Choose the best package tour and join the ultimate trip to explore the mystery of Cambodia.
Go wild, go slow, go smooth, go solo - an adventure is what you make of it.
The best places to visit in Vietnam and Indochina.
All trips can be tailored to your schedule, interests and budget.
Cambodia's stories and tips from our travel experts.
Find out what’s happening at Cambodia Travel Package - from the latest travel news to our special offers.
Embark on a journey to Cambodia and discover some of Southeast Asia’s most captivating experiences. From awe-inspiring temples to pristine beaches and exotic wildlife, Cambodia has it all. With so much to explore, it’s worth spending a few weeks in this enchanting country. Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, has come a long way since its tumultuous past and is now a bustling hub of contemporary life. However, Siem Reap, the gateway to the majestic temples of Angkor, is giving the capital a run for its money with its sophisticated restaurants, lively bars, and chic boutiques. And let’s not forget about the World Heritage-listed Angkor, home to some of the most spectacular temples on earth. Several up-and-coming beach resorts and tropical islands are emerging on the South Coast of Cambodia. Northwestern Cambodia is home to Battambang, a French-colonial city that offers a more traditional slice of Cambodian life and several remote jungle temples. The country’s wild east is where elephants roam, waterfalls thunder, and freshwater dolphins frolic. Cambodia is a country that is home to some of Southeast Asia’s most awe-inspiring experiences. To begin your adventure, here are some of the best places to visit in the country. 1. The temples of Angkor A stunning display of sacredness The Angkor temples, a globally recognized destination, consistently rank first on the world’s top attractions lists. The most renowned structures include Angkor Wat, the largest religious edifice globally, and the Bayon, a unique temple known for its intriguing collection of sculpted stone faces. Another notable site is Ta Prohm, where nature has reclaimed its dominance over the ancient stonework. The ancient Khmers constructed an array of structures equivalent to all of Europe’s cathedrals within an area comparable to Los Angeles, making it worthwhile to spend time exploring. Numerous peripheral temple sites attract fewer crowds, such as the intricately carved Banteay Srei, the overgrown remnants of Beng Mealea, and Prasat Thom at Koh Ker, a temple resembling a Mayan-style pyramid. 2. Cambodia's Southern Islands Best for beaches relaxing Although the Cambodian coast, adorned with sand, may not hold the same fame as the beaches of Thailand or Indonesia, it nonetheless provides a complete tropical retreat experience, minus the overwhelming crowds. The neighboring islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are the most frequented, surrounded by clear blue waters and plentiful pristine white sand. The coastline is dotted with numerous other islands, including the largely unexplored Koh Sdach Archipelago and the vast, almost untouched Koh Kong. The smaller islands near the imposing Sihanoukville, such as Koh Russey with its high-end resorts and Koh Ta Khiev with its relaxed backpacker bungalows, should not be missed. 3. Phnom Penh Best for fine dining and nightlife The capital of Cambodia, despite its chaotic charm, has emerged from the dark shadows of its conflict-ridden history to embrace a promising future. With one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating riverfronts, Phnom Penh is evolving into a refined modern capital, thanks to its remarkable array of boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants, and bohemian bars. Urban adventurers can indulge in day-long feasts and night-long festivities, or delve into the awe-inspiring National Museum and the chilling Tuol Sleng prison, which together encapsulate the highs and lows of Cambodia’s history. Once referred to as the ‘pearl of Asia,’ Phnom Penh is reclaiming its luster. 4. Kampot and Kep Best for countryside scenery The southern twin provinces present an ideal blend of travel amenities and genuine local charm for those desiring a more comprehensive experience than the typical island getaway. The delightful town of Kampot offers a variety of backpacker hostels, riverside resorts, and boutique hotels as bases for visitors to appreciate the French architectural heritage, explore the scenic river via paddleboard or kayak, or journey into the idyllic countryside on a bicycle. The beachside boutique allure of Kep boasts its renowned Crab Market, hiking opportunities in Kep National Park, and the nearby Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) - a perfect refuge from the hustle and bustle. Rural escapades encompass the serpentine climb to the atmospheric Bokor Hill Station, hidden cave pagodas dating back to the 7th century, and visits to traditional pepper farms. Make sure to take a leisurely drive through the salt flats at sunset, where workers employ a conventional yoke and baskets to collect the region’s ‘white gold’. 5. The Cardamom Mountains Best for motorcycle adventures Encompassing a vast area of 20,746 square kilometers (or 8010 square miles), the Cardamom Rainforest Landscape protected area is home to one of Southeast Asia’s last remaining wilderness regions – the remote Cardamom Mountains. This region of extraordinary beauty and remarkable biodiversity includes a green corridor that houses many of Cambodia’s most exceptional natural sites. If possible, traverse the landscape on a motorbike to fully immerse yourself in the surroundings. Notable features include the secluded Stung Areng Valley, the expansive grasslands and striking cliffs of Khnong Phsar, award-winning eco-lodges in Botum Sakor National Park, and the Tatai Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its iconic waterfall, numerous eco-adventures, and enchanting accommodations. For those seeking a journey into the wild, the Cardamom Mountains are the ideal destination. 6. Siem Reap Best for a taste of local life While Siem Reap may primarily be known as the gateway to the temples of Angkor, this enchanting town has evolved into a destination of global stature, boasting an excellent array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, vibrant markets, trendy boutiques, and avant-garde galleries. Beyond the town center, you’ll find ethereal floating villages on the Tonlé Sap lake, adventurous activities like quad biking and ziplining, and cultural experiences such as cooking classes and martial arts courses. For a unique experience, venture to the nearby traditional villages where you can immerse yourself in local life through warm and inviting homestays. Siem Reap experienced significant impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to the closure of many businesses. However, concerted efforts have been made to ‘build back better’ with improvements such as renovated roads, riverside gardens, and city-wide cycle lanes. 7. Mondulkiri Best for wildlife-spotting In the northeastern region of the nation, the boundless rice fields and sugar palms that typify most of Cambodia’s landscape yield to the untamed rolling hills of Mondulkiri, the homeland of the Indigenous Bunong people. The area’s wildlife is a major attraction, offering the chance to ‘walk with the herd’ at the Elephant Valley Project (a commendable alternative to detrimental elephant-riding) or to spot douc langurs or gibbons on an expedition through the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary. With the addition of resounding waterfalls and a jungle zipline, you have all the elements for an unforgettable ecotourism adventure. 8. Battambang Best for contrasting historic architecture Meandering along the Sangker River, Battambang represents the quintessential urban Cambodia and is one of the nation’s most well-conserved towns from the colonial era. Its streets of shophouses accommodate everything from fairtrade cafes to art galleries. Beyond the town, in the rural landscape, lies a group of ancient temples that, while not as renowned as the temples of Angkor, are typically less crowded. Battambang is also the base for the inspiring Phare Ponleu Selpak, a distinguished arts NGO that nurtures performing artists and hosts compelling performance art shows that blend circus skills with theater and storytelling. Battambang, far removed from the hustle of Phnom Penh and the throngs at Angkor, is certainly worth a detour from the usual tourist path. 9. Preah Vihear Temple Best for ruins with a view Prasat Preah Vihear, the paramount of all mountain temples, majestically perches atop the Dangkrek Mountains, a ridge cloaked in forest that once marked a disputed boundary between Cambodia and Thailand. The temple’s foundation stones extend to the brink of a cliff that plunges dramatically to the plains beneath, offering awe-inspiring views across northern Cambodia. Built over three centuries ago, the temple serves as a three-dimensional embodiment of Mt Meru, the epicenter of the universe in Hindu mythology. It provides intriguing glimpses into the progression of carving and sculpture during the Angkorian era. The temple’s allure lies in its location – remote and challenging to access, but the journey is undeniably rewarding. 10. Kratie Best for Mekong River adventures Kratie serves as the starting point for excursions to observe the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong River. It’s a bustling crossroads on the land route between Phnom Penh and northeastern Cambodia or southern Laos. Beyond the dolphins, the town exudes a certain charm of fading colonial elegance and offers some of the country’s most stunning Mekong sunsets. The nearby Koh Trong island is a tranquil spot to enjoy genuine Khmer hospitality at a local homestay or to explore on a rented bicycle. To the north of Kratie is the Mekong Discovery Trail, offering a variety of adventures and experiences centered around the mother river, including community-based homestays, bike rides, and boat trips.
While some locals humorously claim that Cambodia experiences three seasons - hot, hotter, and hottest - the truth is that this captivating Southeast Asian country has two distinct seasons: dry and wet. These seasons not only shape the agricultural cycle but also dramatically transform the nation’s landscape. The dry season extends from November to May, with the “cool season” from November to February being the most favored time for tourists due to the relatively mild weather. From February to May, the landscape may appear somewhat dry as daytime temperatures can rise above 40°C (104°F). The wet season typically lasts from June to October, aligning with the southwest monsoon. However, this doesn’t necessarily make it an unfavorable time to visit Cambodia. The rain usually pours heavily once a day around sunset, the countryside is lush with greenery, and numerous hotels and resorts provide significant discounts. Here's a guide to the best times to visit Cambodia. November-March (High Season) is the best time for good weather and exploring temples During the “winter” months in Southeast Asia, Cambodia enjoys a more moderate climate similar to the Mediterranean. The temperature sometimes falls under 20°C (68°F), making Cambodians reach for their jackets and sweaters. This also makes visiting the temples more enjoyable, but it means that Angkor is very busy. Many hotels are reserved beforehand, especially around Christmas and New Year and during Chinese New Year, which is based on the lunar calendar and occurs in January or February. July-August (Shoulder Season) is the best time for families Even though it’s Cambodia’s rainy season, the rain is not too frequent, but it’s enough to fill up the Tonle Sap lake. It’s a great time for families from Europe and North America, who can enjoy the long school breaks and lower prices at hotels and resorts. Angkor is also less crowded during the “green season” when the water levels are high and the temples are covered with moss and lichen. The main downside of travelling in the shoulder season is that the coast can get very rainy, making Koh Rong and other beautiful islands near Sihanoukville damp and windy. April-June & September-October (Low Season) is the best time for discounts The weather is not very favorable in these months. April and May are extremely hot, and September and October are very rainy. However, this is the time when hotels and resorts offer their best deals. You can get a big discount if you stay at five-star hotels and luxury resorts. September and October are the peak of the rainy season, but this also creates green scenery and impressive clouds. A guide to the year-round events Cambodia’s major festivals are based on the lunar calendar and span over more than one month on the Gregorian calendar. Here’s what you can expect throughout the year. January–March is the most crowded time of year This is the high season for tourism in Cambodia, and Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and the South Coast are usually packed. The global New Year celebrations are followed by Chinese and Vietnamese New Years’ events, so be prepared for some festive fun. Chaul Chnam Chen & Tet: The Chinese New Year – locally called Chaul Chnam Chen – matches with Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, occurring in either January or February depending on the year. As many of Phnom Penh’s businesses are owned by Chinese-Khmers, trade stops around this time and there are dragon dances all over the city. April–June marks the start of the rains and the festivals This is the low season for tourists, as the monsoon arrives, bringing frequent rain until October. Young rice is sown and the landscape turns green again after the dry months of the dry season. April is the most significant month for Khmers, celebrating the Cambodian New Year. However, temperatures soar and the mercury often reaches 40°C (104°F). Chaul Chnam Khmer: During the three-day festivity of Chaul Chnam Khmer (Khmer New Year) in mid-April, Cambodians give offerings at wats, tidy up their homes and give presents. It is a remarkable time to visit the Kingdom as Khmers have fun with water in the rural areas, and a friendly water fight breaks out across the country (throwing talcum powder is also common). Chat Preah Nengkal (Royal Ploughing Ceremony): Led by the royal family, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony is an old agricultural festival held to signify the traditional start of the rice-planting season. The royal oxen forecast whether or not it will be a good harvest by eating the holy crop. The ritual happens in early May and moves around different provincial capitals. Visakha Puja (Buddha Day): A commemoration of Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and parinibbana (passing), Visakha Puja sees locals go to wats (pagodas) to show their reverence. The festival occurs on the eighth day of the fourth moon (in May or June) and sees parades of monks holding candles through Angkor Wat at night. July–September brings more festivities and backpackers Tourism increases in July and August because of the school holidays in Europe and the US. Backpackers also flock to Cambodia and the Mekong region to enjoy the university and college holidays. September is usually the rainiest month in Cambodia, with occasional flooding along the Mekong and around Battambang. The Khmer calendar’s second-biggest festival, P’chum Ben, happens in September or October. P’chum Ben (Festival of the Dead): This festival is similar to the Christian All Souls’ Day when offerings are made at wats to honor the dead. P’chum Ben goes on for several days and faithful Buddhists are supposed to visit seven wats during the festival. Local temples are full of color, ceremonies and chanting. October-December brings warm, dry winds after the rain The rain lasts until late October and this has caused some severe flooding in recent years. However, the countryside is very green, and it’s a great time for boat travel between Siem Reap and Battambang. November marks the beginning of the dry, windy season, the best time to be in the country. The high tourist season begins and goes on until February. Bon Om Tuk, the popular Water Festival, happens in October or November. Christmas and New Year are busy times for visitors at Angkor and top beach resorts, so reserve well in advance. The international New Year on 31 December is widely (and wildly) celebrated in major cities such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Bon Om Tuk (Water Festival): Commemorating the victory of King Jayavarman VII over the Chams, this significant festival in October or November also marks the amazing natural phenomenon of the reversal of the flow of the Tonlé Sap River. It’s a wonderful, hectic time to be in Cambodia, with boat races at Sisowath Quay in Phnom Penh, and riverside parties in Siem Reap. Angkor Photo Festival: In Siem Reap, local and regional photographers gather at the temples and work with local youths to teach them the skills of the trade at this community-minded festival in November or December. Photography exhibitions are held all over town and some famous Vietnam War-era photographers are sometimes present. Angkor Wat International Half Marathon: This half marathon in December has been a part of the sporting calendar for two decades. Choose from a 21km (13-mile) half marathon, a 10km (6.2-mile) fun run or various bicycle races. It’s hard to imagine a better scenery for a run than the incredible temples of Angkor.
Best Food in Cambodia: A Guide to the Country’s Culinary DelightsCambodia is a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. But it is also a country with a diverse and delicious cuisine that reflects its geographic and historical influences. From the fresh and fragrant fish amok, the national dish, to the crunchy and exotic fried tarantula, there is something for every palate and adventurous eater. Here are some of the best dishes to try in Cambodia, along with some recommendations on where to find them.1. Fish AmokFish amok (steamed coconut fish in banana leaves) is a creamy and aromatic curry made with coconut milk, eggs, fish sauce, palm sugar, and kroeung, a spice paste of lemongrass, kaffir lime, galangal, turmeric, and other herbs. The curry is steamed in banana leaves, giving it a soft and mousse-like texture. The dish is usually made with freshwater fish, such as catfish or snakehead, but can also be prepared with chicken, tofu, or snails. Fish amok is widely available in restaurants and street stalls across Cambodia, but one of the best places to try it is at Romdeng, a social enterprise that trains disadvantaged youth in hospitality skills and serves traditional Khmer cuisine.2. Kuy TeavKuy teav is a popular breakfast dish that consists of rice noodles in a clear broth made from pork or beef bones. The soup is flavored with fried garlic, shallots, green onions, and bean sprouts, and topped with pork or beef balls, sliced meat, and sometimes seafood. Kuy teav is often served with condiments such as lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chili paste, allowing diners to adjust the taste to their liking. Kuy teav can be found in many street stalls and markets, especially in the morning, but one of the best places to enjoy it is at Phnom Penh Noodle Shack, a family-run restaurant that specializes in this dish.3. Char Kroeung Sach KoChar kroeung sach ko (stir-fried lemongrass beef) is a stir-fried dish of thinly sliced beef marinated in kroeung, the same spice paste used in fish amok. The beef is cooked with lemongrass, garlic, chili, and holy basil, giving it a fragrant and spicy flavor. The dish is usually served with rice or french fries, and sometimes with a fried egg on top. Char kroeung sach ko is a common dish in Cambodian homes, but it can also be found in some restaurants and cafes. One of the best places to try it is at Malis, a fine dining restaurant that offers authentic and refined Khmer cuisine.4. Twa KoTwa ko (Cambodian sausage) is a type of Cambodian sausage made from minced pork, garlic, soy sauce, sugar, and salt. The mixture is stuffed into a casing made from cow or pig intestines, and then fermented for a few days. The sausage is then grilled, fried, or steamed, and served with pickled vegetables, rice, or bread. Twa ko is a popular snack or appetizer, and can be bought from street vendors or markets. One of the best places to try it is at Sovanna BBQ, a lively and popular restaurant that serves a variety of grilled meats and seafood.5. Nom Banh ChokNom banh chok (Khmer noodles) is a refreshing and light dish of thin rice noodles topped with a green fish curry and fresh herbs and vegetables. The curry is made with coconut milk, lemongrass, turmeric, kaffir lime, and fingerroot, and usually contains snakehead fish or prawns. The noodles are served cold, and the dish is garnished with cucumber, banana blossom, bean sprouts, mint, and basil. Nom banh chok is often sold by women carrying the ingredients on poles over their shoulders, but it can also be found in some restaurants and cafes. One of the best places to try it is at Friends the Restaurant, another social enterprise that trains street children in cooking and service skills and serves delicious Khmer and international dishes.6. Bai Sach ChroukBai sach chrouk (grilled pork and broken rice) is a simple but satisfying dish of grilled pork and rice, often eaten for breakfast. The pork is marinated in coconut milk, garlic, soy sauce, and sugar, and then grilled over charcoal until tender and juicy. The rice is cooked with chicken stock and garlic, giving it a fragrant and savory flavor. The dish is served with pickled cucumbers and carrots, and a bowl of chicken broth. Bai sach chrouk can be found in many street stalls and markets, especially in the morning, but one of the best places to try it is at [Bai Sach Chrouk], a small and cozy restaurant that specializes in this dish.7. Lok LakLok lak (stir-fried beef in brown sauce) is a stir-fried dish of beef cubes in a brown sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and black pepper. The beef is usually marinated in lime juice and garlic, and cooked with onions and tomatoes. The dish is served with lettuce, cucumber, tomato, and onion slices, and a dipping sauce of lime juice and black pepper. Sometimes, a fried egg is added on top. Lok lak is a common dish in Cambodian restaurants, but it can also be found in some street stalls and cafes. One of the best places to try it is at [Khema], a chic and modern restaurant that serves a variety of Khmer and French dishes.8. Samlor Machu TreyA common and delicious soup in Cambodia is Samlor Machu Trey (sweet and sour soup with fish), which has a simple preparation and a wonderful flavor. It is made with fish, tamarind juice, lemongrass, garlic, celery, bean sprouts, pineapple and some seasonings like fish sauce, sugar, and salt.Some people like to sprinkle some hot chilli pepper and fresh green herbs over the soup before they enjoy it.Cambodia is a country that offers a feast for the senses, and its cuisine is no exception. Whether you are looking for a traditional and authentic dish, or a daring and adventurous one, you will find it in Cambodia. Bon appetit!
Our team of experienced tour specialists have decades of first-hand travel experience to share. Contact us now to have all of your tour-related questions answered!
