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Cambodia's full name is the Kingdom of Cambodia, commonly known as Cambodia, formerly known as Khmer. It is located in the Indochina Peninsula, bordering Thailand to the west and northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east and southeast, and facing the Gulf of Siam to the south.
Cambodia's territory is a saucer-shaped basin, surrounded on three sides by hills and mountains. The central region encompasses a vast and fertile plain, accounting for over three-quarters of the country's area. The Mekong River and Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, Tonle Sap (also known as Phnom Penh Lake), are located within the country. Its capital is Phnom Penh. Cambodia is an ancient civilization with a rich history, having established a unified kingdom as early as the 1st century AD. Starting in the 1970s, Cambodia experienced a protracted period of war. In 1993, with the establishment of national authorities and the achievement of national reconciliation, Cambodia entered a new era of peace and development.
Cambodia is a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Its economy is mainly based on agriculture, with a weak industrial base and poverty. It is one of the least developed countries in the world.
Cambodia is located at a low latitude and has a tropical climate. Summer lasts from May to October, when the southwest monsoon brings temperatures around 33°C. Combined with abundant rainfall, relative humidity reaches 90%. Winter lasts from November to April, when the dry and cool northeast monsoon blows, bringing average temperatures between 25°C and 32°C, making it the best time to visit.
Angkor Wat
The UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor Wat is a prime reason for travelers from around the world to visit Cambodia. Don't miss Angkor Wat: Climb the "Stairway to Heaven," admire the "Khmer Smile," and never miss a sunrise or sunset.
Royal Palace in Phnom Penh
As the capital, the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh is one of the most representative buildings. It is a complex of buildings with golden roofs and yellow walls, including more than 20 palaces of various sizes, including the Golden Palace, the Silver Palace, the Dance and Music Palace, and the Treasure Palace. The corridors are decorated with reliefs imitating those of Angkor Wat.
Victory Beach
Sihanoukville boasts Cambodia's only modern commercial port and is also known as a prime tourist destination. Sihanoukville's renowned Victory Beach stretches over two kilometers, divided into two sections by reefs and hills. The northern section, bustling with large cargo ships, attracts many tourists and is the best place to watch the sunset in Sihanoukville. The southern section is also known as Hawaii Beach or King's Beach.
Recommended travel time: 5-7 days
Cambodia is a Southeast Asian country with a rich cultural heritage, historically dominated by the Khmer Empire (9th–15th centuries). Its ancient temples, particularly Angkor Wat, symbolize Khmer architectural brilliance. Cambodia has endured French colonization and the Khmer Rouge era, which significantly shaped its modern history and culture.
Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia, bordered by Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Major entry points are Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport. Within cities, tuk-tuks, taxis, buses, moto-taxis, and rental cars are common. Walking is practical in compact areas like Siem Reap town.
Most attractions are open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to March, when temperatures are moderate and rainfall is minimal.
For major sites like Angkor Wat, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended during peak season. Other attractions generally allow onsite ticket purchase.
5–7 days allow coverage of main attractions including Angkor temples, Phnom Penh landmarks, and a short coastal or countryside visit.
Guided tours are widely available in English, French, Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish. Audio guides can be rented at some major sites.
Start with sunrise at Angkor Wat, explore Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm, then visit Phnom Penh for Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and Tuol Sleng. Include a Tonle Sap boat tour and optional beach time at Sihanoukville or islands.
Peak crowds occur in December and January. Weekdays and the shoulder seasons (April–May and September–October) are less crowded.
Modern museums and urban sites are accessible. Some temples involve stairs and uneven terrain, making access difficult for those with mobility challenges. Children are generally welcome everywhere.
Cash (USD and Cambodian Riel) is widely used, especially at markets and rural areas. Cards and mobile payments are accepted at major hotels, malls, and restaurants in cities.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in major towns; halal food is offered in some cities, especially Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, through specific restaurants.
