The 10 Best Places to Visit in Cambodia

Ko Rong Island in Cambodia

Most travelers who choose to vacation in Cambodia, often visit only the famous temple of Angkor Wat. Unfortunately, not everyone knows that there are other amazing places that will bring a lot of positive emotions. We've found the top 10 places to visit in Cambodia to make your trip even richer. Also take our tips at the end of the article. You will definitely need them.

1. Siem Reap

If you plan to stay in Cambodia for a few days or a week, do not miss a visit to Siem Reap. Here is the Angkor Archaeological Park, which is home to one of the many ancient temples of Angkor Wat. Usually there are many pilgrims at the temples and it is very distracting to explore the attraction. We recommend going into the temple with a local guide who will tell you in detail about the history of the complex and its wonders.

Angkor Wat

Read also: Sights of Siem Reap

Battambang

Battambang is a province that, in one word, can be called "charming. There's a lot to see here, whether it's old French colonial buildings or the burgeoning art scene. Don't miss a ride on the bamboo train (or, as the locals call it, "Norrie") to see the picturesque countryside. In the evening, watch in awe as hundreds of bats fly out of the Mt. Sampa cave.

Battambang

3. Kampot (Kampot)

Sometimes you wish time would pass more slowly. Kampot is the place to do just that. Take a leisurely bike ride through the beautiful countryside, or kayak down the river. Be sure to try the famous Kampot peppers, and visit the farm if you wish. Locals love to visit the nearby town of Kep. There you can enjoy cheap seafood and take a day trip to Ko Tonsei (Rabbit Island).

Koh Tonsay

4. Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, as many sources say, is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia. There are plenty of attractions and street food stalls everywhere. You can attend a workshop where you can learn how to cook local food, paint and create other things.

Temple in Phnom Penh

Stroll through the streets with quaint old buildings or have a coffee in a cozy cafe. At night in the city is also interesting. Go to the Tul Sleng and Choeng Ek Genocide Museum to learn about the tragedies of the Khmer Rouge regime, which claimed more than two million lives between 1975 and 1979.

Read also: 10 best beaches in Cambodia

5. Kampong Speu

About two hours from Phnom Penh is Kampong Spe, where the highest peak in Cambodia, Phnom Aural, is located. Adventurers can climb to the top. If you're dreaming of a quiet getaway, take a walk or bike ride through Kirirom National Park. You can also camp and stay for a while in this beautiful place.

Phnom Aural

6. Mondulkiri (Mondulkiri)

Do you like nature? Then stop at Mondulkiri. Stay at Sen Monorom, where you can see dense forested hills and stunning waterfalls. You can watch elephants in their natural habitat. This is easy to do thanks to the Elephant Valley Project, developed by NGOs working to conserve the populations of these amazing animals.

Mondulkiri

7. Ratanakiri

In Banlung, Ratanakiri, you will find the magnificent Lake Boeng Yak Lom (Yak Lom Lake), located on top of a volcanic crater. Here you can swim in the clear water and walk around the green area. The town is home to a variety of indigenous peoples. You can communicate with some of them, learn about their traditions and culture.

Boeng Yeak Lom

8. Koh Rong

Cambodia is a paradise for beach lovers. You can go to the island of Koh Rong, and do snorkeling and diving, or sunbathe on white sand. This is the most popular island in Cambodia, so noisy parties are common there. If you don't like noisy partying, it's not hard to find quieter areas of the island.

Koh Rong

9. Koh Rong Sonloem (Koh Rong Sonloem)

Koh Rong's quieter brother, Koh Rong Sonleom, has been attracting more and more attention from locals and travelers lately. For tourists there is everything you need. You can go snorkeling, diving, or kayaking. The island is densely forested and rich in wildlife. Trekkers will appreciate the most inaccessible parts of the forest.

Koh Rong Sonloem

10. Koh Ta Kiev (Koh Ta Kiev)

If you want to combine a beach holiday with peace and quiet, Ko Ta Kiev is the right island for you. It's a paradise where you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of social networking. Enjoy relaxing in a hammock or swim in the turquoise water. Just a stroll along the beautiful beach is enough to feel a rush of energy.

Koh Ta Kiev

The best time to visit Cambodia

If you like coolness, it is better to come to Cambodia from November to February. The beach season starts in March, the sun continues to warm the ground in April and May. The rainy season lasts from June to October. It is great for visiting the countryside and mountainous areas.

What do I need to know before visiting Cambodia?

General Tips:

- There are many places in the country that are reminiscent of the tragedy caused by the Khmer Rouge regime. Behave respectfully in such places.

- Be prepared to repel mosquito attacks, especially during the rainy season. Insect repellents are available at local supermarkets and pharmacies.

- Cambodia is almost always hot and humid. Take plenty of light clothing with you.

- Before entering the temple, a woman should wear a shirt covering her shoulders and long pants.

-Don't give handouts to children. They will be further exploited and parents will stop taking them to school.

- You are unlikely to find any ATMs on the islands, so make sure you bring an ample supply of cash.

Security and fraud:

- Hold your bags tighter in crowded places. Try to hide things that are easy to steal.

- Beware of scams using powdered milk. This is most common in the pubs in Siem Reap.

Some subtleties:

- You can get to the provinces of Cambodia by bus. You can now book your ticket online using BookMeBus or CamboTicket.

- Be prepared for street toilets on the road and in some local restaurants and markets. It is better to make a stop at the PTT gas station: they are equipped with clean toilets.

- On the road, mobile signals often disappear. You will catch up again in the capital or city of the next province.

- Locals are used to being haggled over. Knock down prices when shopping or on a tuk-tuk.

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