Cambodia is no longer the war-ravaged country that it used to be. It has made a remarkable recovery from being perpetually in the middle of war to a vibrant country, peopled by warm citizens. It took only some 20 years for the nation to make good progress economically. Tourism brings in a lot of foreign exchange into the country, much like what’s happening in Thailand; all that with luxurious koh samui villas for rent and the beautiful locales. The country is home to some remarkably memorable tourist places and you can see tourists from around the world traversing the land, marveling at the prehistoric temples, modern structures and natural bounties like beaches.
Angkor Vat
If mention of the name Cambodia brings to mind the Angkor Vat immediately, it is as it should be. Angkor Vat is the largest temple in the world and a most beautiful one too. Built in Cambodian Khmer style, it has a pride of its place in the national flag too. Easily the most visited place in Cambodia, its intricate designs and elaborate layouts are a pleasure to witness.
Silver Pagoda
photo: anonymousforeigner
The gold and jeweled Buddha statues are the star attraction here in the Silver Pagoda found within Royal Palace in the capital. The gold Maitreya Buddha, the Emerald Buddha of Cambodia, the murals that detail the Ramayana myth are all something you would remember for the rest of your life.
Dolphins in Kratie
photo: cambodiaevisa
The province of Kratie is a fun destination with water activities as the main attraction. You can enjoy watching Irrawaddy freshwater dolphins at the Mekong River which flows North of Kratie. If you make it a point to stay the night, you can see the 100 column Pagoda in full glory in the moonlight.
Sihanoukville
photo: aboveusonlysky
Sihanoukville is situated 115 miles from Phnom Penh, the capital of the country. This is an ideal place for snorkeling, mountain and dirt biking and scuba diving. If you are keen on engaging in these fun activities but do not know how, you can find enterprising young men willing to teach you for a small fee. If you are an animal enthusiast, you can see some exotic animals and 150 species of birds in the famous Ream National Park.
Elephant Ride
You can go elephant-riding in Mondulkiri like most other tourists do. You can explore the Ratankiri’s dense jungles on elephant back. And, while you are at it, you can enjoy the beauty of Monorom Falls and Bou Sraa falls.
Lake Tonlé Sap
The seasonally expanding and shrinking freshwater lake Tonlé Sap drains into the Mekong River, November to May. You can see the confluence of Vietnamese and Cham communities in a positive way.
Abandoned Town
Do you like to get thrilled by a spooky feeling? The abandoned Bokor hill station has buildings that possess an eerie atmosphere that you will cherish. But, you might find the roads closed and so be ready to hike.
Shopping
You no doubt would want to take away some souvenirs while going away from Cambodia . Traditional handicraft offers you some incredibly intricate artwork pieces while the most prominent Cambodian textile industry can give you some luxurious fabrics and clothing. Not to be missed is the cotton scarf of checks called Krama. Handmade baskets, plates and bowls can all have a pride of place in your living room.
