Cambodia – what to see, how to visit the attractions, tourist tips
Cambodia, a Southeast Asian nation bordered by Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, is a country that has captured the hearts of many travelers. The country is known for its ancient temples, natural beauty, and rich culture. Cambodia offers a unique blend of the old and the new, and it’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a culturally rich experience. This article will discuss why Cambodia is a top destination for tourists, the best tourist attractions to visit, how to visit these attractions, tourist tips, and common scams to avoid. 
Why Visit Cambodia?
Cambodia offers a unique blend of ancient temples, natural beauty, and rich culture that can’t be found in many other places in the world. Here are some reasons why Cambodia should be on your travel list:
- Ancient Temples – Cambodia is home to the famous Angkor Wat, an ancient temple complex and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and is a testament to the country’s rich history and culture. Besides Angkor Wat, Cambodia has many other ancient temples that are equally impressive, such as the Bayon Temple, Preah Vihear Temple, and Banteay Srei Temple.
- Natural Beauty – Cambodia has some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world. The country is home to the Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, and the Mekong River, which runs through six countries. Cambodia also has many beautiful beaches, such as Koh Rong Island, which is known for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Rich Culture – Cambodia has a rich and unique culture that is heavily influenced by Buddhism. The country is home to many festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate its culture, such as the Khmer New Year, Bon Om Touk (Water Festival), and Pchum Ben (Ancestor’s Day).
Best Tourist Attractions in Cambodia
- Angkor Wat – As previously mentioned, Angkor Wat is the most famous tourist attraction in Cambodia. The temple complex was built in the 12th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is a stunning display of ancient architecture and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Cambodia.
- Bayon Temple – Located in the ancient city of Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple is another impressive temple complex that is a must-visit for any traveler to Cambodia. The temple is known for its many smiling faces, which are believed to represent the bodhisattva of compassion.
- Tonle Sap Lake – Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and is home to many unique species of fish and birds. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake to see the local fishing villages and witness the daily life of the people who live on the lake.
- Koh Rong Island – Koh Rong Island is a beautiful island off the coast of Cambodia that is known for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, and there are many activities available for visitors, such as hiking and kayaking.
- Phnom Penh – Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the country’s history and culture. The city is home to many museums and historical sites, such as the Royal Palace and the Killing Fields.
How to Visit the Cambodia Must See Attractions
Cambodia is a relatively small country, and most of the tourist attractions are located in the northwestern part of the country, around the city of Siem Reap. The best way to visit these attractions is by flying into Siem Reap and staying in the city for a few days. From there, visitors can take day trips
Best Time to Visit Cambodia, Electricity and other related FAQs
- Best Time to Visit Cambodia: The best time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is generally warm and dry, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The wet season, which runs from May to October, can be hot and humid, with occasional heavy rain showers that can make some roads impassable.
- Electricity in Cambodia: The electricity supply in Cambodia is generally 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Some areas may experience power outages or fluctuations, so it’s always a good idea to bring a universal adapter and a surge protector if you plan on using electronic devices.
- Currency in Cambodia: The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely accepted and preferred for larger transactions. ATMs are widely available in most cities and towns, and credit cards are accepted at some hotels and restaurants.
- 1 USD = currency in Cambodia: As of March 2023, 1 USD is approximately 4,000 Cambodian riel.
- Main Language spoken in Cambodia: The official language of Cambodia is Khmer, which is spoken by the majority of the population. English is also spoken by some people in the tourism industry, but it’s not widely spoken outside of major cities.
- Is English spoken widely in Cambodia? English is not widely spoken outside of major cities, but many people in the tourism industry speak some English. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Khmer phrases to help communicate with locals.
- Which months to avoid traveling to Cambodia? Travelers may want to avoid traveling to Cambodia during the wet season, which runs from May to October. During this time, heavy rains can cause flooding and make some roads impassable.
- How Safe is Cambodia for tourists? Cambodia is generally a safe country for tourists, but petty crime such as theft and pickpocketing can be a problem in tourist areas. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry. Political protests and demonstrations can also occur, so it’s a good idea to avoid these areas.
- How to get the best currency conversion rate in Cambodia? To get the best currency conversion rate in Cambodia, it’s recommended to exchange money at official currency exchange offices or banks. Avoid exchanging money on the street or through unofficial channels, as these may offer unfavorable rates or counterfeit bills.
- What are safety tips for tourists in Cambodia? Some safety tips for tourists in Cambodia include being aware of your surroundings, not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, avoiding political protests or demonstrations, and only using official taxi or tuk-tuk services. It’s also recommended to use a hotel safe to store important documents and valuables.
- What are typical tourist costs in Cambodia? Typical tourist costs in Cambodia can vary depending on the type of activities you’re interested in and your travel style. Accommodation can range from budget hostels to luxury resorts, with prices starting from around $10 per night for basic accommodation. Food and drink are generally affordable, with street food and local restaurants offering inexpensive options. Activities such as temple visits and tours can vary in price, with some popular attractions charging admission fees of around $20 per person.
- Where do tourists usually stay in Siem Reap area? Tourists visiting the Angkor Wat temple complex in Siem Reap often stay in the town of Siem Reap, which has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Some popular areas for tourists to stay include the Old Market area, Pub Street, and the Riverside area. Many hotels and guesthouses in Siem Reap offer shuttle services to and from the temples, which can be a convenient way to get around.
- By following these traveler tips, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Cambodia and experience all that this fascinating country has to offer.
