Since Cambodia reopened its borders to tourists in the early 1990s, visitors from around the world have flocked to this intriguing Southeast Asian country to experience its fascinating cultural heritage, to engage with the wonderfully welcoming locals, and to marvel at the numerous spectacular natural wonders Cambodia has to offer. Phnom Penh, the nation’s bustling capital, is home to a slew of excellent restaurants, lively outdoor markets and a boisterous nightlife. However, most of Cambodia’s most popular attractions are located beyond the capital. Tourist favourites include: the sleepy French-influenced town of Kampot with its lovely promenade dotted with gorgeous French villas and charming riverside cafes; the breathtaking waterfalls of the lush jungle-clad Cardamon Mountains; and, of course, the awe-inspiring ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat - the world’s largest and arguably most impressive religious structure. Cambodia serves travellers of all sensitivities, whether they're seeking adventurous jungle excursions, exquisite golden-sand beaches, luxury resorts or sumptuous exotic cuisine, Cambodia truly does have it all.
Located at the meeting of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, Cambodia’s energetic capital, Phnom Penh, is known for its rich history, friendly locals and world-class food scene. The primary drawcard of the city its visible heritage - the National Museum of Cambodia features a millennium’s worth and more of an incredible Khmer design. The monumental Royal Palace, the official residence of King Sihamoni, houses the famous Throne Hall, used for coronations and ceremonies. Within the Royal Palace is the spectacular Silver Pagoda, named for its floor covered with five tons of gleaming silver. The Tonle Sap riverfront area provides a charming place to enjoy a meal and some fine French wine (an enduring colonial legacy), while the local nightclubs provide a fun time out on the town, complete with karaoke singers and stage dancers.
Located in the Mondulkiri Province, the largest province in Cambodia, Sen Monorom is the largest town in the area and serves as the provincial capital. This frontier town is home to the indigenous Pnong community. In the heart of the town, visitors can view two magnificent lakes which add to the town’s charm. The surrounding area around Sen Monorom is scattered with glorious waterfalls amidst thick jungle and a lush rolling landscape dotted with hill tribe villages. Visitors can sample local Cambodian fare at an array restaurants that line the main strip, enjoy a drink at a buzzing bar and stay over in one of the many comforatable hotels. Other popular activities include: hill trekking, ecotourism trips, motorbike tours, and cultural experiences with the local indigenous Bunong people.
Crumbling colonial mansions still stand regal amid shopfronts and apartments on the bustling city streets; the riverfront area offers magnificent sunsets; and on the outskirts of town are traditional Cambodian villages, where stilted wooden houses are dotted against a lush backdrop of rice paddies, coconut palms, and tangled jungle vines. First up on most Kratié itineraries is a boat trip to the nearby village of Kampi to see the endangered, freshwater Irrawaddy dolphin - there are very few of these left on the planet, and these waters are one of the best places to see them. Also don’t miss a trip to charming Koh Trong, a riverine islet where you can experience local country life and visit a Vietnamese floating village.
Named for the Cham Muslim residents who immigrated here centuries ago, Kampong Cham is one of eastern Cambodia’s largest urban centres and a key transit point for onward travel connections. It is nevertheless a laid-back city with a picturesque riverside setting and an evocative mish-mash of historical architecture – which includes traditional Chinese shophouses, elegantly weathered French colonial buildings, and the so-called ‘New Khmer Architecture’ that was developed in Cambodia’s 1960s heyday. Several ancient temples and shrines are dotted across the town’s surrounds, adding to the town’s timeless, mystical allure.
Best known as the gateway to the magnificent ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is a pleasant town with lovely French colonial and Chinese architecture and a laid-back ambience. The main attraction here is of course the Angkor complex. Covering an area larger than Paris, it encompasses scores of exquisite temple structures featuring intricately carved detail – dancing ladies and lotus flowers embellish the walls, five-headed naga (serpent deities) fan out from chunks of rock. Abandoned for unknown reasons thousands of years ago, it was rediscovered in 1860 by a French explorer, Henri Mahout, and has been Cambodia’s crowning glory ever since. Other attractions in and around Siem Reap include an array of arts and crafts shops, a cultural village that allows a glimpse into traditional local life, and a bird sanctuary on the outskirts of town.
