Top Interesting and Exclusive Things to Do in Cambodia

Cambodia is a nation rich in natural beauty. There is never a boring moment when experiencing the wonders of this city, from stunning temples to fascinating streets.

The following is a list of the top exclusive things that should not be missed in Cambodia.

1. Travel to the capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh

1.1 Royal Palace

Built in 1860, Phnom Penh's main attraction is not just a gilded palace that dominates the city's skyline, but also a poignant reminder of Cambodia's bloody history. The beautiful structure is characterized by its crown of stupas and towering spires, the nearby Silver Pagoda, groomed tropical gardens, and the calm that pervades within its high-rise walls.

The Royal Palace is certainly one of the greatest Cambodian tourist attractions and one of the best things to do in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, with all of these and more. Besides, this beautiful piece of architecture, which was built over a century ago in the traditional Khmer style, is still home to the royal family today.

1.2 Cambodian Living Arts' theatre show

Cambodian Living Arts is the major organization entrusted with reviving ancient arts and directing them in a new, modern direction. They train musicians, dancers, singers, and other artists and provide them with the tools they need to make a living from their art.

The daily exhibitions at the capital's National Museum, which run from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., are one arm of their efforts. Through song, music, and theater, the Traditional Dance Show transports spectators from Angkor's palaces to modern-day villages.

1.3 Tuol Sleng

Though not exactly a cheery site, the War Museum in Tuol Sleng is an essential destination to see in Cambodia because of its gruesome past. The school-cum-execution site was used to imprison and severely punish detainees during the Khmer Rouge regime (between 1975 and 1979). Nowadays, the S-21 Detention Centre serves as a chilling reminder of the period's never-ending slaughter. Although visiting the museum is not one of the most popular things to do in Cambodia, it is necessary to pay respect to the courageous men and women who gave their lives here.

2. The historical city, Siem Reap

2.1 Angkor Wat

The world's most famous, ancient, and biggest temple is what draws the vast majority of visitors to Cambodia. As well as being historically significant, the temple is also one of Cambodia's most romantic destinations. This UNESCO World Heritage site's unmatched beauty and pure character are unlike anything else on the planet, which is why it is one of Cambodia's most well-known landmarks.

Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century as a devotion to Lord Vishnu, and has endured the test of time.

2.2 Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm, the only edifice in Angkor that has been preserved in its original state, is a remarkable illustration of nature's power and one of Cambodia's most popular tourist destinations. The massive roots encircling the shrine appear to be daring the world to try to change the construction! With its giant silk-cotton trees and strangler figs, this ‘Tomb Raider' famous sanctuary in Angkor is probably the most picturesque site in Cambodia, and therefore, among the finest tourist attractions in Cambodia.

3. Relaxing Mood – Beaching

3.1 Laid-back beaches

Cambodia offers some of Southeast Asia's most calm and laid-back beaches. The sandy, lovely beaches of Sihanoukville, Kep, Koh Rong, and Ream, which give tourists every bit of comfort and magnificent views, are among the many famous Cambodian tourist attractions. Travelers may relax in the sun on hammocks and recliners, have a massage, eat at beach shacks, go snorkeling in Cambodia, fishing, and boating, and do a lot more activities. In addition, the islands and beaches of Cambodia are ideal for those seeking a relaxing vacation. 

For all visitors, island hopping in Cambodia is regarded as one of the most exciting activities to do in Cambodia.

3.2 Diving

The beauty of Cambodia's beaches is found not just on the surface, but also under the surface in the wide, colorful world. The diving sites in Sihanoukville are blessed with crystal clear water, favorable water temperature, colorful corals, and a diverse range of marine life, including seahorses, whale sharks, stingrays, eels, triggerfish, barracuda, nudibranch, starfish, and many more. Besides, the water conditions that are suitable for diving, except for a little reduced visibility during the monsoon season, are also the reason why the country draws divers from all over the world every year. Therefore, scuba diving in Cambodia is also one of the most popular activities among adventurers throughout the world.

4. Head to Battambang

The small city of Battambang in northeastern Cambodia, although in a state of ruin, has an unexpected beauty that makes it a popular tourist destination. Discover fading colonial buildings, eccentric street-side cafés, and a laid-back atmosphere in this small town that is small enough to explore on foot. On the outskirts, scenic vistas and pretty temple ruins dot the hilltops.

5. Go into the wild

The Cambodian countryside is densely forested. Many wildlife reserves, spanning vast swaths of territory, are conserved and managed by the government and are available for safaris and adventure sports. Ream National Park, Phnom Aural National Park, Virachey National Park, and Phnom Kulen National Park are all must-see attractions.

6. Visit the local markets

Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, provides a delightful ambiance for visitors with an upbeat market scene, lip-smacking street food, groovy music, and a glittering nightlife. Enjoy sizzling hot dishes, surrounded by colorful scenery and a jubilant local crowd: there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

7. Try local food

Cambodians are passionate about their food and eat it often throughout the day. This means that tourists may enjoy a range of local specialties from street food sellers along the country's streets. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner times will see pavements filled with plastic tables and chairs, as locals gather to feast on rice dishes, num banh chok, or Khmer noodles and curries. If you fancy sampling street food, then a good tip is to buy it from a vendor that has crowds of Cambodians feasting on it.

Source: Travel Triangle, Onthegotours, Theculturetrip