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Cambodia tourism proudly presents a destination in Southeast Asia that is a unique blend of temple ruins, vast paddy fields, serene beaches, lush jungles, and tasty cuisine. The famous Cambodia tourist attractions such as the spectacular Angkor Wat Temple, Angkor Thom, Terrace of the Elephants, Ta Prohm Temple, and many more will make your holiday memorable and experience cherishable. Explore the various nature spots, the Great Tonle Sap Lake freshwaters, visit historic sites, take temple tours, imbibe religious traditions, feel the peaceful aura of a boating ride, have an adventure on the many idyllic tours, and enjoy a fun-loving vacation. The travel guide will make sure your trip is a lot of adventure and fun in the land of caves and temples.

USEFUL INFO ABOUT CAMBODIA

Official Name: Kingdom of Cambodia

Form of Government: Unitary dominant-party Parliamentary Elective Constitutional Monarchy

Capital & Largest City: Phnom Penh

Population: 15,288,489 (2019 census)

Official Language: Khmer

Languages Spoken: English, French, Cham, Vietnamese, Tumpoon, Lao, Yue Chinese, Teochew Chinese, Mon-Khmer languages

Ethnicity: Khmer 97.6%, Cham 1.2%, Vietnamese 0.1%, Chinese 0.1%, Others 1%

Currency: Riel

Map Referred: Asia

Area: 181,035 square km

Land: 97.5%

Water: 2.5%

Lowest Point: Gulf of Thailand (0 m)

Highest Point: Phnom Aural (1813 m)

Coastline: 443 km

Neighboring Places

Laos 555 km

Thailand 817 km

Vietnam 1158 km

Network Connectivity:

Mobile phone operators that you can choose from including Mobitel / Cellcard, Beeline, Smart Mobile, Excel, and MetFone. MetFone is the largest mobile phone provider and offers Internet, Mobile, and fixed-line services. You could also choose Beeline as they offer packages with low set up costs, cheap international calls, SMS, and good database packages. So, do look out for the special packages offered for tourists by Beeline. SIM cards are sold for $5 that also includes a $10 credit. Calls within the country are cheap and cost approximately 20 cents per minute.

The Cambodia currency is Riel and the subunit is Sen or Kek. The Cambodia currency code is KHR and the symbol is ៛ . The most popular exchange rate is the Cambodian Riel to USD.

Symbol: ៛
Code: KHR
1 Riel = 10 Kak or 100 Sen
1Riel = 0.019 INR (Cambodia currency to INR)
1Riel = 0.00025 (Cambodia currency to USD)
1Riel = 0.095 Nigerian Naira (Cambodia currency to Naira)

Riel banknote denomination: 50, 100, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000, 20000, 50000, 100000
Riel bank coin denomination: 50, 100, 200, 500

Please note that Travelers Cheques are NOT accepted in most places.

Funan is the oldest Indianized state from where Cambodian culture takes birth dating back to the 1st to 6th centuries. With the rise of King Jayaraman II in AD802, the Angkor Empire saw Khmer kings ruling the country for over 600 years. Cambodian language evolved during this period with elements of Sanskrit and the influences of Hinduism and Buddhism. The period is known for the Angkor Temple complex built by the rulers in the province of Siem Reap. The area that extends to about 400 square km has over 100 temples. Under the Angkoriian King's rule, the sophisticated irrigation system was introduced that included several canals and barays (large man-made lakes) to ensure water supply for irrigation all year through. Post Angkorean Era saw the capital move to Phnom Penh after which there was a widespread acceptance of Theravada Buddhism. Temple carvings illustrations reflect Buddhist features that replace Hindu features.

The 15th to the 17th centuries saw the influence of foreign colonial powers and in 1863, King Norodom signed a Protectorate Treaty with France. In 1945, the French were briefly ousted by the Japanese. Cambodia won independence in 1953 under the rule of King Sihanouk. Many years of being self-sufficient as a country followed in the 1950s and `60s. In 1970, the war in Vietnam moved over to Cambodia and the country was taken over by General Lon Nol. In 1975, the weak government was overthrown by the Khmer Rouge because of which four years of the dreaded 'Reign of Terror' began. Under Pol Pot`s Democratic Kampuchea, around 1.7 million people died and there was a period of horrific atrocities. The murderous regime finally ended in 1979 with the support of the Vietnamese and the People's Republic of Kampuchea was established. In 1989, the last Vietnamese troops withdrew, and an independent government renamed the country as the State of Cambodia. However, the country was torn apart by guerrilla warfare and rivalry between the various factions. General elections were held in May 1993 with the support of the UN troops and second elections also followed in 1998. Cambodia now enjoys a parliamentary system of democracy under a prime minister and King Norodom Sihanouk returned to his throne. The king's symbol still stands for national unity to his people.

Cambodia geography map reveals that the country is bordered by Thailand in the west, in the north by Laos and by Vietnam in the east. The landscape includes the Central Plains with the highland mountain ranges, the Tonle Sap Lake, and the Mekong River. The plains are surrounded by forested highlands that feature the popular Cardamom Mountains, Elephant Mountains, and the Dangrek Mountains. Along with the Chhlong Highlands and the Ratanakiri Plateau, the plains merge with the Central Highlands of Vietnam.

The Mekong River which is the largest river in Southeast Asia flows through Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand before entering Cambodia. It continues into Vietnam to meet the South China Sea. The Mekong River also links itself to Bassak River in the south, the Tonle Sap River, and the Great Lake in the northwest.

The beautiful Tonle Sap is a combination of a river system and a freshwater lake. In 1997 it was named by UNESCO as a biosphere and an ecological hotspot. The unique feature of the Tonle Sap is that it changes its flow direction twice a year. It is a source for freshwater fish that the Cambodians love.

Cambodia culture is very diverse with a combination of Hinduism, Buddhism, and animistic beliefs blended into theatre, music, cinema, and dance. Here, art and culture are guided by religious principles seen in the unique Khmer style of art. Cambodia has its roots in the Angkor period that prides in the grandeur of its architecture and decorative temples produced by skilled artisans. There are many art forms that Cambodians thrive in such as weaving, silversmithing, wat murals, kite-making, ceramics, and lacquerware. You will find breathtaking carvings at the Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom that are popular Cambodia attractions.

Cambodians have music and dance in their blood with music playing an important part in their tradition. Witness the many forms of dance such as classical dance that are religious in nature and folk dance performed by a small group to celebrate a good harvest. Mohaori music is unique to Cambodia that was played in the royal courts' centuries ago by women. Pinpeat music is also a wonderful musical form that involves the flute, gong, xylophone, drums and more. Kantoaming music is played at funerals and Pleinkar Boran is a classical music form played at weddings. You will be fascinated by the diverse experiences of sights and sounds and things to do in Cambodia during your holiday. Witness the blend of Indo Chinese influences in the music and art forms that date back to the Khmer era.

Food and Drink
Visit Cambodia to try Cambodia cuisine cooked in a single pot or wok over a charcoal stove, with your chopsticks. The delicious dishes are made in palm oil that you can relish at the street food stalls. Try out some local favorites such as fried noodles, baguettes, fresh fruits, and ice cream. Noodle shops (haang geautieuv) open early morning and serve noodle soup, dumplings, and rice porridge at a very nominal price. Roam around the many coffee shops, cheap restaurants, market stalls, and enjoy a cool drink of coconut water or soft drinks. Phnom Penh and Siem Reap also have upmarket restaurants that serve international cuisine as well.

Must-Try Cambodia National Dishes
Fish Amok (freshwater fish in coconut milk, egg, palm sugar, and spicy paste served to steam in a banana leaf), Kuy Teav (noodle soup), Chicken and Banana Flower Salad (chicken breast salad), Beef Loc Lac (stir-fried tender beef), Crab and Pepper (stir-fried crab snack), Khmer Curry (rice or a baguette accompanied with chicken, cream, fish sauce, herbs), Pork and Rice, Prahok (salty fermented fish), Green Mango Salad (salad with a mix of fish sauce, chili, sliced green mango, mint, pickled cucumbers and tomatoes), Balut (embryo of a duck eaten from the shell), Num Kachay (chive cakes), Chek Chien (banana deep fried with sesame seeds), Tarantula (spider delicacy deep-fried), Scorpion Snack (deep-fried scorpion).

Must-Try Cambodia National Drinks
Iced Coffee (coffee beans mixed with condensed milk and served chill), Angkor Beer (alcoholic drink), Fresh Coconut Juice, Rice Wine (fermented from rice), Tea & Coffee, Soft Drinks, Prasat Phnom Grape Wine (locally produced wine), Khmer Red Wine (wine from grapefruit), Palm Juice (processed fresh palm juice), Palm Wine (made from palm).

Hospitality
Cambodians have a traditional way of greeting by standing with their palms folded and brought to chest level. With a slight bow of the head, they greet each other in a typical greeting called 'Sampeah'. When meeting someone, the locals will Sampeah and greet with Choum Reap Sur that means 'hello'. While leaving, expect to hear Choum Reap Lir which means 'goodbye'. It is impolite not to return the greeting with a 'Sampeah' as greetings by handshakes are not common. Women always maintain the traditional form of greetings as they are not familiar and comfortable with being touched by other people. Elders are respected and first names are not taken as it is impolite. Cambodians call each other with Lok and Lok Srey before their names that mean Mr. and Mrs. It is a good idea to use the titles while calling an elder person especially. Enjoy being among the locals as you become adept with 'Sampeah' with a friendly smile too.

Relish mouth-watering Cambodia cuisine with unique flavors, spice, herbs, lemongrass, shallots that will liven up your day. A must-try is the Fish Amok (curried fish), Bok Svay (green mango salad), Samlar Kakou (soup with a mix of vegetables and fruits) that is unique to Cambodia.

Have an extravagant time at the night cafes and art deco bars called tuk-tuk bars as Phnom Penh has the most exciting nightlife in Southeast Asia.

Immerse in the vibrant cultural history of Cambodia as you go back in time to witness the country's ravaging past by the Khmer Rouge.

Visit Choeung Ek called `The Killing Fields` and explore the execution site during the horrors of the Khmer reign.

Cambodia tourist spots are spectacular archaeological sites such as Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, an outstanding place to visit in Cambodia.

Enjoy the most spectacular sunrises in popular Cambodia places to visit such as Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm.

Cambodia is filled with archaeological wonders such as Angkor National Museum, an enchanting thing to do in Siem Reap.

Explore the wonderful landscape of famous temples, beautiful beaches and spend time in the banks of the Tonle Sap Lake, home to many who live in floating villages.

Meet friendly locals and take an excursion to Tonle Sap farms and see how people live on the water.

Visit popular towns and cities and spend time among colonial buildings and shady tree-lined boulevards.

A good chance to visit the popular neighboring countries as well namely Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand. Take an overland drive into a new country and experience the chaotic and colorful border crossing.

Spend a wonderful time along the Mekong River, the longest river in Southeast Asia.

Cambodia is a good destination for budget travel, as it is one of the cheapest countries in Asia.

Cambodia Weather | KHM Climate
The best time to visit Cambodia is between November and April when Cambodia's weather is less humid, and the country has less or no rainfall. You will get mainly clear blue skies and visits to the temples and other Cambodia attractions are very relaxing.

June to August is considered Cambodia's 'green season' with the pre-monsoon weather making visits to the temple's quieter. Hotels offer superb offers during the green season. Rains can come down sharply during this season but for the most part, the showers are short, and you get plenty of sunshine as well.

Cambodia weather in October is also a good time to travel as the rains come to an end and humidity dies down. You could also take advantage of budget hotel prices that make it a perfect holiday.

Visit Cambodia With Family

Take pleasure in cruising along the Mekong River on a traditional Cambodian boat and spot the rare Irrawaddy River dolphins as you sail along.

Be fascinated with Ta Prohm, one of the most popular places to visit in Cambodia and explore the Temple of Tomb Raider.

Enjoy some delicious seafood with your family and relish the range of dishes. A must-try is Fish Amok (coconut fish steamed in banana leaves) and the Num Anksom Sach Chrouk (rice cake).

The best Cambodia thing to do is to witness the traditional Khmer performance and enjoy the storyline that is narrated attractively by the Khmer dancers.

Visit Cambodia as a Couple

A popular thing to do in Siem Reap is exploring the Ta Prohm, Elephant Terrace, and breathtaking scenery on a bike.

Check out the fascinating Khmer artwork in the National Museum of Cambodia and see the stonework, sculptures, statues, and intricate carvings.

Bask in the sun and feel relaxed in the beautiful beaches of Kep, Koh Rong, and Ream. You could also go underwater snorkeling on the beaches of Sihanoukville to swim in the midst of colorful corals.

Pamper yourself as a couple in the traditional Khmer spa and enjoy a Herbal Spa massage or perhaps a Hot Oil Massage. Try out the ticklish Fish Spa for some more fun.

Visit Cambodia with Friends

Go on to visit the largest temple of the world, Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was built in the 12th century in honor of Lord Vishnu. The temple is one of the main Cambodia tourist spots.

Be among the wild in the many national parks in Cambodia and seek your adventure among sun bears, elephants, leopards, tigers in the Ream Park.

Take an excursion to do the fun-filled thing of swimming with the elephants. Play, splash, and swim among the elephants, a unique thing to do in Cambodia.

Preah Khan is another place to visit in Cambodia dedicated to Lord Buddha. It is an ancient temple located in the Angkor Archeological Park.

What To Buy?

Krama

Cambodian Paintings of Angkor Wat

Rice Wine

Kampot Pepper

Decorated Bowls, Plates, Boxes made of Silver

Jewelry

Hand-Woven Textiles

Silk Scarf

Handicrafts

Betel Nut Boxes

Buddha Figures

Woodcarvings

Decorative Rice Paper Prints

Koh Toch Beach
Located in the paradise island of Koh Rong, the lovely beach offers a lot of activities and things to do in Cambodia. Go snorkeling in the crystal clear underwater among seahorses, jumping fish, diamond fish, blue-spotted ribbon tail rays, and squids. You could also visit the Police Beach to have a good time at the butterfly farm and mini zoo. Do not miss the other beaches such as Lonely Beach, and Coconut Beach to view the beautiful bioluminescent plankton.
Best Time to Visit: October to January
Entry Price: Cost of the ferry ride to reach Koh Rong

Bousra and Chrey Thom Waterfalls
The amazing adrenaline rush is a worthy experience as you can take a Mayura Zipline ride over the Bousra Waterfalls. These beautiful waterfalls are in Mondulkiri that offers extensive wildlife and natural beauty. It is here that you get to absorb the hill tribe culture and be greeted by rolling hills, flora, fauna, thick forests, and not to forget the spectacular waterfalls.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Entry Price: $69 (Mayura Zipline)

Tonle Sap Lake
One of the popular places to visit in Cambodia, the beautiful freshwater body stretches across the northwest of Cambodia surrounded by quiet villages of Kompong Phluk and Kompong Kleang. Surround yourself with a few floating villages and witness a variety of over 200 species of fish, beautiful migratory birds, macaques, and crocodiles. Castaway into a mystical world in these floating villages, a surreal thing to do in Siem Reap.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Entry Price: $20 (The Kompong Khleang tour includes a boat ride on the lake)

Preah Khan, Angkor Archaeological Park
One of the popular Cambodia attractions, Preah Khan that means Royal Sword was constructed by King Jayavarman VII. It is an epitome of the rich history and culture of Cambodia and is located in the northeast of the Angkor Archaeological Park. Witness the varied plants and colorful flowers around the temple and have a wonderful time. Do not miss the Ta Prohm Temple as well in the vicinity.
Best Time to Visit: October to January
Entry Price: $20

Angkor Wat
The Angkor Wat is a highlight of Cambodia tourism and a great Cambodia place to visit. The religious monument is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It lies in the south of Angkor Thom. Be mesmerized at the vastness of the temple which has a stone gateway with guardian lions, a 650 feet wide moat, the Mt Meru Tower, and a seven-headed naga. As history depicts, it was built by 300,000 workers with the help of 6000 elephants that helped move sand blocks from the holy mountain of Phnom Kulen.
Best Time to Visit: All year
Entry Price: $37

Cambodia Central Market
A great place to visit in Cambodia, this market offers four wings filled with shops and has a historical significance. It was built in 1937 and is in the shape of a cross with a central dome. You could pick souvenirs here from plenty of shops selling antiques, jewelry, watches, handicrafts, paintings, and more. You could also relish some delicious Cambodia cuisine at the various food stalls. This Art Decoration Market will surely catch your fancy.
Best Time to Visit: All year
Entry Price: Budget buys

More Places to Visit in Cambodia

Kep National Park

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Banlung

Virachey National Park

National Museum of Cambodia

War Museum

Bamboo Island

Landmine Museum

Bokor Hill Station

Silver Pagoda

Ta Prohm

Bayon Temple

Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center

Battambang Bat Caves

Killing Fields

Most Popular Regions and Cities to Visit in Cambodia
Phnom Penh
Things to do in Phnom Penh, the capital city will remind you of the atrocities and horrors that the people have faced during the reign of the Khmer Rouge. The Killing Fields is a short distance away from the capital that is a gruesome reminder of the dark past. Visit the crowded markets, spend time on the banks of the Tonle Sap River, and explore the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.
Visit For: Killing Fields, Tonle Sap River, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Royal Palace, Wat Phnom, National Museum of Cambodia, Central Market, Preah Vihear Preah Keo Morakot

Siem Reap
This beautiful city is where you can relax and let your hair down, take a tuk-tuk to visit the world-famous temples of Angkor. The journey among dense forests and rice paddies is an amazing thing to do in Siem Reap to reach the magnificent Angkor Temples. Feel amazed by the hundreds of temples of the Khmer Empire that flourished during the 9th to 15th centuries.
Visit For: Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm Temple, Angkor Thom, Preah Khan Temple, Baphuon, Phare Circus, Old Market, The Angkor Night Market

Sihanoukville
This amazing coastal city with fabulous beaches and vibrant nightlife is just the place to unwind. It is considered among the premier resort tourist spots in Cambodia. It is located at the tip of an elevated peninsula on the Gulf of Thailand. Enjoy a string of beaches, the Ream National Park, mangrove marshlands, and nearby islands.
Visit For: Sokha Beach, Otres Beach, Kbal Chhay Cascades, Lamherkay Beach, Otres 1 Beach, Wat Leu, Victory Beach, Independence Beach

Battambang
Choose this beautiful city to travel for its exquisite natural beauty, rural life, and countryside scenery. Experience a whole lot of good times in the trendy cafes, local restaurants, boutique hotels, and laid-back nightlife. Take a trip on the Bamboo Train if you get a chance just outside the city. Battambang is the second-largest city in Cambodia with many Cambodia attractions.
Visit For: Bamboo Train, Ek Phnom Pagoda, Provincial Museum, Damrey Sor Pagoda, Romcheik 5 Artspace & Cafe

Kratie
This cute Cambodian town on the banks of the Mekong River is a colorful town with French colonial buildings and traditional Khmer buildings. Relax and take in the best of the rural side of Cambodia. The highlight attraction here is the sighting of the rare Irrawaddy dolphin in the sweet water of the Mekong River. Try out the delicious freshly grilled corn cakes as you relax and pleasantly enjoy the experience.
Visit For: Sombok Mountains, Mekong Dolphin, Kaoh Trong, Phnom Sambok Pagoda, Phnom SamBok Resort, Wat Vihear Lao, Phnom Sopor Kaley

Other Popular Cities to Visit in Cambodia

Preah Sihanouk

Pursat

Samraong

Stung Saen

Bavet

Kampong Chhnang

Suong

Banlung

Prey Veng

Pailin

Khmer New Year
This big festival celebrates the end of the harvest season when the farmers take 3 days off and return to their home. The Khmer community unites with the family members and perform purification ceremonies, visit temples, and celebrate the year-long hard work. The bonding and the fun of playing traditional games is a treat to watch.
Location: Cambodia
Date: 14th to 16th April

Cambodian Independence Day
The day is celebrated in honor of the freedom and independence of Cambodia from the French rule of 90 years. Cambodians come together to rejoice, and the grand event is presided over by the ruling king of Cambodia. This is one of the major events in the country and Cambodians from all walks of life come together to celebrate.
Location: Cambodia
Date: 9th November

Pchum Ben or Ancestor's Day
Also called the 'Hungry Ghosts Festival', Cambodians on this day pay respect to seven generations of ancestors. They believe that on the day of the festival, the gates of hell open and some of the ghosts would be their ancestors. Food to the monks in the pagodas is offered with the expectation to reduce the sins of the ancestors.
Location: Cambodia
Date: 16th September

Meak Bochea
This important festival celebrates the time in history when Lord Buddha delivered his sermon to 1250 monks at Rajagaha Valuwan Vihara. Monks gather to meditate and pray and circle the central altar twice with incense sticks, chants, candles, and flowers. The procession is held in Dhammakaya, a temple in Khlong Luang.
Location: Khlong Luang
Date: 9th February

Water Festival
The festival goes back in time when it was first celebrated in the 12th century during the Angkor period. It honors the naval forces and boat race events take place all through the day. The festival involves all Cambodians, peasants, and travelers alike and is celebrated in the capital city.
Location: Phnom Penh
Date: 13th to 15th April

Visak Bochea
The major event is a celebration of the birth, enlightenment, and death (nirvana) of Lord Buddha. Buddhists all over the country donate food and clothes to the local monks and pray to Lord Buddha. The event takes place every year on full moon night in May according to the Khmer lunar calendar. 'Buddha Purnima' marks an important day in the country's calendar.
Location: Cambodia
Date: 7th May

Other festivals celebrated in Cambodia are

Angkor Festival

Sea Festival

King Norodom Sihamoni's Birthday

Preah Reach Pithi Bonn Chrot Preah Neang Kol

A valid passport with at least six months validity is required from the date of entry into Cambodia. The Cambodian visa requirements also state that passport holders from Britain, Australia, Canada, USA, and other EU countries are required to have a Cambodia visa for entry into the country.

Visa On Arrival / eVisa
Cambodia visa-on-arrival is available at the Phnom Penh International Airport or Siem Reap International Airport or Sihanoukville International Airport. The processing fee is $30 and two passport size photos will be required. A Cambodia visa for Indians is also available on arrival with a validity of 30 days of stay if the city holds a valid passport, confirmed return tickets and other identity documents.

You can also obtain an evisa online for a fee of $30 and a $6 processing fee. Nationals of any country except for the following are eligible for an eVisa.

Afghanistan

Algeria

Bangladesh

Iran

Iraq

Pakistan

Saudi Arabia

Sri Lanka

Sudan

Syria

Citizens of the following countries can obtain visa-free entry for up to 30 days of stay if they possess a valid passport.

Vietnam

Laos

Thailand (14 days)

Myanmar

Singapore

Brunei (14 days)

Malaysia

Philippines

Indonesia

Seychelles (14 days)

More Types of Visa
You can also apply for a single-entry visa as a tourist for a processing fee of $30. The stay can easily be extended and multiple entry and exits can be obtained. However, a tourist visa can be extended only once and only for one month.

Validity
A single-entry visa is valid for 30 days from the date of entry into the country.

A multiple entry visa is also obtainable that has a validity of one month. The citizen is not allowed to re-enter on exit.

A transit visa is valid for three days from the date of first entry into the country. It is eligible only for non-immigrant passengers and can be used at the Phnom Penh International Airport. Transit passengers who are leaving on the same arrival flight are not required to obtain a visa when transiting through Phnom Penh International Airport.

Tuk-tuk or Moto
Getting around short distances is best in a tuk-tuk where fares are decided beforehand and can cost about $1 to $ 2 for short distances. Fares could be a little higher in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transport and can take you around popular Cambodia tourist attractions such as temples. In case the roads are not accessible, motos are a good way to travel which sometimes is the only way to travel if roads are sealed. There are also local taxi-booking apps such as Exnet in Phnom Penh that you could use.

Bus and Minibus
The cheapest and convenient way to travel in Cambodia is the bus (laan tom) with networks that connect major cities and towns. Phnom Penh Sorya is the biggest privately run company with others like Rith Mony, GST, Paramount Angkor, and Capitol Tours that offer bus services.

You also can choose luxury express buses with comfortable seating with Cambodian singers on board for entertainment and Chinese video flicks playing to make your journey fun. You also get complimentary snacks and free WI-FI on board.

Minibusses also provide transport between important cities. However, the minibusses are often crowded with little legroom and can be uncomfortable. Mekong Express is a luxury minibus with high fares as an option.

Air
Cambodian Angkor Air, Cambodian Bayon Airlines, Sky Angkor, and Bassaka Air fly between the capital Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and other important cities based on their schedule. You could get reasonable fares between important cities on the local airlines of about $60 to $80 one way. There are also some international routes offered to Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai. There are a handful of smaller operators too.

Car
This is not a recommended mode of transport as it is difficult to self- drive in Cambodia as you are required to have a Cambodian driving license that a few companies ask for. The roads are not in good condition and any damage to the car costs you a lot of money due to insufficient insurance coverage. It is always better to hire a car along with the driver in case you choose the option.

Shared Taxi
This is an expensive option, but a faster mode of transport compared to buses and minibusses. Driving through the roads can be inconvenient. However, these ply on most of the local networks that the bus and minibusses do. The seating arrangement is mostly three people in the front seat with the driver and four passengers at the back. If you pay double, you can get the whole front seat to yourself. Local transport stops are available as a starting point with most starting points scheduled in the morning.

Motorbikes and Scooters
A great way to travel quickly is the motorbike ride for an adventurous and fun time. However, do remember due to hazardous road conditions and chaotic traffic, this is best avoided. If you are still keen, you can always hire a motorbike at guesthouses with rents ranging from $6 to $8 per day. Check the condition of the bike and be watchful of thefts. Take advice from the locals on road conditions before venturing out. Bicycles are also available for short distances at $1 to $2 per day.

Boat
Boats are available that run daily between Phnom Penh down the Mekong River to the Vietnamese border. Regular ferries also run from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. There are speed boat options as well. However, the ride may not seem as comfortable as expected with about 30 passengers seated and can get crowded, and hot. Do take along a cap, snacks, and plenty of water.

Via Air Route
Cambodia has major airports that serve international flights such as Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport. People arrive in the country from Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore, and Vietnam among other neighboring places. Cambodia Angkor Air is also a popular Cambodian airline to travel by.

Via Road
There are a few important road routes such as Bangkok to Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. Another important route is Saigon to Phnom Penh. There are bus routes between the Vietnam Cambodia border as well. Driving from Bangkok to Cambodia is famous but do remember to always carry your visa and passport for easier transit at the border.

Via Rail
Take the Trans-Siberian Railway to travel to Cambodia from Europe and there is another rail network between Bangkok to Siem Reap. However, rail is not a preferred service to use with very few railway networks.

Via Sea
Boats travel along the Tonle Sap, Bassac, and Mekong River but the water route is not very popular. Cambodia also has main ports such as Sihanouk International Seaport and Phnom Penh International Port.

Learn about the rich history of Cambodia and read about the country's dark history to appreciate Cambodia tourist spots better.

Use tuk-tuks or buses to travel as they are inexpensive and convenient.

Be prepared for very hot days and nights as Cambodia gets very warm during the peak season between November and March. It is always a good idea to start your day early.

Carry sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and lots of fluids while traveling the country.

Be mindful of the dress you wear especially when visiting temples and cover-up modestly and respectfully as the country is conservative.

Carry adequate cash as USD is also a currency you can use along with Cambodia money, Riel.

Make sure to carry along your travel insurance during travel. We recommend World Nomads for your insurance requirements.

It is a good idea to pick up a few Khmer phrases as 90% of the natives speak the language.

Travel during the festive season to catch a glimpse of the culture such as the Khmer New Year celebration in April or May.

Safety Tips

Carry photocopies of relevant travel documents at all times while keeping the originals in a safe at the hotel.

Be aware of petty thefts and keep your belongings safe.

Do not keep your valuables or belongings unattended on the beach.

Be wary of bag lifters especially while traveling on a tuk-tuk, motorbike or a crowded bus.

Keep your bag on your side rather than your back to avoid bag thefts.

Stay in well-lit areas especially at night and avoid crowds.

Carry very little or no valuables around as you travel.

Backup your phone and important documents to a cloud in case of an emergency.

Police in Cambodia may seek donations as they are poorly paid.

Always wear a helmet on when riding a two-wheeler and carry along a valid license.

Health

Always drink bottled water and avoid ice cubes in your cold drinks.

Peel the fruit before eating to be safe.

Avoid undercooked meat, shellfish, and other food left out for hours.

Carry along with you other preventives such as a mosquito repellant.

Wear loose clothes and apply sunscreen as the days can get very warm.

WHO and CDC recommended vaccinations prior to travel to Cambodia are Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Cholera, Yellow Fever, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies, Tetanus, Diphtheria.

Carry along medications for an upset stomach or diarrhea.

Always keep a first-aid box handy.

What to Pack?

Light-colored comfortable clothes

Sunscreen, Hat

Medical Kit

Travel Insurance

Toiletries

Mosquito Repellant

Reusable Water Bottle

Hand Sanitizer

Backpacks, Day bags

Travel Wallet

Luggage Locks

Camera

Universal Plug Adaptors

Undergarments

Rain Jacket

Phone, Tablet

Travel Documents, Tickets

Cash

Comfortable Shoes, Sandals

Travel Guide

Dress Code & Etiquette

'Chul Mouy' which means cheers in Khmer is a common custom before sipping a drink and takes place with every member of the table to make the moment more meaningful.

Raising your voice or aggressive behavior is avoided as Buddhism religion practiced in the country encourages calmness with a smile to resolve arguments.

Wear appropriate clothing that is modest especially while visiting religious monuments.

The `Sampeah` is a form of greeting instead of shaking hands and saying hello.

Always pass objects with both hands and not by one hand alone.

Slurping, chewing, lip-smacking is a way to show that you are enjoying the meal.

Women should not touch monks and vice versa and any offering are placed on the monk's feet by a woman.

Make sure you leave the chopsticks together on top of the bowl at the end of your meal.

Do not touch anyone on top of the head as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body.

Laos (555 km of the border)
Visit Laos for its breathtaking scenery, spectacular waterfalls, and traditional villages. Some of the fabulous attractions you can tour are Kuang Si Waterfall, Phousi Hill, Pha That Luang Vientiane, Pak Ou Caves, Buddha Park to name a few. Laos is a unique destination that offers a lot of backpacking adventure.

Thailand (817 km of the border)
Phi Phi Islands, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, The Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Pa Tong are just a few attractions in this famous destination. You can explore all this and more with spa massages, beaches, Buddhist temples, exciting nightlife, and shopping, all of which will make your holiday memorable.

Vietnam (1158 km of the border)
Vietnam welcomes you with buzzing cities, Buddhist pagodas, beautiful beaches, and museums that tell a story of the country's history. Go on to visit some of the popular attractions such as the Cu Chi Tunnel, Ha Long Bay, The Marble Mountains, The Reunification Palace to name a few. The country will entice you with its rich green rice fields and wonderful natural beauty.

Distance Between Places Of Importance In And Around Cambodia
Cambodia to the Philippines 1819 km, Cambodia to Laos 853 km, Cambodia to Thailand 566 km, Cambodia to Vietnam 579.9 km

The country's flag is the only one in the world with a building on it.

Khmer New Year celebrations are in mid-April each year.

It is good luck if a giant gecko chirps seven times or more in the same room as you.

Cambodians eat insects such as crickets, ants, and tarantulas as delicacies.

Weddings in Cambodia are a non- stop celebration that can go on up to three days and three nights.

The Khmer Rouge`s brutal rule killed around 2 million people.

63% of the population in Cambodia is under the age of 30.

Birthdays are not celebrated, and the day passes like any ordinary day.

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