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Imagine Asia  >  Destinations  >  Cambodia
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Cambodia

Cambodia sits in the south of the Indochina peninsula, sharing borders with Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. Visitors to Cambodia are rewarded with awe-inspiring temples, off-the-beaten track mountains, sparkling rivers and lakes, and exotic island hideaways. The country has a fascinating history, both ancient and modern, and the iconic temples of Angkor truly belong on any traveller’s bucket list.

When to go

J F M A M J J A S O N D

No trip to Cambodia is complete without spending at least a few days in Siem Reap, which is the base for exploring the extraordinary Angkor Archaeological Park. The jewel in the park’s crown is of course the dramatic Angkor Wat, which is the largest religious building in the world. However, there are many other wonderful temples to explore, a number of which have been reclaimed by the jungle, creating an alluring atmosphere of mystery and adventure. Visitors to Siem Reap can also enjoy a trip to Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. The water stretches as far as the eye can see, and the lake is home to several floating villages.

During a trip to Cambodia, it is also worth spending a few days in the country’s capital Phnom Penh. This is the best place to learn about Cambodia’s tragic modern history, as there are many remnants here from the brutal Khmer Rouge Regime. The Khmer Rouge party initially began to form in the 1960s, but did not receive much traction until 1970s, finally seizing Phnom Penh in 1975. During the party’s four-year rule, around two million Cambodians died, either as a result of starvation or from mass executions by the soldiers.

In Phnom Penh, it is possible to visit the notorious S-21 Jail, where up to 17,000 people were detained and tortured. Nearly all of these people were then executed and buried in mass graves in the area now known as the Killing Fields, which lies just outside the city.

Beyond these poignant reminders of the past, modern Phnom Penh also has plenty to offer. There are a number of fantastic restaurants as well as an eclectic mix of architecture, including the grand Royal Palace, colourful Chinese temples and fading Colonial store fronts.

Cambodia also has some wonderful locations for those wanting to get off the beaten track. Far to the east of the country, Mondulkiri is the country’s largest, and yet most sparsely populated province. Unlike much of Cambodia, which features swathes of verdant rice paddies and wide rivers and lakes, Mondulkiri has a more wild-feel, with deep rainforests and rolling hills. This is also the best place in Cambodia to visit ethical elephant projects.

The towns of Battambang and Kep both offer travellers an insight into local life in Cambodia beyond the cities. Battambang lies to the west of Tonle Sap Lake, surrounded by pretty countryside laced with rice paddies and orchards. Kep is on the country’s south coast, featuring a sleepy laid-back atmosphere and fantastic seafood.

For the ultimate Cambodian beach experience, the coast around Sihanoukville and the Koh Rong Archipelago offer a range of retreats, from boutique beach bungalows to exclusive villas on private islands. Sandy shores and turquoise seas await visitors here, as well as a number of diving and snorkelling sites.

Cambodia is an incredible destination with such a diverse history and beautiful landscape. Most people only know of the Temples of Angkor but this fascinating country has so much more to offer!


Peter Trangmar Peter Trangmar
Asia Specialist

You’re bound to have heard of the mighty Angkor Wat, one of the most impressive man-made sights on Earth, but Cambodia’s also offers some stunning natural scenery and beaches south of the upcoming capital Phnom Penh.


Peter Trangmar Peter Trangmar
Asia Specialist

Cambodia’s beaches are glorious golden stretches of sand – ideal for a few days relaxation after you have had your fill of culture and history!


Peter Trangmar Peter Trangmar
Asia Specialist

Top 10 unique experiences in Cambodia

A small country bordering Thailand, Laos and Vietnam, Cambodia is a stunning place with so many unique experiences to be had. Along with a visit to the famed temples of Angkor Wat, a holiday to Cambodia can include interacting with injured elephants and escaping to a private island, amongst other wonderful and little-known activities. We asked our specialists to think outside the box and come up with the top 10 unique things to experience in this wonderful country…

Battambang

Sihanoukville and Koh Rong

Kampong Thom

Kep

Koh Kong and Cardamom Mountains

Mondulkiri

Phnom Penh

Siem Reap

  • Holiday ideas (9)
  • Properties (33)
  • Experiences (33)
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Tatai River, Koh Kong, Cambodia

Offering secluded and peaceful glamping on the Tatai River, the stylish eco-resort of 4 Rivers is only accessible by boat. A magical place where guests awaken in tented villas to the sounds of the forest and the sight of the morning mist on the mountains.

4 Rivers Koh Kong

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Inspired by 1960s Cambodian Modernism, this boutique hotel is a peaceful hideaway on the banks of the Siem Reap River, close to the centre of town and the temples of Angkor, full of contemporary style with lush tropical gardens and attentive service.

Jaya House River Park

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

The Rosewood Phnom Penh offers an exquisite level of luxury and style. This modern city hotel boasts sophisticated accommodation, fantastic views across Phnom Penh, excellent dining options and a fabulous rooftop bar.

Rosewood Phnom Penh

Siem Reap, Cambodia

For those looking for an authentic and unique experience, Sala Lodges has created a typical Cambodian village of 11 beautifully-restored original stilted homes, full of peaceful serenity and calm, on the outskirts of Siem Reap.

Sala Lodges

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Expertly designed with a fusion of contemporary minimalism and Khmer-inspired style, Shinta Mani Angkor is an intimate boutique hotel, where polished concrete, dark wood, modern art and stylish antiques combine to create a slick and stylish offering.

Shinta Mani Angkor

Siem Reap, Cambodia

For modernist architecture with a tropical twist, jewel-toned vintage-styled Scandinavian furniture and a hip but friendly vibe, check in to Viroth’s Hotel. A firm favourite with the design-conscious, Viroth’s evokes the ex-pat glamour of a bygone age.

Viroth's Hotel

Kep, Cambodia

Relax in style in this design-led and architecturally-interesting modernist boutique hotel on Cambodia’s beautiful southern coast once popular with French colonials, as Knai Bang Chatt captures the old-world spirit of bygone days with charm and grace.

Knai Bang Chatt

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Since 1929, Raffles Le Royal has played host to an illustrious list of famous dignitaries, writers and celebrities and is one of Asia’s top destination hotels, offering a seamless blend of old-world colonial charm and contemporary comfort.

Raffles Le Royal

Siem Reap

The serene haven that is La Residence is brimming with elegant luxury, impeccable service, stunning suites, gorgeous pool and heavenly spa, all guaranteed to soothe you into a state of Zen. Ideally placed for Angkor Wat, it makes for a memorable stay.

Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor

Siem Reap, Cambodia

This boutique retreat offers some of the finest accommodation in the Siem Reap area. Tucked away from the bustling city and full of colonial-era charm with wonderful levels of service, it makes a luxurious base for exploring the city and Angkor Wat.

Heritage Suites Hotel

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Siem Reap, Battambang, Phnom Penh, Kep

This 11-night itinerary takes in key cultural areas of Cambodia. Admire the extraordinary temples of Angkor, soak up the gorgeous countryside in Battambang, explore the country’s capital Phnom Penh, and finish the trip on a sandy beach in Sihanoukville.

11 nights from $3048 per person Culture & history, Highlights, Honeymoon

Classic Cambodia

Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville

This simple yet exciting itinerary is a wonderful introduction to Cambodia. With only three stops you will have plenty of time to explore each area, taking in temples in Siem Reap, palaces in Phnom Penh and sandy beaches in Sihanoukville.

8 nights from $2252 per person Imagine Favourites, Culture & history, Beach

Simply Cambodia

Siem Reap, Battambang, Kratie, Phnom Penh, Koh Kong & Kep

This in-depth itinerary takes in cultural and natural highlights of Cambodia. Discover the breathtaking temples of Angkor, explore stunning countryside, search for the Irrawaddy dolphin, admire glittering palaces and venture into lush rainforest.

18 nights from $4505 per person Culture & history, Family, Honeymoon

Cambodia In Depth

Bangkok, Luang Prabang, Hanoi, Hoi An, Siem Reap & Khao Lak

This diverse itinerary is ideal for couples looking for a flavour of Thailand and Indochina, taking in iconic sites, with plenty of culture and adventure along the way, staying at some of the region's most charming boutique properties.

15 nights from $4505 per person Honeymoon, Culture & history, Highlights

Boutique Indochina

Luang Prabang, Pakse, Siem Reap, Phnom Penh & Sihanoukville

This classic itinerary is a wonderful introduction to two of the most beguiling countries in Southeast Asia; Cambodia and Laos. Take in highlights of each country, including fascinating history and breathtaking scenery, and finish on a lovely beach.

14 nights from $4240 per person Culture & history, Highlights, Family

Classic Cambodia & Laos

Bangkok, Luang Prabang, Siem Reap & Khao Lak

This is a fantastic itinerary for those seeking a combination of adventure, culture and relaxation. Explore fascinating history, from the charming town of Luang Prabang to the magnificent temples of Angkor, before unwinding on a beautiful Thai beach.

12 nights from $4108 per person Honeymoon, Beach, Culture & history

Laos, Cambodia & Coastal Thailand

Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya & Koh Samet

This fascinating itinerary combines historic highlights in Thailand and Cambodia. Learn about the countries' ancient heritage with magnificent temples in Siem Reap and Ayutthaya, and uncover modern-day history in Kanchanaburi and Phnom Penh.

13 nights from $6758 per person Culture & history, Beach, Highlights

Thailand and Cambodia; Ancient and Modern

Luang Prabang, Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh & Siem Reap

Experience the best that Indochina has to offer with this remarkable journey. Take in breathtaking scenery, charming towns, buzzing cities, ancient history and modern cultural, travelling through Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.

18 nights from $7950 per person Culture & history, Highlights, Honeymoon

Ultimate Indochina

Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, & Koh Rong

This high-end itinerary incorporates key cultural areas of Cambodia, finishing with some relaxation time at one of Asia’s most exclusive resorts. Staying at luxurious hotels throughout, you will also enjoy some wonderfully special experiences.

10 nights from $6625 per person Luxury, Culture & history, Honeymoon

Luxury Cambodia

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Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Enjoy an exhilarating evening of streetfood and stylish bars, travelling through the streets of Phnom Penh on the back of a Vespa with your own expert driver. This is fantastic way to experience the buzzing nightlife of Cambodia’s capital.

Phnom Penh Nightlife Vespa Tour

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Explore the awe-inspiring Angkor Thom and Preah Khan, accompanied by a renowned archaeologist. This insider tour will allow you to gain an in-depth insight into these amazing temples, uncovering hidden secrets and quiet corners.

Angkor Thom and Preah Khan with an Archaeologist - Full Day

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Accompanied by an expert guide, spend a fascinating day learning about the eclectic architecture of Cambodia's capital. From ancient temples to French colonial facades and soviet-style edifices, there is plenty to explore.

Architecture Paths of Phnom Penh

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Enjoy an exhilarating tour through Siem Reap's rural countryside on the back of a Vespa. Run by the renowned Vespa Adventures, this tour takes you through the Angkor forest, past colourful temples and markets all the way to Baray Lake.

Rural Vespa Tour from Siem Reap

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Enjoy an evening performance at the renowned Phare Cambodian Circus Show. The hour-long show provides an engaging and artistic way to learn about modern life in Cambodia.

Phare Cambodian Circus

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Head away from Siem Reap to explore the secluded and mysterious Beng Mealea. This expansive temple has the same layout as Angkor Wat, and whilst much less well preserved, the crumbling walls and encroaching tree roots provide an atmospheric experience.

Tour of Beng Mealea

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Spend the day exploring two of Siem Reap's most impressive historical sites; Banteay Srei and Kbal Spean. You will also visit two educational centres, firstly to learn about wildlife conservation in Cambodia, and then to the poignant Landmine Museum.

Banteay Srei, Kbal Spean & Landmine Museum

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Spend half a day exploring the serene Siem Reap countryside, visiting the ancient Roluos Group temples which date back to the 8th and 9th centuries. This is a lovely way to experience rural Cambodia, including an ox cart ride and Buddhist monk blessing.

Roluos Countryside - Half Day

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Take in the magnificent Angkor Wat at sunrise before enjoying a guided tour of the temple followed by an indulgent champagne breakfast at a quiet reservoir nearby. This is a wonderful way to experience one of the world's most famous temples.

Champagne Breakfast & Sunrise Over Angkor Wat

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Spend half a day visiting two of Cambodia’s most poignant sites; the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. These terribly sombre yet significant sites offer an insight into Cambodia’s turbulent modern history.

Half Day Phnom Penh Tour: The Khmer Rouge

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Inspiration

The temples of Angkor Wat: a must on any bucket list!

Top 10 unique experiences in Cambodia

Top Properties for Honeymooners

Cambodia Honeymoon Ideas

Cambodia Favourites

Cambodia Family Holiday Ideas

Cambodia and Vietnam

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