Top 10 Tourist Places in Cambodia for an Unforgettable Journey
A beautiful destination in Southeast Asia, Cambodia is dotted with unforgettable views and experiences. With Vietnam and Laos to the east and Thailand to the west, Cambodia offers fascinating landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. This sovereign country is situated in the southern part of the Indo-China peninsula and boasts irresistible charm. The bus route from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh takes you through the heart of Cambodia, showcasing excellent architectural sites, temples, and Khmer sculptures.
The journey also provides glimpses of the country’s unique floating villages, which offer a traditional and unique way of life. Cambodia’s historical places have secured their spot on the tourism map, making it an ideal destination for solo travellers, backpackers, and those planning a trip with family and friends. Explore Cambodia to create memories for a lifetime amidst its stunning temples, vibrant culture, and captivating history.
Top Tourist Places in Cambodia
Plan sightseeing in this beautiful country with this list of Cambodia’s best places to visit.
- Angkor Wat
Built by King Suryavarman II from 802 to 1432 AD, Angkor Wat is the country’s number one ancient site. One of the most magnificent temples, Angkor Wat, draws tourists from all over the world. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is near Siem Reap, the second-largest city in Cambodia.
- Phnom Penh
One of the biggest cities in Cambodia, Phnom Penh is the capital city of the country, known for its vibrant streets, restaurants, bars, and riverfront with parks. Previously recognised as the pearl of Asia, Phnom Penh is one of the most beautiful French-style cities in the Indo-China peninsula. Places to visit in the city:
- Central Market
- Russian Market
- French Quarter
- Cambodia Post Office
Travel Tip: You can easily create the iteration of travelling from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh after visiting Angkor Wat, as it’s only a 5 to 6-hour journey via bus. The lowest fare on the route starts at only USD 8, with multiple bus options. One of them worth mentioning is Virak Buntham. They offer comfortable sleeping buses, hotel buses, night buses, and VIP minivans. Book your bus tickets online from redBus in advance to avoid last-minute delays.
- Sihanoukville
Cambodia’s next top tourist spot is Sihanoukville, a striking coastal town with several beaches and tiny islands. Sihanoukville Beaches are the perfect escape to relax and unwind. Some of the most popular beaches in Sihanoukville are:
- Independence Beach
- Sokha Beach
- Serendipity Beach
- Brash Ochheuteal Beach.
- Battambang
The second-largest city in Cambodia and the earlier capital of Monton Khmer, Battambang, has Cambodia’s most tranquil rural background. The town has many Angkor-style temples and Buddhist shrines that you can explore on foot or by bicycle. Some of the top attractions in this town include:
- Phare Ponleu Selpak
- Wat Ek Phnom
- Phnom Sampeau, an art gallery
- Gecko Private River Cruise.
- Kampot
One of the most beautiful towns in Cambodia, Kampot draws tourists with its old-world ambience. Also known as the land of black peppercorns, Kampot is on Cambodia’s Preaek Teuk Chhu River bank. This quaint town has many interesting spots:
- Salt Fields
- Bat Cave
- Preah Monivong National Park
- Popokvil Waterfall
- Kampot Kampong Trach Caves
- Mondulkiri
One of the most biodiverse destinations in Southeast Asia, Mondulkiri, is a prime travel attraction in Cambodia. Situated in the eastern part of the country, Mondulkiri has abundant wildlife and natural exquisiteness. The place is known for its:
- Lush green mountains
- Thick forests
- Bou Sra, the majestic waterfall
- Rich flora and fauna
- Koh Ker
Koh Ker was the capital of the Khmer Empire from 928 CE to 944 CE. Built by King Jayavarman IV, the complex has seven floors, each designed 5 meters higher than the next. Koh Ker is set between the Kulen and Dangrek mountains in a remote location amid a lush green forest. Thus, it is a perfect sightseeing place for history and nature lovers.
- Banteay Srei
Banteay Srei is a renowned Shiva temple. Built with red sandstone and decorated with hard pink sandstone (quartz arenite), it is an archaeological excellence popular among history buffs. The temple is square, with an east and west entryway.
- Kirirom National Park
Kirirom National Park is part of the Southwest Cluster Protected Areas, comprising Preah Sihanouk, Phnom Bokor, and Kep National Parks. Established in 1993, Kirirom National Park is in the Elephant Mountains at Phnom Sruoch district in Kampong Speu. This National Park in Cambodia is a high-altitude plateau famous for high-elevation pine forests.
- Koh Rong
A part of the spectacular Cardamom Mountain Range, Koh Rong is home to many gorgeous beaches, turquoise waters, and gently swaying palm trees. Koh Rong is the ultimate place to enjoy nature and serenity. Some other stunning beaches you can explore on Koh Rong Island include:
- Sok San Beach
- Long Set
- Kaoh Touch
- Skoha
- Police Beach
In addition to enjoying views of mountains and beaches, you can engage in diverse adventure activities, including diving, snorkelling, and kayaking.
Cambodia is one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on earth. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature’s grandeur and have an unforgettable vacation experience. Visit these top tourist places to make your trip to Cambodia genuinely memorable and enriching.
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