Best sightseeing places in Cambodia

1. Angkor Wat: The Crown Jewel of Cambodia

Undoubtedly, the most renowned tourist attraction in Cambodia is Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest religious monument in the world. Constructed in the early 12th century, this architectural masterpiece was originally built as a Hindu temple and later transformed into a Buddhist temple.

Visitors come from around the globe to witness its vast complex of intricate stonework, colossal ruins, and stunning bas-reliefs that narrate stories from both Hindu and Buddhist mythology. The highlight is the central tower, symbolizing Mount Meru, surrounded by five other towers representing the mountain’s surrounding mountain ranges.

For a truly mesmerizing experience, many tourists opt to catch the sunrise over the temple’s silhouette—an ephemeral moment that reflects on the waters of the surrounding moat, creating an unforgettable display of nature and architecture.
2. The Temples of Angkor: Beyond Angkor Wat

While Angkor Wat is the focal point, the Angkor Archaeological Park is home to numerous other significant temples, each with its unique characteristics. South of Angkor Wat lies the stunning Bayon Temple, famous for its multitude of serene, smiling faces carved into stone. The temple’s intricate and enigmatic bas-reliefs depict scenes from Buddhist cosmology, history, and daily life.

A short distance away, Ta Prohm beckons visitors with its hauntingly beautiful blend of nature and architecture. The temple, left in a state of ruin, features massive tree roots embracing the ancient stone structures, creating a surreal atmosphere reminiscent of an enchanted forest.

Exploring the temple complex often involves a bike or tuk-tuk ride through the lush Cambodian countryside, making it not only a historical journey but also a scenic one.
3. Phnom Penh: The Heart of the Nation

Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh, presents visitors with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modernity. The Royal Palace, with its stunning Khmer architecture, boasts extensive gardens and ornate buildings, including the Silver Pagoda, which houses a collection of national treasures and emerald Buddha statues.

However, Phnom Penh is also a city that confronts its past. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek serve as solemn reminders of the Khmer Rouge regime’s atrocities. These sites provide visitors not only with insights into Cambodia’s turbulent history but also a chance to reflect on the resilience of its people.

In contrast, the riverside promenade along the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers offers a vibrant atmosphere with bustling markets, cafes, and traditional boat rides—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
4. Siem Reap: Gateway to Angkor

Siem Reap, the town closest to the Angkor Wat complex, serves as a gateway for travelers. Beyond its proximity to the temples, Siem Reap is alive with cultural experiences, night markets, and cuisine. The Psar Chaa (Old Market) is a bustling hub where visitors can shop for souvenirs, silk, handicrafts, and sample traditional Cambodian street food, such as amok (a coconut milk curry).

For a deeper appreciation of local customs, tourists can also attend the Phare Circus, a unique blend of circus arts, theater, and acrobatics, showcasing the talents of Cambodian youth and telling their stories through captivating performances.
5. Sihanoukville and Koh Rong: Beach Paradise

For those seeking relaxation after a whirlwind of temple sightseeing, Sihanoukville and its nearby islands offer idyllic beach settings. The coastal town is known for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and opportunities for water activities such as snorkeling and diving.

Koh Rong, a short boat ride away, is a stunning island known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and tropical landscapes. It is perfect for travelers looking to unwind on a secluded beach or engage in more adventurous activities like zip-lining and jungle trekking.
6. Battambang: The Hidden Gem

Often overshadowed by other tourist hotspots, Battambang is Cambodia’s second-largest city and boasts a charming blend of colonial architecture and rural scenery. Here, visitors can explore the well-preserved French buildings, visit local art galleries, and partake in culinary tours that highlight traditional Cambodian cooking methods.

A unique cultural experience awaits at the Phare Ponleu Selpak, a social enterprise that supports local youth through the arts. Attending a performance helps sustain their mission, while offering insight into the vibrant Cambodian arts scene.

Nearby, the bamboo train ride provides a quirky adventure through the countryside—an unforgettable, albeit bumpy, journey on flatbed carts driven by a simple engine.
7. Tonle Sap Lake: A Biosphere Reserve

Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, offers travelers a chance to witness the region’s unique aquatic biodiversity and the traditional lifestyles of the floating communities. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the lake is known for its remarkable ecological dynamics and is a sanctuary for countless bird species.

Boat rides to the floating villages, such as Kampong Phluk and Chong Khneas, allow visitors to interact with local families, learn about their livelihoods, and appreciate the cultural significance of the lake. Birdwatchers, in particular, should not miss the chance to witness the seasonal migrations that transform the lake into a vibrant ecological hub.