What incredible places should you visit in Cambodia before you die? Too many to mention in one go, that’s for sure. If you’re lucky enough, you will get to spend a full month or more here, as it would be a shame to rush through this amazing country.
Cambodia provides its visitors with some truly magical vistas that range from ancient and jaw-droppingly beautiful, to breathtaking mountain views, and coastal scenes for miles and miles. Get your dose of history exploring the ancient temples located just outside the big city of Siem Reap. Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples and sights will be like stepping through a time portal. How did these structures get erected in the time that it did, and in the great detail and intricacies that you see here? It’s truly astonishing the work that was done.
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But Cambodia is more than just ancient temples, a more recent history shows the incredible heartache the country has went through only just freshly out of the Khmer Rouge. The rough and tragic events are hard to comprehend and the wounds are still healing. The people remain friendly and positive despite all they have been through.
If you need to relax your mind after your intensive history lesson that you will get during your travels here, the southern beaches will provide that for you. Island hopping and beach bumming with plenty of beach bars to wind down at night wait for you there. There’s no right or wrong way to travel this country, just keep one thing in mind, there are plenty of places to visit in Cambodia before you die, so worrying won’t be on your list of things. Out of all the popular destinations to travel in Asia, we are pretty confident Cambodia will be near the top of your list, and this is why….
7. Kratie
Here’s a spot that’s comfortable for travelers, yet not totally inundated with the scene typical of a touristy town. The main drawn of this French colonial town are the elusive Irrawaddy dolphins. They are speedily diminishing in numbers and it’s estimated that under 100 are left in these waters. Take a boat trip around the area to try and spot them.
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6. Bokor Hill
How about seeing abandoned buildings? It doesn’t sound like the most exciting time, but this exploration is highly recommended. See the old church, the desolate casino, and the old royal residence. You will need to imagine them in their glory days as they are timeworn now, and evidence of the Khmer Rouge are evident. The buildings are interesting, but taking a look out on their coastal views are absolutely gorgeous.
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5. Tonle Sap
The Vietnamese and Cham communities that live literally on the freshwater lake here are an interesting site to see. This lake dries up and all the water is drained to the nearby by Mekong, but when the rain starts to come down again, the lake fills up. The ethnic villages built on this lake are unique and float during the wet season.
4. Sihanoukville
This is a happening coastal area with a port and some beaches of interest. White sand and water make for a relaxing time, and the nightlife will keep you partying until the sun rises. There are excellent islands right off the coast, as well, such as Koh Rong.
3. Phnom Penh
There are a few places of interest in the country’s capital city. However, this won’t make for a happy day. Although nobody wants a depressing and gloomy cloud over their day, it’s highly encouraged that one learns about the tragic and recent history that was endured here. A trip to the Killing Fields will bring tears to your eyes as you hear about the hardships endured during the Khmer Rouge. Get the audio tour for the full effect. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is also a must for you to understand the history of the people.
2. Siem Reap
Here is the main tourist hub of the country. There are fantastic markets to roam around, great cafes and restaurants dotted throughout the city, and Pub Street for a smashing good time at night. There is the Wat Bo Village which is nearby, and a tranquil getaway from the city life bringing you gardens and a Buddhist temple. Siem Reap is of course popular due to its main attraction…
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And, the best place to visit in Cambodia before you die is: Angkor Wat and the Surrounding Temples
What is Siem Reap known for? Of course its majestic, magnificent, and incredible temples. Complexes of astonishing structures and detail were erected centuries ago and still stand tall today. Some are in better condition than others and renovations and reconstruction are everlasting. There seems to be an endless display of temples, some people come back again and again to get more of this awe-inspiring sight.
With some many places to visit in Cambodia before you die, we are sure you will want to stay longer than you anticipated.
