Cambodia Travel Guide

In this article, we will provide you with general information and useful Cambodia travel guide.

General information

– Location: Southeast Asia

– Capital: Phnom Penh

– Language: Khmer (95% of the population)

– Time zone: +7

– Main religion: Buddhism

– Money: Riel (KHR) & US dollars

– Border: Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Ocean

– International dialing: +855

– Population: approximately 17 million (2022)

Map of Cambodia

Firstly, Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia (Indochina) and borders Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Like many other Southeast Asian countries, Buddhism is the dominant religion, with 96% of the population practicing Buddhism, about 2% being Muslim, and 1% being Christian. Due to the strong presence of Buddhism, the country has many temples and pagodas whose architecture is inspired by the religious architecture of Hinduism. If you are planning a visit, the Cambodia travel guide on religion in this article will be helpful. 

In terms of currency, the US dollar is the most commonly used currency in Cambodia, but the Cambodian Riel is gaining popularity. Prices in hotels, shops as well as restaurants are now typically quoted in US dollars and Riel. Change of less than $10 is usually given in Riel at a rate of around 4000 Riels/US$1.

Cambodia Currency

Despite having survived a painful past and still bearing many scars from the “Khmer Rouge”, today, Cambodia wants to leave this chapter in the past and enjoy the peace and harmony it achieved. The people of this country are certainly one of its greatest assets. Cambodians are known for their kindness, generosity, and willingness to share with you, which should win you over on your first visit. Cambodia will fascinate you with the variety of its archaeological sites dispersed throughout the jungle; its floating villages where monks appear to meditate endlessly to the beat of the water; its still wild natural sites; its landscapes of green rice fields; and its winding rivers lined with enormous trees.

Want to know more about Cambodia? The information in this article Cambodia travel guides will surely help you.

How to get to Cambodia

One of the most essential Cambodia travel guide is on how to enter the country legally.

By plane

There are about 17 airports in Cambodia, but only 3 of them are major airports that offer international flights. They are:

• Phnom Penh International Airport (PHN)
• Siem Reap International Airport (REP)
•  Sihanoukville/Kompong Som International Airport (KOS)

By road

From Thailand

International travelers can cross the border between Thailand and Cambodia in:

•  Cham Yeam (Koh Kong province): the most direct access to Sihanoukville. (e-Visa accepted)
• Poipet (Banteay Meanchey province) / Aranyaprathet. (e-Visa accepted)
• O’smach (Oddar Meanchey province) / Chong Jom
• Prum (Pailin province) / Ban Pakard
• Daung (Battambang province) / Ban Laem
• Anlong Veng (Oddar Meanchey province) / Chong Sa Ngam

From Vietnam

There are several other border crossing points between Vietnam and Cambodia:

• Bavet (Svay Rieng province) / Moc Bai (e-Visa accepted)
• Phnom Da (Kandal province)
• Phnom Den (Takeo province) / Tinh Bien: direct access between Vietnam and Phnom Penh and the province of Kampot.
• Tropiang Sre (Kratie province)
• Trapeang Phlong Pir (Kompong Cham province) / Xa Mat: Since the border posts have barely opened, Kampong Cham province cannot yet issue visas.
• Prek Chak (Kampot province) / Xa Xia
• Ka-or Samnor (Kandal province)
• O’Yadav (Ratanakiri province)/ Le Thanh

From Laos

• Tropaeng Kreal border post, Stung Treng province in Cambodia / Champassak in Laos. (e-Visa accepted)
• Dong Kralo border post in Veun Kham

The border can be crossed by road or river, and some properties offer transport.

On a boat

The only way to get to Cambodia by boat is from Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam).

It is not possible to enter Cambodia by boat from Thailand or Laos.

By train

There are no passenger train connections from neighboring countries to Cambodia or vice versa.

From Thailand, you can take the train to Aranyaan (the train leaves Bangkok at 5.55 am) then cross the Poipet border post and enter Cambodia by road.

By bus

By bus, you can easily enter Cambodia from Vietnam because there are several buses that depart from Ho Chi Minh City for Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.

Visitors can also take a bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap.

Visa & Passport

Only citizens of the following countries can enter Cambodia without a visa for a short stay (less than 30 days): Brunei (14 days), Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Seychelles (14 days), Singapore, Thailand (14 days), and Vietnam.

To enter Cambodia, citizens of countries other than those listed above must apply for a visa. There are three other options for obtaining a tourist visa in Cambodia:

• apply for the visa upon arrival at Cambodia’s international airports or border gates.
• apply for a visa at the Cambodian embassy in your native country.
• apply for an e-visa (electronic visa). It costs you 30 USD and a 6 USD processing fee. You will receive an approved permit via email in 3-4 days.

* Note

• Your passport should not be torn or blurry.
• Your passport will be valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date.
• Complete all required formalities

Cambodia weather & Best time to visit

In the article Cambodia travel guide, we will provide you with the most helpful information about the weather and climate in Cambodia.

when you should visit Cambodia

It should be noted that Cambodia’s climate is hot all year round as it is influenced by the monsoon. It has two distinct seasons: both the rainy season (May to October) and the dry season (November to April). During the hottest months, temperatures can reach 40 degrees.

The dry season is the peak tourist season. Prices will be higher during these months due to increased demand. If you want to save money, you can visit during other months of the year, but be cautious because rain can disrupt your visit. November to March is the best time to visit Cambodia. However, you should consider visiting between June and October, when the rains, which usually fall in the afternoon, will not interfere with your visit and other services are less expensive than during the high season.

Religion in Cambodia

Cambodia is well-known as a peaceful Buddhist country, with 95% of the population practicing Theravada Buddhism, the country’s predominant religion. The survivors follow Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.

Foreign visitors frequently visit Cambodia’s complex religious sites, such as the famous Angkor Wat. Everyone is welcome in Buddhist temples, but there are some ground rules to follow:

• Dress conservatively; cover your shoulders, elbows, and legs. Don’t wear revealing clothes.
• Take off your hat and shoes before entering a pagoda.
• Remain silent and avoid any inappropriate conversation or controversial subject.

Tips for your trip to Cambodia

As you know, moving around in Cambodia is quite inconvenient. Therefore, it’s necessary for visitors to read Cambodia travel guide on how to move safely and inexpensively.

• Choose light clothes (because it is hot), but be careful (when visiting religious places: t-shirt with sleeves, cover your shoulders and knees).
• Bring at least a pair of sports shoes, you will be walking a lot.
• Don’t forget your hat and sunscreen.
• The tuk-tuk is a traditional, practical, and low-cost mode of transportation (though it lacks air conditioning).
• Many taxis in Cambodia do not have meters, so you must negotiate the fare before using them.
• Although the dollar and the local currency can both be used, it is preferable to use the Riel (KHR), especially for small purchases.
• Ask politely if you can take pictures with the monks.
• Do not touch Cambodians on the head.
• Most offices have working hours from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Purchase a phone card from a post office, hotel, or shop.
• Don’t drink tap water and eat raw meat.
• Negotiate the price of products in the markets

Tuk-tuk

>> For a detailed Cambodia travel guide on car rental, read this article.

Best place to visit in Cambodia

Discover Cambodia today, with its temples, jungle, and traditions still intact to the delight of visitors. Here are some must-see attractions in Cambodia:

Capital Phnom Penh 

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia,  must be one of the most popular tourist destinations recommended by any Cambodia travel guide. It is a mix of French colonial mansions and tree-lined boulevards set among monumental Angkorian architecture. This city has established a modern system of restaurants, hotels, bars, and clubs for tourists to enjoy their stay. When tourists visit Phnom Penh, they leave with unforgettable memories of the city’s chaotic streets, bustling life, and warm-hearted people. Its chaotic traffic makes walking around extremely difficult. Don’t worry, there are other options, such as moto-dop and tuk-tuk. If you are interested in golf, you must enjoy your great vacation at many Royal Cambodia Golf Club. Here are must-see attractions in Phnom Penh:

• National Museum.
• Temples: Wat Phnom and Wat Ounalom.
• Independence monument.
• Museums and sites dedicated to the Khmer Rouge invasion: Tuol Sleng, Cheung Ek, Killing Fields.
• Group aerobics classes: Cambodians follow lively upbeat music and fitness video sessions.
• Markets: Central Market (Psar Thmei), Night Market, and Russian Market (Psar O Russei).
• Island of Koh Dach or “silk island”.

Capital Phnom Penh

Angkor Wat

Have you ever noticed the uniqueness of the Cambodian flag? It is, indeed, the site of Angkor, which appears on the flag. Every visitor to Cambodia must see Angkor Wat. It is truly a magnificent and awe-inspiring sight, with its five lotus-like towers rising 65 meters into the sky. Because of its enormous size, it will take you at least three days to see “everything,” and there is a lot to see in Angkor, including the Angkor National Museum, Khmer Rouge Atrocity Commemorations, Prek Shrine Toal bird shows or acrobatic circus, markets, the Khmer Ceramic Center, or cooking classes.

• Angkor Thom
• Angkor Wat
• Tonle Sap Lake
• Baray
• Prasat Kravan
• Ta Prohm 

Siem Reap

Sihanoukville

Located in the south of Cambodia, Sihanoukville is the port city of this country. This city is known for its palm-shaped white sand beaches and clean beaches that are ideal for sunbathing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water activities. White sand beaches, nearby desert islands, scuba diving, seafood, and lively nightlife make this a popular tourist destination. However, foreign visitors rate neighboring islands higher because they are quieter and less touristy.

Sihanoukville

Battambang

Here you will find beautiful temples, bamboo trains, and amazing architecture. Now it is “Cambodia without tourists”. Visitors can return to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap by riverboat for an unforgettable experience.

Koh Kong

Koh Kong, located near the Thai border in the Cardamom Mountain area, provides excellent opportunities for jungle trekking as well as relaxing on white sand beaches. This island is widely regarded as having one of the best resorts in Southeast Asia. Many tour companies offer day trips to the island.

Kampot & Kep

Kampot, a quiet river town a few hours from Phnom Penh, has grown in popularity with tourists and foreigners in recent years. It is jam-packed with amenities, including Western restaurants, cute shops, and river cruises. Besides, it is an excellent destination for slowing down and relaxing during your journey. Kep, on the other hand, is a small coastal town worth visiting just for the freshly cooked pepper crabs.

Province of Kratie

Kratie has a rich history dating back to French colonization. So a bike or foot expedition is ideal for discovering the following locations:

• Koh Trong, the island on the Mekong (take a bike ride to discover its trails).
• Vat Roka Kandal: located 2 km from Kratie, this temple was built at the beginning of the 19th century.
• Full-day or half-day canoe rental on the Mekong. The Irrawaddy freshwater dolphins are rare species protected by the authorities. You can arrange to meet the dolphins on a motorboat by contacting your hotel or a local travel agency.

City Kampong Thom

This destination, located between Phnom Penh and Angkor, is relatively uncrowded by tourists. You can discover:

• Temple of Sambor Prei Kuk: a site less frequented by tourists. Bring long clothes and mosquito repellent.
• Temple of Phnom Santuk: about 20 km away from Kompong Thom. You have to pass a small test of 809 steps to climb to the temple. The view clears up as you go up the stairs.
• The silkworm farm of Santuk (silkworm farm): Silk weavers in Cambodia are renowned for their know-how and the quality of the product which emerges as “Khmer golden silk”.
• Preah Khan: is a remote site from Kompong, and access is difficult due to the state of the roads, but it is a beautiful place that is worth the effort. The best period is from December to April.

Sen Monorom

The region is part of the Mondulkiri province in eastern Cambodia. It is unique in that it is located at a high elevation (800 m). As a result, it has a diverse range of landscapes, including green hills, forests, waterfalls, and lakes.

Here, visitors can encounter “minority” villages, discover the landscapes on foot or on the back of an elephant, and hike in the jungle.

Moreover, the non-governmental organization “The Elephant Valley Project” works to preserve and protect these magnificent creatures. The centre rescues sick elephants or elephants who have survived tourist exploitation, treats them, and then releases them.

Elephant in Sen Monorom

Mayan pyramid Koh Ker

Koh Ker is a city in Cambodia’s northwest region. There are approximately 42 massive temples spread across a 9 km by 4 km land area. The red and blue stones, as well as the massive trees that wrap their roots around the temples, are what make this place unique.

What to eat in Cambodia

When searching for a Cambodia travel guide, one of the things travelers care most about is what to eat in Cambodia.

Bai Sach Chrouk (pork and rice)

Firstly, we would like to recommend Bai Sach Chrouk. Even religious people should be satisfied with this simple dish. The pork is roasted and slightly sweet as it is often marinated in coconut milk or garlic before being served with hot rice, cucumbers, radishes, and sauce. This is a popular breakfast in Cambodia and can be found at most street stalls.

Fish amok

Secondly, it’s Fish amok. While the idea of ​​”fish mousse” may sound “gross”, this curry dish offers a melting and warm flavor that combines local herbs like ginger and lemon with a good dose of spice. In fact, this is one of the must-see dishes on your Cambodia tour.

Fish Amok

Name Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)

Last but not least, you can’t leave Cambodia without trying the name banh chok. In Cambodia, this is a popular breakfast. The fresh green curry sauce is drizzled over the rice noodles, which are topped with bean sprouts and other vegetables. This famous food even appears on the menu of Pizza 4’s Cambodia!

Name Banh Chok

Holidays in Cambodia

Like Vietnam and Thailand, Cambodia has numerous public holidays, both memorial and religious in nature. Because some holidays are calculated using the traditional Khmer lunar calendar, the dates change yearly. The most important holiday in Cambodia is the Khmer New Year, which occurs in the middle of April. This marks the end of the harvest season in this country, and people can take a brief respite from their labors. During Khmer New Year, locals usually decorate the altars, visit temples, and participate in traditional games.

“Cambodia travel guide” will suggest you top events:

– New Year: January 1

– Genocide Victory Day: January 7

– Religious festival of Meak Bochea: February 19 (approximately)

– Khmer New Year (Bon Chaul Chhnam): 13 – 15 April

– Labor Day: May 1

– Royal plowing ceremony: May

– Birthday of King Norodom Sihamoni: May 13-15

– Birthday of Queen Mother Monineath: June 18

– Day of the King’s Father: October 15

– Paris Peace Accord Day: October 23

– King’s Coronation Day, Norodom Sihamoni: October 29

– Water Festival: November 7-9

– National Independence Day: November 9

Cambodia: helpful addresses

We hope the information in the article “Cambodia travel guide” will be helpful to you. Here are some addresses that should be noted down, especially for emergency cases.

Embassies in Cambodia

• Belgian Embassy

Belgium does not have an embassy installed in Cambodia.

+ Consulate of Belgium in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Address: 404D Monivong Blvd. Boeung Keng Kang 1, Chamkarmon District, Phnom Penh

Telephone: (+855) 12 840 056

+ Honorary Consulate in Phnom Penh (Cambodia )

Address: 404D Monivong Blvd. Boeung Keng Kang 1, Chamkarmon District, Phnom Penh.

Telephone: (+855) 12 840 056

• Canadian Embassy

Address: 27-29 75 St., Sangkat Srah Chak, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Telephone: (+855) 23 213.470

• French Embassy

Address: 1 Monivong Boulevard, Phnom Penh

Telephone: +855 23 430 020

• Swiss Embassy

+ Phnom Penh Cooperation Office and Consular Agency

Address:  50, Street 334, Boeung Keng Kang 1 / Khan Boeung Keng Kang

120102 Phnom Penh

Telephone: (+855) 23 218 305 / (+855) 23 218 209

+ Swiss Consulate in Phnom Penh

Address: Street 242, House 53 D Sangkat Veal Vong Khan 7 Makar PO Box 125 Phnom Penh

Telephone: (+855) 23 219 045

Useful telephone numbers

– SAMU: 15

– Font: 117

– Firefighters: 118

– For people with hearing impairments: 114

– For all European: 112

– SAMU Social (emergency accommodation): 115

– Rescue at sea: 1616

– Missing children: 116,000

– Childhood in danger: 119