Cambodia Destination Guide | Destinara Travel

Overview

Kingdom of Wonder

Cambodia is home to Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument on earth, but this remarkable country offers far more than its famous temples. From the bustling riverside capital of Phnom Penh to the sleepy coastal town of Kampot, Cambodia reveals layers of beauty and resilience.

The Khmer Empire left behind an extraordinary legacy of temples scattered across the jungle, each one a masterpiece of stone carving and spiritual devotion. Exploring these ancient ruins as morning mist rises through the trees is a truly magical experience.

Beyond the temples, Cambodia offers pristine islands with white sand beaches, vibrant floating villages on Tonle Sap lake, and a food scene that rivals its Southeast Asian neighbors with fresh flavors, aromatic herbs, and unique Khmer specialties.

Essential Information

Quick Facts

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Best Season

Nov-Mar (Cool and Dry)

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Avg Temperature

75-95F (24-35C)

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Budget Range

$20 - $150/day

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Flight Time

18-22 hrs from US

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Language

Khmer

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Currency

Riel and US Dollar

Visa

E-visa or on arrival

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Best For

History and Temples

Must-Do Activities

Top Experiences

Angkor Wat Sunrise

Watch the sun rise behind the iconic silhouette of Angkor Wat, the world largest religious monument and the crown jewel of Khmer architecture.

Ta Prohm Temple

Explore this atmospheric temple where massive tree roots embrace ancient stone walls, creating one of the most photogenic and mysterious sites in all of Asia.

Phnom Penh Capital

Discover the vibrant capital with its Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, bustling Central Market, and a thriving riverside dining and nightlife scene.

Tonle Sap Floating Village

Cruise through the fascinating floating communities on Southeast Asia largest freshwater lake, where entire villages live on the water year-round.

Koh Rong Islands

Escape to pristine tropical islands with powdery white sand, bioluminescent plankton at night, and some of the most unspoiled beaches in Southeast Asia.

Khmer Cooking Class

Learn to prepare authentic Cambodian dishes like fish amok, beef lok lak, and mango salad using fresh ingredients from the local market.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Cool Dry (Nov-Feb)

79F

The most comfortable time with lower humidity and pleasant temperatures. Peak season for Angkor and ideal weather for temple exploration.

Hot Dry (Mar-May)

95F

Scorching temperatures but fewer tourists. Best for beach destinations. Water festivals and Khmer New Year celebrations in April.

Wet (Jun-Oct)

84F

Afternoon monsoon rains but mornings are usually clear. Lush green landscapes, Angkor moats are full, and prices drop significantly.

Shoulder (Nov)

82F

Rains ending and cool season beginning. Water Festival in Phnom Penh is spectacular. Great value before peak season prices kick in.

Practical Advice

Travel Tips

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Buy Multi-Day Pass

Angkor temple passes come in 1, 3, or 7-day options. A 3-day pass gives the best value and allows you to explore beyond the main circuit comfortably.

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Carry US Dollars

US dollars are widely accepted alongside the Cambodian riel. Bring clean, undamaged bills. Change under one dollar is typically given in riel.

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Hire a Tuk-Tuk Driver

Hiring a tuk-tuk driver for the day is affordable and the best way to explore Angkor. Agree on a price and route before starting your temple tour.

Cover Up at Temples

Shoulders and knees must be covered at Angkor temples. Bring lightweight long pants and a t-shirt or you may be turned away at the entrance.

Go Early or Late

Temples are best visited at sunrise or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. Midday is perfect for a pool break or exploring local restaurants.

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Visit Responsibly

Learn about Cambodia history including the Khmer Rouge era. Visit the Tuol Sleng Museum and Killing Fields with respect and sensitivity.

Cambodia