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Cambodia is one of the most beautiful nations where one can enjoy the lushness of nature, the essence of history and the charm of the architecture. This neighbour of Thailand is filled with uncountable places that offer surprises at every step. Be it age-old temples or gorgeous natural sites, Cambodia harbours the most serene and the best of them all. Take a look at the following piece and explore the top things to do on your next trip to Cambodia. The list takes you on a virtual tour of the country and lets you confront its magnificence.
Travel 101: Best Things to do in Cambodia
1. Explore the Largest Temple in the World
Angkor Wat is the largest temple in the world and hence, exploring it is definitely one of the best things to do in Cambodia. The unparalleled beauty and pristine persona of this UNESCO World Heritage site are unlike anywhere else on earth. That’s the reason it is one of the prominent Cambodian monuments. Built in the 12th century as a dedication to Lord Vishnu, this ancient wonder of the world has stood the test of time. Visit it and explore its wondrous architecture.
Recommended For: History Lovers, Photographers
Location: Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
Entry Fee: $37 for a single day pass
Timings: 05:00 am to 06:00 pm
Pro Tip: Angkor Wat is also a perfect place for capturing sunrise views and hence, do not forget to bring along your camera.
2. Take a Break at Serene Peaceful Beaches
Cambodia has some of the most relaxed, laid-back beaches in Southeast Asia. Among the varied popular Cambodia tourist attractions are the sandy, pretty beaches of Sihanoukville, Kep, Koh Rong, and Ream which provide travellers with every bit of comfort and splendid views. You can bask in the sun lying comfortably on hammocks and recliners, get a massage, dine at the beach shacks. You can also go snorkelling in Cambodia, fishing, and boating, among other things.
Recommended For: Beach Lovers, Families, Couples
Pro Tip: Visit the least-explored beaches of Koh Rong and Koh Thmei to enjoy the sea, the sand and the sun away from the chaos of tourists.
3. Catch the Spectacular Khmer Performances
For the lovers of art, theatrics, and dance, the Apsara Show, or the traditional Khmer performance, is one of the best things to do in Cambodia. This cultural dance form draws its roots from the mythological courts of Kings and Gods, from where it has developed into its modern, unique form that we see today. The Khmer Dance revolves around a storyline which it narrates through the attractive, flexible movements of the performers and their colourful, eye-catching attires.
Recommended For: Culture Explorers
Price Range: $15 – $20 per person (Depends upon the venue and significance of the show)
Pro Tip: You can watch Khmer shows for free at Temple Balcony at Pub Street.
4. Check out the National Museum
The National Museum of Cambodia takes pride in its impressive art collection from the Khmer Era, most of which disappeared at the time of the Khmer Rouge due to illegal smuggling. Some of the finest examples of Khmer artwork on display here include ancient stonework, bronze tools and weapons, attractive bronze drums, ceramics, statues, sculptures, and more items with intricate carvings of Gods and Goddesses on them.
Recommended For: History Lovers
Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Entry Fee: $10 for Adults and $5 for Visitors between the age of 10 and 17
Timings: 08:00 am to 05:00 pm
5. Indulge in Cruising and Spotting Dolphins
Cruising the Mekong is one of the most exhilarating experiences for travellers who visit Cambodia. Sailing from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap on a traditional Cambodian boat is one of the most enriching and fun things to do in Cambodia. On the journey, one can also spot the Irrawaddy river dolphins in the water, the rarest of all aquatic mammals. Observing these peaceful, friendly creatures in their natural habitat is undoubtedly among the refreshing things to do in Phnom Penh.
Recommended For: Photographers, Families
Location: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap
Price: $2 – $5 per person
Timings: 06:00 am to 08:00 am | 04:00 pm to 05:00 pm
6. Visit the Tomb Raider Fame Ta Prohm Temple
The only structure in Angkor that has been left in its pristine form, Ta Prohm is a fascinating example of the power of nature and amongst the most preferred places to visit in Cambodia. The enormous roots as they grasp the shrine are the highlights of this place. This ‘Tomb Raider’ fame sanctum in Angkor with its huge silk-cotton trees and strangler figs is perhaps the most photogenic place in Cambodia
Recommended For: History Lovers, Photographers
Location: Angkor, Cambodia
Entry Fee: $20 per person for a single day
Timings: 07:30 am to 05:30 pm
Pro Tip: Reach the temple around 07:00 am to avoid long queues and tourist crowd while exploring.
7. Relish Healthy Cambodian Cuisine
One of the major attractions of Cambodia that drive people to visit this paradise is its food. A typical Cambodian meal consists of rice and a fish item. Often called the ‘cuisine of contrasts’, Cambodian food involves a lot of variations which travellers fall in love with. Among the range of dishes, one must try here is Fish Amok, Samlor Machu Trey, Nom Banh Chok, and the Num Anksom Sach Chrouk.
Recommended For: Foodies, Culture Explorers
Price: $1 – $2 per meal
8. Swim with Elephants
This is one of the crazy things to do in Cambodia. The Elephant Valley Project at Mondulkiri is a group of dedicated, passionate individuals whose work is directed towards care and conservation of abandoned, injured, overworked, and orphaned elephants. Travelers can come here with prior booking for a chance to be with these adorable, gentle beings. Visitors can also play and swim with these elephants.
Recommended For: Adventure Lovers
Location: Mondulkiri, Cambodia
Entry Fee: $60 (including transport and hiking cost)
Timings: 07:30 am to 05:30 pm
9. Explore the Majesty of Phnom Penh Palace
The star attraction of Phnom Penh built back in 1860 is not just a glittery palace dominating the city’s skyline but also an important reminder of Cambodia’s intriguing history. The elegant structure is characterized by its crown of stupas and towering spires, the handsome Silver Pagoda sitting adjacent to it, manicured tropical gardens and the tranquillity that prevails inside its high-rise walls.
Recommended For: History Lovers, Architecture Enthusiasts, Photographers
Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Entry Fee: $10 per person
Timings: 08:00 am to 10:30 am and 2:00 pm to 05:00 pm
10. Shop for Souvenirs at Local Markets
With its massive variety of inexpensive handicraft products, shopping in Cambodia is a therapy for shopping freaks. Some of the best things to buy in Cambodia include silver trinkets, precious gems and stones, betel nut boxes, rice paper prints, checkered Krama scarves, silk fabric, carved wooden items, and more. Travellers can buy items from Angkor Night Market, Made in Cambodia Market, Angkor Handicraft Association, Old Market, and the Russian Market in Phnom Penh.
Recommended For: Shoppers, Culture Explorers
Timings: 08:00 am to 07:00 pm (Ideal)
Pro Tip: You would find the best of handicrafts at reasonable prices at Angkor Night Market and AHA Fair Trade Village.
11. Explore the Beauty of Preah Khan
Preah Khan is an ancient temple located in the northeast of Angkor Archaeological Park. The temple was built by King Jayavarman VII. The name of the temple means a royal sword. Preah Khan is dedicated to Lord Buddha, who is known in the name of Avalokiteshvara here. The temple was the former residence of the royal clan who were in rule of this region. This huge temple complex has two main gateways that lead into the main hall.
Recommended For: Explorers
Location: Angkor, Cambodia
Entry Fee: $37 for a Single Day Pass
Timings: 05:00 am to 06:00 pm
Pro Tip: Hire a cab or a tuk-tuk to reach the temple and enjoy striking vistas on the way.
12. Go on a Cycle Tour
Cycling tours are a convenient way of sightseeing and one of the most popular things to do in Cambodia for backpackers. Riding through quiet trails of the countryside amid breathtaking natural scenery lets travellers escape the crowd and busy roads. These tours typically include sightseeing of Ta Prohm, Elephant Terrace, Bayon, and other prominent Angkor temples. Exploring this wonderful country on a bike is one of the cool things to do in Cambodia.
Recommended For: Explorers, Health Freaks
Price: $30 – $40 per person per guided tour
13. Explore the Wildlife of Cambodia at National Parks
Apart from an endless number of temples, attractions also include various national parks in Cambodia and wildlife sanctuaries. Paying a visit to these is one of the most beautiful things to do in Cambodia for adventure seekers and nature lovers. While Virachey National Park is home to elephants, sun bears, tigers, clouded leopards, and various birds, the Ream Park is famous for globally endangered birds of prey.
Recommended For: Wildlife Lovers, Photographers
Entry Fee: $15 – $20 per person
Timings: 06:00 am to 05:00 pm
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to watch a variety of birds chirping around.
14. Book a Cambodian Spa Session
Another of the gorgeous Cambodia attractions are its spa therapies that are different from the usual Southeastern Spa. The traditional Khmer Spa has a distinctive approach to health and relaxation, which is reflected in its unusual variety of spa treatments and therapies. The major cities of Cambodia house many certified massage and spa centres. The popular spa and massage therapies of Cambodia include the Khmer Traditional Herbal Spa, Aroma Spa, Hot Oil Massage, Deep Tissue, and more.
Recommended For: Spa Lovers
Price Range: $60 – $150 per spa session per person
Pro Tip: Do try the ticklish fish spa as it is one of a kind in Cambodia.
15. Learn About the Landmine Museum
Cambodia Landmine Museum is your place if you are an environment lover. Cambodia has been one of the most mined countries in the world. Due to the several struggles in the history of Cambodia including the brutal Khmer Rouge regime, American bombings, civil war, genocide, and Vietnamese occupation, this place still has many mines buried in its land. These rescued mines have been preserved in the Cambodia Landmine Museum.
Recommended For: History Lovers, Explorers
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Price: $5 per person
Timings: 08:00 am to 05:30 pm
16. Visit Battambang Bat Caves
Located at the base of Mount Sampeou is the Battambang Bat Caves. Also known as the Killing Caves, this is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Cambodia and also amongst the most unique things to do in Cambodia. Since bats are nocturnal birds, they go out from the caves at night. So, many tourists come here to watch the bats flock out of the cave to the nearby trees and branches. The sight is interesting and lasts for about 40 minutes.
Recommended For: Explorers, Offbeat Travellers
Location: Newfoundland, Canada
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: 08:00 am to 06:00 pm
Pro Tip: The best place to catch the sight is the cave entrance.
17. Witness the Magic of Popokvil Waterfall
Visiting the Popokvil Waterfall is one experience you must have during your holiday in Cambodia. It is located in the Kampot Province around three miles away from the Bokor Hill Station and is a gorgeous two-tiered fall with a shallow pool in between. Over a period of time, this fall has also become a famous scenic spot and is one of the best waterfalls in Cambodia.
Recommended For: Explorers, Nature Lovers, Photographers
Location: Kampot Province, Cambodia
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Ideal Timings: 06:00 am to 05:00 pm
18. Indulge in Meditation
Amongst the many free things to do in Cambodia is meditation, an activity that relaxes one’s mind. With a destination like Cambodia, especially Siem Reap, one is bound to have a relaxing and tranquil time while meditating. The natural beauty around adds to the entire experience. Enjoy this with yoga courses and nature trails to relish the best of what this amazing destination has to offer.
Recommended For: Peace Seekers, Explorers
Location: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Battambang
Price Range: $20 – $30 per person for Yoga courses
Pro Tip: You can try out the meditation classes related to Theravada Buddhism here.
19. Visit the Marvellous Yeak Laom Lake
Explore the iconic Yeak Laom Lake that is said to be a 4000-year old lake that got formed in the shape of an almost perfect circle due to its volcanic nature. Filling the crater with water with time post a volcanic eruption and surrounded by forests on all sides, this is one of the best offbeat places to explore in Cambodia for all those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Recommended For: Nature lovers, Photographers
Location: Ratanakiri, Cambodia
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
Timings: Anytime
Pro Tip: Take a private guided tour of the lake to come across its most beautiful spots.
20. Explore the Mountain Temple
Constructed in the mid-11th century by King Udayadityavarman II, Baphuon Temple is another gorgeous example of Khmer style architecture. This three-layered mountain temple is set in the heart of Angkor, which was the second capital of the Khmer Empire. Around the 20th Century, the royal temple started becoming worn out and it took around 16 years to complete its restoration process. Baphuon Temple is dedicated to the Hindu Lord Shiva.
Recommended For: Offbeat Travellers, Architecture Lovers
Location: Angkor Thom, Cambodia
Entry Timings: 05:00 am to 06:00 pm
21. Take a Look at the Underwater World of Sihanoukville
The beauty of Cambodia isn’t just limited to what one sees on the surface but also in the vast, vibrant world underneath. The diving sites in Sihanoukville are blessed with crystal clear water, favourable water temperature, colourful corals, and a diverse range of marine life including seahorses, whale sharks, stingrays, eels, triggerfish, barracuda, nudibranch, starfish, and more. Exploring the underwater world is one of the best things to do in Sihanoukville.
Recommended For: Divers, Adventure Lovers
Location: Sihanoukville, Cambodia
Price Range: $150 – $200 per person for Diving and Snorkelling
Timings: 07:00 am to 05:00 pm
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