10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Cambodia

Cambodia is dotted with a variety of unforgettable sites, people, and experiences that will ensure you have a memorable stay visiting the Kingdom of Wonder. So let's take a look at 11 of the most beautiful places to visit in Cambodia with Asiatica Travel.

1. Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat (meaning "Temple City") is the most magnificent and largest of all the Angkor temples and the main tourist attraction in Cambodia. Built around the first half of the 12th century by King Suryavarman II, the balance, composition, and beauty of the temple make it one of the finest monuments in the world. A huge rectangular reservoir surrounds Angkor Wat, which rises through a series of three rectangular terraces to the central sanctuary and tower at a height of 213 meters (669 feet). This arrangement reflects the traditional Khmer idea of the temple-mountain, in which the temple represents Mount Meru, the home of the gods in Hinduism.

2. Phnom Penh

It's rare for visitors to stay more than a few days in the bustling capital of Phnom Penh, but there's plenty to pack in. The quickly modernized city is so different from what most visitors imagine. The vibrant urban center looks very exciting and developing with high hopes for your trip. Foodies are in heaven here because cuisines from all countries are served in the plethora of restaurants, with many beverage options available. The capital is dotted with small galleries, craft shops, markets, and museums.

3. Koh Rong

Cambodia's islands are developing at a rapid pace. However, at present, tranquility remains well and truly on its beaches. Located about a 45-minute ferry ride from the mainland's Sihanoukville, Koh Rong is still packed with turquoise blue waters. Besides beach lounging, activities are mainly water-based, from snorkeling and kayaking to boat tours.

4. Siem Reap - Home of the iconic Angkor Wat

Siem Reap can't be missed from the list. While the city center today is a bustling tourist spot, it takes just over 10 minutes to escape to the open countryside surrounding the city, which is definitely worth staying a few more days in Siem Reap for after visiting the temples. Phnom Kulen National Park is home to waterfalls, ancient religious monuments, wildlife, and superb views, Banteay Srei offers plenty of nature-related adventures, and there are tours to introduce visitors to rural life in Siem Reap province.

5. Exploring the Cardamom Mountains

Living in harmony with nature in the heart of the rainforest is another incredible and unique experience to appreciate. As the largest remaining tropical forest in Southeast Asia, the Cardamom Mountains also harbor a range of rare and endangered flora and fauna that make any visit special.

6. Kampot River

Kampot quickly draws the tourist crowd, who are attracted by its charming relaxed vibe, but the picturesque riverside town has managed to maintain its laid-back Cambodian characteristic vibe. The town is home to a growing number of modern places, with wine bars, cafes, and boutiques, and despite its small size, boasts a variety of high-quality food spots.

The surrounding landscape is also one of the best in the country, with fertile lands making for the ripe growth of the world-famous Kampot pepper. Bokor Mountain makes for an intriguing day trip, with many excursions taking visitors into the heart of Kampot's countryside. The extensive network of waterways is perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or taking a boat tour.

7. Battambang

Battambang is Cambodia's second most populous city and is especially popular among visitors interested in Cambodia's history. Established as a trading center in the 18th century, Battambang later became part of French Indochina, with some colonial buildings still in existence. The city has many Angkor-style temples and Buddhist shrines. It's easy to get around on foot or by bicycle. Statues, mostly of animals and gods, can be found in most public places, with the most famous being an ancient Khmer king located on the road to Phnom Penh. The Central Market also deserves a visit.

8. Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville, also known as Kampong Som, is a port city and resort town on the Gulf of Thailand. The main attraction here is the white sandy beaches and several undeveloped tropical islands. Sihanoukville is a nice place to relax, but be prepared to battle the crowds during the high season or a holiday weekend.

9. Tonle Sap

Tonle Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and is of great importance to Cambodia. The lake expands and shrinks dramatically depending on the seasons. From November to May, during Cambodia's dry season, the Tonlé Sap flows into the Mekong River in Phnom Penh. However, when the heavy rains of the year begin in June, the flow of the Tonlé Sap changes direction and forms a huge lake. Many Vietnamese ethnicities and numerous Cham communities live in the floating villages around the lake.

10. Bayon Temple

Part of the world-famous Angkor destination, the Bayon temple features a sea of over 200 massive stone faces looking in all directions. The smiling and curious faces, considered by many as a portrait of King Jayavarman VII himself or a combination of him with Buddha, are an instantly recognizable image of Angkor. Built in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII as part of a massive expansion of his capital Angkor Thom, the Bayon is built in the heart of the royal city.

11. Koh Ker

Koh Ker was the capital of the Khmer Empire for a brief period between 928 and 944 AD. During this short period, some very spectacular buildings and immense sculptures were constructed. The site is dominated by Prasat Thom, a 30-meter high pyramid rising above the surrounding jungle. A giant Garuda (half mythical man, half bird), carved in stone blocks, still guards the top, although it is partially covered now. Left in the jungle for almost a millennium, Koh Ker was one of Cambodia's most remote and inaccessible destinations. Thanks to recent demining and the opening of a new toll highway, tourists easily visit this site.