Cambodia Travel Guide
Cambodia: Temples, Tears, and Tenderness
Cambodia is a land of contrasts: ancient wonders rising from jungle floors, golden sunsets over rice paddies, and a history that both wounds and awakens. It’s where monks bless you with jasmine water, and children wave from hammocks strung between palm trees. From the haunting majesty of Angkor Wat to the resilience of Phnom Penh’s soul, Cambodia is not just a destination — it’s a lesson in beauty, strength, and impermanence.
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Quick Facts
Capital: Phnom Penh
Population: Approximately 17 million
Language: Khmer (some English in tourist areas)
Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US dollars are widely used
Time Zone: Indochina Time (ICT), UTC +7
Climate: Tropical monsoon climate, hot and humid year-round
Visa Requirements: Visa on arrival or eVisa for most nationalities (30 days)
Top Religion: Theravada Buddhism
Safety: Generally safe, but be cautious with traffic and scams
Transport: Tuk-tuks, buses, ferries, scooters — and a few charming trains
Vibe: Spiritual, raw, real
Best for: Culture lovers, temple chasers, slow travelers, mindful wanderers
Top 5 Attractions (via TripAdvisor)
1. Angkor Wat (Siem Reap)
The crown jewel of Khmer architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive before dawn and watch the sun rise behind the lotus towers. Wander through temple corridors carved with gods and demons. A place that humbles and elevates.
2. Bayon Temple (Angkor Thom)
Known for its serene, smiling stone faces — some say of King Jayavarman VII, others say of the Buddha. Either way, they watch you as you walk. It’s haunting and heart-opening all at once.
3. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (Phnom Penh)
Sobering, powerful, necessary. This former school turned prison tells the story of Cambodia’s darkest chapter under the Khmer Rouge. Pair your visit with the Killing Fields for a full reckoning with the past.
4. Kampot & Kep (Southern Coast)
Sleepy riverside towns famous for pepper farms, crumbling French villas, and crab dishes straight from the sea. Rent a scooter and cruise through rice paddies and time.
5. Koh Rong & Islands (Sihanoukville)
White-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and bioluminescent plankton at night. Koh Rong Samloem is perfect for digital detoxes and hammock philosophy.
Activities
Temple Hopping
From the overgrown ruins of Ta Prohm to the hidden charm of Banteay Srei, temple exploration here is not just sightseeing — it’s soul-searching.
River Cruises
Float down the Mekong or the Tonle Sap. Life along the water is slow, reflective, and full of stories.
Cooking Classes
Learn how to make fish amok or banana blossom salad — with firewood, mortar, and laughter.
Cycling the Countryside
Pedal past lotus ponds, waving kids, and ox carts. Cambodia is perfect for slow travel on two wheels.
Spiritual Retreats & Monasteries
Join a meditation retreat in the hills or chat with monks in saffron robes. Many monasteries welcome curious travelers.
Culture & Etiquette
Respect for Monks & Religion:
Don’t touch monks (especially if you're a woman), and always remove shoes before entering temples. The head is sacred — don’t touch it. The feet are low — don’t point them at people or Buddha images.
Dress Modestly:
Cover shoulders and knees when entering temples. Loose cotton clothing works wonders in the heat.
Politeness Over Power:
Cambodians value humility and harmony. A gentle smile goes further than loud confidence.
Hands Together, Head Bowed:
The “sampeah” greeting (palms together, bowing slightly) shows respect — and will be warmly received.
What Not to Do
Don’t touch sacred statues or take inappropriate selfies in temples
Don’t buy Buddha heads or artifacts from markets
Don’t raise your voice — it’s seen as rude and disruptive
Don’t point with your finger — use your whole hand or chin instead
Don’t assume cannabis or other substances are legal — laws are strict
Tipping in Cambodia
Tipping isn’t a traditional part of Cambodian culture — but with growing tourism, it’s become a gentle norm in many places. Locals won’t demand it, but they’ll absolutely appreciate it.
💸 Here’s a practical breakdown:
Restaurants:
Mid-range and tourist-friendly places: 5–10% if no service charge is added.
Street food or family-run spots: rounding up or leaving small change is perfect.Hotels:
Porters: 2,000–4,000 KHR per bag (or $0.50–$1)
Housekeeping: $1–$2 per night, left at the end of your stay
High-end hotels: a bit more, depending on the level of serviceTuk-tuks / taxis / Grab:
Not expected, but rounding up or adding $1 is appreciated — especially if your driver didn't try to sell you a tour of Angkor Wat... again.Tour guides and drivers:
Yes, tipping is the norm here.
Guide: $5–$10 per day
Driver: $3–$5 per day, depending on distance and helpfulnessMassage / spa:
10% is good if it’s not already included. If you’re unsure, ask if the staff receives tips directly.
🙏 How to tip:
Cash is best, preferably in small USD bills or Cambodian riel. Smile, say “aw kun” (or just thank you), and hand it over kindly.
✅ What to remember:
A small tip means a lot
Nobody will chase you down if you don’t tip — but a little extra goes a long way in Cambodia
Kindness = good karma = cooler weather on temple day (possibly)
Cannabis in Cambodia
(as of May 2025)
Cannabis is technically illegal, though enforcement is inconsistent. In touristy areas, it’s often available — but don’t assume it’s safe. Possession can still lead to arrest or fines. Use common sense, stay discreet, and know that tolerance is not a promise of legality.
Important: Always respect local laws and avoid putting yourself or others at risk. Things are slower and more relaxed in Laos, but that does not extend to legal enforcement.
Destinations (By Region)
Northwest Cambodia
Siem Reap – Gateway to Angkor. Markets, temples, and soulful cafés.
Battambang – Art scene, bamboo train rides, and rural charm.
Central Cambodia
Phnom Penh – The capital. Chaotic, healing, and full of contrasts.
Kampong Thom – Lesser-known temples, and a more local vibe.
South Coast
Kampot – Lazy rivers and pepper fields.
Kep – Crabs, sunsets, and ghosts of French Indochina.
Sihanoukville – Skip the town, go straight to the islands.
Koh Rong Samloem – Silence, sand, and stars.
East Cambodia
Kratie – Spot Irrawaddy dolphins at sunset.
Mondulkiri – Waterfalls, elephants, and cool forest air.
Final Words
Cambodia will break your heart and mend it in the same breath. It’s a country of deep stillness and deep scars — and both deserve your attention. Travel here with respect, presence, and an open heart.
Let Cambodia slow you down. Let it wake you up. Let it change how you see the world.
