FDo you wonder what it’s like to be one of the first to explore the faces of Angkor Wat and hear the sound of the jungle waking for the first time? Or to relax on a pristine white sand beach and hear the soft lapping of the waves on the Gulf of Thailand? Living up to the expectations is a true rare destination and Andari Journeys hopes to help you experience Cambodia, one of those rare places, like a local. There is a ton to do in the ‘Kingdom of Wonder’ whether you enjoy history, food, or island hopping.
Finding the Sweet Spot: Best Time to Visit Cambodia
Before you continue to find flights and accommodations, let’s chat about timing. Generally, the best time to travel through Cambodia is November to February, which is Cambodia’s cool, dry season. This is the time when the weather is ideal for long walks through the Angkor temple complexes, as during the day, the temperatures will be between 21°C – 30°C.
To avoid the peak season crowds, you can travel Cambodia again during the “green season or rains season” (June to August), which can be a good time to be in Cambodia. Yes, it rains, but nothing a travel umbrella cannot solve. In fact, the walks will be more pleasant, and in the afternoons, you’ll have the to yourself. After a rain, the landscapes will be in full bloom and beautiful to see. From the perspective of a budget traveler, prices drop during this time and you can do more for your budget.
Cambodia’s Most Important Landmarks
While in Cambodia, You have to visit Angkor Wat. There really is something quite special about experiencing Angkor Wat sunrise from the five towers as Angkor Wat is the world’s largest religious structure. To say Angkor Wat represents the essence and the spirit of the entire nation would not be a far-fetched statement. The amazing temples of Angkor are located on what is known as an archaeological park, and Ta Prohm (or Tomb Raider temple) is a must-see! One can literally walk underneath the roots that grow over these ancient monuments made from stone!
When visiting Cambodia you cannot miss Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. The capital of Cambodia is truly a city of extremes, from the breathtaking Royal Palace to the horrific Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is located only a few blocks away from the Royal Palace and serves as a poignant reminder of the more increased suffering that their people endured.
If you are looking for some sunshine while you are in Cambodia, make sure to head south to enjoy some of the beautiful islands. Koh Rong offers plenty of nightlife, but Koh Rong Samloem is a much more laid-back option for those who want to relax, or for those who want to escape from the world completely, try Koh Ta Kiev Island, a completely eco-friendly, and internet-free island to unplug from the real world for a little while!
Activities to Enjoy in Cambodia
So, what fun activities can one do in Cambodia? Here are some suggestions.
- Learn the Sampeah: One of the most rewarding experiences in Cambodia is meeting some locals. A simple sampeah gesture, which is moving your hands to a praying position and bowing a little, shows a lot of respect to the person and will guarantee you some smiles.
- Eat Street Food: One of the best culinary experiences you can get is trying the Amok. It is a super delicious steamed fish curry and it a staple of the Cambodian diet. For the more adventurous, you can get some deep-fried spiders and crickets in the local markets, they are more crunchy than you think.
- Witness the Morning Alms: If you are an early person, one of the most rewarding experiences you can do is to watch the Tak Bat. It is a silent celebration that takes place in the early morning and one must ensure they are appropriately dressed to participate.
- Off the Beaten Path: For a more fun and exceptional activity, Andari Journeys suggests the Kampong Cham arm Bamboo Bridge and the Mondulkiri region’s magnificent Bousra Waterfall
A Note on Etiquette and Respect
Cambodia is known for it’s deeps roots in Buddhism and that is why etiquette is is very important to consider during your visit. When visiting any temples, you must take off your shoes and any hats that you may be wearing. Additionally, you should not touch anyone’s head. This includes children. This is seen as the most sacred part of the body. If you are fortunate enough to be in the presence of monks, please remember that women should never touch a monk or hand any items directly to a monk. These small gestures of consideration can alter a regular holiday into a very meaningful one.
Make the Most Out of Travelling to Cambodia with Andari Journeys
There’s no better way to experience the wonderful country of Cambodia than by travelling via land or water. Travelling by train from Phnom Penh to the beach is a great place to start; from getting to the coast to where you will be looking at ancient temples from a tuk-tuk (locally known as a remork), every moment is enjoyable. The country is easy on your wallet. You will be inspired by the human spirit that surrounds you while travelling through Cambodia.
Andari Journeys believes that when you travel, you are building memories with those you meet and connecting with the local culture. When you travel to Cambodia, you will bring back more than just pictures; you will return with your many memories, laughter, and stories to tell your friends and family of your trip to an ancient pagoda or enjoying a tuk-tuk ride through the streets.
Are you ready to make lifelong memories? Plan your trip to Cambodia today! Andari Journeys is here to help plan your next journey.
