The Ultimate Travel Guide to Cambodia

Angkor Wat, Cambodia
We merely imagined gigantic stone temples and floating villages before we took a quick trip to Cambodia. There is certainly more than that and our article below says all about our venture glimpsing into ancient history and life in this gorgeous nation.
The Kingdom of Cambodia is a Southeast Asian nation encircled by Vietnam, Laos, Thailand and a prolong coast called Gulf of Thailand. The land comprises largely of alluvial plains, low uplands and the mighty Mekong delta streams flowing from Tibetan plateau till South China Sea.

Cambodia
The borders of this country link to significant trade routes amid China, India and Southeast Asia. Cambodia embraces a rich and powerful history of once mighty Funan, Chenla and Khmer empires comprehending Hinduism and Buddhism in their precincts, architectures of which are stimulating tourism now.
It is intriguing to find out that there are still many outsized uninhabited regions in Cambodia, especially around Mount Aoral, the highest peak here. The two dominant hydro sources are Mekong Delta and Tonle Sap. The curved streams of delta crafting paths amongst forests were quite a sight from our flight window.
When to visit?

Pleasant weather in June
It is usually warm in Cambodia year around. Most tourists visit between November to March when it is cooler due to northeast monsoon. However, we really enjoy lower crowds and hence we preferred visiting during low season (May to October) in June.
It is the beginning of rainy season, we got short afternoon showers every day followed by cool misty evenings and we loved it. The skies were gloomy all day which really helped us while touring temples and we never had to be bothered by sun, see picture above. If you plan to visit after June, expect heavy rains in August and September.
Things to do
Ten best temples to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Ten best temples to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/IMG_3560-Thumb-4.jpg 369 387 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gOut of many gorgeous ancient temples in Siem Reap, it is confusing to find the most unique ones to visit. Here is a list of ten best temples to include in your itinerary.
read moreSiem Reap Beyond Temples
Siem Reap Beyond Temples https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/IMG_1896-Thumb-1.jpg 369 286 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gWhat to do next after abounding temple experience in Siem Reap? Here is a handful of places to explore beyond temples to make most of your Cambodian trip.
read moreHow to choose temples to visit in Cambodia
How to choose temples to visit in Cambodia https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/IMG_3041-Thumb-1.jpg 369 246 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gSiem Reap is bursting with ancient temple ruins which makes it hard to choose the best ones to visit, especially when you have limited time. Here’s a list of aspects to consider before picking.
read moreWhere to get a good night sleep?
It is best to stay closer to Angkor area if you plan to catch sunrise. The city center is close by however, to avoid the noise, stay a little aloof from city center. There are countless hotels and resorts that provide good services including transport to temples and guide/driver with minimal charges. We stayed at La Residence Blanc D Angkor, it was conveniently close to airport, restaurants, city as well as temples.
Their staff is friendly and humble; food is good too, we tried Khmer traditional ‘Amok’ which was delicious. There are surplus hotels, resorts and holiday home option available, we found this option via Airbnb, they provided us free airport transfers via tuk-tuk.

Local musicians, Cambodia
Visa, Transportation and Currency
The Cambodian Tourist Visa can be procured either by Visa on arrival or e-visa. The current visa fee is USD 35 per individual. We received our e-visa approval within an hour after applying online, isn’t that impressive?
They accept USD everywhere in Cambodia, it is like second currency here, we didn’t even bother carrying bunches of local Riel. Cash and credit cards (only Visa and MasterCard) are accepted, we could not use Amex in Cambodia.
There are all means of transport operating in Cambodia, however, the most popular means here is “tuk-tuk’, a motor bike with rickshaw attached to it. We paid approx. $1-$3 for nearby 4-5 km. There are various buses for major provinces like Phnom Penh, Koh Kong, Kep and Sihanoukville, etc. besides limited options when it comes to express van services. The difference in prices are slight too.
Many hotels help arrange for transport on request, sometimes charging for it.
Hope this article was helpful, read more about the ten best temples to choose from many in our next article below.

Carvings at Bayon
Packing Essentials
Cambodia is usually warm throughout the year, it is cooler during June-September when the rainy season hits. We usually check weather to pack the right stuff, few important things include:
- There are attire guidelines for visiting temples so pack light cotton clothes for the purpose that cover your shoulders and knees.
- Keep basic medication and mosquito repellent with you, there are several cases of tourists getting travellers diarrhoea, dehydration and fever.
- Pack your best walking footwear and extra pair of general footwear as the temple premises are huge.
- Ensure your camera lenses are inside proper cases as lenses may get condensation due to quick changes in temperatures.
- Use a hat even you applied sun protection, you will need it especially if you are visiting temples during afternoons.
- There may be afternoon showers during early June, stay handy with your personal umbrella, waterproof jackets or even an extra pair of clothes.
Explore More
An Epic Coron Island Houseboat Stay
An Epic Coron Island Houseboat Stay https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/DJI_0038-Edit-Paolyn-HB-SKMK-1-1024x576.jpg 1024 576 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gA unique stay in Coron island, Philippines, Amazing places to see, recommended Coron tours and things not to miss.
read moreDay trip from Taipei: Yangmingshan and North Coast
Day trip from Taipei: Yangmingshan and North Coast https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/IMG_5109-Yangmingshan-NP-thumb-1.jpg 369 246 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gA day drive itinerary to explore some marvellous features of Yangmingshan National Park along with some iconic coastal landscapes in the northern tip of Taiwan.
read moreAll you need to know about Hobart, Tasmania
All you need to know about Hobart, Tasmania https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/IMG_2336-thumb-1.jpg 369 246 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gTourism has been boosted over the decades in Hobart. The city is now renowned for its captivating history, striking streams, gravelly mountains, bold art, dynamic cuisines and affluence of natural marvels.
read moreThings not to miss at Sentosa
Things not to miss at Sentosa https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/IMG_4023-thumb-1.jpg 369 246 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gMarvellous highlights of Sentosa that you can’t miss, an island resort off Singapore’s southern coast. Explore exciting events, Themed attractions, lush rainforest settings, soft sandy beaches and fun activities for everyone.
read moreAmazing Lookouts between Taipei and Sun Moon Lake
Amazing Lookouts between Taipei and Sun Moon Lake https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/IMG_5345-lavender-thumb-1.jpg 369 245 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gThe Sun Moon Lake in the heart of Taiwan is only a short drive, but why miss some stunning spots on the way. A lot of tourists visiting Taiwan rush towards Sun Moon Lake directly from Taipei leaving out these marvellous jewels on the western slice of Taiwan.
read moreNew Zealand: Full Travel Guide|Itinerary|Tips
New Zealand: Full Travel Guide|Itinerary|Tips https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/IMG_8707-tasman-1-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gFull guide, basic information about New Zealand travel in low season. 17D planner for both islands. Unique things to see and do. Weather, Transport, Parking, Cost, food & Stay, Mindful Shopping.
read moreKenting To Taitung: Day Tripping on the Black Coast
Kenting To Taitung: Day Tripping on the Black Coast https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/IMG_6116-Day-6-thumb-1.jpg 369 227 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gOur jaunt towards eastern coast of Taiwan featuring the veiled charms, Taitung, Hualien and Yilan for its countryside. The scenery along way changes dramatically compared to the west here and you will find tempted to stopover at many places in between just to admire mother nature.
read moreDay 8: The Soothing Highlights of Wanaka
Day 8: The Soothing Highlights of Wanaka https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_6321-Wanaka-Tranquility-1-1024x683.jpg 1024 683 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gPlaces to see in Wanaka. Its exquisite lakesides to mystic nature walks and snowy ski-fields, the city and its mouth watering cuisine makes Wanaka a winter paradise.
read moreA Luxurious stay in Pulau Bintan, Indonesia
A Luxurious stay in Pulau Bintan, Indonesia https://planetunfold.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/FullSizeRender-2-thumb-2.jpg 369 246 Sheetal Khatri https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a8c4e10205dce919119e3338d8d5269d?s=96&d=blank&r=gSecret getaway just a boat ride away from Singapore. Spend a dreamy, luxurious stay in Pulau Bintan. Ideal for couples and honeymooners.
read more

Leave a Reply