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Cambodia, bordered by Lao PDR (Laos) Thailand and Vietnam offers an amazing historical and cultural experience, warm friendly people and an untamed wild landscape.

Years of turbulence have now given way to peace and an emerging tourist industry based around the country’s impressive heritage. Cambodia is home to one of the world's most spectacular historical sites - Angkor, a 12th century city built by the sophisticated Khmer civilization. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a historical treasure house, but Cambodia also has a wild side. Stunning mountain scenery and ethnic hill tribes make Cambodia's untamed north east a perfect place to see Asia’s wildlife.

Why Visit?

A Cultural Masterpiece

The Angkor temple complex near Siem Reap is simply stunning, covering an area of several hundred miles. While many of the main temples are located within a 10 mile radius, you should allocate at least 3 days to explore the immediate area around the main temples at Angkor Wat. Developing fast, it’s a good time to visit now.

Read More : People & Culture - History

Attractions – Culture

Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom - credited with being "discovered" by a Frenchman, Henri Mouhot, who stumbled upon the jungle covered ruins in 1860. The influence of the Khmer civilisation can still be seen today in the art, handicrafts and silverware in the markets and shops around Phnom Penh. You can walk, bicycle or take a helicopter ride around the ruins. Heritage tours are available from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap - the main town for Angkor. Siem Reap, has grown rapidly in the last few years with international hotels now established. Close by is Tonle Sap (Great lake) fed by the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers – home of local fishing communities.

Read More : Ankor Wat

Attractions – Cities

Phnom Penh (Capital City) - The Cambodian capital with its colonial architecture and wide boulevards reflects the French presence in Indochina. Phnom Penh also has fine temples and excellent markets selling handicrafts and local attractions. It’s also a starting point for a trip along the Mekong river to Siem Reap (Angkor.) A reminder of Cambodia’s more recent history can be seen at the grisly Tuol Sleng Museum – from the dark days when Cambodia was ruled by the Khmer Rouge.

Read More : Phnom Penh - Sihanoukville

Attractions – Adventure

Cambodia's north east offers adventure, hill tribes, trekking in the remote provinces of Rantanakiri and Mondulkiri. Home to elephants, leopards and the Irrawaddy Dolphins that inhabit the Mekong river near the Lao border.

Activities

Forget the conventional route, go biking or take a helicopter ride around Angkor. Cruise on the Mekong from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap or elephant trekking.

When to Go

November to March, (dry season) - ideal for visiting Angkor. Bring lots of film.

Read More : Geography & Climate - Festivals

Getting Around

Flying is the most efficient way of getting around. Domestic flights operate regularly to Siem Reap. Or take a trip on the Mekong river.

Read More : Transport - Visas - Map of Phnom Penh - Map of Siem Riep

Official Language

Khmer. English is understood in the major cities.

Read More : Government - Emergency Health - Communication - Basic Information

Culture & Customs

Tipping is not expected but well appreciated as salaries remain very low. Service is often excellent because hospitality is part of the Cambodian culture.

Read More : Customs

What to Buy:

Cambodia is a country of fine craftsmen. You’ll find fantastic wood-carvings, other-of-pearl inlay lacquerware, silk, temple paintings and silver filigree items – at bargain prices.

Read More : Shopping

Battambang Hotels
Phnom Penh Hotels

Siem Reap Hotels
Sihanoukville Hotels