Fancy stepping back in time and exploring the ancient cities of the Angkor Empire, dipping your toes in clear turquoise waters on deserted tropical islands or roaming through the jungle in the shadows of elephants – and plenty in between? If so, then Cambodia has got it all. Here are some of the best things to see and do in the Kingdom of Wonder.
It’s impossible to visit Cambodia without taking a trip to its number one attraction, Angkor Wat. Dating back to the 11th century, the sprawling site was once the capital of the Angkor Empire, which ruled most of the region from the 9th to 15th centuries. While Angkor Wat remains the site’s main draw, Bayon and Ta Prohm fit into the popular one-day circuit. However, the park, which spans 400 square kilometres, takes in hundreds of other ancient structures that are well worth getting off the beaten track for.
The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh serves as the official residence of King Sihamoni, meaning parts of the vast complex are off limits to visitors. Paying testament to classic Khmer architecture, visitors to the palace compound have access to the immaculately manicured gardens, the Throne Hall, which is topped by a 59-metre tower inspired by Bayon temple, and surrounding buildings. Visitors will only be allowed entry if clothing covers the shoulders and knees, and those choosing to ignore the dress code will have to get a sarong at the ticket booth.
If lazing on powder white sands flanked by palm trees and crystal-clear waters, with hardly another person in sight, is your idea of heaven, then this Cambodian island is a must on any trip. Located about 45 minutes from mainland Sihanoukville by fast ferry, Koh Rong Sanloem boasts beaches you’d expect to find on postcards. The paradise island is also home to a variety of water activities, from snorkelling and stand-up paddle-boarding to kayaking and boat trips.
It’s impossible to visit Cambodia without taking a trip to its number one attraction, Angkor Wat. Dating back to the 11th century, the sprawling site was once the capital of the Angkor Empire, which ruled most of the region from the 9th to 15th centuries. While Angkor Wat remains the site’s main draw, Bayon and Ta Prohm fit into the popular one-day circuit. However, the park, which spans 400 square kilometres, takes in hundreds of other ancient structures that are well worth getting off the beaten track for.
The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh serves as the official residence of King Sihamoni, meaning parts of the vast complex are off limits to visitors. Paying testament to classic Khmer architecture, visitors to the palace compound have access to the immaculately manicured gardens, the Throne Hall, which is topped by a 59-metre tower inspired by Bayon temple, and surrounding buildings. Visitors will only be allowed entry if clothing covers the shoulders and knees, and those choosing to ignore the dress code will have to get a sarong at the ticket booth.
If lazing on powder white sands flanked by palm trees and crystal-clear waters, with hardly another person in sight, is your idea of heaven, then this Cambodian island is a must on any trip. Located about 45 minutes from mainland Sihanoukville by fast ferry, Koh Rong Sanloem boasts beaches you’d expect to find on postcards. The paradise island is also home to a variety of water activities, from snorkelling and stand-up paddle-boarding to kayaking and boat trips.
