Top Things To Do In Cambodia For First-Time Visitors

Are you planning a first-time trip to Cambodia? How exciting if that's the case! This is one of the most beautiful and enjoyable countries in South East Asia; therefore you will be thrilled and proud. There are a ton of things to do and cultural things to soak up. There's also amazing cuisine. Oh, the mere thought of it makes us hungry.

You can find the best things to do in Cambodia when visiting the country for the first time by using the comprehensive travel advice provided below.

Explore Things To Do And See In Cambodia

Angkor Wat is located in Cambodia, an ancient nation with a rich cultural history. There long ago was founded a unified monarchy. As time has gone on, more and more travelers find Cambodian tourist destinations worth visiting.

Here are the things to do and see in Cambodia during your first time trip to Southeast Asia country:

Angkor Wat

The 12th-century Angkor temple complex is known as Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat, a massive religious complex with over a thousand buildings, is one of the world's great cultural wonders. It highlights the Khmer architecture's great artistic significance.

The city of Angkor once served as the royal center of the dynasty of Khmer. Angkor Wat, which is a funeral temple group, stores the remains of its builders, Suryavarman II. The temples are dedicated to the three gods of Hinduism. Angkor Wat is built on the mountain and surrounded by a huge moat.

If you visit Siem Reap, you have to see the sunrise here. Just give yourself enough time to acquire your ticket and walk to the temple if you prepare ahead. From Siem Reap, you can take a cab, tuk-tuk, or bicycle to the temple!

The 12th-century Angkor temple complex is known as Angkor Wat

Kratie

A little town called Kratie is located along the Mekong River. There is a central market encircled by historic structures. One of the fun things to do in Cambodia is look for Irrawaddy dolphins here. The endangered species of the Irrawaddy dolphin is currently protected by non-governmental organizations. These dolphins are lovely and shy. Having conversations with them is interesting.

Kratie is blessed with enchanting scenery thanks to the Mekong River flowing from north to south. In addition, the Mekong River has provided the province with hundreds of mature islands as well as rich and diverse wetland habitats.

A little town called Kratie is located along the Mekong River

Preah Vihear Temple

At the intersection of Cambodia and Thailand, on the 525-meter-high cliff of Tanrek Mountain, is the Khmer temple known as Preah Vihear Temple.  It is the most magnificent temple of all the Khmer temples.

Preah Vihear Temple is a Hindu temple with an Angkor Wat-esque design. Since the temple is perched on a cliff, you must first ascend the mountain. You come onto a long, broad corridor after around ten minutes of wandering down a rocky route.

As you proceed down the lengthy hallway, you will witness temples and pyramids. The magnificent designs etched on the stone columns typically feature Shiva and Vishnu. As you ascend the mountain, pass through the temples and arrive at a vista of unending plains.

Preah Vihear Temple is the most magnificent temple of all the Khmer temples

Tonle Sap Lake

Next on our list of things to do in Cambodia is visit Tonle Sap Lake. Tonle Sap Lake is one of the few locations in Cambodia where you can take in the natural scenery, in addition to the country's many historical and cultural sites.

Among the unique things to do in Cambodia is visit Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. As the seasons change, the lake will enlarge and contract, resulting in variations in its perspectives. Tonle Sap Lake, situated in the center of Cambodia, resembles a massive emerald embedded in the earth. You may explore the area and see the lake by renting a local boat.

Going through a lush green forest on the water, you will see the vast, clear lake appearing before your eyes accompanied by cool breezes and fresh air. Known as the "floating village," the majority of the homes are floating on the water during the rainy season.

Tonle Sap Lake is one of the few locations in Cambodia where you can take in the natural scenery

Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville, located on Cambodia's southwest coast, is renowned as the country's largest seaport and offers an ideal destination for one seeking things to do in Cambodia with family. Its attractions lie in pristine white beaches, gently swaying palm trees, and untouched tropical islands.

Because most of this area is still undeveloped, the beaches are incredibly pure and pristine. With oil-green palm trees gleaming in the golden sunlight, the sky and water resemble enormous sapphires. This area's pure seawater also makes for great diving conditions. By submerging yourself in glistening, clear water, you can engage with beautiful fish. Furthermore, the sunset on the beach is also a wonderful sight.

The beaches in Sihanoukville are incredibly pure and pristine

Bogot Hill City

The French constructed Bogot Hill City in the 1920s. The city has a ghost town vibe to it because of the large number of abandoned buildings.

Constructed atop Bogot Mountain, Bogot Hill City was formerly a vacation resort. As you ascend the steep stairs and enter Bogot Hill City, you'll notice a large, calm hallway where the city's hustle and bustle seem to reappear before your eyes. Enamel glass, installed a century ago in the inner room, is still as brilliant as new. Scaling its roof, you'll be able to observe the infinite Siam Bay and the deep green forests below.

Things To Do In Cambodia For Kids

Angkor National Museum

Are you wondering what things to do in Cambodia with your kids? Go to the Angkor National Museum. Located in Siem Reap, this museum provides a comprehensive introduction to the history and culture of the Angkor region through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Cambodian Cultural Show

Take your children to see a traditional Apsara dance performance, which features sophisticated Khmer dance and music and is frequently accompanied by a buffet with regional food.

Cambodia Food Must Try - Traditional Things To Do

Cambodian cuisine offers a delightful array of flavors deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. Here are some traditional dishes and culinary experiences that you must try when exploring things to do in Cambodia:

Fish Amok

As Cambodia's national dish, Fish Amok is a must-try. This creamy curry, cooked with freshwater fish and flavored with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and turmeric, is steamed in banana leaves for a distinctive aroma.

Nom Banh Chok

Nom Banh Chok is a well-liked breakfast option that consists of rice noodles topped with gravy made from fish and served with fresh herbs and raw vegetables on the side.

Khmer Red Curry

Similar to Thai red curry but with a unique local twist, Khmer red curry combines a paste of lemongrass, galangal, garlic, shallots, and dried chilies with meat, coconut milk, and local vegetables.

Cambodia food must try

Some Useful Information About Cambodia You Probably Do Not Know

Best time to visit Cambodia

Between November and May, when there is less rainfall and pleasant weather, is the best time to visit Cambodia. On the other hand, Cambodia experiences year-round heat and humidity.

With the benefits of each season, traveling to Cambodia is generally a good idea at any time of year. Throughout the year, Cambodia experiences a hot and muggy climate. The temperature remains in the low to mid-30s°C range, with a minor decrease at night.

Currency

Although US dollars are often accepted, the official currency of Cambodia is the Riel. It might be better to stick with the dollar because the conversion rate to the Cambodian Riel is not very good.

Language

Although Khmer is the official language of Cambodia, English is more widely spoken and understood in the country's cities and tourist destinations, so you can get by there with ease.

Between November and May is the best time to visit Cambodia

The Cambodian tourist visa

For travelers eager to explore things to do in Cambodia, obtaining a tourist visa is a straightforward process.

The Cambodian eVisa is a convenient option that allows you to apply online, saving you time and effort. By applying for a Cambodia eVisa via our website, you can ensure a hassle-free start to your adventure.

Because of the user-friendly interface on our website, applying is easy and quick. The entire procedure may be finished from the convenience of your home, and there are safe payment choices and customer service to help you along the way.

Safety in Cambodia

Like in any big city, when moving through crowded places or taking a tuk-tuk, keep your stuff close to your hand and clutch your bags carefully. The border between Thailand and Cambodia is notorious for bag snatching, so be careful.

Additionally, stay with your guide and avoid going off on your own if you are visiting rural areas of Cambodia. Unexploded mines are still present in Cambodia, therefore even if they are uncommon, it is advisable to follow your guide and avoid going on solo jungle walks.

Getting around Cambodia

There are numerous ways to travel within Cambodia's cities as well as to and from the various villages and cities. It's simple to get from the airport in Siem Reap to the city center, and if you stay in the center, most pubs and restaurants are within walking distance.

Temple tips

When visiting temples, as with other places in the globe, you should wear proper clothing. Shoulders and legs should be covered; certain temples won't let you in if you're not dressed appropriately.

Conclusion

From the ancient temple complex with its magnificent statues and the intricate carvings on the buildings that reveal timeless stories, to the local cities brimming with unique cultural atmospheres, and the pristine, undeveloped landscapes of tropical forests, Cambodia is undoubtedly a wonderful destination to experience diverse cultures and landscapes. For those seeking a more adventurous side, there are plenty of crazy things to do in Cambodia, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes for an unforgettable journey.