Angkor Wat, Cambodia; Image by Paul Szewczyk, Unsplash
Tourism to Cambodia has surged during the last two decades in two phases. The first was when security concerns were handled, allowing greater access to Angkor, and the second was when Cambodia’s magnificent islands opened for business. However, mass tourism is confined to only a few sites, and it’s still very easy to get off the beaten track. If you think Angkor Wat is the only thing Cambodia offers, you’d be wrong.
As a starting point, we’ve provided a few tips below to help you get the most out of your Cambodian holidays.
Visa requirements for Australian nationals to enter Cambodia
To visit Cambodia, Australian nationals need a visa. Australians cannot enter the Kingdom unless they have a valid visa.
The type of visa required to enter the nation depends on the specific requirements and circumstances of the Australian visitor. Apply hassle-free for your Cambodian eVisa– the fastest and easiest way to secure a short-term tour to Cambodia.
Best places to travel in Cambodia
Deciding where to go in Cambodia can be challenging if you want to see the best of the country. There is so much to see and experience in Cambodia–from the cities to the small towns to the stunning coastline. An overview of Cambodia’s most popular destinations is provided in this guide.
Cities of Cambodia
Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, has its unique charm. The kaleidoscopic colonial shophouses on the streets show the area’s French heritage. The cuisine is a major draw for visitors visiting Cambodia, and it’s easy to see why. You can also go on a river cruise on the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers from Phnom Penh.
Siem Reap, Cambodia’s most popular tourist destination, serves as a gateway to the Angkorian temples. The town of Siem Reap has its small-town appeal– Psar Chas Market, vibrant cafes, clubs, boutique stores, and plenty of nightlife are just some of the city’s various activities and attractions. The adjacent Tonle Sap floating villages are also easily accessible from here.
Battambang, Cambodia’s second-largest city, is known for its laid-back vibe. It’s a world away from the bustle of Phnom Penh’s streets. Arty cafes, restaurants, and bars are flourishing due to a growing number of ex-pats. It’s also a great place to see colonial-era structures. There’s a fascinating bamboo railway that takes you across the countryside.
Temples of Angkor
A Cambodia tour is incomplete without a visit to the awe-inspiring temples of the Angkor Wat. As one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological sites, this is a must-see for anybody visiting Cambodia. The most famous of the temples in Cambodia, Angkor Wat, is topped by five corncob towers. Approximately two million people visit the temples each year. by arriving early in the morning.
Southern Islands
Explore the Southwest to find miles of pristine beaches, secluded coves, and remote islands. Cambodia’s most famous beach resort is in Sihanoukville. With their reputation as party hotspots, Ochheuteal Beach and Serendipity Beach Road live up to that billing. There are other quieter areas, such as the town of Otres, which is just 6km away.
The islands of Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem, and Koh Ta Kiev can all be reached from Sihanoukville. On the island of Koh Toch, there is a thriving backpacker community at Koh Rong. Long Set and Long Beach on the west coast have a more relaxing vibe than other beaches. The island of Koh Ta Tiev preserves a solitary atmosphere. Because there are no ATMs on the islands, be sure to bring enough cash.
Eastern Cambodia
Fortunately, there are still swaths of virgin rainforest in Cambodia’s eastern provinces. Kratie, a charming riverfront village, is a great starting point to explore the surrounding area. You may see rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins in their natural habitat at Kampie, just over 20km from Kratie. Only about eighty are believed to be left in the entire Mekong River. In the Rattanakiri region, just outside the tranquil seat of Banlung, there are three stunning waterfalls, Kachang, Katieng, and Chha Ong, which are worth a visit.
Best time to visit Cambodia
November through February is the best time to visit Cambodia, with the peak season occurring between December and January. If you’re looking for a pleasant climate in Cambodia at this time, you won’t be disappointed. This is an extremely busy season for tourist destinations like Angkor Wat and the Cambodian islands. A reservation for Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem is recommended in peak season.
If you want a better chance of finding a room in Phnom Penh during the off-season, consider going between late October and early December or early February through late March. As a bonus, you’ll only face a small risk of rain (in October/November) or sweltering heat (in March/April) if you choose this option.
