Cambodia Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Cambodia? Main activities and attractions

Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is Cambodia’s crown jewel. This ancient temple complex near Siem Reap reveals stunning Khmer architecture and intricate carvings. The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh and the Silver Pagoda showcase Cambodia’s regal past, while the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields offer poignant insight into the country’s tragic 20th-century history. Traditional Apsara dance performances and vibrant night markets provide cultural immersion for visitors across the country.

For nature lovers, the Cardamom Mountains offer hiking and ecotourism opportunities in one of Southeast Asia’s last great rainforests. Birdwatching in Prek Toal Biosphere Reserve, boat cruises on the Mekong River, and kayaking through flooded forests near Kampong Phluk are memorable outdoor experiences. Coastal cities like Kep and Sihanoukville provide pristine beaches and fresh seafood, while Cambodia’s street food, such as fish amok and kuy teav soup, reveals the country’s culinary soul. Rural homestays and cooking classes allow for deeper local engagement.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Cambodia

While classics like Angkor Wat attract most visitors, Cambodia unveils many lesser-known gems that promise a deeper connection to its land and people. These offbeat adventures are ideal for those looking to escape the usual tourist routes and discover the country’s hidden sides.

Koh Rong Samloem, a quiet island accessible from Sihanoukville, offers pristine white sands and bioluminescent plankton, perfect for night swims. Unlike its busier sibling Koh Rong, it remains a peaceful tropical escape. In northern Cambodia, explorers can head to Preah Vihear Temple, a stunning hilltop sanctuary with panoramic views, perched on the Thai border and far less crowded.

Environmental lovers will appreciate Chi Phat village in the Cardamom Mountains. Once a logging hub, it now thrives on community-based eco-tourism, offering jungle treks, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting. In Kratie, travelers can embark on a unique river safari to spot Irrawaddy dolphins—a rare and endangered species found only in a few places worldwide.

For a glimpse into Khmer spirituality, a visit to Wat Sampeau near Battambang reveals a hilltop pagoda, eerie caves used during the Khmer Rouge, and a daily bat exodus that paints the sky at dusk. Venturing off the beaten path in Cambodia rewards travelers with rich human encounters, tranquil nature, and authentic cultural immersion.

When to visit Cambodia? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Cambodia

📋 Formalities and visa

EU, US, and UK citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter Cambodia. A tourist visa is valid for 30 days and can be obtained online (e-Visa), upon arrival at major airports, or through Cambodian embassies abroad. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond entry and carry a recent passport-sized photo for visa-on-arrival applications.

🚗 Driving rules

Traffic drives on the right-hand side in Cambodia. Foreign visitors must carry an international driving license recognized by Cambodian authorities. Roads outside cities may be unpaved or poorly maintained, and local driving habits can be chaotic. Motorbikes are popular, but riders should wear helmets and proceed carefully.

🔌 Electricity

Electrical outlets mainly use types A, C, and G plugs with a standard voltage of 230V at 50Hz. An adapter is recommended for travelers, especially from the UK or US. Voltage converters are usually not required for European devices.

📱 Mobile network and internet

Cambodia has decent mobile coverage in cities and tourist areas. Major providers include Metfone, Smart, and Cellcard. Prepaid SIM cards are affordable and easy to purchase at the airport or convenience stores. Data packages are inexpensive, and Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafés.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

While Cambodia is relatively safe, petty theft and scams can occur in tourist areas. Travelers should stay vigilant in crowded places and avoid walking alone at night, especially in cities. Remote border areas may have undemined fields or political sensitivities—check the consulate’s travel advisories before exploring them. Emergency number: 117 (police).

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

It is illegal to carry or use drugs, even small quantities. Certain medications may be restricted—bring prescriptions and original packaging. Do not purchase antiquities or religious artifacts, as exporting these is prohibited. Smoking is banned in some enclosed public spaces.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Always greet with respect—joining hands in a ‘sampeah’ gesture is customary. Avoid touching heads, especially of children, and don’t point feet at people or religious objects. Dress modestly near temples: cover shoulders and knees. Public displays of affection are discouraged.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

Theravāda Buddhism is the dominant religion in Cambodia. Visitors to temples should remove shoes before entering and remain quiet and respectful. Don’t touch monks or their robes. During major religious festivals like Pchum Ben or Vesak, some regions may close early or observe fasting.

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Cambodia, Cambodia National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025