What are the best places to visit in Cambodia in 2024?
Angkor Wat remains the primary destination for most travelers exploring Cambodia. Although it’s the central point among the temples of Angkor, it is just one of over 1,000 temples scattered across approximately 400 sq km. During peak hours when Angkor Wat sees heavy foot traffic, other temples like the intricately carved Banteay Srei remain peaceful and almost deserted. Cambodia, beyond its ancient temples, boasts pristine jungle and white sandy beaches.
For me, the enduring charm of Cambodia lies in its people. Despite the dark era of Pol Pot’s Khmer Rouge rule in the 1970s, Cambodians exhibit exceptional hospitality, warmly welcoming visitors.
Cambodia’s capital
In the bustling capital, Phnom Penh, the Russian Market stands out among the many markets. Its labyrinthine alleys are filled with stalls offering a variety of goods, from CDs to woodcarvings and Buddhist artifacts to colorful ‘sampots’ (local sarongs).
The Foreign Correspondents’ Club (FCC) in Phnom Penh, a colonial-style establishment with a hotel, bar, and restaurant, offers a vibrant atmosphere. Its terrace bar overlooking the Mekong River is a popular spot for sundowners. While the river view is impressive, I recommend turning around to witness the delicate silhouette of the National Museum’s roofs.
Phnom Penh, though vibrant, also bears witness to the dark history of the Khmer Rouge atrocities. Visiting the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng former prison provides a sobering reminder of the regime’s cruelty.
A short distance from Phnom Penh, Kien Svay offers a glimpse into local life as residents escape the city for weekend picnics along the riverside. The ambiance is convivial, with bamboo huts for picnicking and a small market for fresh produce.
Angkor Wat and the temples of Angkor
Angkor Wat, constructed between the 9th and 15th centuries, stands as the largest religious building still in use. The temples of Angkor represent the ancient Khmer Empire’s capital and abode of the gods, encapsulating the essence of jungle temples.
One of Angkor’s smaller temples
Banteay Srei, a smaller temple in the Angkor complex, stands out for its detailed carvings depicting Apsara dancers and scenes from the Ramayana. Combining a visit to Banteay Srei with Ta Prohm and Phnom Kulen National Park offers a comprehensive experience, with a waterfall and the deserted beauty of Banteay Srei in the late afternoon.
Cambodia’s second city
Battambang, Cambodia’s second city, exudes charm with its colonial-era villas and occasional temple ruins. Riding a bicycle through the town provides an intimate experience.
Elephant conservation in the hills
In the remote hills of Sen Monorom, the Elephant Livelihood Initiative Environment (ELIE) conservation project rescues domestic elephants and supports the protection of wild elephants. Visitors can spend time with the elephants and engage in educational experiences.
Angkor’s Bayon Temple
The Bayon Temple, within the Angkor Thom complex, impresses with over 11,000 carved figures and 216 stone faces. Its symmetry and jungle setting make it a compelling destination, particularly for dawn viewing.
Stay floating on the river in the Cardamom Mountains
The 4 Rivers Floating Lodge, nestled in the Cardamom Mountains, offers a unique retreat with safari-style tents on floating pontoons. Despite its remote location, the lodge provides a comfortable stay and an opportunity for serene river swims.
Cambodia’s lake of floating villages
Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, hosts floating villages where Cambodians and Vietnamese coexist. Exploring these villages on stilts provides a fascinating insight into lake life.
Best place to relax on the coast
For a relaxing coastal retreat, Kep, a small town with charming faded villas and white-sand beaches on Rabbit Island, is an ideal destination. A visit to the crab market and a boat trip to Rabbit Island for a seafood picnic offer a unique experience.
Welcome the dawn at Ta Prohm
While many travelers flock to witness sunrise at Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, left in its natural state with intertwined tree roots, provides a captivating sunrise experience in a tranquil setting. An early start ensures a peaceful visit before returning for breakfast.
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Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
