Some people might be under the impression that Angkor Wat is the only place worth seeing in Cambodia, but they’re sorely mistaken! In fact, there are so many amazing places to visit, you’ll struggle to fit them all in. Here are a few of our faves…
Phnom Penh
If you arrive in Cambodia by air, Phnom Penh will probably be the first place you’ll see. As the buzzing capital city, it’s alive with a chaotic network of busy roads with an abundance of street food vendors and restaurants boasting delicious smells from huge sizzling pots and pans. You’ll also be greeted with a wide range of architecture telling the city’s history. From glamorous ancient temples to colourful shanty-town-esque blocks to uber modern skyscrapers, you can walk for ten minutes and feel like you’re in a completely different place.
There’s absolutely tons to be seen in Phnom Penh, but here’s just a handful.
The Royal Palace
Situated at the point where the Tonle Sap River meets the Mekong, Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace is definitely a sight worth seeing. Built in 1866 with ornate golden edging and perfectly pristine gardens, it’s a truly majestic place and the $7 entrance fee is worth every penny.
The Silver Pagoda
Conveniently sat right next to the Royal Palace is the stunning Silver Pagoda (or Wat Preah Keo in Khmer) – a Buddhist temple housing the “Emerald Buddha” as well as many other Cambodian national treasures. Adorned with silver tiles, jewel-encrusted statues and murals painted by local artists, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields
Although Cambodia is home to many beautiful places, if you want to reach into the country’s recent past, Tuol Sleng’s Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek village tell the harrowing story of the Khmer Rouge regime that took place in the 1970s. Over a million men, women and children lost their lives in this horrific ordeal lasting four years and these two sites offer tourists a way to learn more about these awful events and pay their respects.
Kampot
A little French colonial haven on the Southwest corner of Cambodia, Kampot sits at the foot of the Elephant Mountains, boasting dreamy sunsets and a sleepy small town vibe. It’s a far cry from the busy streets of Phnom Penh and a welcome place for those looking to relax, wonder around looking at ancient architecture and kayak down the river. Dreamy.
Siem Reap
The closest city to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap often gets dwarfed by its world-famous neighbour. But it’s worth staying here a little longer to give yourself enough time to experience this city by cycling around the streets and countryside, visiting the many markets and having a couple of beers on the aptly-named “Pub Street”.
Angkor Wat
A collection of over 50 Buddhist and Hindu temples, Angkor Wat is one of the main tourist attractions in the world. Famously the backdrop for the Tomb Raider franchise, it spreads over 402 acres and its architecture dates back to the 12th century. We’d recommend taking a couple of days to explore this mammoth sight, although, a day pass will set you back around $37 so make sure you budget for this because it’s not the sort of place you want to skimp on.
Kompong Khleang floating village
A novelty for most who visit, Kompong Khleang floating village is an amazing, awe-inspiring place. Its inhabitants live, work and play all on man-made rafts and structures on stilts including schools, shops and houses – and they seem to be some of the happiest people you’ll come across! Just down the road from Siem Reap, it’s easy to access and you can get a guided tour from one of the locals for a small fee.
If you’ve been inspired to see Cambodia, check out our Cambodia TEFL Internship where you can teach, travel and really immerse yourself in the Cambodian way of life.
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