Cambodia is a package of Southeast Asia’s best attractions. With an Indochina tour, you will be able to appreciate various types of scenery from mysterious temples and majestic royal buildings to mesmerizing nightlife and magnificent nature. Therefore, once you come to Cambodia, never put any highlights aside and try to appreciate all the facets of Cambodia, the diamond of Southeast Asia.
If you have no idea where to go, this passage will be very helpful. There are 12 best Cambodian attractions selected by our travelers and expert tour guide. Come on and pick up your preferred ones and start your journey in wonderful Cambodia.
Angkor Wat– The 7th Wonder of the World
Angkor Wat, in its beauty and state of preservation, is unrivaled. Its perfection in composition, balance, proportion, reliefs, and sculpture make it one of the finest monuments in the world.
For several decades, it has been attracting tourists around the world and all of them were effusive in their praise for the grandeur of Angkor Wat. Taking photos by the lotus pool, visiting the love stairway, and appreciating graceful goddesses (Apsara and Devata) carved on the walls, you will be lost in the mesmerizing place.
Angkor Thom — The Buried Secret of Khmer and the Largest City in the Middle Ages
With spacious ground, wide moats, and the largest two artificial lakes, Angkor Thom houses numerous magnificent buildings and fascinating historical stories. Entering through the South Gate by car, we can visit the Bayon Temple, Baphuon Temple, Phimeanakas, Terrace of the Elephants, and Terrace of the Leper King along the way. As you delve deeper, you can better experience the enchanting Hindu culture.
Tonle Sap Lake– Another World Floating on the Water
Tonle Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, and it has influenced the civilization of Cambodian people for generations. Here, you can find enchanting sunsets and simple, rustic floating villages. Taking a small boat, we drift on the surface of Tonle Sap Lake, passing by schools, churches, and numerous houses. You will be amazed by the unique lifestyle and the beautiful scenery.
Royal Palace of Phnom Penh — The Magnificent Palace of Cambodian Royal Family
The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh is the residence of the King of Cambodia. The palace features the traditional Khmer style and religious elements, with spires symbolizing prosperity.
The buildings are painted in yellow and white; yellow represents Buddhism, and white represents Brahmanism. The murals on the corridors around the palace depict captivating mythological stories. If you visit Phnom Penh, be sure not to miss this splendid palace.
National Museum of Cambodia– The Treasure Chest of Cambodian Cultural Relic
Located in Phnom Penh, the small museum is rich in collections. It houses artifacts from various parts of Cambodia, offering a comprehensive understanding of Cambodian religion, history, and culture.
There are many noteworthy artifacts, such as the statue of Jayavarman VII, considered the pinnacle of Angkor art, the charming Garuda stone statue, the largest bronze statue in Southeast Asia of Vishnu, and the statue of the goddess known as the “Venus of the East.”
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum– The Tragic Memories of Cambodians in Bygone Days
No Cambodian will ever forget this terrifying period. What was once a school for nurturing talent was turned into a notorious killing center, becoming the grave for approximately 18,000 people. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres remarked, “Its bloodstained bricks and tiles are a warning to us all: This is what happens when hatred runs rampant.
This is what happens when human beings are persecuted, and human rights are denied. By reflecting on this painful history, we can cherish peace more deeply and understand the preciousness of equality for all.
Sihanoukville– The Unspoiled Beauty of Beach and Sea
Sihanoukville is a haven for sea and beach enthusiasts, featuring numerous pristine beaches and islands. Among these stunning islands, Koh Rong is a favorite for many travelers. Here, you can sunbathe, swim, dive, snorkel, and join lively bonfire parties. It is the perfect place to leave your worries behind and embrace a relaxed, carefree lifestyle. If you want to experience the most authentic island life, Sokha Beach, Golden Silver Bay, and many other islands are also worth visiting.
Battambang Ride the Bamboo Train– The Refreshing Journey on the Bamboo Train
The Bamboo Train (Nori) is among the top attractions in Battambang. It always takes half a day to complete this ride. The trains pass through lovely landscapes like villages comprising paddy fields, temples, fruit orchards, and pretty local flora, giving you a wonderful glimpse of Battambang’s idyllic scenery. By enjoying the gentle breeze and the tranquil atmosphere of rural areas, you will be fully relaxed.
Phnom Sampeau– The Ideal Destination for Nature Lovers and the Site of Famous Bat Cave
Phnom Sampeau is a limestone mountain in Battambang. It is an excellent destination for hiking enthusiasts. As you walk through the paths, you will pass by ancient temples and caves once used as prisons by the Khmer Rouge, and old cannons forgotten in the weeds. Standing on the mountain top, you can overlook the countryside scenery and golden pagodas below. Such breathtaking views will surely amaze you. At the base of the mountain is the famous Bat Cave, where, if you visit at 6 PM, you will have the chance to witness the spectacular sight of bats emerging from the cave.
Kratié– The Warm Encounter with Lovely Freshwater Dolphins
Located along the Mekong River, Kratie is a renowned tourist destination in Cambodia, featuring numerous ancient Buddhist temples, exquisite French and Khmer architecture, and resorts that combine leisure and entertainment. It is an ideal place for visitors to experience the slow-paced life of Southeast Asia. Kratie is also a great spot for watching fresh dolphins; if you’re lucky, you might see groups of these dolphins leaping out of the water.
Kep — The Romantic Coastal City
The charm of Kep is everywhere. Kep Beach, with its gentle waves, soft sand, and lush green forests, is mesmerizing. The seafood at the Crab Market is incredibly delicious, and here you can savor fresh and uniquely flavored Cambodian snacks. On Rabbit Island, you can set up a lounge chair on the beach, enjoying a tranquil sunbath and the gentle breeze. Stepping into the fragrant pepper farms, you’ll be enveloped by the rich aroma. Find your favorite pepper and take it home as a souvenir. This special fragrance will always remind you of your wonderful trip to Kep.
Kampot — The Best Place to Experience the Local Life
Spend $5 to rent a motorbike and explore Bokor Mountain Park, where you can visit waterfalls and mountain springs. You can join the locals, camp on the slopes, and enjoy the mountain scenery, sunsets, and leisurely conversations. In Phnom Kbal Romeas, you can experience the thrill of rock climbing and enjoy the refreshing coolness of nature. You can also visit the natural caves of Phnom Sorsia to witness the stunning stalactite formations and marvel at the wonders crafted by nature.
Useful Tips for Cambodia Tours
Both e-visas and landing visas are acceptable for entry into Cambodia. Please ensure that your passport meets the six-month validity requirement and prepare the required materials in advance.
Package tours and independent tours each have their respective advantages and disadvantages. Choosing a package tour can save you the hassle of arranging itineraries, but you might miss some places of personal interest. On the other hand, opting for an independent tour allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but requires much effort in planning your itinerary and accommodations.
To avoid these problems, you can order escorted tours from local travel agencies. We, Indochina Tour, also provide such a service. If you need help, you can contact us.
Conclusion
The 12 attractions will show you the different beauties of Cambodia, adding joy to your Cambodia tour. Moreover, there are other interesting places to go in Cambodia, such as the pyramid-shaped Prasat Thom, Preah Vihear Temple standing by the cliff, and the bustling Phnom Penh Central Market. There are a thousand wonderful Cambodians in a thousand tourists’ eyes!
If you are interested in Cambodia, please feel free to contact us. We can curate your itinerary according to your preferences!
