Cambodia is a country rich in culture and handicrafts. If you're considering a trip to this magnificent country, you'll definitely want to bring some souvenirs home with you. If you're wondering what to bring from Cambodia on your next trip, here are some gift ideas that might interest you.
Cambodia is a country rich in culture and handicrafts. If you're considering a trip to this magnificent country, you'll definitely want to bring some souvenirs home with you. If you're wondering what to bring from Cambodia on your next trip, here are some gift ideas that might interest you.
1. Krama, Cambodian scarf
Krama is a traditional and iconic Cambodian scarf. It is worn by men, women, and children across all social classes throughout the country, as well as in the large Khmer communities in northeastern Thailand and southern Vietnam.
Krama often features vibrant colors, such as red and white, blue and white, or black and white, and is made of cotton or silk. It is commonly checked and can be wrapped around the head to shield against wind, rain, and the scorching heat of the Cambodian summer. It can also be draped over the shoulders or tied around the waist.
Krama is a popular choice for acquiring unique Cambodian souvenirs. It is easy to pack in a suitcase, reasonably priced, ranging from 3 to 5 USD, or even less if you know how to bargain or purchase in bulk.
2. Sampot, Cambodian’s traditional costume
Every country has its own unique traditional clothing style, and the Kingdom of Cambodia is no exception with its Sampot. Sampot is a rectangular piece of fabric, approximately 3 meters long and 1 meter wide, wrapped around the waist to cover the abdomen and tied at the front. The wearer secures it with a knot before pulling it between the legs and fastening it tightly with a metal belt. Unlike a skirt, Sampot resembles pants more.
This traditional Cambodian garment is made from soft silk, using intricate weaving techniques to create delicate fabric pieces.
3. Wooden sculptures
Wood carving is an ancient art in Cambodia with a history spanning hundreds of years. Cambodian artisans exhibit exceptional expertise and intricate carving techniques, prominently showcased in the elaborate carvings and bas-reliefs on the walls of Angkor Wat and other ancient temples across the country.
Today, replicas of these sculptural masterpieces are created and sold at reasonable prices as souvenirs of Cambodia, whether large or small. These artistic creations often feature miniature replicas of deities, the Buddha, Apsara dancers, as well as various animal forms.
Rosewood and teak, woods known for their durable structure and delicate grain patterns, are the most commonly used materials in crafting these artistic objects.
4. Cambodian silk
Weaving fabric is an ancient craft in Cambodia dating back to the 13th century and is still preserved to this day. The traditional ikat weaving method, along with the use of natural dyes, reflects the essence of this craftsmanship in Cambodia.
The term "ikat" refers to a weaving design process where threads are dyed before being woven together to create intricate and complex patterns. In the renowned Angkor Wat temple complex, one can admire a plethora of designs on the temple walls depicting the Khmer people's traditional ikat-style garments.
This weaving style is unique due to its use of materials from the Cambodian landscape. For instance, the Khmer people's traditional ikat employs golden silk threads drawn from the silk-producing golden orb-weaver spider, along with natural dyes extracted from indigenous plants.
Silk produced through this method is of high quality: soft, washable, and resistant to fading. Handwoven products may be more expensive, but they are unique and hold significant value.
5. Cambodian silver jewelry
By the 11th century, the people of Cambodia excelled in the art of jewelry, a tradition that continues with the country's silver jewelry. These pieces are adorned with local gemstones, featuring unique Khmer designs that reflect the culture of Cambodia.
When visiting Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, you will easily find silver jewelry, perfect for gifts or personal adornment. The Siem Reap night market is an ideal place to purchase them, but remember to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit products by prioritizing certified stores. Prices vary depending on the design and weight, and bargaining is often possible.
6. Cambodian painting
Rice paper, often associated with spring rolls, takes on a creative twist in Cambodia when incorporated into bas-relief sculptures at Angkor Wat, producing unique and affordable souvenir items.
To craft these souvenirs, local artisans delicately place a piece of rice paper onto the carved bas-relief mold, gently rubbing it onto the charcoal surface to highlight the details. The banh trang imprints are then framed and illuminated to create decorative pieces that delight travelers seeking distinctive and lightweight Cambodian mementos.
For purchasing these traditional artworks, we recommend a visit to Street 178 in Phnom Penh, also known as Art Street, where you can discover handmade masterpieces to bring back from Cambodia.
7. Dried fruits
For snack enthusiasts, dried fruits from Cambodia are a must-try, offering delightful and diverse flavors. In particular, dried tamarind is highly popular for its unique taste, combining fruit, seeds, salt, and chili. Don't miss the opportunity to bring home this memorable snack, especially since they are beautifully packaged, making them an ideal gift for your loved ones.
8. Cambodia palm sugar
Cambodia is famous for its delicious palm sugar, a sweet treasure made from the sap of valuable palm trees, carefully processed into high-quality sweetening substance. This compact and enticing gift is an ideal souvenir for your journey. Unlike refined sugar, palm sugar offers a unique and sweet flavor along with a variety of vitamins and minerals. For culinary enthusiasts, Cambodian palm sugar can be an excellent addition to cooking recipes, bringing an authentic touch to their dishes.
9. Kampot pepper
Kampot Pepper, a source of pride for Cambodian agriculture and one of the best peppers globally, comes in various types, including black, white, red, and green. The red pepper, in particular, is highly esteemed for its aromatic fragrance, although each type has its distinct flavor. Overall, Kampot Pepper provides a rich, spicy taste more intense than regular pepper. It is a perfect gift for those who love cooking.
