5 Places to Visit in Cambodia in 2019

Do you want to taste ancient Southeast Asia on your next trip to Cambodia? The former Khmer empire boasts of incredible landscapes, pristine beaches and exotic temples. The top places to visit in Cambodia attract tourists and travelers with varied interests. You will find an amalgamation of both old and new which will leave in total awe. Whether you’re visiting the iconic Angkor temples or the sophisticated and contemporary, capital Phnom Penh, the country is worth visiting at least once in this lifetime.

1.   Kampot – The land of the black peppercorns

Besides being the land of black peppercorns, Kampot is a beautiful riverside promenade that has number of colonial structure. Also, picturesque riverside town provides a gateway to the French hill station of Bokor National Park that has mesmerizing views and a pleasant climate. And needless to say, it is one of the most famous tourists’ places in Cambodia too.

Must Try – Try the crab curry here for a lip smacking treat

2.   Sihanoukville – Become a beach bum at this paradise    

The spot where the United States fought its last battle in the Vietnam War is now a land of sunny beaches. Relax at the shores of these less populated beaches and enjoy water sports like snorkeling and kayaking. Spend a day at a beach shack on any one of these pristine six beaches here to enjoy a fun holiday.

Must Try – don’t forget to try windsurfing at the quiet and serene Otres Beach  

3.   Siem Reap – The charming gateway to the Angkor temples

The Siem Reap River and the rice paddies make this town much more than just a stepover to witness the Angkor temples. This place has vibrant night markets, silk farms, traditional craft shops, fun road tours through rice peddles, bird sanctuaries, fishing villages and boat tours on Tonle Sap Lake. This should definitely be on your list of the top 5 places to visit in Cambodia.

Must Try – Revitalize yourself at the oldest Buddhist temple at the Wat Bo village. Also, do watch Apsara dance performances and visit Pub Street that is the best of the Cambodian tourists’ attractions

4.   Koh Ker – An abode of temples

When in Cambodia, one can explore the innumerable temples at Koh Ker that lies to the northeast of the Siem Reap town. These are one of the most popular Cambodia tourist spots. The temple complex here is nearly 3 km long which consist of a number of temples and is considered one of the places to see in Cambodia.

Must Try – The 30 m Prasat Thom complex that rises majestically over the surrounding jungles

5.    Phnom Penh – Enjoy the scenic splendor of this riverside city

Phnom Penh still retains its charm as the leafy capital city of Cambodia with its palaces and wats. Located at the conjunction of three grand rivers – the Tonle Sap, the Mekong and the Bassac River, this city now houses a number of hotspots like cool cafes and bustling bars. It is one of the top Cambodia tourist places.

Must Try – The beautiful complex of the Royal Palace with its golden spires is a must see Cambodia tourist attractions

To get hassle free e-Visa to Cambodia, you can visit our website i.e. evisaforcambodia.org/ or you can drop us a mail at info@evisaforcambodia.org

5 Top Popular Cambodian Street Foods You Want To Try

Unlike Thailand, Cambodian street food is not as popular. The cuisine of Cambodia is often neglected by its neighbors such as Thailand or Vietnam. However, once you go deep into Cambodian cuisine, you will discover unique and amazing flavors.

 It offers unique and surprising delicacies that are foreign to the eyes and taste of the most visitors. It is not for the squeamish travelers.

Here is a list of top 5 Cambodian Street Food to tickle your taste buds:

1.   Lort Cha: Cambodian Short Stir – Fried Egg Noodles  

Lort Cha is one of the most popular Cambodian street foods. It’s a stir-fried dish which consists of Lort which are short fat rice noodles, with bean sprouts, Chinese broccoli, and chives. It is typically cooked with beef and topped with a fried egg.

 Num Pang: Typical Cambodian Sandwich

This dish has all the Vietnamese ingredients in Cambodia; such as the baguette. Brought by the French during the Indo-China colonization period, Cambodia calls it Num Pang.

This sandwich is typically served with meaty ingredients such as pate, ham or pork served with cucumber, carrots, chives and onions.

Cambodian Bamboo Sticky Rice             

Also known as Kralan in Khmer is a type of sticky rice roasted in bamboo sticks. It is made of sticky rice mixed with black beans grated with coconut and coconut milk. The mixture is packed into a bamboo stick and slowly roasted over a charcoal fire until cooked.

Snails: A popular Cambodian Street Food

After reaching Phnom Penh, the first things you’ll notice will street vendors with long flat carts on wheels. Their carts are strategically placed under the hot burning sun loaded with freshwater snails. The snails will be seasoned and cooked previously before dried under the sun.

Chive Cakes

Another most popular Cambodian street food is Chive Cakes. You will notice street vendors selling small chive cakes on bicycles. These Cambodian Chive Cakes are fried in shallow pans, and made with glutinous rice flour and served with a sweet spicy fish sauce

Cambodia FAQs

1.    When is the best time to visit Cambodia?

Cambodia can be visited all round the year. However, mostly travelers prefer dry season i.e. October to April. Early summer can also be a great time to visit for those who are comfortable with higher temperatures and more frequent bouts of rainfall.

2.    What are the accommodations like?

When we plan to travel, we think of a comfortable & safe accommodations first. Cambodia has hotels and comfy home stays for every range.

         

3.    What are the special delicacies of Cambodia?

Cambodian delicacies are very similar to the Thailand & Laos. However, for vegetarians & vegans there are ample amount of choices for them as well.

4.    How safe is Cambodia?

Cambodia is a relatively safe country both in the rural countryside as well as in larger cities. As always, travelers need to be aware of their surroundings and use common sense when venturing out at night. Crime rates in general are very low, particularly against tourists. However, it’s important to be wise & keep your possessions safe.

5.    Do I Need a Visa to Cambodia?

A passport with at least six months validity is necessary for travel to Cambodia.  It is no longer necessary to go to the Embassy for getting the visa stamp, waiting hours in queue. Now tourists can apply for a visa online (e-visa). All you need to do is to complete the online application form and make sure whatever is filled should match your passport. It is always advisable to check before submitting the application then pay with your credit card. After receiving your Visa through email, print it out and carry it along when you travel to Cambodia. This e-visa to Cambodia facility is available for applicants requesting Tourist Visa but not to those who require a Business. 

To get hassle free e-Visa to Cambodia, you can visit our website i.e. http://evisaforcambodia.org/or you can drop us a mail at info@evisaforcambodia.org

Wildlife of Cambodia

Travelers to Cambodia may find that although Cambodia is not a wildlife destination in the first place, however, some outlying pockets of forest may offer some of the best opportunities for wildlife spotting in all of South East Asia. Cambodia’s wildlife diversity is at critically low levels due to deforestation and habitat destruction. It is home to nearly 16 globally endangered species and 2 critically endangered species. Some larger mammal species found here are dholes, elephants, deer, panthers, bears, tigers, cormorants, cranes, crocodile, and wild water buffalo. Many organizations are working together to try and protect Cambodia’s remaining wildlife diversity. Wildlife is mostly isolated to pockets where intact habitat still remains, including the dry forest along the Lower Mekong, the Elephant Mountains, and the Cardamom Mountains.           

For wildlife enthusiasts traveling to Cambodia for a short time, one of the most iconic places to spot wildlife in Cambodia is in the Cardamom Mountains, which were also the last centre for the Khmer Rouge in 1979. Tourists to this region are kept to low levels and multi-day treks out of Chi Phat offer the chance to traverse the area. Minimal human presence has created a fairly isolated region where the forest has stayed largely intact, offering what is considered to be the most 'wild' and bio diverse region in all of Cambodia, and arguably all of South East Asia. The forests here support a number of endangered species, including the tiger, Asian elephant, sun bear, gibbon, clouded leopard, and the gaur.  It is estimated that over 450 bird species live in the canopy. The rivers provide habitat to the Irrawaddy dolphin and humpback dolphin, as well as the rare Siamese crocodile, and at least 34 amphibian species, 3 of which are newly discovered.

To visit Cambodia you would require an e-Visa to Cambodia. Visit our website i.e. evisaforcambodia.org/ 

An Essential Travel Guide to Cambodia

Due to its stunning UNESCO heritage sites, Cambodia is one of the South East Asia’s most sought after destination. It had idyllic coastlines and amazing architecture. From the beautiful temple to the tastiest of delicacies Cambodia has it all. Here is our guide to the tastiest of delicacies and cultural guide to everything you can’t miss.

What Will You Need in Cambodia?

ü Passport and Visa to Cambodia

ü KHR- Cambodian Riel

ü Khmer (Language)

Things to See in Cambodia

ü Banteay Chhmar

ü Siem Reap (Angkor Wat)

ü Battambang

ü Koh Kong

ü Chi-Phat

ü Koh Rong SWhanoukville

ü Kampot

ü Ratnakiri

ü Phnom Penh

Which are Some Beautiful Temples in Cambodia?

ü Angkor Wat

ü Bayon

ü Ta Prohm

ü Banteay Srei

ü Banteay KDEI

When to Visit Cambodia?

(a)  Sept – Nov

(b) Nov – Feb

(c)  April and October

Cambodia Travel Guide

Cambodia Travel Guide: 5 Lesser – Known and Underrated Temples in Siem Reap That You Shouldn’t Skip  

Siem Reap and its Angkor Archaeological Park is one of the must visit places in Cambodia. The history, culture and heritage are incredible and not to missed if you’re travelling to Cambodia. The Angkor Archaeological Park is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and where the capital of the ancient Khmer Empire was located.

1.   Tickets and Passes

Ticket offices open at 4 am. And there is a validity period set for the passes. The three day pass can be used on non-consecutive days within a week, and the seven day pass can be used on non-consecutive days within a month

2.   What is the Code of Conduct in the Angkor Archaeological Park?

Following are the code of conducts which are required to be followed in Angkor Archaeological Park:

ü Cover your shoulders and knees

ü Don’t touch the monuments

ü Keep your voice down

ü Follow the signs

ü Don’t smoke and litter

ü Respect the monks

ü Skip the drone

3.   What are some of the lesser known temples in Siem Reap?

 Following are the lesser-known temples in Siem Reap that you shouldn’t skip:

ü Baphuon

ü Banteay Kdei

ü Prae Roup/ Pre Rup

ü Ta Som

ü Neak Pean

If you’re planning to visit Cambodia and hoping to explore the above mentioned hidden Cambodian tourists’ spots. Getting a visa is a must before visiting Cambodia. Save yourself from the hassle and get your Cambodian Visa online i.e. e-Visa to Cambodia before arriving at Cambodia. For more information visit evisaforcambodia.org/

Hidden Cambodia Spots near Angkor Wat

If you’re planning to visit Cambodia and hoping to explore some hidden Cambodian tourists’ spots, you can visit these hidden sites tucked away from the main tourists trail.

Banteay Chhmar

Banteay Chhmar Temple is one of Cambodia’s national treasures. It dates back from the Angkorian period; it’s a precious and irreplaceable link to the cultural heritage of the Khmer people. In the temple there are four smaller satellite temples surrounding the main temple as well.

Even though Banteay Chhmar lacks the preservation of Angkor Wat, there is a certain charm to its tumbling walls and neglected towers.

Koh Ker

Another most beautiful remnant of the Khmer empire is Koh Ker. Though there are over 180 temples and sanctuaries in the Koh Ker region, the main attraction is Koh Ker temple, a square stepped pyramid rising dramatically out of the surrounding Cambodian landscape. Also worth a visit are the beautifully carved red temple Prasat Prahom, and the fantastical Prasat Pram overgrown by strangler figs.

Preah Vihear Temple

This is considered to be the most stunning temple in Cambodia, this little – known tourists’ spot sits atop a mountain on the border of Thailand and Cambodia. Older than Angkor Wat, it is built in a similar style and can be reached in a two or three day trip from Siem Reap.

Analong Veng

Analong Veng is situated nearly 83 miles (135 km) north of Siem Reap, is home to some stark reminders of Cambodia’s Khmer Rouge Genocide.

Here tourists can visit Ta Mok’s house and see the artificial lake, which was constructed in the 1990’s. This place is reachable by foot, just head north towards the mountains from the roundabouts in town and the driveway will be on your right.

If you’re planning to visit Cambodia, then getting a visa is a must. Save yourself from the hassle and get our Cambodian Visa online i.e. e-Visa to Cambodia before arriving at Cambodia. Visit our website i.e. evisaforcambodia.org/  in order to apply for the visa.

7 Things to Do In Cambodia for a Truly Refreshing Retreat

Tired of daily humdrum of city life? Visit Cambodia to refresh yourself. Witness the glorious temples, timeless ruins, undisturbed beaches, its rich culture and heritage. Apart from these, Cambodia also has some incredible range of activities for visitors such as cruising, swimming with elephants, riding through temples on bikes etc.

Here is our list of best things to do in Cambodia. Take a look!

1.    Explore Siem Reap’s shrines and Palaces on a Bike

Cambodia is a lush green country which consists of pristine temples; it is quiet and has a relaxed atmosphere. Hence, cycling tours are convenient and pleasant as well and also one of the most popular things to do in Cambodia for backpackers.

Average Cost – INR 3,000 per person

2.    Go Cruising on Mekong

Another most exhilarating experience for travelers is cruising. Sailing from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap n a traditional Cambodian oat is one of the most enriching and fun thing to do in Cambodia. On the journey, you can also spot Irrawaddy river dolphins in the water, which is the rarest of all aquatic mammals.

Average Cost – INR 600 for group tours and INR 3,300 per person for private tours

3.    Visit Ta Prohm in Cambodia

Want to witness the magic of nature, visit Ta Prohm which is the one of the most preferred places to visit in Cambodia. The huge roots grasping the shrines seem to be challenging the world to try and alter the structure.

Charges – INR 1,343 for one day, INR 2,687 for a three day pass, INR 4,030 for a seven day pass (per person)

4.     Visit Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the most famous, most ancient, and the largest temple in the world which helps bringing majority of the world’s travelers to Cambodia. It is also one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 12^th Century as a dedication to Lord Vishnu, who is the ancient wonder of the world,  has stood the test of time.

5.    Swim With Elephants in Cambodia

In Mondulkiri there is a project called The Elephant Valley Project which is conservation for abandoned, injured, overworked, and orphaned elephants. This place is popularly known as a place where ‘elephants get to be elephants again’. Travelers are welcome here with prior booking for a chance to be with these adorable, gentle beings.

6.    Hang out at the laid back beaches in Cambodia

Cambodia is home to some of the cleanest and relaxed beaches in Southeast Asia. Among the varied popular Cambodia tourists’ attractions are the sandy, pretty beaches of Sihanoukville, Kep, Koh Rong, and Reap which provide travelers with every bit of comfort and splendid views.

Average Cost of Island Trip – 1,500 per person

7.    Go Diving At Sihanoukville

The beauty of Cambodia is beyond its surface. It also lies in the vast, vibrant world underneath. The diving sites in Sihanoukville are blessed with crystal clear water, favorable water temperature, and colorful corals, and a diverse range of marine life including seahorses, whale sharks, sting rays, eels, triggerfish, barracuda, nudibranch, starfish and many more.

If you’re planning to visit Cambodia, then getting a visa is a must. Save yourself from the hassle and get your Cambodian visa online i.e. e-Visa to Cambodia before arriving at Cambodia. Visit our website i.e. evisaforcambodia.org/ in order to apply for the visa.

Celebrate Christmas in Cambodia

In Cambodia, Christmas is not considered to be the official holiday. However, you will notice all the Christmas decorations such as Christmas trees, blinking colorful lights and kids dressed up in Santa costumes.

In Cambodia, Buddhism is the dominant religion and hence the closest celebration to Christmas in Cambodian culture would be Vesak. This festival is celebrated in the month of May or June every year, marked by the full moon. It celebrates the birth of Buddha as well as his enlightening and death.

The Christian community in Cambodia is really small. However, a large number of western tourists also fly to this area constantly. Hence, even if 25^th December is not officially a celebration in Cambodia, you can still catch the glance of Cambodian Christmas cheer.

In Cambodia, Churches hold Christmas services as well as Christmas party for the young Cambodians.

All the malls and shops are decorated with Christmas trees, bright lights, snow men etc. Many restaurants and eateries offer special Christmas dinner. So if you wish to savor some chicken/turkey, you may find it somewhere near you.

          

New Year’s Eve in Cambodia

In one hand where Khmer New Year falls in April, the Western alternative doesn’t pass by forgotten. If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia around December, then we would suggest you to embark the New Year’s Eve there for a treat to your eyes, because popular tourist spots will be celebrating with zeal and keenness as they’ll welcome the New Year.

We’ve listed out some of the best places to visit to celebrate New Year in Cambodia:

1.    Phnom Penh

Make sure to visit Phnom as the capital of Cambodia will be sizzling as Phnom Penh’s array of hotels, clubs, bars and restaurants prepare for the midnight countdown.

Hotels such as Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, Raffles Le Royal, Inter Continental Phnom Penh and Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel and Residences welcomes New Year with a grand celebration, usually with a meal and after-party with music and live entertainment to ring in the New Year.

2.    Siem Reap

Siem Reap is popular for its temples however; it can also be called as the Temple Town’s Pub Street which is going to be even busier as tourists flock to the packed stretch of bars to imbibe bucket after bucket after bucket until way after midnight.

Major hotels are Hotel Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort, Park Hyatt Siem Reap, Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor and Victoria Angkor Resorts and Spa, putting on special events to mark the start of the New Year.

3.    Kampot

Another good spot to ring the New Year is the riverside town of Kampot. Mad Monkey Kampot will put on a good show for New Year or you can head a little further out of town to Naga House where DJ spin the decks looking out onto the river and surrounding mangroves all night.

If you’re planning to visit Cambodia, then getting a visa is a must. Save yourself from the hassle and get your Cambodian visa online i.e. e-Visa to Cambodia before arrive at Cambodia. Visit our website i.e. evisaforcambodia.org/ in order to apply.

3 Exciting Things to Do In Cambodia for a Truly Refreshing Retreat

People often visit Cambodia in order to witness spectacular temples, timeless ruins, and undisturbed beaches, and also to experience its rich, cultural heritage. However, there are various other things to witness while in Cambodia and we have listed some for you:

1.    Witness Cambodia in Cycle

This beautiful country is all about lush green, pristine temples, and a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. Hence, seeing the country in bicycles is the most popular thing to do in Cambodia for backpackers.

Average Cost – 3,000 per person

2.    Witness the Stunning Apsara Dance in Phnom Penh

Satisfy the art lover in you by attending a traditional khmer performance in Phnom Penh. This cultural dance form draws its roots from the mythological court of kings and Gods and gradually it has developed into its modern, unique form that we see today.

Average Cost – 1,500 per person

3.    Go Cruising in Mekong

One of the most exhilarating experiences in Mekong is cruising. Sailing from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap on a traditional Cambodian boat is one of the most enriching and fun thing to do in at Cambodian.

Average Cost - INR 600 for group tours and 3,300 per person for private tours

 If you’re planning to visit Cambodia, then getting a visa is a must. Save yourself from the hassle and get your Cambodian visa online i.e. e-Visa to Cambodia before arrive at Cambodia. Visit our website i.e. evisaforcambodia.org/ in order to apply. 

3 Cambodian Street Food Everyone Must Try On Their Trip

Especially in tourism, Cambodia is one of the most prominent South-East Asian countries. The food, culture and tradition attract a lot of tourist all over the world. This land is economical and beautiful. We have prepared a 3 must have list for Cambodian street food for you to try on your next trip to Cambodia.

1.    Lort Cha

This dish is made of fat rice noodles, and is fried with different vegetables mainly mixed with spring onions, chives, beans etc. And later mixed with beef, and topped with an egg. Served with red chili, it’s a delicious street food everyone should try once.

2.    Kralan

Kralan is one of the lightest appetizers; it is the sticky rice which is poured inside a bamboo.  This dish is made of sticky rice along with black beans; the dish acquires its distinct flavor with the grated coconut and coconut milk that is added to the mix.

3. Kuy Teav

A noodle soup is something that is originated in South East and Cambodia is one of the best places to have the dish. Here, soup is usually made with local greens along with rice vermicelli, scallions, and pork or chicken bones. 

If you’re planning to visit Cambodia, then getting a visa is a must. Save yourself from the hassle and get your Cambodian visa online i.e. e-Visa to Cambodia before you arrive at Cambodia. Visit our website i.e. evisaforcambodia.org/ in order to apply.