When you travel, you discover two main things: yourself and the place you visit. This means if you want to make sure you have a great time learning about yourself while traveling, then you need to visit the culturally rich Cambodia. Not only are there vast expanses of architectural infrastructures that you won’t see anywhere else, Cambodia is filled with everything you’d need for a top-tier and one-of-a-kind travel experience!
Read the top 5 reasons you need to visit Cambodia now:
1. Nature
Despite architectural and modern advancements in Cambodia, nature continues to reign free in the country. This means you can enjoy a breathtaking experience thanks to mountains, diverse wildlife, and the rivers and lakes you can find. Among the various sights to see is the Central Cardamom Protected Forest which remains to be one of the largest forests in Southeast Asia.
2. Islands
If you want to discover islands and swim as much as you want, Cambodia has more than 60 islands you can visit! Each of these islands has their unique selling points but all of them assures you of one thing: a totally relaxing experience. Choose the island that best piques your interest now so you can start a dreamlike island vacation.
3. Lively cities
Cambodia boasts of cities filled with delicious food, recreational activities and places where you can revel in all forms of art. You can find everything you need to make your vacation the best it can be in every city in Cambodia. However, to make it easier for you, here are the two main cities you need to visit:
- រាជធានីភ្នំពេញ
Previously known as the Pearl of Asia, Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia. It’s always bustling with tourists and locals alike since there are numerous places to see when you visit Phnom Penh. This includes the Royal Palace, the residence of the King of Cambodia. Beside the palace is the Silver Pagoda where statues of Buddha and national treasures are protected. Additionally, art galleries and the National Museum of Cambodia is located in Phnom Penh.
- ខេត្តសៀមរាប
Home to well-preserved ancient temples, Siem Reap is one of the cities you need to visit. It’s a popular tourist destination especially since it’s the second largest city in Cambodia, containing a number of resorts, museums, and parks.
Some of the places you need to see in Siem Reap besides world renowned Angkor Wat are the following:
- Cambodia Cultural Village: This theme park located at the National Highway No. 6 of Siem Reap allows you to see the local practices and customs in Cambodia.
- Siem Reap Old Market: Fresh produce, vegetables, and delicious dishes are available in Siem Reap Old Market which is why it remains to be one of the most popular places to visit in the city.
- Srah Srang: Located east of Banteay Kdei, Srah Srang is a small ancient reservoir, perfect to see the sun rise or set.
- Angkor National Museum: More than 1,000 relics from the Khmer empire reside in this museum located at Charles de Gaulle Blvd in Siem Reap.
4. Archaeological sites
If you want to get a glimpse of how the world looked centuries ago, there are numerous sites in Cambodia that you need to see. Ancient ruins thought to be gone, sprawling archaeological infrastructures and temples remain here, all for you to visit. Here are the top two sites you need to go to:
- Angkor Wat
One of the most prestigious temples in the world that has withstood time is Angkor Wat. Not only is it known as the largest religious infrastructure spanning 162.6 hectares, it shows the world the classic architectural design of the Khmer Empire.
While Angkor Wat was founded in the early 12th century, it remains to be one of the most significant places for Buddhists around the world. Additionally, it is one of the top attractions in Cambodia that you need to see.
- ភ្នំគូលែន
The birthplace of the Khmer Empire is Phnom Kulen, a mountain range located in Siem Reap Province. It’s also known as the Kulen Mountain where vast forests, waterfalls, and Kbal Spean can be found. Kbal Spean is a sandstone riverbed that has fertility symbols and Hindu Gods carved into it, garnering the moniker of the River of a Thousand Lingas.
5. Nightlife
Cambodia has more than nature to boast of since its night scene is teeming with innovative bars, shows, and night clubs. Whatever you are into at the moment, the lively nightlife in Cambodia guarantees an exciting night out for you and your friends! Additionally, art deco bars continue to flourish here and they are great places to take memorable photos of your dream vacation.
A travel destination like no other
Whether you’re into the arts, history, religion or even delicious food you won’t find anywhere else, Cambodia has everything you need for a culturally-packed and memorable travel experience. Bask in ancient ruins and the magnificence of everything that Cambodia has when you visit it!
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