Cambodia is a land of ancient temples, rich culture, and natural beauty that attracts travelers from around the world. From the iconic Angkor Wat to hidden gems like Koh Rong and Kampot, the country is filled with Cambodia tourist places that offer history, adventure, and relaxation.In this blog we will take you through the best places to visit in Cambodia will help you plan your trip with ease.
Places to visit in Cambodia
Cambodia beautifully combines stunning beaches with rich history, offering travelers the best of both worlds. Coastal gems like Kampot, Sihanoukville, and Kep are perfect for enjoying fresh seafood and relaxed seaside vibes, while cities such as Phnom Penh and Battambang showcase the country’s heritage, colonial architecture, and cultural charm. Of course, no trip is complete without visiting Siem Reap, the world-famous Angkor Temples.
Places to visit in Krong Siem Reap
Siem Reap is worth visiting for its nearness to the Angkor Wat Complex. You can just purchase a ticket and visit all the following temples except Bayon. Siem is also known for its nightlife.
Angkor Wat
Wat Temple Complex is stretched over an area of 162.6 hectares. This Hindu-Buddhist Complex is considered to be the new “Eighth Wonder of the World” and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well. The Hindu temples are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and are the largest religious structure in the world.
Bayon Temple
With many smiling faces, huge trees, 11000 statues and grand Khmer architectural style, this temple is none other than the Bayon Temple. It is best to visit early at 9am. This temple was the last Buddhist temple, a state temple in the middle of the city of Angkor, and was built in the reign of Jayavarman VII. It’s attractive and a microcosm of creativity.
Ta Prohm Temple
This temple is located outside Angkor Thom and has been featured in two films. This is again another Buddhist temple cum monastery built during Jayavarman VII’s reign. This UNESCO site is known for its distinctive silk cotton or golden apple trees that grew out of the temple after it was abandoned.
Banteay Srei
This 10th Century temple is a Shiva Parvati temple. Banteay Srei is known for his exquisite pink sandstone sculptures. The intricate details and delicate craftsmanship of the sculpture apply to some of the best examples of classic Khmer art. It is located inside the Angkor Temple Complex.
Places to visit in Phnom Penh
The capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, is known for its cultural monuments, nightlife and cuisine.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
This museum is a memorial site for the S-21 genocide victims. It was a secondary school that was turned into a Security prison and detention centre later till the fall of Khmer regime. The museum has three floors that show the victims and their brutal history. You can get your tickets for visit online at 500 rupees.
The Royal Palace
The palace is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. You can tour the palace by paying 10 USD and extra charges for guide. It houses the beautiful Silver Pagoda adorned with silver tiles, The Throne Hall, along with several pavilions and temples. The King palace is banned from public eye but the royal family still lives here.
Choeung Ek Genocidal Center
The centre lies adjacent to the Genocide Museum, where millions of people were brutally killed in the Khmer regime. It is also known as Killing Fields with graves of the victims. Both the Museum and Centre are funded by the UNESCO as memorial sites for Cambodia. You can find joint tickets online.
National Museum of Cambodia
The timings of the museum are 9am-5pm and the entry is free of cost. It is the largest museum in Cambodia. It houses the archaeological remains and Cambodia’s cultural history. The museum has one of the world’s largest collections of Khmer art, along with artefacts from all over the world.
Places to visit in Battambang
Battambang is worth visiting due to the presence of natural wonders, cultural heritage and its colonial architecture.
Phnom Sampeau
Phnom Sampeau Phnom Sampeau is called by the name of “Ship Mountain”. It iis a limestonehill and a place of natural beauty and historical importance. The mountain has adark story as one of the”killing caves” used by the Khmer Rouge regime. Today, a large glass monument holds the victim’s bones and skull in one of the caves.
Wat Banan
Wat Banan or Banan temple is an 11th century temple located on a hill about 25 km south of Batambang. It is known for its five towers, which have similar styles of the famous Angkor Wat. This temple offers a peaceful and memorable experience with breathtaking views of the landscape from above.
The site is open from 6am–6pm. Entry ticket is around $2.
Battambang Bat Caves
The Battambang Bats at the foot of the Phnom Sampeau provides a magnificent natural phenomenon. Every time during sunset, millions of bats go inside through the cave, forming black clouds in the sky. This incredible Exodus takes about 35 minutes when bats search for insects and play an important role in the local ecosystem by protecting rice plants.
Ek Phnom Padoga
Ek Phnom is a fascinating site that combines a modern Buddhist pagoda with the ruins of an 11th-century Hindu temple. The temple was built during the reign of King Suryavarman I and showcases the Angkorian architectural style, though it has been significantly damaged over time.
The pagoda is typically open from 7a.m. to 7p.m., with an entrance fee of $2 USD per person.
Travel tips for Cambodia first time travelers
- Currency Used: Cambodian Riel (KHR), USD
- Official Language: Khmer
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Cambodia is during the cool, dry season from November to April.
- Visa: Indian tourist can avail VOA in airports like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. You can check our detailed Cambodia visa blog for application steps and requirements
Exploring Cambodia’s breathtaking temples, cities, and beaches is an unforgettable experience. But before you plan your trip, make sure you’re aware of the Cambodia visa fees and charges so that your journey is smooth and hassle-free.
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