Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary 

 CAMBODIA TRAVEL GUIDE | TOURIST ATTRACTIONS + ITINERARY + BUDGET HOTEL

Here’s the updated Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours, Itinerary. This guide also includes links to various Cambodia Hotels, Transportation Guide as well as other related travel guides. Keep on reading.

Banteay Srei, Siem Reap | Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary 

Against All Odds: Rediscovering Cambodia 

Many define a country from what they see. Others, however, define it based on its history. Many nations have gone through changes across time. Oftentimes, how we see countries of today may not be the same case in their former timeline, for better or worse.

Such is perhaps the country of Cambodia, a country rife with inner turmoil but once was a kingdom reckoned by its neighbors in the Southeast.

Kambuja

What was at the time of its unification a kingdom called “Kambuja” under the rule of Jayavarman II which begun the Khmer Empire, this previously Hindu realm has had its prosperity lasting for 600 years.

During the Angkorian period—a time when the Khmer empire’s power is at its peak—the kingdom of Kambuja extends in broader lands, of which are now territories of its neighboring nations, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. This is only telling of the might and richness that the Indianized state was which made it renowned among its neighbors.

Establishment of Monuments

It is during the time of the growing might of the Angkorian period that the empire began establishing monuments that symbolized the prevailing religion of the country at the time. Of these infrastructures was the iconic Angkor Wat which is, by regard, the world’s largest building and symbol to the country of Cambodia.

Originally, meant as a beacon for the Hindu faith dedicated to the god, Vishnu, the monumental temple eventually had a facelift when one Khmer king shifted the kingdom’s religion to Buddhism. That, only to return to Hinduism, until finally settling as a predominantly Buddhist kingdom at a later time up to the present.

But overpowered by the growing might of the Ayuthaya civilization, the once-mighty Khmer Empire had fallen as a vassal state to its nearby kingdoms which significantly weakened its power and influence in the region.

The kingdom soon fell to foreign rule when the French colonized the country until it finally earned its freedom in 1953.

Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary 

Cambodia at Present Time

The country of Cambodia never returned to its glory since attaining sovereignty from foreign control and has thus just become a vestige of its previous glorious form. For a long time—until only recently—the country has had a troubled economy resulting from the damages of civil unrest and wars.

While the country may still lack the right elements to catch up with its developing neighbors, it is nonetheless rich in many beautiful and historic places which makes it worthy of a first look and actual experience. In fact, when you talk about the Cambodian economy, tourism plays a significant role in it, apart from the aid it is getting from developed nations across many borders.

But, like many countries, the real treasure in the struggling country is arguably in its people who are constantly thriving despite the predispositions the country is set in. But overlook the hardships and the flaws, the Khmers are so significant in history, they are essentially interwoven with the land they call their own sovereign land.

Although with their own quirks, part of what makes a visit to this country good is by seeing first-hand a unique culture that partly defines a nation.

 

The Royal Palace (Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary) 

Cambodia Travel Itinerary

Note: This Cambodia Travel Guide covers Phom Penh and Siem Reap.

Day 1

• Arrival in Siem Reap, Proceed to Hotel   (assuming that you will arrive Siem Reap in the afternoon
• Apsaras Dancing Performances  ( A cultural dance presentation with dinner)-, BOOK AN APSARA CULTURAL SHOW AND DINNER HERE 

Day 2 

• Temple Tour

BOOK A SUNRISE ANGKOR TEMPLE PRIVATE TOUR BY TUK-TUK ( Covering: Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Ta Keo Temple, South Gate of Angkor Thom, Banteay Kdei Temple, Terrace of the Elephants, Ta Prohm Temple )

• Pub Street (Evening)

Day 3

• Temple and City Tour
• Old Market or Experience a Khmer Spa Experience

BOOK A SPA KHMER LUXURY EXPERIENCE HERE

Day 4

• Travel to Phnom Penh

Travel to Phnom Penh by Bus ( You can choose your desired schedule here – BOOK BUS TICKET FROM SIEM REAP TO PHNOM PENH BY GIANT IBIS

• Hotel Check-In

Day 5 and 6

• City Tour

BOOK PHNOM PENH HERITAGE TOUR HERE

BOOK SUNSET CRUISE PHNOM PENH BY TARA BOATS HERE

• Fly Back Home

Ta Prohm, Siem Reap (Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary) 

Cambodia Currency

Cambodian Riel is the currency of Cambodia. However, USD is widely used around the country. Commodities are priced in USD, however, you will receive Riel for a change when you purchase.

Electricity in Cambodia

It is recommended to bring a universal adaptor when you travel. Cambodia has 230V AC electricity. Power outlets in hotels are two-prong round sockets similar to that in the Philippines.

Visa

Indonesia, Brunei, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Myanmar, and Vietnam passport holders can enter Cambodia Visa-free. For
For other tourists, you can avail of a 30-day tourist visa on arrival at 30 USD. Be ready to present a passport-sized photo. For easy traveling, you can apply an e-visa before your trip here, www.cambodiavisagov.asia

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap (Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary) 

Cambodia Tourist Attractions

Traveling to another country can be very expensive but there are places which are budget-friendly as well; for Southeast Asia, Cambodia is one of them. From transportation, accommodation to food – almost everything is cheap so saving money is not really a huge problem. Aside from being perfect for the budget traveler, the country is also rich in arts and culture that can be witnessed on its temples, and religious structures; eco-tourism and wildlife are also part of the tourism of Cambodia.
For some guidance on the top tourist destinations in Cambodia, here are the following facts:

Cambodia Temples and  Palaces 

Angkor Wat

When visiting Cambodia, Angkor Wat is on the top in the list of agendas. Angkor Wat which means ‘temple city,’ was originally built as a temple for the Hindu but eventually converted into a Buddhist one. With its perfection in the structure, it is definitely the largest and one of the finest monuments in the world. This site is actually a part of UNESCO’s Wonders of the World.
Address: Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
Province: Siem Reap Province

The Royal Palace

Serves as King Sihamoni’s official royal residence, The Royal Palace is one of the grandest places to visit in Cambodia. Though some areas are closed to the public, there are still many areas that visitors can explore to like the Throne Hall and Silvering Pagoda.

King Sihamoni / Norodom Sihamoni is Cambodia’s ruler since October 2004; he is the eldest son of King Norodom Sihanouk and has succeeded the latter.

Address: Samdach Sothearos Blvd (3), Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Hours:   8–10:30 AM, 2–5 PM

Wat Phnom

A Buddhist temple, the Wat Phnom is located in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The temple which stands 27 meters was built in 1372 and considered as the city’s tallest religious structure.
Address: Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Silver Pagoda, Phnom Penh 

The Wat Ubosoth Ratanaram or the Wat Preah Keo Morakot is also called the Silver Pagoda. The structure is found on the south side of the Royal Palace, Phnom Penh.
Address: Oknha Chhun St. (240), Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Cambodia Monuments

Independence Monument

Another important structure in Phnom Penh, Cambodia is the Independence Monument which was built in 1958. The monument which can be found at the intersection of Norodom Boulevard and Sihanouk Boulevard in the center of the city was built as a remembrance to Cambodia’s independence in 1953 from France.
Address: Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Independence Monument (Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary) 

 

Shopping and Souvenir Hunting in Cambodia

Tuol Tom Poung Market 

A treasure trove for tourists, the Tuol Tom Poung Market is loaded with items ranging from jewelry, carved handicrafts, clothes, and much more. Food stalls are found everywhere to take a refreshment break during souvenir hunting.
Address: St 444, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Hours: 6:30 AM–5 PM

Central Market, Phnom Penh 

One of the largest markets in Phnom Penh, the Central Market was constructed in 1937. As you enter the place you will see a line of stalls selling various items such as souvenir shirts, jewelry, carved items and much more.
Address: Central Market, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Hours: 7 AM–6 PM

 

National Museum of Cambodia (Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary) 

Arts Exploration in Cambodia

National Museum of Cambodia

This museum is located at Phnom Penh and is the leading historical and largest museum of culture and history. It houses to world’s finest collection of Khmer art that includes ceramics, sculptural, ethnographic objects, and bronzes. Visitors will be greeted by a large bronze sculpture of Vishnu statue which has been discovered at a temple near Angkor Wat dated 1936. Do remember that taking photos inside the museum is strictly prohibited, but is allowed in the courtyard.
Address: Preah Ang Eng St. (13), Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Hours: 8 AM–5 PM

Cambodian Living Arts

Located just at the back of The National Museum, this live show embraces traditional dances and music of Cambodia. As the country is rich in culture and arts, this performance is definitely a must to see. It is a one-hour performance from Mondays to Saturdays every 7 in the evening.
Nature and wildlife attractions

Phnom Kulen National Park

Phnom Kulen or Mountain of Lychees is a mountain range located in Siem Reap province.  Cambodians consider the mountain to be the most sacred one in the country. For visitors, it is possible to go at the peak via a developed road and a charged of a certain amount is required for the maintenance of the site. Several temples can be found at the hilltop; however, most are already in poor condition. Despite that, it still one of the visited sited in the country.

Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center

For nature lovers, this place is the best place to go to. Some activities in the tour at this center are feeding the elephants, entering the private dens of tigers, getting up close with gibbons and leopards, and interact with baby macaque monkeys. Cambodian style lunch can also be enjoyed in this place as well.

Bayon Temple, Siem Reap (Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary) 

HOW TO GET TO CAMBODIA

One of the best ways to enter Cambodia is through the Siem Reap Airport. Cebu Pacific is flying the Manila-Siem Reap route three-times-weekly and is offering one of the lowest fare rates. For your budget trip to Cambodia check the schedule and book your flights here, Cebu Pacific  Manila Siem Reap

Book a transfer from Siem Reap Airport to your hotel here, HOTEL TRANSFER FROM SIEM REAP AIRPORT

Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary 

Getting Around Cambodia

Getting to short destinations in Cambodia comes very easy with their famous Remorque (Tuktuk). It would be best to download Grab App to get this Remorque or car to bring you to your desired destination.

Crown Angkor Hotel, Siem Reap (Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary) 

 

LIST OF BUDGET HOTELS IN SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA

Listed below are some of the hotels in Siem Reap, Cambodia. You can book a room and get the best deal by clicking on the link/name of any of the hotels below.

Angkor Paradise Hotel
Street 6, Phum Sala Kanseng, Sangkat Svay Dangkum

Angkor Pearl Hotel
Taphul Village, Svay Dangkum

Bopha Pollen Hotel
# 202, Taphul Village, Svay Dangkum Commune

eOcambo Residence 
Street 22 (Tea Chamrat), Wat Bo Village

Grand Elysee La Residence 
Sombai Road, Sala Kamreuk

Glory Angkor Hotel Siem Reap
St 27, Wat Bo, Salakamreuk, (in Between Wat Bo Road and River Road),  Cambodia

Hotel Somadevi Angkor Boutique and Resort
City Center, Oknha Oum Chhay Street, Mondul II Village, Sangkat Svay Dangkum

Kingfisher Angkor Hotel
Bos Por Street, Vihear Chen Village, Svay Dangkum Commune

Okay 1 Villa
No. 0325, Taphul, Svaydangkum

Popular Boutique Hotel
Psa Krom Street #033, group 10, Viheachin Village

Prithy & Mutta House
Wat Bo Road Krong

Petit Villa Boutique & Spa
Bamboo Street, Wat Damnak, Salakaroeuk, Sala Kamreuk

Royal Crown Hotel & Spa
St.7 Makara, Old Market Area, Siem Reap Central Area,  Cambodia

Sok San Street Boutique
No. 169, Group 4, Sok San Road, Svay Dangkum, Siem Reap Old Market

Tanei Boutique Villa
#017, Steng Thmey, Svaydongkhum

The Cyclo Siem Reap Hotel
National Hyw 6, Banteay Chas Village, Songkat Slor Kram

Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary 

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Cambodia Travel Guide | Tours | Itinerary