.

Angkor temples, Cambodia

Angkor is one of the the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia. Stretching over some 400 km2, including forested area, Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century. They include the famous Temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations.

Angkor is a lost world where tourists will discover a lot about Cambodia culture and history.

The most magnificent Angkor temples:

1. Angkor Wat Temple
Angkor Wat (meaning “City Temple”) is the most magnificent and largest of all Angkor temples. The structure occupies and enormous site of nearly 200 hectares (494 acres). A huge rectangular reservoir surrounds the temple which rises up through a series of three rectangular terraces to the central shrine and tower at a height of 213 meters (669 feet). This arrangement reflects the traditional Khmer idea of the temple mountain, in which the temple represent Mount Meru, the home of the gods in Hinduism.
Built under the reign of king Suryavarman II in the first half of the 12 century, Angkor Wat is the pinnacle of Khmer architecture. The famous bas-reliefs encircling the temple on the first level depict Hindu epics including the mythical “Churning of the Ocean of Milk”, a legend in which Hindu deities stir vast oceans in order to extract the nectar of immortal life. The reliefs, including thousands of female dancers, are carved into the wall of the third enclosure of the temple.
In the late 13th century, Angkor Wat gradually moved from a Hindu temple to a Theravada Buddhist one. Unlike other temples at Angkor which were abandoned after the fall of the Khmer empire in the 15th century, Angkor Wat remained a Buddhist shrine.
2. Bayon Temple
The Bayon temple features a sea of over 200 massive stone faces looking in all direction. The curious smiling faces, thought by many to be a portrait of king Jayavarman VII himself or a combination of him and Buddha, are an instantly recognizable image of Angkor. Built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII as part of a massive expansion of his capital Angkor Thom, the Bayon is built at the exact center of the royal city. The Bayon is the only state temple at Angkor built primarily as a Mahayana Buddhist shrine dedicated to the Buddha. Following Jayavarman’s death, it was modified by later Hindu and Theravada Buddhist kings in accordance with their own religious beliefs.
The Bayon temple rises through three levels to a height of around 43 meters (140 feet). The outer gallery on the first level depicts scenes from everyday life and historical events, while the inner gallery on the next higher level depicts mythical figures and stories. Some of the figures depicted are Siva, Vishnu, and Brahma. The third level is where you will encounter many of the famous faces (and tourists).
3. Ta Prohm
Ta Prohm is undoubtedly the most atmospheric and photogenic ruin at Angkor, with trees growing out of the ruins. Here you can still experience an India Jones moment and feel like an early explorer. If Angkor Wat and other temples are a testimony to the genius of the ancient Khmers, Ta Prohm equally reminds us of the awesome power of the jungle.
Built from 1186, Ta Prohm was a Buddhist temple dedicated to the mother of Jayavarman VII. It is one of the few temples in Angkor where an inscription provides information about the temple’s inhabitants. The temple was home to more than 12,500 people, including 18 high priests, while an additional 80,000 khmers, living in the surrounding villages, were required to maintain the temple. The inscription also notes that the temple contained gold, pearls and silks. After the fall of the Khmer empire in the 15th century, the temple was abandoned and swallowed up by the jungle.
4. Angkor Thom
The last great capital of the Khmer empire, Angkor Thom (literally “Great City”) took monumental to a whole new level. It was built in part as a reaction to the surprise sacking of Angkor by the Chams. King Jayavarman VII decided that his empire would never again be vulnerable at home. Beyond the eight meter (26 ft) high walls is a massive moat that would have stooped all but the most determined invaders. The city wall has a sanctuary tower at each corner and five entry gates; one per cardinal direction plus an additional eastern portal, the Victory Gate. The gates each feature a tower topped by four huge faces, similar to those at the Bayon temple. The most fascinating way to enter Angkor Thom is through the south gate. The causeway here is flanked by 54 gods and 54 demons depicting parts of the popular Hindu legend “The Churning of the Ocean of Milk”.
5. Banteay Srei
Located far (about 32 km/20 miles) from the main group of temples, Banteay Srei is one of the smallest sites at Angkor. Due to its beautiful carvings however it is extremely popular with tourists and considered a jewel of Khmer art. Built of fine grained rose-pink sandstone, the temple walls are elaborately decorated with floral motifs and epic Ramayana scenes.
Construction of Banteay Srei began in AD 967 AD. It is the only major temple at Angkor not commissioned by a king but by a brahmin named Yajnavaraha. The temple was primarily dedicated to the Hindu god Śiva. Banteay Srei, the modern name of the temple, means “Citadel of the Women” as the elaborate carvings are supposedly to fine for the hand of a man. Its original name, Tribhuvanamaheśvara, means the “great lord of the threefold world”.
6. Phnom Bakheng
Dedicated to Shiva, Phnom Bakheng is a Hindu temple in the form of a temple mountain. It was constructed at the end of the 9th century, more than two centuries before Angkor Wat , during the reign of King Yasovarman. Phnom Bakheng was the architectural centerpiece of a new capital, Yasodharapura. The temple faces east and is built in a pyramid form of six tiers. Upon its completion it boasted 108 small towers around the temple at ground level and on several tiers. Only a few of the towers now remain. Located on top of a hill, the temple is a very popular tourist spot for the magnificent sunset views.
7. Preah Khan
The temple of Preah Kahn is one of the largest complexes at Angkor. Like the nearby Ta Prohm temple, Preah Khan has been left largely unrestored, with numerous trees growing among the ruins. Preah Khan was built by king Jayavarman VII and probably served as his temporary residence while Angkor Thom was being built. The ultimate fusion temple, Preah Khan is both a Buddhist and Hindu temple. Four ceremonial walkways approach the gates of the temple. The eastern entrance is dedicated to Mahayana Buddhism with equal-sized doors. The other principal directions are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma with successively smaller doors, emphasizing the unequal nature of Hinduism.
8. Pre Rup
With its three central spires, Pre Rup looks a bit like a mini Angkor Wat. Pre Rup was built as the state temple of king Rajendravarman in 961 and was dedicated to Shiva. It was the second temple built after the capital was returned to Angkor from Koh Ker after a period of political upheaval. Pre Rup is made of gray sandstone, which is a less durable material than the pink sandstone of some of the other temples at Angkor. As such, time and weather haven’t served the temple well and many of the complex carvings and details have been worn away by rain and erosion. It’s a crumbling temple but still magnificent in size and structure.
9. Banteay Kdei
Little is known about this mysterious temple. It is presumed that Banteay Kdei was a Buddhist monastery as hundreds of Buddha statues have been excavated from the site. The temple was probably built in the 12th century, around the same time as the Ta Prohm temple. Known as ‘the citadel of cells’, its design is quite similar to Ta Prohm and Preah Khan, but less complex and smaller in scale. After the collapse of the Khmer empire it remained neglected and covered with vegetation for centuries.
10. Ta Keo
Dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, Ta Keo was built as the state temple of Jayavarman V, son of Rajendravarman, who had built the Pre Rup temple. Jayavarman V was 10 years old when he succeeded his father, in 968 AD. When he was aged 17, he began the construction of his own state temple, whose modern name is Ta Keo. The temple was never completed however. Legend has it that the temple was struck by lightning during its construction, and all work was abandoned at a stage where the main structure was complete but no external carvings had been added. Also unique is the fact that Ta Keo is made of green sandstone versus the deeper brown or grayish color of other temples at Angkor. The climb to the top of the temple is very steep, but the view is well worth it.

Cambodia Terrain - Beautiful Views from Plane (Part-1)

Terrain:  mostly low, flat plains; mountains in southwest and north.

Reserve windows seat while taking a flight from Cambodia as you will be able to see beautiful sights and terrain.  Mostly it is flat plains with mountains in southwest and north.  During rice cultivation and rainy season, lush green field and canals view from top is just amazing.

Some pictures from plane while travelling from Phnom Penh, Cambodia to Bangkok, Thailand may give you flavor of Cambodia: