5 Top-Rated Places to Visit in Cambodia

The colossal is best known for being the home of the magnificent Temples of Angkor Wat Cambodian history is known for its brutal Khmer Rouge era in the 1970s, and subsequent civil war. It contains both some of the most horrible deeds and artistic achievements of mankind. While history is the main draw, this Southeast Asian country has much more to offer than just a quick temple hop to Siem Reap.

Every sun-spotty will be tempted by the coastline’s sandy white beaches. For the braver, the jungle-swathed countryside has plenty to offer.The capital city of Phnom PenhVisitors are enveloped in the bustling pace of modern Cambodian city life.

Cambodia, despite its temples and its recovery from the atrocities of the late 20th-century, is a popular destination for Southeast Asia travels. It manages to charm everyone who visits.

Plan your sightseeing in this fascinating country with our list of the top places to visit in Cambodia

1. Angkor Wat (Angkor Archaeological Park)
This is Cambodia’s most popular attraction. Accessed from the town of Siem Reap, the temples of the Angkorian period are so ambitious in scale and in the majesty of their construction, that Angkor Wat is rated as one of the world’s must-see ancient sites.

This was built between AD 802 and 1432. The wooden structures of the city were eventually destroyed by the jungle. What remains today are these mighty temples.

The largest religious building in the world, the temple at Angkor Wat, can be seen only a small part of the site. Three days is enough time to see the entire complex of temples if you want an understanding of the Angkorian period’s architectural achievements.

2. Phnom Penh
Cambodia’s capital is the pulsebeat of the nation. A city filled with motorbikes, cars and horns that can be jarring at first glance, it is Cambodia’s capital. Phnom Penh was abandoned during the Khmer Rouge’s madness, but it has since rebounded to be one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities.

Visitors will find this the most exciting destination in Cambodia, offering a variety of cafes and restaurants that is unmatched anywhere else in the country. You will also find important historical sites here that provide insight into both Cambodia’s ancient and modern history.

The National Museum contains a collection Khmer sculptures. It traces the nation’s history from pre-Angkorian ages to the extraordinary majesty enjoyed by the god-Kings and queens of Angkor. The Royal Palace displays beautiful examples of traditional art while Tuol Sleng Museum, and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields tell of the brutality and horror this country experienced under Khmer Rouge rule.

3. Sihanoukville Beaches
Sihanoukville lies in Kompong Som Province. Sihanoukville is a story of two halves. There’s a bustling central district but nothing to do and a beach area that hosts a vibrant resort. Both local and foreign tourists love the beaches of Cambodia, which are a top choice for sun holiday and sand.

This beach has something for everyone. Sokha Beach or Independence Beach have luxurious hotels.

Brash Ochheuteal Beach (or Serendipity Beach) are the most popular and well-known beaches in the area. These areas have been gaining popularity as backpacker destinations in Southeast Asia.

A quieter scene is found just to the south at Otres Strand. Here you’ll find beach huts that are positioned directly on the sand. You will also find a handful of boutique hotels and a selection of up-and coming restaurants.

4. Ratanakiri
This is Cambodia’s outback, and the red-dirt roads leading to villages belonging to ethnic minorities are a joy for adventurous travelers.

If you’re looking for adventure, this province is a good place to start trekking. From spotting gibbons in Veun Sai-Siem Pan Conservation Area (where overnight trips include sleeping in hammocks and early mornings to track buff-cheeked gibbons), to hiking in Virachey National Park which is home to elephants and tigers as well as sun bears.

There are many other relaxing options available. The tranquil swimming area at Yeak Lom Crater Lake, just outside Ban Lung town, is serene. While the waterfalls of Chaa Ong & Ka Tieng provide plenty of opportunities to get wet, they are more fun.

5. Prasat Preah Vihear
Prasat Preah Vhear is the winner for most spectacular location. Prasat Preah Vihear, a massive temple complex with intricately carved pavilions connected by long causeways, is situated atop the Dangrek Mountains. It was originally built to honor Shiva.

It is located right at the Thai border and has been a source of contention between both countries, who claim it as theirs. In 2013, the International Court of Justice ruled Cambodia’s favor, which caused border disputes to flare up between 2008-2011.

Tensions have subsided in the past few years. This means that thisUNESCO World Heritage SiteIt can now be reclaimed its rightful place on the tourist trail. Although access is from Sra Em most tourists come from Siem Reap (200 km south)

Abhijeet Johri