You’re visiting Cambodia! This small, Southeast Asian country is a wonderful choice for a vacation and an adventure. The weather is warm, the people are friendly and welcoming, the food is great, and there’s a little something for everyone within Cambodia’s borders.
If you’re wondering what to see in Cambodia, there is a wide variety of options for every interest and budget. However, there are several things you absolutely should not miss during your visit there. Read on to learn more about what Cambodia has to offer, and what you should see and do while visiting.
1. Angkor Wat/Siem Reap
You can’t visit Cambodia without checking out the ancient temples of Angkor Wat. This site is world-renowned for being the largest religious site in the world today.
Angkor Wat was the capital of the Khmer Empire from the 9th century to the 15th century; it was at first built as a Hindu place of worship, but it later transformed into a Buddhist temple over many centuries. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is visited by over two million people each year.
Tourists can explore the Angkor temples on foot, by bicycle, or by tuk-tuk, and can see much of it on their own, but there are many tours offered as well. You will need several days to see it all, and even then you still will not.
After your Angkor adventure, retire to nearby Siem Reap for great restaurants and souvenir shopping galore.
2. Koh Rong Sanloem
If relaxing island life is something you crave, then don’t miss Koh Rong Sanloem. Adjacent to sister island Koh Rong, this smaller island is quieter and more laid back for is perfect for getting away from it all. Snorkel, hike, dive and watch wildlife while all your cares are forgotten.
3. Kampot
Another answer to the question of what to see in Cambodia is Kampot. This seaside town is full of French Colonial architecture that dates back to the 19th century. Today, it is known for fishing and high-quality Kampot pepper which is enjoyed by culinary enthusiasts worldwide.
4. Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the biggest city in Cambodia; its current population is 1.5 million and about ten percent of the entire country’s population lives there. This city has everything you would expect from a city of its size including museums, cultural activities, sports stadiums, religious sites, and fabulous restaurants.
Phnom Penh’s fast pace is quite the contrast to the rest of the country, but it’s absolutely worth a visit. It’s a bustling city with a lot to see.
5. Preah Vihear
This northern temple is, for the most part, unruined by tourists, although it is beginning to become more well-known and more frequently visited. It sits atop a cliff overlooking the open plains of this region. Preah Vihear has had a controversial past and has been claimed by both Cambodia and Thailand during many conflicts over its ownership.
Hiking is required to reach Preah Vihear temple, but it’s worth it. Like Angkor Wat, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is very well preserved. Guides are available to help you along your way.
Now You Know What to See in Cambodia
No matter where in Cambodia you decide to go on your trip, you will soon see that there are many incredible things to see in this country. When trying to decide what to see in Cambodia, please only consider this list as a starting point. Once you arrive, you will be able to check out these suggestions above and so much more. Have fun!
