With its pristine beaches, picturesque landscapes, crystal clear waters and mouthwatering food, Southeast Asia has emerged as a go to destination for tourists from all over the world. With its cheap economy and choice of luxury offerings, the countries of this region attract both backpackers and luxury tourists alike. However, as the most popular destination, Thailand is becoming more and more crowded and old, some of the other countries are now coming into the limelight. And among them, one of the most historically rich, colourful and beautiful country to visit is Cambodia. From ancient temple ruins to beautiful beaches, there are a lot of places to explore and planning a trip to this country can be a bit difficult. So to make your Cambodia trip easier, here’s a list of five must visit places when you go on a holiday in Cambodia .
Angkor Archaeological Park
Angkor Archaeological Park houses the most popular and known spot in Cambodia; the Angkor Wat temple complex. However, this UNESCO certified World Heritage Site houses more than a dozen of spots for you to explore. Start your journey on a rented tuktuk or bicycle from Siem Reap, the closest city to this world famous archaeological site. Try to start your journey before dawn to catch the sunrise behind the famous temple of Angkor Wat. Preah Khan is another one of the largest sites of this complex. Visit the Bayon, Ta Prohm, Elephant Terrace, Preah Ko, Ta Som and Srah Srang sites while you explore the area. Also check out Baksei Chamkrong, a single tower built by Harshavarman on your way to Angkor Thom, the last capital city of the Khem Empire from Angkor Wat.
Phnom Penh
The capital city of modern day Cambodia is another must visit location during you explore this country. The city is beautiful with roadside pagodas nestled among French colonial houses, giving you a glimpse of the history of this country. If you have in for some adventurous treats, then the street side food stalls will delight you. From deep fried tarantulas to Balut (a fertilised partially developed egg), you will find many Cambodian delicacies selling on the streets here which are certainly not for the fainthearted.
Kep
After the ancient archaeological sites and the food-filled streets, it’s time for some seaside retreat. Head over to Kep, a seaside destination built by the French elite in 1908, this beautiful location is perfect for having some relaxing time. You will be spoilt with a choice of the freshest seafood, lovely sunsets and beautiful beaches. Also, remember to visit the butterfly-filled Kep National Park while you are here.
Kampot
Kampot is a charming little riverside town, once famous for its salt and pepper production. Take a trip of 20 kilometres out of Kampot to the French ghost town, Bokor Hill Station. An abandoned French retreat, the whole town is eerily unoccupied; and you can see the bullet marks on the walls or walk through the empty corridors of the Grand Bokor Palace Hotel & Casino.
Sihanoukville
The main reason to stop in this small little town is its beaches. The town itself won’t win any awards for being pretty. But the sandy-white coastlines and the extraordinary islands it boasts of, make this town Cambodia’s most happening destination. The Serendipity Beach area is famous for backpackers and party seekers. If you want to stay away from the crowd, head over to the far south of the town to Otres Beach for a more relaxed environment.