Welcome to Cambodia, a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Discover a plethora of exciting activities and attractions that make Cambodia a must-visit destination. From ancient temples to vibrant markets, there's no shortage of things to do in Cambodia.
Start your journey in the iconic Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most breathtaking temples in the world. Explore the intricate carvings and marvel at the grandeur of this ancient Khmer masterpiece. Don't miss the opportunity to catch the sunrise over Angkor Wat, a magical experience that will stay with you forever.
Continue your adventure by visiting the bustling city of Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. Dive into the rich history of the Khmer Rouge regime at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. Gain insights into Cambodia's past and pay your respects to the victims of this dark period.
For a change of pace, head to the beautiful coastal town of Sihanoukville, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife. Relax on the sandy shores, indulge in delicious seafood, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will find paradise in the nearby islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem.
Things to Do in Cambodia
Experience the local culture by exploring the lively markets, such as the Central Market in Phnom Penh and the Old Market in Siem Reap. Engage with friendly locals, sample delicious street food, and shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs. The markets are not just places to buy goods; they are vibrant hubs of Cambodian life.
Adventure seekers can embark on a trek to the Cardamom Mountains, an untouched wilderness where lush landscapes and diverse wildlife await. Discover hidden waterfalls, encounter exotic species, and connect with nature in this off-the-beaten-path destination.
No visit to Cambodia is complete without a boat trip to the floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake. Witness the unique way of life as locals go about their daily routines on the water. Capture stunning sunsets over the lake and immerse yourself in the charm of these floating communities.
As you explore the diverse attractions, savor the delectable Cambodian cuisine. From the famous Fish Amok to mouth-watering street food, the local flavors are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Consider taking a cooking class to learn the secrets behind these delicious dishes.
1. Biking – Explore Siem Reapon A Bike
Considering that the country is all about lush greenery, pristine temples in Cambodia, and a quiet, relaxed atmosphere, travelers like to keep it that way when they’re exploring it. Cycling tours are thus a convenient way of sightseeing and one of the most popular things to do in Cambodia for backpackers.
Riding through quiet trails of the countryside amidst breathtaking natural scenery lets travelers escape the crowd and busy roads These tours typically include sightseeing of Ta Prohm, Elephant Terrace, Bayon, and other prominent Angkor temples. Exploring this wonderful country on a bike is one of the cool things to do in Cambodia.
2. Apsara Dance – Witness The Khmer Performance
For the lovers of art, theatrics, & dance, the Apsara Show, or the traditional Khmer performance, is one of the best things to do in Cambodia. This cultural dance form draws its roots from the mythological courts of kings and Gods, from where it has developed into its modern, unique form that we see today.
The Khmer dance revolves around a storyline which it narrates through the attractive, flexible movements of the performers and their colourful, eye-catching attires, which is why it is among the top things to do in Cambodia.
Where: Apart from theatres and cafes, many hotels also organize the show and if you’re lucky, you might just get to enjoy it at yours!
3. Cruising – Spot Dolphins And Enjoy The Sunset
Cruising the Mekong is one of the most exhilarating experiences for travelers visiting here. Sailing from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap on a traditional Cambodian boat is one of the most enriching and fun things to do in at Cambodia.
Other than the relaxing journey, the stunning views of the sunset that one can witness from aboard the cruise is like a cherry on the cake! On the journey, one can also easily spot the Irrawaddy river dolphins in the water, the rarest of all aquatic mammals. Observing these peaceful, friendly creatures in their natural habitat is undoubtedly among the refreshing things to do in Phnom Penh.
4. Ta Prohm – Explore The Temple Of ‘Tomb Raider’
The only structure in Angkor that has been left in its pristine form, Ta Prohm is a fascinating example of the power of Nature and amongst the most preferred places to visit in Cambodia.
The enormous roots grasping the shrine seem to be challenging the world to try and alter the structure! This ‘Tomb Raider’ fame sanctum in Angkor with its huge silk cotton trees and strangler figs is perhaps the most photogenic place in Cambodia, and thus among the best tourist attractions in Cambodia.
5. Cambodian Cuisine – Gorge On Fresh Seafood And Amok
One of the major attractions of Cambodia that drive people to visit this paradise is its food. A typical Cambodian meal consists of rice and a fish item. Often called the ‘cuisine of contrasts’, Cambodian food involves a lot of variations which travelers fall in love with.
Among the range of dishes one must try here is Fish Amok (steamed coconut fish in banana leaves), Samlor Machu Trey (sweet and sour soup with fish), Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles), and the Num Anksom Sach Chrouk (sticky rice cake). Also, with its vast range of seafood, Cambodia is one of the best places for seafood lovers.
Where to eat: Khema in Phnom Penh, Genevieve’s Restaurant in Siem Reap, & Holy Crab in Kep are some of the best restaurants in Cambodia.
6. Phnom Penh Palace – Explore Its Opulent Architecture
The star attraction of Phnom Penh built back in 1860 is not just a glittery palace dominating the city’s skyline, but also an important reminder of Cambodia’s blood-stained history.
The elegant structure is characterized by its crown of stupas and towering spires, the handsome Silver Pagoda sitting adjacent to it, manicured tropical gardens, and the tranquility that prevails inside its high-rise walls. With all this and more, the Royal Palace is undoubtedly one of the best Cambodia tourist attractions and also, one of the best things to do in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
7. Angkor Wat – Explore The World’s Largest Temple
The most famous, most ancient, and the largest temple of the world is what drives majority of the world’s travelers to Cambodia. Significant as it is, the temple aslo happens to be one of the most romantic places to visit in Cambodia.
The unrivaled beauty and pristine persona of this UNESCO World Heritage site is unlike anywhere else on earth, which is why it is among the prominent Cambodia monuments. Built in the 12th century as a dedication to Lord Vishnu, this ancient wonder of the world has stood the test of time.
8. National Parks – Engage With The Wild
Not interested in temples? We got you covered. Apart from an endless number of temples, attractions also include various national parks in Cambodia and wildlife sanctuaries housing some of the rarest species of the world’s flora and fauna. Paying a visit to these is one of the most fun things to do in Cambodia for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
While Virachey National Park is home to elephants, sun bears, tigers, clouded leopards, and various birds, the Ream Park is famous for globally endangered birds of prey, like the Brahminy kite, grey-headed fish eagle and white-bellied sea eagle.
9. Swimming – Swim With The Elephants
This is one of the crazy things to do in Cambodia. The Elephant Valley Project at Mondulkiri is a group of dedicated, passionate individuals whose work is directed towards care and conservation of abandoned, injured, overworked, and orphaned elephants. Popularly known as a place where ‘elephants get to be elephants again’, EVP feeds, protects, and provides shelter to elephants.
Travelers can come here with prior booking for a chance to be with these adorable, gentle beings. Visitors can play and swim with these elephants which is anyways better than riding on them and adding to their misery.
10. Tuol Sleng – Discover The Torture House’s Secrets
The War Museum in Tuol Sleng, though not exactly a cheerful place, is an important place to visit in Cambodia for its gruesome history. Back in Khmer Rouge era (between 1975-79), the school-cum-execution ground was used to detain and brutally torture inmates.
This S-21 Detention Centre today acts as a haunting reminder of the endless genocide of the period. Visiting the museum might not be one of the most top things to do in Cambodia, but one must definitely pay their respects to the brave men and women who lost their lives here.
11. Beaching – Relax At the Laid-Back Beaches
Cambodia has some of the most relaxed, laid-back beaches in Southeast Asia. Among the varied popular Cambodia tourist attractions are the sandy, pretty beaches of Sihanoukville, Kep, Koh Rong, and Ream which provide travelers with every bit of comfort and splendid views.
Travelers can bask in the sun lying comfortably on hammocks and recliners, get a massage, dine at the beach shacks, go snorkeling in Cambodia, fishing & boating, among other things. Travelers looking for a rather relaxed holiday must check out the islands and beaches in Cambodia. Also, island hopping in Cambodia is considered to be one of the most adventurous things to do in Cambodia for all the travelers alike.
12. Diving – Explore The World Underneath Sihanoukville
The beauty of Cambodia isn’t just limited to what one sees on the surface, but also in the vast, vibrant world underneath. The diving sites in Sihanoukville are blessed with crystal clear water, favourable water temperature, colourful corals, and a diverse range of marine life including seahorses, whale sharks, sting rays, eels, triggerfish, barracuda, nudibranch, starfish, and many more.
The world’s adventure seekers find scuba diving in Cambodia to be one of the most fun things to do in the country. With an year-round favourable climate for diving, except a little less visibility in monsoons, the seas of Cambodia attract divers from all over the world every year. Exploring the underwater world is one of the best things to do in Sihanoukville.
Best time for diving in Cambodia: November to May
13. National Museum – Check Out Attractive Khmer Artwork
What to see in Cambodia will not be your concern because it offers a lot. The National Museum of Cambodia takes pride in its impressive art collection from the Khmer era, most of which disappeared at the time of the Khmer Rouge due to illegal smuggling.
Some of the finest examples of Khmer artwork on display here include ancient stonework, bronze tools and weapons, attractive bronze drums, ceramics, statues, sculptures, and more items with intricate carvings of Gods and Goddesses on them. Apart from being visually alluring, the artifacts also provide a deep insight into Cambodia’s history and the lives of its people back then, which is why it holds a prominent place on the list of tourist attractions in Cambodia.
Opening hours: 8 am to 5 pm
14. Shopping – Grab Souvenirs From The Local Markets
With its massive variety of inexpensive handicraft products, shopping in Cambodia is a natural therapy for shopping freaks.
What to buy: Some of the best things to buy in Cambodia include silver trinkets, precious gems and stones, betel nut boxes, rice paper prints (imprints of Angkor temples), checkered Krama scarves, weaving silk, carved wooden items, and more.
Where to buy: Travelers can buy quality Cambodian items at reasonable prices from Angkor Night Market, Made in Cambodia Market, Angkor Handicraft Association, Old Market, and the Russian Market in Phnom Penh.
15. Cambodian Spa – Pampered Yourself
Another of the enlivening Cambodia attractions are its spa therapies that are rather different from the usual Southeastern spa. The traditional Khmer spa has a distinctive approach to health and relaxation, which is reflected in its unusual variety of spa treatments and therapies. The major cities of Cambodia house many certified massage and spa centres.
The spa and massage therapies of Cambodia popular among visitors include the Khmer Traditional Herbal Spa, Aroma Spa, Hot Oil Massage, Deep Tissue, Slimming Massage, Hot Stone, and various types of facials and scrubs.
Tip: Don’t forget to try the ticklish Fish Spa for a fun, yet relaxing spa experience which is one of the best things to do in Cambodia.
16. Preah Khan – Explore The Huge Buddha Temple
Preah Khan is an ancient temple located in the northeast of Angkor Archaeological Park. The temple was built by King Jayavarman VII. The name of the temple means a ‘royal sword’. Preah Khan is dedicated to Lord Buddha, who is known in the name of Avalokiteshvara here.
The temple was the former residence of the royal clan who were in rule of this region. This huge temple complex has two main gateways that lead into the main hall.
17. Cambodia Landmine Museum – See The War Preserves
Cambodia Landmine Museum is your place if you are an environment lover. Cambodia has been one of the most mined countries in the world. Due to the several struggles in the history of Cambodia including the brutal Khmer Rouge regime, American bombings, civil war, genocide, and Vietnamese occupation, this place still has many mines buried in its land.
Over the years, many people have lost their lives due to the explosion of these landmines. Thought, a large number of mines have been cleared off the land, a lot of it still remains hidden inside it. These rescued mines have been preserved in the Cambodia Landmine Museum. They also spread awareness among its members regarding the same.
18. Battambang Bat Caves – Visit The Killing Caves
Located at the base of Mount Sampeou is the Battambang Bat Caves. Also known as the Killing Caves, this is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Cambodia and also amongst the most unique things to do in Cambodia. Since bats are nocturnal birds, they go out from the caves at night.
So, many tourists come here to watch the bats flock out of the cave to the nearby trees and branches. The sight is interesting and lasts for about 40 minutes. But it is safer to leave the place in 10 minutes. There are bikes that would tow you to the hill and back.
19. Baphuon Temple – See The Mountain Temple
Constructed in the mid-11th century by King Udayadityavarman II, Baphuon Temple is another gorgeous example of Khmer style architecture. This three-layered mountain temple is set in the heart of Angkor, which was the second capital of the Khmer empire.
Around the 20th Century, the royal temple started becoming worn out and it took around 16 years to complete its restoration process. This is because the temple is built in a very complex structure also winning it an unofficial title of the ‘largest 3D jigsaw puzzle in the world’. Baphuon Temple is dedicated to the Hindu Lord Shiva.
20. The Cambodian Circus Show – Watch The Past Stories
If you love performed art and entertainment you would surely enjoy spending time in Siem Reap’s Phare Circus Ring Road. This is considered to be one of the best things to do in Siem Reap. With a variety of exciting dance, music, art and circus shows, your holiday experience in Cambodia will become super exciting.
The talented artists will surprise you with their performances based on historical and folk stories. The performers from all age groups, who have also presented their talent on the international platforms, give performances here. They convey their personal hardships, struggles and abuse stories also through these shows.
21. Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center – Treat The Animal Lover Within
One might run out of ideas when it comes to picking unique experiences for what to do in Cambodia for 5 days, but thanks to the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, you can visit your favorite animals time and again. Home to around 1200 animals, you can find different kinds of species here. Needless to say, this is also one of the most unique zoos in Cambodia.
22. Artisans Angkor – Buy Some Beautiful Ancient Artifacts
If you are still looking for different sights and things to do in Cambodia, Siem Reap is the place to be. A popular destination amongst locals and tourists alike, Artisans Angkor houses some of the finest artifacts that reflect the Khmer culture at its best. You can also buy decorative items and handmade clothes from here.
23. Popokvil Waterfall – Witness The Magic Of Water
Amongst the topmost free or cheap things to do in Cambodia, visiting the Popokvil Waterfall is one experience you must have during your holiday. It is located in the Kampot Province, around 3 miles away from the Bokor Hill Station, and is a gorgeous two-tiered fall with a shallow pool in between. With time, this fall has also become a famous scenic spot and is one of the best waterfalls in Cambodia.
24. Treak Village – Cambodian Village Cooking Class
There are many free things to do in Cambodia like cycling, tuk-tuk ride, and sailing by the beautiful rivers. However, some paid expeditions and experiences would also enrich your experience on a holiday to this amazing destination.
Try out the culinary experiences like learning how to cook authentic Cambidian cuisines. This experience can be learned with the help of a local chef, either in the villages or the city area. Trying the former option may bring you an authentic cultural experience. Go to the rural regions and learn from the local chefs.
25. Angkor Tour – Watch The Sunrise From A Tuk Tuk
There are many things that come free of cost in the world – laughing, happiness, dancing, and many others. Watching the sunrise is amongst these and also the many free things to do in Cambodia. Head to Siem Reap and experience the spectacular sunrise here. To do this different, head out for a day out to the Angkor region on a tuk-tuk.
While experiencing the local elements, you would be able to catch a spectacular sunrise. Ride through the Angkor Archeological Park and pass through Angkor Wat to experience an amazing amalgamation of nature, architecture, and a spectacular sunrise in the back.
Location: Wat Bo Road, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
26. Bayon Temple – Seek Blessings
Get to Angkor Archaeological Park and head to the enchanting Bayon Temple. This majestic temple was built during the 12th century CW when the Buddhist King Jayavarman VII ruled.
The temple amalgamates Buddhist and Hindu styles of architecture and is a marvel for anyone who visits this place. The architecture of this place is especially spectacular amongst other elements related to the temple. While you are on a trip to Cambodia, come and seek blessings at this majestic temple in Angkor Thom.
27. Siem Reap – Meditation
Amongst the many free things to do in Cambodia is meditation, an activity that relaxes one’s mind. With a destination like Cambodia, especially Siem Reap, one is bound to have a relaxing and tranquil time while meditating. The natural beauty around adds to the entire experience.
Pair this with yoga courses and nature trails to enjoy the best of what this amazing destination has to offer. Try out the meditation classes related to Theravada Buddhism in any of the Buddhist monasteries that is one of the thrilling activities to do in Cambodia.
Location: Siem Reap, Battambang and Phnom Penh
28. Kampot River – Excursion
Go on an excursion to Kampot and check out the beautiful Kampot River. Amongst the many free things to do in Cambodia, this is one of the top-rated. Even though it is an off-beat experience, it has come to the forefront for the choices for tourists and travelers. You can swim here and also go for kayaking. Check out the riverside guest houses here for additional fun.
Location: Kampot Province, Cambodia
29. Yeak Laom
Wondering what to do in Cambodia that is off the beaten path but turns out to be an amazing experience? Explore the iconic Yeak Laom Lake that is said to be a 4000-year old lake that got formed in the shape of an almost perfect circle due to its volcanic nature.
Filling the crater with water with time post a volcanic eruption and surrounded by forests on all sides, this is one of the best offbeat places to explore in Cambodia for all those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
30. Sangkat Phsar Thmei Ti Muoy
Much famed as the Central Market and literally translating into “New Market”, exploring the Sangkat Phsar Thmei Ti Muoy market is one of the best activities in Cambodia for a traveler to engage in.
Reckoned to be the largest market of the capital city – Phnom Penh, it is not just one of the biggest markets in Asia but also flaunts one of the biggest domes in the continent. Make sure you shop till you drop here!
Isn’t Cambodia an awe-inspiring destination? And if you know of any more things to do in Cambodia, tell us in the comments below. But before you do that, share this with your buddies and plan an adventurous getaway to Cambodia right away. The secrets of the Khmer is waiting to be unraveled and explored by you. So come and indulge in the culture and history of this beautiful land of spectacular ruins.
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FAQ
Q1: What are some must-visit tourist attractions in Cambodia?
A1: Cambodia offers several captivating tourist attractions, including the iconic Angkor Wat temple, the historic Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, the serene beaches of Sihanoukville, and the cultural richness of Battambang.
Q2: How is the weather in Cambodia, and when is the best time to visit?
A2: Cambodia experiences a tropical climate. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to March, with pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, providing ideal conditions for exploration.
Q3: What are the traditional dishes one must try in Cambodia?
A3: Indulge in Cambodia's culinary delights by trying traditional dishes such as Fish Amok, Lok Lak (stir-fried beef), and Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles). These dishes showcase the unique flavors of Cambodian cuisine.
Q4: Are there any cultural etiquettes or customs that tourists should be aware of in Cambodia?
A4: Yes, it's important to show respect by dressing modestly when visiting religious sites. Additionally, a polite greeting (sampeah) is appreciated, and it's customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home.
Q5: What transportation options are available for getting around Cambodia?
A5: Traveling within Cambodia is convenient with options like tuk-tuks, taxis, and buses. In cities like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, there are also ride-sharing services. For longer distances, domestic flights and express buses are available.
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