Cambodia
Cambodia is situated in Southeast Asia. This amazing country has turbulent history, fascinating culture, and natural beauty. From ancient temples to cities and tropical islands. There are countless reasons to add Cambodia to your travel bucket list. One of the primary attractions is its breathtaking temples, particularly the renowned Angkor Wat complex. This UNESCO World Heritage Site will bring you back in time with its detailed carvings and impressive architecture. With affordable prices and warm hospitality from the locals, it is an ideal destination for budget travellers.
A brief history
Cambodia has a long history, marked in its numerous ancient temples and ruins. The powerful Khmer Empire thrived from the 9th to the 15th century. In more recent history, Cambodia has faced challenges, including colonization by France, civil war, and the tragic Khmer Rouge regime in the late 1970s. Cambodia is today a peaceful and fast developing nation that takes pride in its cultural heritage and warmly welcomes visitors.
Discovering Khmer culture
The Khmer people form the ethnic majority in Cambodia. Their culture is deeply connected with the country’s history. From traditional dances to heavenly cuisine. There are many opportunities to immerse yourself in Khmer culture during your travels. A must-try experience is visiting a local market, where you can sample fresh fruits and vegetables, negotiate for souvenirs, and interact with friendly vendors. Be sure to try popular dishes such as amok (a coconut milk-based curry) and lok lak (stir-fried beef served with rice). For a more authentic experience, consider choosing for a homestay with a Khmer family.
Cambodia’s nature
While Cambodia is known for its ancient temples, the country also has stunning natural landscapes. Take a break from temple-hopping to relax on pristine beaches or swim in crystal-clear waters along the southern coast. Or explore the jungles of northeastern Cambodia. The jungles are home to rare wildlife such as elephants, tigers and gibbons. If you are looking for more thrilled adventure, opportunities for trekking, zip-lining, and even bungee jumping are available in certain areas.
Responsible tourism
As tourism continues to grow in Cambodia, being a responsible traveller is crucial for supporting the local community. This includes selecting eco-friendly accommodations, participating in volunteer programs, and supporting social enterprises that empower disadvantaged communities. You can also learn about Cambodia’s history and culture through responsible tourism activities, such as visiting community-run museums and attending traditional performances. By being mindful of your impact, you can contribute to sustainable development in Cambodia.
Cultural Cambodia
Cambodia’s history is reflected in its diverse culture, influenced by neighbouring countries such as Thailand, Vietnam and China. From culinary delights to fashion and customs, you will find an interesting blend of traditions throughout the country. You can also witness the cultural fusion through traditional dances, such as the Apsara dance. It has elements from Hindu and Buddhist mythology.
Interesting places to visit
Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is situated in Siem Reap. It is an extraordinary temple complex constructed during the Khmer Empire. The temple is recognized as the largest religious monument in the world. It was designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. The complex detailed carvings and remarkable architecture make it an essential visit for enthusiasts of history and architecture.
Siem Reap
Siem Reap is for many travellers just a gateway to Angkor Wat. But Siem Reap offers more than a mere stopover. This delightful city has some interesting local markets, street food, and a lively nightlife. Visitors can also explore museums, art galleries, and traditional dance performances in this culturally rich location.
Phnom Penh
As Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh is a metropolis that seamlessly blends traditional and modern influences. The Red Khmer completely destroyed the city during their reign of terror. It’s therefor impressive to see how fast the city has redeveloped itself. The city has a mix of ancient temples and palaces alongside contemporary skyscrapers and shopping centres. Key attractions include the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum. The last one have displays of Khmer art throughout the centuries.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
An eery historical site in Phnom Penh is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. It was originally a high school that was repurposed into a prison during the Khmer Rouge regime. Visitors can explore the exhibits and displays illustrating the torture methods inflicted on prisoners. The audio guide will give insight into the violence that occurred during this dark chapter in Cambodian history. Visit the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum first before going to the Killing Fields.
The Killing Fields
A sombre and dark reminder of Cambodia’s tragic history are the Killing Fields. There is one located just outside Phnom Penh. This site was where thousands of innocent victims were brutally executed during the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Today it is a memorial and museum, allowing visitors to pay their respects and gain insight into the country’s past. I highly recommend going for the audio guide. It’s very informative and crucial to understand what has happened during the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia.
Battambang
Battambang is situated in northwest Cambodia. It is a charming city characterized by its picturesque colonial architecture and ancient temples. The region is also known for its rice production and art scene. The city has many galleries and street murals that highlight local talent. You can enjoy a boat ride along the Sangkae River or explore the scenic countryside by bicycle.
Koh Rong Sanloem
If you are looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience you should visit Koh Rong Sanloem. It is a small island off the coast of Sihanoukville. It is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, pristine white sandy beaches and natural landscape. It is an ideal destination to relax. You can also go snorkeling or scuba diving to discover the marine life surrounding the island.
Festivals & holidays
Cambodia is a culturally rich nation with several national holidays and festivals celebrated throughout the year. These events are deeply rooted in the country’s history, religion, and traditions.
Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey)
Khmer New Year is one of the most significant holidays in Cambodia. It is typically happening on April 14th to 16th. It marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new year according to the traditional lunar calendar. The festivities are held for three days. During these days families come together to pay respects to their ancestors and visit temples to make offerings. Water plays an important role in the celebrations. Participants wet one another in water, symbolizing cleansing and renewal.
Royal ploughing ceremony (Pithi Chrot Preah Neang)
The Royal Ploughing Ceremony is an ancient ritual originating from the Angkorian era. It takes place in May and signals the start of the rice planting season. Cambodians pray for a generous harvest. According to tradition, the King or a designated representative will plow a plot of land. They use a plow drawn by two bulls. As the first individual to prepare a field, the King’s participation in the ceremony serves as an inspiration for others to start their agricultural work. This ceremony is also celebrated in Thailand.
Pchum Ben (Ancestor’s Day)
Pchum Ben is known as Ancestor’s Day. It is a two-week religious festival usually celebrated in September or October. This festival is dedicated to remembering and honouring deceased family members. During this period the Cambodians visit pagodas early in the morning to offer food, flowers, and incense to their ancestors. It is believed that the spirits return to earth during this time. The offerings assist them in finding peace in the afterlife.
Water festival (Bon Om Touk)
The Water Festival, or Bon Om Touk, is a traditional Cambodian celebration held in October or November. The festival marks the end of the monsoon season and the exchange of the Tonle Sap River’s flow. The festival’s highlight is the dragon boat races. Teams compete with each other in decorated boats along the riverfront in Phnom Penh. This event comes with fireworks, live music, and street food. It creates a lively atmosphere for both locals and tourists.
Independence Day
The Independence Day in Cambodia is held on November 9th. This day celebrates the country’s Declaration of Independence from France, which occurred on November 9, 1953. The primary celebration takes place at the Independence Monument in Phnom Penh. Festivities are organised in the capital city along with various celebrations across several provinces.
Victory Over Genocide Day
Victory Over Genocide Day is held annually on January 7th. This day is a sombre reminder of the killings committed during the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979. This genocide resulted in the deaths of nearly two million Cambodians and inflicted wounds that will require years, if not decades, to fully heal.
Practical info
Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR) and United States Dollar (USD)
ATM: In Cambodia it’s still very common to pay cash. But as traveller it’s paramount to have access to your bank account. It is noteworthy that most ATMs in Cambodia dispense US dollars rather than the local currency, the Cambodian riel. This preference comes from the USD’s widespread acceptance and its common use for larger transactions.
When using ATMs in Cambodia, it is important to be aware that some machines may impose a transaction fee. These fees are ranging from $2 to $5. It depends on the bank and the type of account you have. To minimize these fees I advise you to withdraw larger sums at once rather than making several smaller transactions.
The location of ATMs can vary significantly. While they are many available in major cities such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, they may be sparse in rural areas. Carrying some cash when travelling to remote regions of Cambodia is recommended.
Be cautious when using ATMs in Cambodia. There have been reports of skimming devices used by scammers. Use ATMs situated within banks or respectable establishments such as larger shopping centres. Covering your PIN while entering it and regularly monitoring your bank account for any unusual activity is recommended.
Languages: Khmer
Religion: 97% Buddhism, 2% Islam and other
Capital city: Phnom Penh
Visa: If you are planning to visit Cambodia, one of the first steps you should do is arranging a visa. This essential document permits entry and stay in the country for a designated duration. There are several types of visa available. When travelling to Cambodia, you can choose from two primary types of visas: an e-visa or a traditional visa on arrival.
E-Visa
The e-visa is an electronic travel authorization that can be obtained online prior to your journey. It is valid for 30 days and may be extended for up to 90 days following your arrival in the country. The application process is user-friendly and can be completed on the official Cambodian e-visa website.
Visa on Arrival
Should you choose not to apply for an e-visa, a visa on arrival is available at all international airports and some land border checkpoints in Cambodia. This visa is also valid for 30 days and can be extended for up to 90 days. If you cross a land border from Vietnam, Laos or Thailand you need to check which border checkpoint you can go through as foreigner. Not every border crossing is equipped to register foreigners. Visit the official Cambodian Immigration website to check the border crossings.
Requirements
Regardless of whether you are applying for an e-visa or acquiring one upon arrival, certain basic requirements must be met:
- A passport valid for at least six months from your entry date into Cambodia
- A recent passport-sized photograph
- A completed visa application form (for traditional visa on arrival)
- Payment of the visa fee (can be made in cash or by credit card at the airport or border checkpoint for traditional visa on arrival)
Extension of stay
Should you wish to remain in Cambodia for more than 30 days, you can apply for an extension at the Department of Immigration in Phnom Penh. The procedure is relatively straightforward and typically takes just one day. Please be aware that overstaying your visa may lead to fines and other penalties.
Local SIM Card:
Getting a sim card in Cambodia is relatively easy and affordable for foreigners. There are three main telecommunication companies in Cambodia: Cellcard, Smart, and Metfone. All three offer prepaid sim cards that can be purchased at convenience stores or official company stores throughout the country. You will need to show your passport when purchasing a sim card as identification is required by law.
Once you have your sim card, you will need to top up with credit to use data and make calls. This can also be done at convenience stores or through the company’s app or website. The cost of topping up varies depending on how much data and calling credit you want, but it is generally affordable and offers good value for money.
Important thing to note is that the internet speed and coverage in Cambodia may not be as reliable as in other countries. Major cities and tourist areas usually have good coverage, so you should have no problem staying connected. If you plan on travelling to more remote or rural areas, it’s always a good idea to check the coverage beforehand and purchase top-up cards in advance.
Country Code: +855
Time: UTC +7:00 (ICT)
Official Tourism Website: Get information about what to see and places to visit via the official Tourism website of Cambodia, Tourism Cambodia.
Practical info: A long-term trip or holiday can be quite a challenge. Where does one even begin? How can you access the most relevant information? Look no further! Check out the articles below. Starting with the comprehensive “Ultimate Guide for Planning a Long-term Journey.” This guide is immensely helpful, even if you’re just planning a two-week holiday. Additionally, we’ll walk you through creating a travel budget, crafting a practical packing list (avoiding overpacking, of course), and even share some of our favourite travel apps. Bon voyage!.
Sustainable travel: Sustainable travel, also known as responsible or eco-friendly travel, is a type of tourism that aims to have a positive impact on the environment, society and economy. It involves making conscious choices and taking actions to minimize any negative effects on the destinations we visit.
Cultural travel: Cultural immersion is about fully experiencing and engaging with the local culture. It goes beyond mere observation and learning about traditions, customs, and beliefs. It involves active participation, such as trying new cuisines, attending cultural events or festivals, learning the language, and interacting with locals. By embracing this experience, one can truly appreciate and understand the richness of different cultures.
Getting around
Cambodia is developing its public transport system. You can go around the country with buses, trains, tuk-tuks, and ferries.
Bus
Buses are the most widespread form of public transport in Cambodia. There are many private long-distance bus companies between major cities such as Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville. These buses vary from basic to luxury with comfortable seating and air conditioning. You can use booking platforms like 12 Go Asia to book buses to get around in Cambodia.
Tuk-Tuk
For shorter distances within cities or towns, tuk-tuks are a popular choice. These three-wheeled vehicles are everywhere so it’s a very easy to get around. It is common practice to negotiate the fare with the driver. It is advisable to agree on a price before starting your ride.
Norry (bamboo train)
Another unique mode of transport in Cambodia is the bamboo train, or “norry.” It’s basically a bamboo platforms and small engine. These improvised trains operate on old railway tracks in rural areas. While not the most comfortable option, they provide a scenic and authentic experience. Battambang is known for the bamboo trains.
Train
Cambodia has a limited railway system. There are two railway lines that connect the capital city Phnom Penh. The Northern Line is 386 kilometres long and goes from Phnom Penh to Poi Pet, which is located at the Cambodia-Thailand border. The Southern Line is 264 kilometres and is linking Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville. And that’s all there is when it comes to trains in Cambodia.
Best time to go
Cambodia is popular for its tropical climate. This Southeast Asian country experiences distinct seasons that significantly influence the weather throughout the year.
Dry Season: November to April
The dry season in Cambodia is from November to April. You can expect warm, sunny days and clear blue skies. During this period, temperatures typically range from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. The conditions are ideal for exploring the country’s outdoor attractions. Such as visiting ancient temples, beaches and national parks.
Rainy Season: May to October
From May to October is the rainy season. During this time, the country experiences substantial rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. Particularly in September and October. Temperatures during this season go down to around 25 degrees Celsius. It results in a cooler and more comfortable climate for outdoor activities.
Hot Season: March to May
The months of March to May is the hottest period of the year in Cambodia. Temperatures goes up to 40 degrees Celsius. This season may present some challenges for travellers who are unfamiliar to high heat and humidity. But it’s an excellent opportunity to visit Cambodia’s stunning beaches and go take a dip in the ocean.
Cool Season: November to February
The cool season goes from November to February. This period provides pleasant weather with average temperatures going from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. This time is considered the peak season for tourism in Southeast Asia. The downside are the higher prices of accommodation and activities.
