8 Best Things to Do in Cambodia

Here are 8 best things to do in Cambodia curated by The Story Mojo

Cambodia, a country steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, is one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating destinations. Best known for the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat, Cambodia offers much more beyond its ancient ruins—from pristine beaches and lush jungles to vibrant cities and rich cultural experiences.

Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, a food lover, or a beach enthusiast, Cambodia has something for everyone. In this comprehensive 3,000-word guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Cambodia, ensuring you make the most of your journey through this captivating country.

1. Explore the Temples of Angkor

No trip to Cambodia is complete without visiting the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological wonders in the world.

Angkor Wat

• The largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture.
• Best visited at sunrise for breathtaking views and fewer crowds.
• Explore the intricate carvings depicting Hindu epics like the Churning of the Ocean of Milk.

Bayon Temple

• Famous for its 216 giant stone faces smiling mysteriously.
• Located in Angkor Thom, the last great capital of the Khmer Empire.

Ta Prohm (The “Tomb Raider” Temple)

• Known for massive tree roots engulfing the ruins, creating a surreal atmosphere.
• Featured in the movie Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.

Banteay Srei

• The “Citadel of Women,” known for its exquisite pink sandstone carvings.
• Located further away from the main Angkor complex but worth the trip.

Pro Tip: Purchase a 1-day ($37),3-day($62), or 7-day ($72) pass to explore the temples at your own pace.

2. Discover Phnom Penh – Cambodia’s Vibrant Capital

Phnom Penh, the bustling capital of Cambodia, offers a mix of history, culture, and modernity.

Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda

• Home to the King of Cambodia, the palace features stunning Khmer architecture.
• The Silver Pagoda houses a solid gold Buddha adorned with 9,584 diamonds.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison)

• A former school turned into a Khmer Rouge torture prison.
• A sobering but important visit to understand Cambodia’s tragic past.

Choeung Ek Killing Fields

• A memorial site where thousands were executed during the Khmer Rouge regime.
• Audio guides provide haunting yet educational insights.

Phnom Penh Nightlife & Riverside

• Sisowath Quay is perfect for an evening stroll with bars, restaurants, and live music.
• Night markets like Phsar Reatrey offer local food, crafts, and souvenirs
•  Relax on Cambodia’s Stunning Beaches

While Cambodia isn’t as famous for beaches as Thailand or Vietnam, it has some hidden coastal gems.

Sihanoukville (Kampong Som)

• Once a sleepy fishing town, now a growing beach destination.
• Otres Beach is quieter and more scenic than the main Serendipity Beach.

Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem

• Koh Rong – Known for its bioluminescent plankton and lively beach parties.
• Koh Rong Samloem – A more peaceful island with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters.

Kep & Kampot

• Kep – Famous for crab markets and relaxed seaside vibes.
• Kampot – A charming riverside town with French colonial architecture and pepper plantations.

4. Experience Cambodian Culture & Traditions

 

Apsara Dance Performances

• Traditional Khmer dance with elegant movements and ornate costumes.
• Best seen in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh at cultural dinner shows.

Visit Floating Villages

• Tonlé Sap Lake – The largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.
• Kampong Phluk & Chong Kneas – Stilted villages where life revolves around water.

Learn Cambodian Cooking

• Take a cooking class in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh to master dishes like:
  • Amok (coconut fish curry)
  • Lok Lak (peppery beef stir-fry)
  • Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles)

5. Adventure & Outdoor Activities

 

Jungle Trekking in Cardamom Mountains

• One of Southeast Asia’s last great rainforests.
• Spot wildlife like elephants, gibbons, and sun bears.

Zip-lining & Waterfalls in Mondulkiri

• Bou Sra Waterfall – A stunning two-tiered waterfall.
• Elephant Valley Project – Ethical elephant encounters.

Cycling the Ancient Angkor Roads

• Rent a bike and explore lesser-known temples like Beng Mealea and Banteay Chhmar.

6. Taste Cambodian Street Food & Markets

Cambodian cuisine is flavorful, aromatic, and often underrated. Must-try dishes include:

Street Food Delights

• Khmer BBQ – Grilled meats with dipping sauces.
• Banh Chao (Cambodian pancake) – Crispy and stuffed with pork or shrimp.
• Fried Insects – Adventurous eaters can try crickets, tarantulas, and silkworms at markets.

Best Markets for Foodies

• Phnom Penh’s Central Market (Phsar Thmei) – A mix of food, clothes, and jewelry.
• Siem Reap’s Night Market – Great for souvenirs and cheap eats.

7. Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Battambang – Cambodia’s Cultural Gem

• Ride the Bamboo Train (Norry) – A unique local experience.
• Visit Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus – A mix of acrobatics and storytelling.

Kratie & the Rare Irrawaddy Dolphins

• Spot endangered freshwater dolphins in the Mekong River.
• A peaceful riverside town with French colonial buildings.

Preah Vihear Temple

• A stunning mountain-top temple near the Thai border.
• Offers panoramic views of Cambodia’s plains.

8. Responsible & Sustainable Tourism

Cambodia is still recovering from its tragic past, so supporting ethical tourism is crucial.

How to Travel Responsibly

• Avoid orphanage tourism – Many exploit children for profit.
• Support local businesses – Eat at family-run restaurants, buy handmade crafts.
• Choose eco-friendly tours – Like community-based homestays in rural villages.

 

Video Credit: Creative Travel Guide

 

Where to stay—with hotel price ranges for every budget.

1. Siem Reap – Gateway to Angkor Wat

Top Things to Do:

✔ Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour (3-day pass: 18-$48) – A mix of acrobatics & Khmer storytelling
✔ Pub Street – Lively nightlife & cheap drinks

Best Hotels in Siem Reap

Hotel	Price (per night)	Why Stay Here?
Lub d Cambodia (Hostel)	$8-$15	Social vibe, pool, near Pub Street
Golden Temple Hotel (Mid-range)	$30-$50	Khmer-style, free spa, great breakfast
Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra (Luxury)	$150-$300	5-star resort with colonial charm
Amansara (Ultra-Luxury)	$1,000+	Former royal guesthouse, private tours

2. Phnom Penh – Cambodia’s Bustling Capital

Top Things to Do:

✔ Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda ($10entry)✔\ast \ast TuolSlengGenocideMuseum\ast \ast ($5)
✔ Killing Fields of Choeung Ek ($6)
✔ Riverside Promenade – Sunset drinks & night markets

Best Hotels in Phnom Penh

Hotel	Price (per night)	Why Stay Here?
Mad Monkey Hostel	$5-$12	Party hostel with rooftop bar
Blue Lime Hotel (Boutique)	$40-$70	Pool, tropical garden, central location
Raffles Hotel Le Royal (Luxury)	$200-$400	Historic 5-star, colonial elegance
Rosewood Phnom Penh	$350-$600	Sky bar, infinity pool, best city views

3. Sihanoukville & The Islands – Beach Paradise

Top Things to Do:

✔ Relax on Otres Beach (less crowded than Serendipity)
✔ Island-hop to Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem
✔ Snorkel at Long Set Beach
✔ Try fresh seafood at Crab Market (Kep)

Best Beach Hotels

Hotel	Price (per night)	Why Stay Here?
Otres Beach Bungalows	$15-$40	Beachfront, laid-back vibe
The Royal Sands Koh Rong	$80-$150	Private beach, luxury tents
Song Saa Private Island	$1,000+	Overwater villas, ultra-exclusive

4. Battambang – Cambodia’s Cultural Hub

Top Things to Do:

✔ Ride the Bamboo Train ($5)✔\ast \ast PharePonleuSelpakCircus\ast \ast ($14)
✔ Explore French Colonial Architecture

Best Hotels in Battambang

Hotel	Price (per night)	Why Stay Here?
Here Be Dragons (Hostel)	$6-$10	Rooftop bar, social atmosphere
Battambang Resort	$25-$50	Pool, riverside location

5. Kampot & Kep – Riverside & Coastal Charm

Top Things to Do:

✔ Bokor Mountain National Park (abandoned casino)
✔ Kampot Pepper Plantations Tour
✔ Kep Crab Market (famous for pepper crab)

Best Hotels in Kampot & Kep

Hotel	Price (per night)	Why Stay Here?
Mad Monkey Kampot	$8-$15	Party hostel, riverside
Rikitikitavi (Boutique)	$50-$90	Riverside views, great food
Knai Bang Chatt (Luxury)	$200-$400	Private beach, infinity pool

6. Mondulkiri – Jungle & Waterfalls

Top Things to Do:

✔ Elephant Valley Project ($50) – Ethical elephant encounters
✔ Bou Sra Waterfall – Stunning two-tiered falls

Best Hotels in Mondulkiri

Hotel	Price (per night)	Why Stay Here?
Nature Lodge	$15-$30	Eco-friendly, jungle setting

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Budget Breakdown for Cambodia Travel

Expense	Budget (Backpacker)	Mid-Range	Luxury
Hostel/Hotel	$5-$15	$30-$80	$150+
Food (per day)	$5-$10	$15-$30	$50+
Transport (bus/tuk-tuk)	$1-$10	$10-$30	Private car ($50+)
Tours & Activities	$10-$30	$30-$100	$100+

Final Travel Tips for Cambodia

• Best Time to Visit: November–February (cool & dry season).
• Currency: US Dollars are widely accepted, but carry small Riel for local transactions.
• Transportation: Tuk-tuks are cheap; buses connect major cities.
• Visa: Available on arrival (30-day tourist visa for ~$30).

Cambodia is a land of contrasts—where ancient temples stand alongside bustling cities, and serene beaches meet dense jungles. Whether you’re exploring the ruins of Angkor, relaxing on a tropical island, or diving into Khmer culture, Cambodia promises an unforgettable adventure.

With this guide, you’re ready to experience the best of Cambodia. So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and discover the magic of the Kingdom of Wonder!