Cambodia is one of those countries that surprises nearly everyone who visits. Nestled between Thailand and Vietnam, the country’s history is filled with ancient wonders, tragic moments, and a spirit of resilience that you’ll feel the moment you step foot there.
Most people recognize Cambodia for one thing: Angkor Wat. But beyond this famous attraction, there’s a whole world of experiences waiting for you. Cambodia offers a mix of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, unique cuisine, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.
Cambodia At a Glance
The capital of Cambodia is Phnom Penh, and it’s the largest city in the country. It’s a bustling city with a mix of old and new, combining French colonial architecture with modern developments. Other major cities include Siem Reap, which is the gateway to Angkor Wat, and Sihanoukville, known for its beaches and islands.
The official language is Khmer, though English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. For everyday expenses, you’ll be using Cambodian Riel (KHR), but don’t be surprised to see U.S. dollars being accepted nearly everywhere, especially for larger purchases.
One standout cultural element in Cambodia is their relationship with religion. About 95% of the population practices Theravada Buddhism, and you’ll see monks and pagodas everywhere. This influences daily life in a way that’s peaceful and community-driven.
History and Culture
The Angkor Empire and Angkor Wat
Cambodia moves on the pulse of its incredible history. The Khmer Empire, which ruled much of Southeast Asia from the 9th to 15th centuries, has left an indelible mark. And the crown jewel of this era? Angkor Wat. It’s the largest religious monument in the world, originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, but later transformed into a Buddhist site.

Visiting Angkor Wat is a bucket-list item for almost everyone who’s remotely interested in history, architecture, or culture. You’ll want to spend at least two full days exploring the Angkor Archaeological Park, as there’s so much more than just Angkor Wat itself. Bayon Temple, with its giant stone faces, and Ta Prohm, overgrown by jungle, are must-sees.
Modern History: The Khmer Rouge
Unfortunately, Cambodia’s recent past also includes a tragic chapter. From 1975-1979, the Khmer Rouge regime, led by Pol Pot, carried out one of the worst genocides in the 20th century. An estimated 1.7 million people died due to forced labor, starvation, and execution.
Today, you can visit sites like the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh to understand this part of the country’s history. It’s not an easy experience, but it’s essential for understanding Cambodia’s people, their struggles, and how far they’ve come.

Top Places to Visit
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is a city that gets overlooked because most visitors tend to focus on Siem Reap. This is a mistake. Phnom Penh offers a unique mix of Khmer and French influences, a vibrant riverside, markets, and several important cultural sites.
Make sure you visit the Royal Palace, where the King of Cambodia resides. The palace is beautiful, and its Silver Pagoda is particularly fascinating, housing many national treasures. Don’t miss the National Museum either; it provides an excellent introduction to Cambodia’s history, including artifacts from the Angkor era.
If you’re brave enough, take a tuk-tuk ride through the city’s chaotic traffic—it’s the best way to see the action up close. You’ll find street food vendors, lively markets, and plenty of local restaurants to try out Cambodian dishes like amok, a creamy curry made with fish and coconut milk.
Siem Reap and Temples of Angkor
Siem Reap is the gateway to Angkor Wat and is the top tourist destination in Cambodia. But beyond the temples, Siem Reap has developed into a hub for culture, entertainment, and food. You’ll find plenty of lively markets, modern art galleries, and a really fun nightlife scene around Pub Street.

The temples of Angkor are the main draw though, and they should be. There are hundreds of structures to explore, so don’t rush through it. Sunrise at Angkor Wat is often considered a life-changing moment.
Get a 3-day pass to fully experience the temples. Spend time wandering lesser-known temples like Banteay Srei, a temple known for its intricate carvings, and Preah Khan, a sprawling complex that’s often quieter than the more popular temples.
Sihanoukville and the Islands
If you’re looking for some beach time, Sihanoukville is a good starting point. While the town isn’t the quiet, chilled-out spot it once was (due to an influx of casinos and construction), the islands off the coast are still largely unspoiled.
Koh Rong is one of the most popular islands. It’s a paradise of white sand beaches and turquoise waters. While Koh Rong offers a bit more nightlife, if you want something even more relaxed, head to Koh Rong Samloem. It’s like Koh Rong’s sleepy sibling, and you can spend hours just snorkeling, swimming, or lounging on the beach.

Local Tips
Getting Around
Cambodia’s infrastructure is gradually improving, but expect some bumpy roads along the way. Traveling by bus is common and cheap, though buses can be slow. For shorter trips or city travel, tuk-tuks are a fun option, and they’re everywhere. Always negotiate the price before hopping in.
If you prefer a quicker pace, Cambodia’s domestic flights (Phnom Penh-Siem Reap-Sihanoukville) are affordable. For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike is also an option—but be cautious as traffic in Cambodia can be chaotic!
Costs
Cambodia is one of the most budget-friendly countries in Southeast Asia. Street food costs around $1-2, and you’ll easily find accommodation options for as low as $5 per night if you’re into hostels. Mid-range hotels go from $20-40, and high-end hotels are surprisingly affordable too, often costing around $100 per night or less for something really nice.

The local tip is to use a mix of USD and Cambodian Riel (small change is usually given in riel). Most ATMs dispense USD anyway, so it’s convenient for travelers.
Food You Must Try
Fish Amok
Fish amok is the national dish of Cambodia. It’s a creamy, flavorful curry made with coconut milk, lemongrass, turmeric, ginger, and fish. You’ll find it everywhere, from street stalls to high-end restaurants. It’s usually served in a banana leaf with rice on the side.
Lok Lak
Another must-try dish is beef lok lak, a stir-fried beef dish served with rice, a pepper-lime dipping sauce, and sometimes a fried egg on top. It’s simple but full of flavor and a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
Nom Banh Chok
For breakfast, try nom banh chok, also called Khmer noodles. This is a light and refreshing dish of cold rice noodles served with a green fish curry sauce, fresh greens, and herbs. It’s popular at morning markets, and it’s a refreshing way to start your day.
Why You Should Go
Cambodia is more than just Angkor Wat. It’s a country brimming with history, natural beauty, welcoming locals, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you want to dive into its past or discover remote beaches, Cambodia has something for every traveler.
It’s also an easy country to travel in, even for beginners, and one of the most affordable places in Southeast Asia. The people are wonderful, and while the country has been through unimaginable hardships, their optimism and hospitality shine through.
If you’re looking to explore somewhere a bit off the beaten path but still offers comforts, Cambodia should be high on your list. With its captivating temples, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, it’s a place that will stick with you long after you leave.
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