Cambodia Travel Guide

The U.S. Dollar is the main currency in Cambodia, but the Cambodian Riel is becoming more popular. You will often receive change in Cambodian currency as well. 

Exchange Rate: USD 1 = KHR 0.00024 (As of 8/22/223)

Getting around Cambodia is relatively inexpensive. Tuk-tuks and local buses are popular modes of transportation within cities and usually cost around $1-2 for short distances. Private taxis and hired vehicles are also available and are slightly more expensive but offer more convenience. Domestic flights are available for longer distances, with prices varying depending on the route and airline.

 I love Cambodian cuisine because of its diverse range of delicious dishes. Some of my favorite must-try options include Amok, a coconut curry dish, and Nom Banh Chok, a street food snack with rice noodles and fish curry. Whenever I visit coastal areas, I always make sure to try the fresh seafood, like grilled prawns and fish. Another local favorite is Beef Lok Lak, a stir-fried beef dish. For food lovers like me, Cambodian cuisine is definitely a treat! 

Costs: 

• Street food and local restaurants: $1 - $5 per meal
• Mid-range restaurants: $5 - $15 per meal
• Fine dining: $20 and above per meal

Two Day Temple Tour - Book Here!

 I highly recommend visiting Angkor Wat when exploring Cambodia. It is considered the largest religious structure ever built and has become a symbol of travel in Southeast Asia. The temple complex is so significant that it is even featured on the Cambodian flag and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.  

The construction of Angkor Wat began in the early 12th century and involved an impressive 300,000 workers who dedicated themselves to the project for over three decades. Witnessing the sheer grandeur and historical importance of this monument is an experience that you should not miss.  

For the best experience, it is best to visit Angkor Wat before sunrise. I personally rented a bike for a few dollars and rode to the temple on both mornings. The journey from Siem Reap is relatively short and flat, making it accessible to visitors of varying fitness levels. Alternatively, you can also opt for a tuk-tuk ride at a slightly higher cost. Regardless of the mode of transportation, a visit to Angkor Wat is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. 

Hours: 5:00 AM - 5:30 PM daily

Entrance Fees:

One day 37 USD

Three days 62 USD

Seven days 72 USD

* Free for children under 12

* Free for VISA "K"

Click here for more information

Ready for a nice bottle of "Angkor Beer" after a long day in the sweltering sun while exploring Angkor Wat? If so, I recommend visiting Pub Street. Pub Street has a good energy that makes it a fun and relaxing way to end a day of incredible memory-making on a high note. This festively lit street offers plenty of options for your eating and drinking enjoyment. 

As with many locations around Southeast Asia, you can expect to find very cheap beer, especially around happy hour. Pub Street is within walking distance to the Angkor Night Market if you want some street food before or after your visit. However you decide to enjoy it, Pub Street is bound to provide a good time.  

 Along the Tahas River, not too far southeast of Siem Reap, you will find the Kampong Phluk Floating Village. The Tahas river feeds into the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, Tonle Sap. Thousands of fishermen call this place home during the monsoon season that runs from May through October. During the dry season, many of these same fishermen move to homes elsewhere or closer to the lake. 

The beautifully colored homes of Kampong Phluk, which sit on high stilts, are magnificent. There is just something about seeing the way of life of people who live in floating houses throughout Southeast Asia that I find fascinating. I often think about the people of these floating villages when I reflect on my trip, watching the locals go about their daily lives and dreaming of what it would be like to live that life. Southeast Asia is magical and beautifully diverse in almost every way. 

You can easily arrange a tour of this floating village from Siem Reap. Alternatively, you can rent a scooter and ride it to the town. From there, it won't be hard to hire a local villager to give you a tour of the region. 

 There is no doubt that the vast majority of travelers make the trip to Cambodia to see one of the most impressive archeological structures in the world, Angkor Wat. As you will soon find out, there are plenty of other things to do in Siem Reap. In fact, there are many other unique and impressive temples nearby that some might not even be aware of.

Koh Ker is more off the beaten track as it is 120 km north of Siem Reap in a more rural jungle-filled area. This archeological site encompasses 81 square kilometers and contains more than 180 structures, of which only a portion is available to the average traveler due to the thickness of the surrounding jungle and areas that are not completely clear of land mines. Some of the structures resemble the Aztec Pyramids in Mexico, which is pretty unique in Southeast Asia. 

Don't let the distance from Siem Reap stop you from exploring this fantastic historical site. You can easily book a tour of Koh Ker from Siem Reap. Not only will you enjoy a great experience, but guided tours are also a great way to meet other travelers, which is one of the best things about travel. 

Tip: Ask your hotel/hostel about the best or cheapest place to book a tour. Booking online is typically more expensive than stopping at a local travel agency when you are there. 

Entrance Fee (If traveling alone by car/scooter rental): USD 10.00

The Bayon Temple is a stunning temple located in Angkor Thom, Cambodia. This temple has intricate stone carvings, and it's sculptures are stunning. Visiting this interesting temple will allow you to observe Khmer architecture away from the crowds of the amazing Angkor Wat.

Built in the late 12th century, this temple was once the official state temple of the Mahayana Buddhist King Jayavarman VII. The Bayon Temple is renowned for its beautiful stone carvings of faces, which are said to be the images of the king himself. Bayon Temple is also known for its intricate bas-reliefs and sculptures, which depict scenes from the Hindu and Buddhist epics. Inside the temple, visitors can find a variety of galleries and courtyards, as well as a large collection of statues and shrines. 

Today, the Bayon Temple is one of the most popular attractions in Angkor Thomd, but it is still much more off the beaten path than Angkor Wat. It is also one of the most photographed sites in Cambodia. The temple is a fantastic reminder of the country’s rich cultural heritage and is a must-see for any traveler to Cambodia.

Best way to get there: bike or scooter rental, taxi, or tour

Hours: Daily 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Entrance Fee: **included in Angkor Wat ticket**

One day 37 USD

Three days 62 USD

Seven days 72 USD

* Free for children under 12

* Free for VISA "K"

Click here for more information

Discover Cambodia’s rich history at the Angkor National Museum. This premier museum highlights the Khmer Empire’s Golden Era (9th-15th centuries) with fascinating exhibits on the art, architecture, and technology that produced wonders like Angkor Wat.

Explore eight galleries filled with artifacts and multimedia displays, including a unique collection of 1,000 Buddha images. Start with a multilingual orientation in a comfortable 80-seat theater.

For anyone interested in Khmer culture, the Angkor National Museum is a must-see in Cambodia.

Entrance Fee: $12.00 (+ $3.00 for the audio guide)

Hours: 

1 Apr - 30 through Sep: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

1 Oct - 31 through Mar 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM

 Visiting this museum is essential to remember the history of Cambodia, even though it is unfortunate. Prepare yourself before coming to this museum because it is heavy. The  Khmer Rouge named this prison  Security Prison 21 (S-21). Oddly enough, S-21 was a secondary school before the Khmer Rouge turned it into a prison and torture chamber. Over 20,000 people were imprisoned here between 1976 and 1979. Even more unfortunate is that there are only 12 known survivors of S-21.

You can feel the weight of the souls who suffered such unspeakable horrors at this prison, which creates a sober environment for all who visit. While walking through the museum, you can listen to an audio device that describes the different rooms and areas that make up the museum and the horrors that occurred in each area. 

I was left with a lasting impression of that reality when I arrived at the last room of the museum, which contained skulls of victims of the Khmer Rouge. You can't help but feel a variety of emotions throughout your visit. I felt anger, sadness, and hopelessness that something like this could happen. As hard as it is to listen to unfortunate history, we must remember to create a brighter future. 

Hours: Daily 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM 

Entrance Fee: 

Non-Cambodian Adults: $5.00

Non-Cambodian Citizen: between 10-18: $3.00

Cambodian Citizen: Free of charge

For more important information, click here

In eastern Phnom Penh, along the Tonle Sap River, which feeds into the Mekong, you will find the Phnom Penh Night Market. You will find clothing, shoes, bags, housewares, and souvenirs, to name a few. There is also great food, including pad Thai, fried rice, meat skewers, ice cream, and much more. They even have tables for you to sit at and enjoy a nice meal. There is plenty of cheerful vendors throughout the market, which makes this a lovely place to spend an evening in Phnom Penh. 

Hours: Daily 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM 

Located on the Southern end of the Royal Palace, you will find the Silver Pagoda, also known as Wat Ubaosoth Ratanaram, which was built in 1892. It has silver tile flooring, which gives it its name, and marble and stone make up the rest of the structure.

 The Silver Pagoda houses many important national treasures, including a crystal Buddha statue. In addition to the Emerald Buddha is a life-sized solid-gold Buddha containing 2086 diamonds. You will be astounded at the pure opulence of Wat Ubaosoth Ratanaram. Seeing this genuinely priceless piece of history leaves a lasting impression. 

Hours: Daily 7:30 AM-11:00 AM and 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Fee: Included with Royal Palace admission

 Completed in 1937 by Jean Desbois, architect of the city from 1931 to 1937 during the French colonial era, Phsar Thmei, Central Market, is located in the heart of Phenom Penh. The construction of the market was in response to Phenom Penh's exploding population. Initially expected earlier, the market's completion was delayed due to the worldwide hardship created by the Great Depression. 

The building is an art deco style with a 26-meter high central dome and four "arms" extending out from that dome, creating four long hallways which house additional merchants. In 2011 renovations on the market were completed helping to restore the original concrete and add roofing to the original open-air areas. 

Today, the Central Market in Phenom Penh is still the largest in Cambodia and one of the most impressive local markets in Southeast Asia. You will find everything your heart desires and then some—cheap electronics, clothing, textiles, trinkets, fruits, vegetables, and so much more. The energy that emanates from large markets in Southeast Asia is truly special to me. Interacting at these local markets is vital to experiencing the true Southeast Asia. 

It is also a window into the region's soul. You will experience the sites, sounds, and everyday people. You will see the kindness and smiles of the locals. The Central Market in Phenom Penh is the perfect place to create an authentic experience during your time in Cambodia's Capital that an authentic market provides.

Location: The Central Market in Phenom Penh is slightly over 2 km northwest of downtown Phenom Penh. It is also a 15-20 minute walk from the night market. 

Hours: daily 5:30 AM - 6:30 PM

Right next to the Phenom Penh Night Market, you will find the Phenom Penh Old Market. The Old Market is a traditional local type market that you will see throughout Southeast Asia. This market caters to locals rather than tourists, like the Phenom Penh Night Market. Here you will find fresh fruits and vegetables, clothing, motorcycle parts, religious items, household items, and more necessities for everyday life. The market takes up an entire square block, and the perimeter is set up with lots of fresh produce during the day.

The Old Market is one of the first locations I visited in the city. I still remember getting off the bus from Ho Chi Min City and starting my long walk toward my hostel from the drop-off location. If I haven't mentioned already, I sometimes walk long distances to save money on my backpacker's budget. Today I still laugh at how cheap I could be in terms of transportation during that long backpacking trip throughout the region.

I remember the visit to this market in particular because I met a Westerner who spoke with me. He told me how he owned land in Cambodia and more about his story. He also introduced me to the Mangosteen. Despite the name, this fruit doesn't look or taste like a Mango. The fruit is about the size of a golf ball with a thick, soft shell that can easily be broken open with your hands. Inside this purple-colored fruit, you will find a white-fleshed fruit that looks like it might be a sour citrus fruit. 

When I tasted it, I couldn't help but think that it may be the most delicious fruit in the world since it had just the right amount of sourness and sweetness. I bought a kilogram and had the bag finished before I got to my hostel with nothing but a bag of peals in hand when I arrived. You must try this fruit!

Phenom Penh Old Market Hours: Daily 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

If you’re looking for an exotic beach destination off the beaten path, Long Beach Koh Wrong in Cambodia is the perfect place. Located along the south section of the island of Koh Rong, Long Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand and crystal clear waters.   

Lush jungles surround this ideal beach paradise, and its waters are full of colorful fish and coral reefs. You can spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing in the sun. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking.  

This incredible location is ideal for anyone looking for a peaceful and secluded beach vacation. With its stunning natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life on mainland Cambodia.

 Here are the top things to do in Koh Rong:  

• Visit other top beaches in Koh Rong including Sok San Beach, Palm Beach, and 4K Beach. 
• Explore the underwater world through snorkeling or diving.
• Trek through the lush jungle to discover hidden waterfalls.
• Enjoy the island's nightlife at beachside bars. 
• Embark on a boat tour to explore the surrounding islands and their pristine beaches. 
• Watch the glowing plankton: Experience the mesmerizing sight of bioluminescent plankton lighting up the water at night, creating a magical natural phenomenon. 
•  Visit the local fishing villages: Take a tour of the traditional fishing villages on the island to experience the local way of life and learn about the fishing industry.