Cambodia is a fascinating Southeast Asian destination known for its ancient temples, rich history, warm hospitality, and affordable travel experiences. Home to the world-famous Angkor Wat, Cambodia tourism offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, colonial charm, and tropical islands. From historical cities and floating villages to pristine beaches and jungles, Cambodia is ideal for culture lovers, backpackers, families, and spiritual travelers.
🗣️ Local Languages of Cambodia
- Khmer – Official and most widely spoken language
- English – Common in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants
- French – Spoken by some older generations
English is sufficient for travel in major tourist destinations.
✈️ How to Reach Cambodia
✈️ By Air
Cambodia is well connected internationally.
Major International Airports:
- Phnom Penh International Airport
- Siem Reap International Airport
- Sihanoukville International Airport
Direct and connecting flights are available from Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, India, and other Asian hubs.
🚆 By Train
- Limited railway network mainly for domestic travel
- Trains operate between Phnom Penh, Battambang, and Sihanoukville
- Train travel is slow but scenic
🚗 By Road
- Cambodia shares borders with Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos
- International buses run from Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Vientiane
- Roads connect major cities, though rural roads can be rough
🌦️ Weather Information for the Full Year
Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate:
- Dry Season: November – April (25°C – 32°C)
- Hot Season: March – May (can exceed 35°C)
- Rainy Season: May – October (lush landscapes, fewer crowds)
Best Time to Visit Cambodia: November to February
🍛 Local Famous Cuisines of Cambodia
Cambodian cuisine (Khmer food) is flavorful yet mild compared to neighboring countries.
Must-try dishes include:
- Amok Trey – Steamed fish curry in banana leaf
- Lok Lak – Stir-fried beef with pepper sauce
- Bai Sach Chrouk – Pork and rice breakfast dish
- Khmer Red Curry
- Nom Banh Chok – Rice noodles with green curry
- Fresh Spring Rolls
- Palm Sugar Desserts
🏛️ Famous Places to Visit in Cambodia (Complete Details)
Siem Reap
- Angkor Wat – World’s largest religious monument (UNESCO)
- Angkor Thom – Bayon Temple with smiling faces
- Ta Prohm – Jungle-covered temple
- Banteay Srei – Pink sandstone temple
- Tonle Sap Lake – Floating villages
Gateway to Angkor temples and cultural heart of Cambodia.
Phnom Penh
- Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
- National Museum of Cambodia
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
- Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
Capital city reflecting Cambodia’s history and resilience.
Battambang
- Bamboo Train
- Phnom Sampeau & Killing Caves
- Colonial architecture
Known for arts, countryside, and local culture.
Sihanoukville
- Otres Beach
- Serendipity Beach
- Island hopping
Main coastal city and gateway to Cambodia’s islands.
Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem
- White sand beaches
- Bioluminescent plankton
- Snorkeling & diving
Perfect tropical island escape.
Kampot & Kep
- Bokor National Park
- Pepper plantations
- Kep Beach & Crab Market
Peaceful riverside and coastal towns.
Preah Vihear Temple (UNESCO Site)
- Cliff-top temple near Thai border
- Spectacular mountain views
Spiritual and architectural marvel.
🎉 Traditions & Festivals of Cambodia (With Dates)
- Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey):
13–15 April – Biggest festival celebrated with games, music, and water blessings. - Visak Bochea:
May (Full Moon) – Celebrates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death. - Pchum Ben:
September – October – Ancestor remembrance festival. - Bon Om Touk (Water Festival):
October – November – Boat races and celebrations in Phnom Penh. - Independence Day:
9 November – Marks freedom from French rule.
🧳 Important Travel Tips for Cambodia
- Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR); US Dollars widely accepted
- Dress modestly when visiting temples
- Carry cash for rural and island areas
- Use bottled water for drinking
- Beware of temple dress codes (covered shoulders & knees)
- Tuk-tuks are common; agree on price before riding
- Respect local customs and Buddhist traditions
- Travel insurance is highly recommended
🌏 Why Visit Cambodia?
Cambodia offers timeless temples, deep cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, tropical islands, and heartfelt hospitality. With iconic landmarks like Angkor Wat, vibrant cities, and peaceful beaches, Cambodia promises a meaningful and unforgettable journey.