Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you embark on a timeless adventure through Cambodia, ensuring seamless communication while exploring the country’s top 10 places to visit, from ancient temples to vibrant cities.
Cambodia’s tourist places pack more history into their compact size than most of its neighbours. Anchoring the country is the temple city of Angkor, a 400-sq-km complex of crumbling ruins and ancient palaces. But that’s just the start for this small but mighty Southeast Asian gem. Beyond Angkor stretches a land of lush forests, idyllic islands, buzzing cities, and proud, welcoming people.
Ready to dive in? Here are the top 10 places to visit in Cambodia, along with must-experience Cambodia tourist attractions.
Angkor Wat: The Jewel of Cambodia’s Heritage
No list of Cambodia tourist attractions is complete without Angkor Wat. The world’s largest religious monument, this 12th-century temple complex sprawls over 162 hectares. Its intricate carvings and towering spires are a testament to the architectural genius of the ancient Khmer.
Things to See in Cambodia’s Angkor Wat
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The iconic 5 pineapple-shaped towers of the main temple complex, which are the most recognizable feature of Angkor Wat
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Intricate bas-relief carvings on the interior walls depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, which are remarkably well-preserved despite being over 900 years old
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Angkor Wat at sunrise provides a breathtaking view of the temple bathed in the soft morning light, though it is very crowded with tourists
Siem Reap: Gateway to Angkor
Most visitors to Angkor Wat base themselves in Siem Reap, a charming town just 7 km from the temples. But Siem Reap is more than just a gateway. Its lively night markets, trendy cafes, and traditional Apsara dance shows make it a must-visit Cambodian tourist place in its own right.
Attraction |
Details |
---|---|
Angkor Night Market |
200+ stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes |
Pub Street |
A lively strip of bars, restaurants, street food |
Phare Circus |
Nightly performances blending dance, acrobatics, theatre |
Tonlé Sap Lake |
Day trips to floating villages, wildlife spotting |
Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s Vibrant Capital
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital, is a city of contrasts. Golden temples and glitzy high-rises sit side-by-side with colonial buildings and chaotic markets.
Things to See in Cambodia’s Capital
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Royal Palace: A gleaming complex of throne halls and temples
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Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Sobering memorial to Cambodia’s dark history
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Central Market: Art Deco landmark packed with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to gold
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Wat Phnom: 14th-century hilltop temple with lovely city views
Sihanoukville: Sun, Sea and Sand
Looking for a beach break in the list of Cambodian places to see? Head to Sihanoukville, Cambodia’s premier beach town. With its golden sands, swaying palms, and turquoise waters, it’s the perfect place to unwind after exploring Cambodia’s cultural treasures.
Best Places to Visit in Cambodia’s Sihanoukville
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Otres Beach: Laid-back stretch of sand with rustic beach huts
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Koh Rong: Idyllic island with dazzling beaches and bioluminescent plankton
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Ream National Park: Coastal reserve with hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife
Battambang: Charming Colonial City
Battambang, Cambodia’s second-largest city, is a delightful mix of French colonial architecture, traditional Khmer culture, and serene countryside. It is a must in Cambodia places to visit. Spend a few days here soaking up the relaxed vibe and exploring the surrounding temples and villages.
Cambodia Tourist Attractions in Battambang
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Ride the quirky bamboo train through lush rice fields
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Watch millions of bats swirl out of Phnom Sampeau caves at sunset
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Visit Wat Banan, an 11th-century Angkorian temple perched on a hilltop
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Take a cooking class and learn to make Khmer classics like amok and lok lak
Ratanakiri: Cambodia’s Wild East
Ratanakiri, a remote province in northeastern Cambodia, is a world away from the tourist trails of Angkor and Phnom Penh.
Top Cambodian places to visit in Ratanakiri
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Yeak Laom Lake: Serene crater lake surrounded by dense jungle
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Virachey National Park: Vast wilderness home to elephants, gibbons, and clouded leopards
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Kachang Waterfall: Tiered cascade plunging into turquoise pools
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Voen Sai: Traditional Jarai village known for its intricate weaving
Kampot: Riverside Relaxation
Kampot, a sleepy riverside town in southern Cambodia, is the perfect place to escape the tourist crowds. Spend your days kayaking on the tranquil Kampot River, exploring nearby pepper plantations, or simply sipping a sundowner at one of the many riverfront cafes.
Kep: Coastal Charm
Just a short drive from Kampot lies Kep, a former French seaside resort with a laid-back charm. Its crumbling colonial villas and breezy seafront promenade hark back to a bygone era. But Kep’s real draw is its seafood – don’t leave without trying the famous Kep crab, fresh from the ocean and smothered in Kampot pepper.
Kratie: Dolphin Spotting on the Mekong
Kratie, a small town on the banks of the mighty Mekong River, is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia for nature lovers. Its main draw is the rare Irrawaddy dolphins, which can be spotted frolicking in the river’s calm waters.
Koh Kong: Untouched Island Paradise
Koh Kong, Cambodia’s southwesternmost province, is a land of pristine islands, dense mangrove forests, and thundering waterfalls. Its crown jewel is the Koh Sdach archipelago, a string of 12 mostly uninhabited islands with powdery beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Stay Connected While Exploring Cambodia with Airtel’s Postpaid Roaming Plans
Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, lounging on tropical beaches, or trekking through pristine forests, Cambodia offers an adventure for every type of traveller. With so many incredible Cambodian tourist places to discover, the hardest part is deciding where to start.
One final tip: Stay connected with an international roaming plan from Airtel. With affordable data packs, you can easily navigate between destinations, book accommodations on the go, and share your Cambodia moments with loved ones back home. Happy travels!