Cambodia is one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia for those who want to push their boundaries and relax. Though the iconic Angkor Wat is undoubtedly the shining star, the real beauty of Cambodia actually lies in the smaller gems – mysterious temples, unspoiled beaches, and sleepy towns. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history lover or just interested in chilling out, Cambodia has something for every type of traveller. Here’s your definitive guide to the best places to visit in Cambodia, where every future trip will uncover another morsel of the country’s majestic history and diverse terrain.
The Marvel of the Ancients at Angkor Wat
It would be impossible to discuss Cambodia without talking about the stunning Angkor Wat, which is the world’s largest religious monument and the most iconic symbol of the country. The construction of this architectural wonder is said to have been started in the 12th century by the king, Suryavarman II, as a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, but slowly embracing Buddhism over the years. The beauty of Angkor Wat is not simply its grandeur; in the evening light its all stone glory is awesome indeed, the details are painstakingly carved on it bas-reliefs which cover it from top to bottom are too, and for the Khmers the stories of their gods and kings are about as real as it gets.
Angkor Wat is an amazing place to visit. From the temple, the first light of dawn turns the towers a deep red, then as the sun rises, they are silhouetted against the skyline, and it’s a sight few will forget. Explore the temple complex, and, in the footsteps of kings and monks, uncover hidden corners and vast courtyards. Don’t be in a hurry—spend some time taking in the sense of peace the site conveys, and admiring some of the finest stone workmanship of the ancient world.
The Temples Of Angkor Thom: A Voyage Back In Time
With Angkor Wat the most well-known, there are plenty of other stunning temples throughout the sprawling Angkor Archaeological Park, and Angkor Thom is one of the most important. An enormous walled city and former capital of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Thom was constructed in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. The Bayon Temple, with its famous giant stone faces staring down in all directions, is well-known and a must-visit. Their expressions are uncertain and mysterious, adding an air of mystique to the temple that is creepy and alluring at the same time.
Visitors to Angkor Thom can walk the Terrace of the Elephants, a massive platform with depictions of elephants and lions carved into its surface, and the Terrace of the Leper King, which is covered in detailed mythological carvings. Angkor Thom is the point where history and legend meet, and to explore its expansive complex is to make a personal connection with Cambodia’s grandeur of forgotten times.
The Tranquil Temples of Ta Prohm
For a unique experience, visit Ta Prohm, one of the most iconic temples in Cambodia, as it is the setting for parts of the Tomb Raider movie. What makes Ta Prohm unique, however, is the degree to which nature has coincided with the temple’s stone walls. Very large living trees- particularly Spungs- have crossed roots over and through the temple, creating a beautiful combination of ancient stone and living flora. The temple, constructed toward the end of the 12th century, was largely left unrestored, retaining its sense of mystery and grandeur.
Ta Prohm is the kind of place that makes you feel as though you are walking into a lost world, as nature has taken back what belonged to it. The tangled roots of the trees and the dilapidating walls are hauntingly beautiful, with an eerie stillness that provokes much thought. It’s one of the rare locations where you can really feel the timeless movement of history and nature itself.
The Serene Wonder of Tonle Sap Lake
Once you have had your fill of ruins, visit Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia’s largest freshwater lake. This lake offers a totally different but equally amazing experience. It is a crucial water and food supply for millions of Cambodians and is home to floating villages, a remarkable example of human fortitude and resourcefulness.
A boat ride on Tonle Sap guides you past floating homes, schools, and markets that ebb and flow with the lake’s ever-changing water level. The lake’s tranquil beauty is perfectly matched to its varied ecology, which attracts a variety of birds throughout the year, not least migratory birds that come back to the area every year. It’s a quiet, contemplative place to consider the natural beauty of Cambodia and the profound link people have to the land.
The Charm of Battambang
For a sample of the sleepy, rural side of Cambodia, go to Battambang, the country’s second-largest city, which is blissfully untouched by mass tourism. Battambang is famous for its surviving French colonial architecture, countryside, and abusively friendly arts scene. The city is a fine place to wander down its charming French colonial streets, through its local markets and cafes on foot or by bicycle.
The Bamboo Train: The most famous of all Battambang sights is the Bamboo Train – it’s a wacky, fun 30-minute ride on a make-shift bamboo platform through rolling paddy fields, along the old railway tracks. It is a fun, quirky experience, and you will get an idea about rural Cambodian life. Battambang also provides an access point to Phnom Sampeau mountain, which features caves, temples, and the bat exodus where millions of bats fly out of caves at dusk in search of food.
The Dreamy Beaches of Sihanoukville and Koh Rong
To relax and appreciate Cambodia’s coastal splendours each summer, visitors from around the world have been meeting on the beaches of Sihanoukville and the nearby island of Koh Rong. As Sihanoukville has evolved into a hectic seaside town, pockets of peace with beautiful Gulf of Thailand views remain – for how long is anyone’s guess..glistening gold beaches (where the sand beaches TRANSLUCENTLY golden and the sea TRANSPARENTLY turquoise) that are perfect for lounging in the sun, swimming, and eating fresh seafood.
For a more peaceful getaway, escape to Koh Rong, an island a short boat ride from Sihanoukville. An idyllic spot for wildlife enthusiasts and people looking for a slower pace of life, the island is famous for its sandy beaches and sparkling waters. The small island’s Long Beach is especially favoured for its privacy and natural beauty, providing travellers an idyllic rest stop in a tropical paradise, far from civilisation.
CAMBODIAN VISA FOR AUSTRALIANS
The Long and Terrible History of Phnom Penh
And of course, no trip to Cambodia is complete without a sojourn to its capital, Phnom Penh, a city rich with history, culture, and an emerging student hipster vibe. But it’s also a thriving city, with markets, restaurants and shops, although Phnom Penh has its share of poignant reminders of the country’s violent past. The horrific Killing Fields of the Khmer Rouge and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum are where tourists can come to see where such atrocities have taken place in recent history. These sites of historical importance afford a poignant and introspective reflection on the past, which has helped shape the country’s progression to healing and renewal.
In Phnom Penh, you’ll also find impressive sites such as the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum, which are all wonderful immersions into the country’s cultural depths. Whether you’re wandering on the Sisowath Quay or among the city’s markets, Phnom Penh has a buzz about it and offers the opportunity to connect with Cambodia’s modern pulse.
Conclusion: Cambodia – A Trip Through Time And Beauty
Cambodia has something for everybody — a land of ancient glory and classic beauty! With breathtaking temples of Angkor, serene lakes, and picturesque beaches, Cambodia’s points of interest are something for all kinds of travellers. Whether you’re walking the hallowed ground of ancient ruins, getting to know the people of the country, or even just wallowing in the serenity of the natural features of the country, a deeper journey is something that the nation delivers every single time. Cambodia stands out to you with its heat, beauty, and history – it’s not a place you will forget in a hurry.
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