Cambodia is an amazing country located in southeast Asia. It is famous for its rich historical and natural attractions that attract tourists from all over the world. In this article, we will take a look at the most interesting places in Cambodia that are worth visiting during your trip. From historic temples to picturesque beaches, Cambodia offers a plethora of options to explore and relax. Let's get started on our journey through this amazing country!

Cambodia Overview

Cambodia is a country rich in history and culture that attracts tourists from all over the world. Located in southeast Asia, it borders Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. The capital of Cambodia is Phnom Penh, which is an important center of culture and history.

Cambodia is famous for its historical temples, which are the legacy of the great Khmer Empire. The most famous of them is the Angkor Wat temple, which is one of the most important architectural monuments of Cambodia. This majestic temple, built in the 12th century, attracts many tourists with its unique architecture and beautiful carvings.

Apart from historical temples, Cambodia offers beautiful natural attractions. One of them is the Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Tonle Sap Lake is known for its floating villages and is a unique ecosystem that provides sustenance and livelihood to the locals.

The cities of Cambodia also offer many attractions. In Phnom Penh you will find the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, which are important symbols of the country. In Siem Reap, you can enjoy cultural shows and a variety of restaurants. Sihanoukville, located on the coast, offers beautiful beaches and water sports opportunities.

The importance of tourism for Cambodia

Tourism is one of the main sectors of Cambodia's economy and contributes significantly to its development. More than 6 million tourists visited Cambodia in 2019 and this number continues to grow every year. Tourism creates jobs for local people, contributes to infrastructure development and supports local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, stores and travel agencies.

Prices in Cambodia are generally lower than in many other countries, making it an attractive budget travel destination. For example, hotel accommodation can range from $10 to $100 per night, depending on the level of comfort and location. The average cost of lunch at a restaurant is around $5 to $10, and you can find meals at street cafes and stalls for between $1 and $5. Transportation services are also available at reasonable prices, for example, a cab ride can cost between $2 and $10 depending on the distance.

It is important to note that prices can vary depending on the season and the popularity of tourist spots. It is also worth bearing in mind that some attractions, such as the Angkor Wat temples, require an additional entrance fee.

When traveling in Cambodia, remember to factor in the cost of additional expenses such as visa, health insurance and transportation costs between cities.

Historical sights

Cambodia is famous for its historical sites, which are the legacy of the great Khmer Empire. One of the most famous and visited places in Cambodia is the Angkor Wat temple.

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is located in Siem Reap, Cambodia and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The entrance fee for foreign tourists is $37 for one day, $62 for three days and $72 for seven days. Locals are entitled to free admission.

Angkor Wat has a unique architecture that combines elements of Hinduism and Buddhism. It consists of several terraces, galleries and towers that represent various gods and goddesses. The temple is also famous for its bas-reliefs, which depict scenes from Cambodian mythology and history.

A visit to Angkor Wat can take a few hours or a whole day, depending on how deeply you want to explore the temple and its surroundings. There are also other interesting temples near Angkor Wat, such as Bayon and Ta Prohm, which are also worth a visit.

When visiting Angkor Wat, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothes and shoes as you will have to do a lot of walking and climbing stairs. Also remember to bring sunscreen, a hat and water, especially during the hot season.

Overall, a visit to Angkor Wat is an unforgettable experience that allows you to immerse yourself in Cambodia's ancient history and enjoy the splendor of its architecture.

Angkor Thom

Besides Angkor Wat, another important historical site to visit in Cambodia is Angkor Thom. It was a major city that served as the capital of the Khmer Empire in the 12th and 13th centuries. Today, Angkor Thom is a huge archaeological complex that includes several temples and monuments.

The entrance fee to Angkor Thom is $37 for a one-day visit, $62 for a three-day visit, and $72 for a seven-day visit. This price includes a visit to all temples and monuments in Angkor Thom and a bus or tuk-tuk tour of the complex.

Bayonne and its famous faces

One of the most recognizable temples of Angkor Thom is Bayon. This temple is known for the huge stone faces that adorn its walls. There are about 200 faces in total in Bayon, and each face is unique and has its own personality. The faces look in all directions, giving the impression that they are watching everyone who visits the temple. Bayon is a place to enjoy the unique architecture and mysterious atmosphere of the ancient city.

Elephant Terrace and Leper King Terrace

Another interesting place in Angkor Thom is the Elephant Terrace. This was the site where royal ceremonies and parades were held. Today, at the Elephant Terrace you can see the remains of ancient carved jewelry and sculptures that tell the story of the Khmer Empire. Another interesting attraction of Angkor Thom is the Terrace of the Leper King. This was a place where lepers would gather for worship. Today, the Leper King Terrace features carved images of lepers as a testament to their faith and devotion.

Ta Prohm

Another unique place to visit in Cambodia is the Ta Prohm Temple. This temple was invaded by the jungle and has remained in this state until today. The trees and vines through the stone walls create a unique atmosphere of mystery and adventure. Ta Prohm Temple is a place where you can feel like an explorer, immersed in an ancient world that is hidden behind the green veils of the jungle.

The cost to visit Ta Prohm Temple is $37 per adult and $18 per child. This money goes towards the maintenance and restoration of the temple to preserve it for future generations.

Historical significance

All these historical sites are of great historical importance to Cambodia. They are a testament to the greatness of the Khmer Empire and its culture. Visiting these sites allows you to immerse yourself in history and understand what life and beliefs were like for the ancient Khmer people. Moreover, these temples and monuments are symbols of Cambodia's national pride and identity. Therefore, visiting these places is not only an opportunity for a tourist vacation, but also a way to learn and understand the culture and history of this amazing country.

Natural attractions

Apart from historical sites, Cambodia is also famous for its beautiful natural attractions. These are places where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and immerse yourself in tranquility and harmony.

Tonle Sap Lake

One of Cambodia's most famous natural attractions is the Tonle Sap Lake. It is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and the second largest in the world. Tonle Sap Lake is known for its floating villages where locals live and fish. A visit to Tonle Sap Lake is an opportunity to see the unique lifestyle and culture of the local people, as well as enjoy the beauty of nature and bird diversity.

Tonle Sap Lake is of great ecological importance to Cambodia. It is a unique ecosystem that provides food and livelihood for local people. The lake is also an important site for bird migration and fish breeding. Therefore, the conservation and protection of Tonle Sap Lake is an important task for Cambodia and the international community.

Tonle Sap on the map

Tonle Sap is a huge freshwater lake located in Cambodia. It is the largest lake in Southeast Asia and one of the country's most important natural treasures. Tonle Sap Lake covers an area of about 2,500 square kilometers and is located in central Cambodia, near the capital Phnom Penh.

Coordinates of Tonle Sap Lake on the map: 13.4125° North latitude and 103.8667° East longitude.

A visit to Tonle Sap Lake provides an opportunity to see the unique ecosystem, enjoy the beauty of nature and experience the local culture. Tourists can take boat trips, visit floating villages where locals live, and taste local fish specialties.

Bokor Park

Bokor Park is located in Kampot province in Cambodia and is a unique nature reserve. Here you can enjoy magnificent views of the mountains and the surrounding nature. There are several waterfalls in the park, the most famous of which is the Popokville Waterfall. Its height is about 20 meters and it has become a popular place to relax and swim.

Bokor Park is also known with its diverse vegetation. Many species of rare plants such as orchids and honey plants can be seen here. In addition, Bokor Park is home to many species of animals including monkeys, birds and rare animal species such as the Indochinese tiger and mountain elephant.

A visit to Bokor Park provides an opportunity for hiking trails where you can enjoy beautiful views of the mountains and surrounding nature. You can also organize picnics and spend time outdoors here. Activities such as rock climbing and biking are available for those who like extreme fun.

Cost of visiting Bokor Park is approximately US$5 for international tourists and US$2 for locals. This money goes to support the park and its protection.

Bokor Park is the perfect place for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here you can enjoy the beauty of the mountainous terrain and see Cambodia's unique flora and fauna. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the unforgettable moments of your visit.

Waterfalls and wildlife

Cambodia is also known for its waterfalls, which are great places for rest and relaxation. One of the most famous waterfalls is Coolen Falls. It is located in Phnom Kulen National Park and offers beautiful views and swimming opportunities. Cambodia is also rich in wildlife, including national nature reserves and bird sanctuaries. Visiting these places allows you to see rare species of animals and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Apart from Kulen Falls, Cambodia offers several other impressive waterfalls to visit. One of them is. Krati FallsThe waterfall is located in the province of Mondulkiri. This waterfall is about 10 meters high and is surrounded by dense forests, which creates a unique atmosphere. Ta Teu Waterfall, which is located in the Bokor National Park, is also a popular destination for tourists. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding nature and opportunities for swimming.

Cambodia is also famous for its national nature reserves and bird sanctuaries. One of the most famous reserves is the ZAngkor Cheyu. Many species of animals can be found here, including elephants, tigers and macaques. The reserve continues to offer unique opportunities to observe a variety of bird species. Another famous reserve is the Kardamom Reserve. It is one of the last surviving rainforests in Southeast Asia and home to many rare and threatened animal species, including the Indochinese tiger and the Asian elephant.

Visiting these waterfalls and reserves is usually inexpensive. Entrance fees to national parks and reserves usually cost between US$5 and US$10. However, the cost of excursions and tours may vary depending on the chosen itinerary and service provider. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the offers and prices of different tour operators in advance to choose the most suitable option.

City attractions

Apart from historical and natural sites, Cambodia also offers many interesting urban attractions. Cambodian cities are important centers of culture, history and entertainment.

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia and one of the most picturesque and culturally rich cities in Southeast Asia. There are many interesting places to visit here.

One of Phnom Penh's main attractions is the Royal Palace. This magnificent complex, built in 1866, serves as the residence of the Cambodian royal family. Here you can see ornate palaces, temples and gardens, as well as visit the famous Yaya Temple.

Another significant landmark is the Wat Phnom Temple. This ancient temple was built in 1373 and is one of the most important temples in Phnom Penh. Here you can see beautiful statues, carved wooden images and ancient frescoes.

For lovers of history and culture, an interesting place will be National Museum of Cambodia. It houses a large collection of artifacts including ancient sculptures, ceramics and murals. Entrance to the museum costs about 10 dollars.

Apart from historical and cultural attractions, Phnom Penh also has many interesting places for recreation and entertainment. For example, River Gable offers beautiful views of the Mekong River and many restaurants and cafes. Also a popular destination is Central Marketwhere you can buy souvenirs, clothes, groceries and much more.

Phnom Penh is a city with a diverse culinary scene. Here you can try traditional Cambodian dishes such as amok (fish soup), lok lak (meat with vegetables) and bai cha (hot noodles). The cost of lunch averages around 5-10 dollars.

All in all, Phnom Penh is an amazing city that offers many interesting places to visit and relax. The cost of travel to Phnom Penh can vary depending on the preferences and budget of the traveler.

Siem Reap

Siem Reap is one of the most interesting cities in Cambodia, which attracts many tourists. The city is located in the northern part of the country and is an important center of tourism.

The main attraction of Siem Reap is the famous Angkor Wat temple. This ancient temple, built in the 12th century, is one of the world's greatest architectural monuments. The magnificent temples and ruins of Angkor attract many tourists interested in history and culture.

Apart from temples, there are many other attractions in Siem Reap. For example, Roluos Group - a group of temples built in the 9th century, is a unique architectural complex. Also worth a visit Bayon Templeknown for his huge stone faces.

The city also has a lot of museums, where you can learn more about Cambodian history and culture. For example, Angkor National Museum is a large collection of archaeological finds, including sculptures and frescoes. Also worth a visit Museum of Military and Naval Historywhere you can learn more about Cambodia's role in the Vietnam War.

Siem Reap also offers plenty of entertainment for tourists. There are many restaurants, bars and nightclubs in the city, where you can taste the local cuisine and enjoy live music. Other things to do in Siem Reap include various sportslike golfing or bicycling.

Cost of attendance Siem Reap can vary depending on the activities and comfort level chosen. For example, a ticket to visit the temples of Angkor costs around US$37 for a day. Hotel rooms in Siem Reap can cost between US$20 and US$200 per night, depending on comfort level and location.

Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is a popular city in Cambodia, located on the coast of the Gulf of Kampot. The city is famous for its beautiful beaches and a variety of recreational opportunities.

One of Sihanoukville's most famous beaches is the Ochheutal Beach. This beach stretches for several kilometers and offers clean sand, clear water and plenty of beach cafes and restaurants. Here you can enjoy sunbathing, riding the waves or simply relaxing in the shade of palm trees.

Another popular beach is Sokha Beach. This beach is located in the western part of the city and is characterized by a calm atmosphere and beautiful scenery. Here you can enjoy water sports such as windsurfing or kayaking, as well as fresh seafood at local restaurants.

Sihanoukville also offers various entertainment for tourists. The city has several casinos where you can try your luck, as well as many bars and clubs where you can spend a fun and unforgettable evening. In addition, Sihanoukville offers excursions to islands in the Gulf of Kampot, such as Ko Rusei or Ko Rong, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches and seascapes.

Cost of vacation in Sihanoukville can vary depending on accommodation choices and preferences. On average, beachfront hotel accommodation ranges from US$50 to US$150 per night. Meals at local restaurants usually cost between US$5 and US$20 per meal. Cabs or tuk-tuks in the city usually cost between US$2 and US$10 depending on the distance.

All in all, Sihanoukville offers excellent recreational opportunities on the Cambodian coast. Here you can enjoy beautiful beaches, active sports and interesting excursions, as well as enjoy evening life and local cuisine.

Travel Tips

1. Familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions. Respect the local culture and avoid behavior that may be considered offensive or inappropriate.
2. Be mindful of your personal safety. Carry copies of important documents and keep the originals in a safe place. Avoid carrying large amounts of money and valuable jewelry.
3. Use licensed cab or transportation companies. Avoid unfamiliar drivers, especially at night. Also obey traffic rules and be careful on the road.
4. Check visa requirements and apply for a visa in advance, if necessary. Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your trip.
5. Best time to visit Cambodia - is the dry season, which lasts from November to April. The weather during this time is stable and comfortable for traveling. However, even during the rainy season, Cambodia offers its unique charms and opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
6. Consider seasonality when planning your trip and choosing places to visit. During the rainy season, you can enjoy the green scenery and less tourist crowds.
7. Pay attention to health insurance. Make sure you have insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency medical care if needed.
8. Be prepared for the local cuisine. Cambodian cuisine is known for its spicy and unique flavors. Try local dishes such as amok (soup with fish and coconut milk) or lok lak (marinated beef with sauce).
9. Don't forget the mosquito protection. There is a risk of malaria and dengue in Cambodia, so it is advisable to use repellent and wear protective clothing, especially in the evening.

Cambodia is an amazing country that offers many attractions and opportunities to explore. From historic temples to beautiful beaches, Cambodia will satisfy your interests and leave an unforgettable experience. Visit Cambodia, explore its culture, enjoy nature and support the development of this amazing country.