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Cambodia, the "Kingdom of Wonder," is an ancient land full of history, culture, and natural beauty that offers tourists the chance to unearth stunning temples, peaceful landscapes, and vibrant cities. For adventurers who wish to uncover the diversity of this gem of Southeast Asia, a 15-day journey provides the best combination of known landmarks and remote explorations.
Travel in Cambodia (Source: TheNewYorkTimes)
Your 15-day Cambodian adventure begins in Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia. As you arrive in Phnom Penh, Cambodia's bustling capital city, you will be intrigued by the city's strange blend of old Khmer customs and French colonial influence. After checking into your hotel, freshening up, and beginning your adventure, you'll visit the Royal Palace, located near the Tonle Sap River.
This old palace complex is the home of the Cambodian King and a symbol of the country's glory. Strolling through the lovely well groomed gardens, you'll find yourself in front of magnificent Khmer architecture like the Silver Pagoda. The pagoda gets its name from its floor, which is made up of 5,000 silver tiles, each weighing about 1 kilogram.
Royal Palace in Cambodia (Source: GadtTravel)
On your second day, continue further into Cambodian modern history with a visit to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21), a sobering experience. What was once a high school was used as a detention and torture center under the Khmer Rouge regime that ran from 1975 through 1979.
Walking through the rooms, you can see photographs of the former prisoners, remnants of prison cells, and exhibits that document the atrocities that took place here. The museum is a haunting reminder of the cruelty Cambodia saw during this period.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (Source: CruiseCritic)
On your third day, take a day trip to Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a vital part of Cambodia's ecosystem and home to diverse wildlife and floating villages. Take a boat tour to Kampong Phluk or Chong Khneas, two of the most popular floating villages in the area. These villages are built on stilts high above the water, and the people earn their living from fishing and tourism.
Tonle Sap Lake - UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (Source: AsianTrails)
Next journey north to Siem Reap, home of the world famous Angkor Archaeological Park. The UNESCO World Heritage listed site is one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia, and a visit here is the starting point for any trip to Cambodia.
Start early with a sunrise trip over the legendary Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. This stunning temple complex, with its incredible carvings and symmetrical layout, is a marvel to behold for any traveler. Don't miss the enigmatic Bayon Temple, its thousands of smiling stone faces, or Ta Prohm, famous as the "Tomb Raider" temple, where ancient trees entwine their branches around temple ruins.
Famous Angkor Archaeological Park (Source: AmanResorts)
The next day, go to Pub Street, Siem Reap nightlife hub. The bustling street is lined with crowded bars, restaurants, and street food stalls. From a drink at a rooftop bar to dining on exotic street food like fried tarantulas, or just taking in the energetic atmosphere, Pub Street has something for everyone.
Next, treat yourself to a traditional Apsara dance show during dinner at a cultural restaurant. The Apsara dance, which has strong Cambodian origins, features graceful hand gestures, high-class costumes, and mesmerizing music. This enchanting performance brings to life the Khmer mythology of yesteryears and is one not to be missed in Siem Reap.
Pub Street in Siem Reap (Source: Travelenz)
On your final day in Siem Reap, go to Banteay Srei, or the "Jewel of Khmer Art." The small but exquisitely restored temple is famous for its intricately carved pink sandstone carvings of Hindu deities and mythological figures. Complete your Siem Reap experience with a sunset at Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple with panoramic views of Angkor Wat and the jungle below. Arrive early, as this spot is famous for its sunset buffs.
Banteay Srei in Siem Reap (Source: knowstoneunturned)
After spending a few days exploring Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, make your way to Battambang, a charming city known for its French colonial architecture and serene countryside. Battambang is reached via a scenic route of rural scenery, rice paddies, villages, and rural Cambodian life, giving an insight into the peaceful Cambodian hinterland.
Afterward, explore the Phnom Sampeau hill, an important historical site located just outside of Battambang. At the top of this hill, you’ll find the Killing Caves, which were used as execution sites by the Khmer Rouge. The caves have now been transformed into a memorial, and you’ll be able to see the remnants of the skulls and bones of the victims. Although this is a depressing tour, it helps to provide information about Cambodia's sad history.
Historical Killing Caves (Source: TimbuktuTravel)
On day two in Battambang, walk through the city proper on a walking tour. Battambang is filled with stately French colonial buildings, giving the city an air of distinction that seems separate from the rest of Cambodia's large cities. You will visit the Old Colonial Buildings surrounding the town, most of which are still intact despite years of mistreatment. These buildings imbue the town with character and a view of its history in the time of the French protectorate.
Old Colonial Buildings in Battambang (Source: benjaminfriedrich)
Spend your final morning relaxing with some last-minute browsing at the Made in Cambodia Market or the Old Market (Psar Chas), where you can grab special handicrafts, silk scarves, and souvenirs made locally. If you have time, visit the Wat Bo Pagoda, one of Siem Reap's oldest temples that is renowned for its beautiful Buddhist murals and peaceful atmosphere.
Made in Cambodia Market (Source: Herost)
Begin the journey south to Kampot, a charming riverside town that is famous for its laid back feel, colonial era architecture, and delicious pepper. On the way, stop at the Phnom Chhnork Caves, where ancient brick temples have been carved into the hillsides.
Phnom Chhnork Caves Temple (Source: Tripadvisor)
After that travel to Kep, a former French colonial resort town, which is known for its beaches and seafood. In Kep, take a boat out to Rabbit Island for a day of swimming and sunbathing on the island's unspoiled beach. The laid back nature of this region offers a welcome break from some of the more hectic cities.
Koh Tonsay - Rabbit Island (Source: bordersofadventure)
Before departing, go on a tour of a Kampot pepper farm and find out why the region's pepper is among the world's finest. Take a walk among the green fields and see how pepper is planted, harvested, and processed. Along the way, stop by the Secret Lake, a picturesque reservoir in the heart of lush nature, a good spot to immerse yourself in the loveliness of the countryside before moving onward.
Kampot pepper farm (Source: botree)
For the perfect beach vacation, drive south to Sihanoukville, Cambodia's premier seashore resort. With its golden beaches and blue sea, Sihanoukville provides great opportunities for water sports, relaxation, and island hopping. Spend a day or two lazing about on the beaches or take a boat trip to visit the surrounding islands, Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, renowned for their untouched beaches and vibrant sea life.
If you wish to get integrated into the local culture, visit the Koh Kong region, where you can experience the grandeur of Cardamom Mountains and wildlife. Taking a mangrove boat tour will introduce you to a totally different side of Cambodia's nature.
Koh Kong in Cambodia (Source: bordersofadventure)
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A 15-day Cambodia tour is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the diverse and captivating offerings of this remarkable country. From the majestic temples of Angkor to the peaceful beaches of Sihanoukville, Cambodia offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, cruising along the Mekong, or relaxing on remote islands, a 15-day itinerary ensures you’ll experience the best of Cambodia's culture, history, and natural beauty. Prepare for a once in a lifetime experience with Asia King Travel today!
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