Exploring the beautiful and historic Cambodia is one of the things you need to do whenever you get a chance to travel in Southeast Asia. Not only can you see the magnificence of Buddhist temples or jump island to island but you can experience paradise anywhere—in and out of the city. Since there are hundreds of things to see and try in Cambodia, here’s a curated list of what you can start with to not only make your trip unforgettable but mind-blowing.
1. See dawn and dusk at Angkor Wat
At the top of the list is seeing the beauty of Angkor Wat while watching the sun rise and set on the horizon. As the 8th wonder of the world popularly known as the city of temples, you can fully grasp the beauty of Khmer Empire’s architectural designs when you visit Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. It was founded in the early 12th century but this Buddhist temple continues to stand tall today, garnering tourists around the world to visit.
When you go to Angkor Wat, it’s better to be there for dawn and dusk. You can take a once in a lifetime photo or simply enjoy the beauty of the sun peeking through the temples. If that doesn’t sound splendid, the moat surrounding Angkor Wat reflects everything, bringing you a sight of how Cambodia looked centuries ago.
2. Explore Kep National Park
Feel like you’re exploring a lush green jungle when you go to Kep National Park in Kep, Cambodia’s smallest province. It’s the perfect place to take in the scenery while walking through the park. There are vantage points where you can see the surrounding villages, farms, and the sea, all the while visiting the pagodas close by. Once you’re done exploring the trails and taking extraordinary photos, enjoy the pride of Kep: crabs! There are numerous crab dishes you can eat here so make sure you try it.
3. Nightlife in Phnom Penh
Bustling with more than just tourist attractions and activities, Phnom Penh has an active nightlife that you cannot miss out! Join and have fun with locals and tourists alike when you go to themed bars and clubs in the capital. Since Cambodia is known to be the land of smiles where locals are friendly, your nightlife experience here is guaranteed to be awesome!
Once you’ve experienced the nightlife, why not explore further by trying some of the 100 things you can do in Phnom Penh?
4. Visit the Elephant Sanctuary in Mondulkiri
If you want to learn more about the majestic creatures that are the elephants, then visiting Mondulkiri is the right move. The Elephant Valley Project is located here, which is a sanctuary for all elephants. Since this place offers a natural habitat for these precious elephants to thrive in, you can see them simply relaxing and interacting with the rest.
- Trek through the Cardamom Mountains
Nothing is better than being one with nature, especially if it’s Cardamom Mountains, the largest remaining rainforest in Southeast Asia! Numerous activities abound on the mountain, making it easier for you to soak in the beauty of the jungle. Whether you hike, trek, sightsee and more, this place is certainly one that you won’t see anywhere else.
- Ride a dirt bike in Siem Reap
Live the best life by riding a dirt bike within the city of Siem Reap. Beyond just temples, there are numerous tours and packages are offered in the city so you can ride a dirt bike for a couple of hours or days on various terrains. Top off your adventure by going on a tour riding one of the best and most thrilling vehicles around!
- Go island hopping
Cambodia is home to more than 60 islands with a variety of things to boast of! When you want to explore more than just the land, you have plenty of islands and beautiful clear blue waters to see and discover. Not only that but you can go kayaking, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and more. Most activities that will acclimate you to your sea legs are available to make your crystal blue island trip better!
Plan your trip to Cambodia
Whether you’re looking to explore nature or go on adventures, Cambodia is the perfect place to soak in new experiences and fulfill your travel dreams. And to ensure your trip will not only be memorable but safe, Cambodia has one of the highest rates of vaccination in Southeast Asia, only second to Singapore.
Additionally, there are new airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap that will be finished in time for your adventures! Major road renovations are on track to be finished as well in Siem Reap, all to ensure the fantastic splendour of Cambodia is highlighted for tourists like you and for the locals. Start planning your trip now to Cambodia!
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