Why Visit Cambodia: Journey to the Heart of Khmer Empire in Southeast Asia

Travelers visit Cambodia for its ancient temples, vibrant culture, warm hospitality and countless other captivating experiences

Why visit Cambodia? Cambodia, a country with enchanting charm nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, attracts millions of travelers each year in search of authentic discoveries. This land, rich in history, culture, and majestic natural landscapes, offers a unique travel experience. From the ancient temples of Angkor to the paradisiacal beaches of Sihanoukville, and the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia promises unforgettable adventures.

But before you embark on your journey to this fascinating country, it’s essential to know a few tips and tricks to make your travel to Cambodia even more enjoyable.

Ancient Angkor wonders

Why visit Cambodia? Cambodia is home to some of the most remarkable ancient temples in the world, with Angkor Wat standing as the crown jewel. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Khmer Empire, where intricate carvings and monumental architecture reveal the spiritual and cultural significance of the region. The sheer scale of Angkor Wat, with its five towering lotus-shaped spires symbolizing Mount Meru—the center of the Hindu universe—and moats representing cosmic oceans, transports you to the 12th century. Exploring at sunrise, when the sunrays illuminate the bas-reliefs depicting epic battles and celestial dancers, creates a magical atmosphere that’s both serene and profound.

Angkor Wat’s ancient temple in Cambodia

Beyond Angkor Wat, the sprawling Angkor Archaeological Park presents a unique blend of history and mysticism that captivates any traveler. Ta Prohm, famously entwined with massive tree roots, offers a romantic, Indiana Jones-like adventure. Bayon Temple, with its enigmatic smiling faces carved into stone towers invites reflection on the Khmer’s artistic prowess and philosophical depth. These sites are living testaments to an empire that once dominated Southeast Asia, influencing art, religion, and engineering across borders.

Read more: Did You Know About Top 6 Must-visit Temples in Cambodia?

Breathtaking Natural Landscapes

Cambodia’s natural beauty is as diverse as it is stunning. From the lush jungles and rolling hills to the serene beaches and the remote islands, the country offers a wide range of landscapes to explore. The mighty Mekong River and the tranquil Tonle Sap Lake provide opportunities for boat cruises, wildlife spotting, and connecting with local communities. The Cardamom Mountains is one of Southeast Asia’s last unspoiled wildernesses, teem with biodiversity. You can spot rare elephants roam dense rainforests, while cascading waterfalls like O’Soam provide refreshing swims amid emerald pools. Trekking here reveals hidden trails lined with orchids and gibbons swinging overhead, offering a raw connection to nature that’s increasingly rare.

Sihanoukville’s beaches, with powdery white sands and azure waters, are perfect for unwinding, while Koh Rong’s bioluminescent plankton light up night swims. Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, pulses with life. Its floating villages adapt to seasonal floods, showcasing human ingenuity amid mangroves teeming with birds and fish. Boat tours here allow glimpses of stilt houses and lotus fields, fostering appreciation for the lake’s ecological role.

Fishing village in Tonle Sap lake.

Vibrant and authentic culture

Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage is deeply rooted in its history and religious traditions. The country is a melting pot of influences, from Hinduism and Buddhism to French colonialism. Festivals in Cambodia are celebrated with great enthusiasm, offering visitors a chance to witness traditional music, dance, and ceremonies. Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey) in April bursts with joy: Families gather for games, water blessings, and feasts of amok (coconut fish curry) and sticky rices. The Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) in November features dragon boat races on the Tonle Sap, with fireworks and folk dances lighting up Phnom Penh.

Phsar Thmey, or Central Market, hums with vendors selling silk scarves dyed in vibrant hues, silver jewelry crafted by artisans, and spices like lemongrass and prahok (fermented fish paste) that infuse local cuisine. Traditional Apsara dances, with graceful hand gestures recounting ancient myths, perform in Siem Reap’s theaters, preserving Khmer artistry. This cultural vibrancy extends to rural areas, where Cham Muslim communities weave intricate textiles, adding diversity to Cambodia’s fabric. Paradise Travel’s Cambodia tours include festival participation and market tours with local guides, ensuring authentic experiences.

Phsar Thmey – Cambodia’s Central Market.

Genuine hospitality

Why visit Cambodia? One of the most memorable aspects of visiting Cambodia is the warmth and kindness of its people. Cambodians are known for their genuine hospitality, always ready with a smile and eager to share their culture with visitors. Whether you’re staying in a luxury hotel or a family-run guesthouse, you’ll feel welcomed and cared for throughout your journey. This hospitality shines in simple gestures. A vendor offering extra fruit at a market or a guide sharing personal stories of resilience. In rural areas, homestays invite you into family life, with home-cooked meals and laughter bridging language barriers. Even in the bustling Phnom Penh, tuk-tuk drivers navigate with friendly chatter, recommending hidden eateries. This sincerity stems from Khmer values of community and karma, making interactions heartfelt.

Fascinating history

Cambodia’s history is both captivating and complex. Visiting Cambodia offer valuable insights into the nation’s journey of recovery and the strength of its people. The Khmer Empire’s zenith, evident in Angkor’s engineering marvels like vast reservoirs (barays) for irrigation, showcases advanced hydraulics that sustained a million-strong city. Tuol Sleng, once a school turned prison, and Choeung Ek’s memorial stupa filled with skulls, confront the Khmer Rouge’s atrocities, honoring victims and educating on peace. These sites, though somber, highlight Cambodia’s path to healing, through memorials, survivor testimonies, and rebuilding efforts. For deeper context, the National Museum in Phnom Penh houses Khmer artifacts, from bronze statues to Angkorian lintels, tracing artistic evolution.

Display of victims at Tuol Sleng Museum.

Family-friendly activities

Cambodia is an excellent destination for families, offering a range of activities that cater to all ages. Many hotels and resorts in Cambodia are well-equipped to accommodate families, making it a stress-free destination for a memorable vacation. At Angkor, kids can play explorer amid ruins, while beaches like Otres offer safe swimming and sandcastle building. Cooking classes in Siem Reap teach simple recipes like fresh spring rolls, engaging young chefs. Family-oriented resorts in Sihanoukville feature kids’ clubs and pools, with nearby islands for snorkeling adventures spotting colorful fish. Paradise Travel designs family itineraries with age-appropriate pacing, including interactive museum visits and gentle river cruises.

Off-the-beaten-path experiences

Beyond the well-known tourist spots, Cambodia is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Small towns offer a glimpse of authentic Cambodian life, with charming colonial architecture, quiet riverside scenes, and local markets. Battambang’s bamboo train rattles through countryside vistas, while Kampot’s pepper plantations offer tastings of world-famous spice. Riverside cafes in Kratie provide dolphin-watching on the Mekong, a serene alternative to busier sites. These less-visited destinations allow travelers to experience Cambodia’s local charm away from the crowds, providing a more intimate connection with the country and its people.

Hand-crafted bamboo railway in Battambang.

Endless exploration

Why visit Cambodia? For travelers looking to explore Southeast Asia, Cambodia offers a perfect blend of adventure, discovery, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re trekking through jungles, exploring ancient ruins, or simply relaxing on a beautiful beach, Cambodia promises a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Jungles in Mondulkiri invite elephant treks and hill tribe visits, while Siem Reap’s quad bike tours zip past rice paddies. Discovery extends to culinary adventures or volunteering in conservation projects, blending excitement with purpose. As a gateway, Cambodia connects seamlessly to regional explorations, making it ideal for multi-country tours in Indochina.

Tips for visiting Cambodia

Best Time to Travel to Cambodia

Cambodia has two distinct seasons: the rainy season, from May to October, and the dry season, from November to March. The dry season is the best time to travel to Cambodia, as the weather is sunny, dry, and pleasant. Starting in mid-November, Cambodia hosts festivals such as the Water Festival and boat races. If you want to learn more about Cambodian culture, consider traveling in April to experience the traditional New Year, Chol Chnam Thmay, with the locals. The rainy season brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, ideal for photography, though some roads may flood.

Decorated racing boat at the Phnom Penh’s Water Festival.

Discover the best places to visit in Cambodia in dry season.

Must-visit destinations in Cambodia

Phnom Penh

The capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is the largest political, economic, cultural, and tourist center in the country. When visiting Phnom Penh, you can explore many famous sites such as the Royal Palace (including the Silver Pagoda and the Golden Pagoda), Wat Phnom Pagoda, the National Museum of Cambodia, Wat Botum Pagoda, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, the Olympic Stadium, the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, and the Independence Monument.

Siem Reap

Located in northwestern Cambodia, Siem Reap is a tourist town known for the Angkor complex, considered Cambodia’s national treasure. During your visit to Siem Reap, you cannot miss the Angkor Wat temple complex, one of the seven wonders of the world. Other popular attractions include Wat Bo and Wat Preah Prom Rath pagodas, Phnom Kulen National Park, Tonlé Sap Lake, Pub Street, and the Angkor Silk Farm.

Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is a port city in southern Cambodia, known for its deep-water port and numerous beaches and islands that attract tourists. Here, you can enjoy golden sandy beaches and turquoise waters in places like Koh Rong, Song Saa, Koh Ta Kiev, and many others. You can also participate in exciting activities like swimming, scuba diving, canoeing, jet skiing, and savoring delicious fresh seafood.

Secluded beach on Koh Rong Sanloem island.

Kampot

Located in southern Cambodia, this charming small town is nestled along the Kampong Bay River, near the Gulf of Thailand. Visitors to Kampot can enjoy the tranquility of the riverside countryside and admire beautiful landscapes. The town is known for its remarkable sites, including Bokor Mountain with its French colonial architecture, Phnom Chhnork Cave, the famous ancient bridge that crosses the Kampong Bay River, and Kampot Station.

Sambor Prei Kuk

Sambor Prei Kuk is an ancient archaeological site with over 100 temples hidden in the forest, built in the 7th century to worship the Hindu god Shiva. Over time, some temples were forgotten and overgrown by the jungle, creating spectacular and mysterious landscapes that you should not miss during your visit.

Things to Know When Traveling to Cambodia

• The currency of Cambodia is the riel (1000 riels = 5900 Vietnamese dong). However, the use of the US dollar for transactions is also widespread in Cambodia, and some places even accept payments in Vietnamese dong.
• When you arrive in Cambodia, buying a SIM card becomes extremely simple and convenient. You can find SIM cards in most phone stores in the city. To avoid paying an excessive price or buying an expired SIM card, it is better to book it in advance to ensure a hassle-free trip.
• The weather in Cambodia is very hot, especially if you plan to go to the beach. So be sure to bring light, breathable clothing that easily absorbs sweat, and don’t forget to bring sunscreen.
• Taxis are not as common in Cambodia as in Vietnam. You can rent a taxi by the day or half-day with a pre-agreed fare. To avoid paying an exorbitant price, make sure you are well-informed and negotiate.
• Bargaining in Cambodia is quite common, with prices often inflated by 2 to 3 times. It is therefore not an ideal place for shopping, and you should only buy what is necessary, such as food or souvenirs.
• It is important not to touch children’s heads, as according to local belief, only parents can do so.
• Also, it is advisable not to give objects with the left hand, as Cambodians consider the left hand to be “impure.”
  When visiting a temple, wear modest clothing to show respect for the local culture, and avoid getting close to or touching monks.

Plan your Cambodia adventure with Paradise Travel

Why visit Cambodia? A trip to Cambodia offers a dive into a fascinating world, blending ancient history and breathtaking landscapes. To make your experience even more memorable, trust our expertise. Contact us today to book your best Cambodia tours, and let us guide you through this unforgettable adventure. Don’t wait any longer to discover this jewel of Southeast Asia with Paradise Travel!