20 Must-Visit Attractions In Cambodia

Cambodia is full of diversity and offers a variety of activities for visitors to quickly fill up their agendas with. From its array of glorious temples and religious structures, rich heritage and culture to the rare wildlife and stunning eco-tourism spots, the country has it all.

1. Angkor Wat Archaeological Park

Park

Home to world-famous Angkor Wat, this UNESCO heritage site stretches across more than 400 kilometers squared and contains hundreds of temples and structures dating back to the Khmer Empire era. The most popular are Angkor Wat, Bayon and its multiple faces and root-riddled Ta Prohm, which was the location for parts of Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, starring Angelina Jolie.

2. National Museum of Cambodia

Museum

The National Museum is home to the world’s greatest collection of Khmer artifacts and is well worth a visit ahead of a trip to the temples of Angkor Wat. A stroll through the attraction takes in a range of sculptures, ceramics, and other ancient objects dating back to the prehistoric, pre-Angkorian, and post-Angkorian periods, offering an intriguing insight into the country’s rich history.

3. The Royal Palace

Buddhist Temple, Museum, Shrine

Unmissable thanks to its glittering golden roofs, the Royal Palace serves as the official royal residence of King Sihamoni, meaning parts of the sprawling palace grounds are closed to the public. However, the Throne Hall and surrounding buildings, as well as neighboring Silver Pagoda, can be visited, and you can take in intricately decorated temples and buildings, among manicured tropical gardens.

5. Cambodian Living Arts

Museum

The Preying Mantis Dance |© Jim Huston

6. Banteay Srei Butterfly Centre

Museum

More than 30 species of Cambodian butterflies flutter around Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre in Siem Reap province, making it one of the largest fully enclosed butterfly centers in southeast Asia. Visitors can also learn, and see first-hand, the insects’ journey from egg to caterpillar, pupa, and finally, adult butterfly.

7. Cambodia Landmine Museum

Museum

Cambodia Landmine Museum is the result of tireless work from landmine victim Aki Ra, who has contributed towards the huge operations to rid the country of explosives left over from the war. The museum, which is close to the Butterfly Centre, houses a collection of mines, mortars, and other weapons, as well as tells the stories of some of the country’s countless victims.

8. Wat Phnom

Park, Buddhist Temple

Standing as the capital’s only hill, this well-manicured park offers welcome respite from the capital’s heat. Wat Phnom pagoda and its intricately-detailed temple sits atop and welcomes visitors, with foreigners paying a $1 fee. Steer clear of the mischievous, and often vicious, monkeys.

9. Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center

Park

Nature lovers will be in their element at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, where animals rescued from the clutches of poachers and illegal traders are nursed back to health by Wildlife Alliance. Animals include elephants, monkeys, tigers, and sun bears. A behind-the-scenes tour is also available.

10. Sambor Prei Kuk

Sambor Prei Kuk |© Perfect Lazybones / Shutterstock

11. Phare, the Cambodian Circus

Theater

Dubbed Cambodia’s alternative to Cirque du Soliel, jaw-dropping performances blend theatrics, music, dance, acrobatics, and modern circus art to retell Khmer folktales with a modern take. Daily Phare performances take place in Siem Reap, with two or three shows a week in Battambang, depending on the season.

12. Bokor Mountain, Kampot

Casino, Church, Hill Station

The 42-mile drive from Kampot town to Bokor’s peak is a bikers’ dream, with it only accessible to motorbikes and cars. It is home to the Popokvil waterfall, a giant Buddhist statue, an abandoned Bokor Hill Station, a giant casino, derelict church, unparalleled views, and a refreshingly cool climate.

13. Crab Market, Kep

Market, Seafood

The famous Cambodian dish of Kampot pepper and crab was born in this stylish seaside town, and a visit to the Crab Market serves up an authentic taste. Watch women wade into the sea to haul in the crab baskets ahead of being served the freshest dish in the Kingdom. There are several neighboring shacks to enjoy an accompanying beer.

14. Koh Dach

Homestay

Nestled a short ferry ride from Phnom Penh, this small island sits a million miles away from the capital’s hustle and bustle. Perfect to explore on the back of a bike, Koh Dach, also known as Silk Island, is renowned for its silk weaving, with a center dedicated to ancient techniques open to the public.

15. Phnom Sampeau, Battambang

Aerial scenery around Phnom Sampeou in Cambodia |© PRILL / Shutterstock

16. Bamboo Train, Battambang

The bamboo train in Battambang |© Cristina Stoian / Shutterstock | © Cristina Stoian / Shutterstock.com

17. Preah Vihear

Hindu Temple

Cambodia’s lesser known UNESCO site is well worth getting off the beaten track to visit. The stunning temple complex, which sits on the border of Thailand, boasts fewer crowds and a more authentic taste of the Khmer kingdom. Breath-taking views from its summit can be enjoyed.

18. Kratie

Fishermen on the Mekong River at Kratie |© Tepikina Nastya / Shutterstock | © Tepikina Nastya / Shutterstock

19. Bassac Lane

Hangar 44, one of the bars at Bassac Lane |© Kampuchea Party Republic

20. Russian Market

Market

Stalls flogging everything from souvenirs, art, clothes, and jewelry to fruit and vegetables, household goods, and bike parts, a morning or afternoon can easily be spent wandering around the rabbit’s warren inside, with bargains waiting to be snagged if the haggling is right.

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