Description
The capital of Cambodia is the throbbing lifeline of the nation. Possessing a certain charm despite the chaos of urban life, Phnom Penh is one of Southeast Asia’s most riveting cities. Having come far from its war-torn past, the cosmopolitan city now reverberates with life around the clock. It is home to the biggest and best shopping centres, restaurants, bars, cafes, halls, and historic centres of Cambodia.
Take a relaxing boat tour along the floating village on Tonle Sap. Honour the city by learning about its tragic past from the Khmer Rouge era. The National Museum of Cambodia, the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, Wat Phnom, Sisowath Quay, and the Independence Monument are some must-see Phnom Penh destinations in all Cambodia vacation packages.
If Phnom Penh embodies Cambodia’s advancement towards the future, then Siem Reap is where the country’s history lies. The temples of Angkor are certainly its biggest draw, but the city has much more to offer. Cambodia Landmine Museum, Phnom Kulen National Park, Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, Kbal Spean, War Museum Cambodia, and several art museums are worth visiting in Siem Reap. Shop at the Angkor Night Market and expect to be dazzled by the amount of merchandise for sale, but do not be fooled by the prices. Shed your tourist persona and go for a hard bargain if you want to buy something.
A world away from the throngs of crowds in Phnom Penh and Siam Reap, Battambang is a laid-back city that soaks you in its antique charm. Remnants of French colonialism meet the essence of old Cambodia in the landscape of Battambang, making it a possible highlight of your Cambodia trip. While in Battambang, make sure to visit the archaeological site of Phnom Sampeau, the Angkorian temples of Wat Ek Phnom and Wat Banan, the White Elephant Pagoda, and the Provincial Museum. You should also experience a show put up by Phare Ponleu Selpak, a local NGO famous for its unique circus performances. The urban fabric of Battambang, made of art boutiques, quirky cafes, and eclectic restaurants, is also worth exploring.
With almost none of the crazy crowds of neighbouring Thailand or Indonesia, Cambodia’s beaches offer a similar tropical beach experience but with much more peace and quiet. Expect warm turquoise waters, powdery sands, lines of palm trees, and lots of sunlight.
Sihanoukville and the islands off the city’s coast are paradisiacal beach destinations, especially Koh Rong, Koh Rong Sanloem, and Koh Tang. For upscale resorts, visit Koh Russey, and for backpacking hostels, Koh Ta Kiev is ideal.
Ream National Park has quite a few beaches from where you can spot dolphins and porpoises in the water. Ream Beach here has more barbecue shacks, while Prek Chak and Koh Sramoch beaches are quieter.
/whatsapp-logo-removebg-preview.png){kind=logo}