Cambodia received nearly 2 million foreign tourists in first five months of 2024

Cambodia is a popular destination for tourists who want to explore historical beauty, experience local life and enjoy a variety of activities. The Cambodian government is increasingly investing in infrastructure and focusing on tourism development. As a result, Cambodia's tourism industry has become more promising in the first five months of the year.

Overview of Tourism in Cambodia

The Kingdom of Cambodia is home to many popular tourist attractions, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Sambor Prei Kuk, Angkor Wat and Preah Vihear. 

In addition, Cambodia is a great destination for visitors of all ages thanks to its friendly people and rich cultural heritage.

The Cambodian government is currently focusing on tourism, developing infrastructure and introducing new regulations for tourists.

The Kingdom of Cambodia is home to many popular tourist attractions (Cre: The New York Times)

Cambodia tourism situation in the first five months of 2024

According to the Ministry of Tourism, compared to the same period in 2023, Cambodia tourism increased by 22.1% from January to early May 2024.

During this time, 42,017 foreign tourists arrived by water, 1,612,547 by land, and 986,435 by air.

The most popular tourist destinations were Phnom Penh, with approximately 1,090,434 visitors, followed by Siem Reap, with approximately 471,258 visitors.

In addition, coastal areas attracted approximately 241,273 visitors, ecotourism sites attracted approximately 18,798 visitors, and other sites attracted approximately 84,053 visitors.

Thailand, Vietnam, China, Laos, the United States, South Korea, Indonesia, France, the United Kingdom, and Japan were the ten countries with the highest number of visitors to Cambodia.

Cambodia tourism increased by 22.1% from January to early May 2024 (Cre: IPS Cambodia)

Read more: Cambodia tours 5 days

Popular tourist destinations in Cambodia

Siem Reap

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is a must-see destination when traveling to Cambodia because of its symbolic significance and the many historical stories associated with it. 

With its unique architecture and rich history, Angkor has attracted tourists to Cambodia. UNESCO has recognized this magnificent palace complex as one of the seven wonders of the world.

According to a report from the Angkor Complex Management Board, in the first half of 2024, 521,950 foreign tourists purchased tickets to visit the Angkor Complex.

In addition to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap also has other attractions such as Phnom Kulen National Park, Floating Village on Tonle Sap Lake, Pub Street and Night Market.

Angkor has attracted tourists to Cambodia (Cre: Roma Lim)

Phnom Penh 

The largest and most populous city in the Kingdom of Cambodia is Phnom Penh, which is also the capital of the country. Not only is it the most popular tourist destination in Cambodia, it also serves as the country's political, economic and cultural center.

The National Museum of Cambodia, Silver Pagoda, Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and many more are popular tourist destinations in Phnom Penh.

Royal Palace is popular tourist destinations in Phnom Penh (Cre: Cambodia)

Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is a city in southern Cambodia. It features the deepest waters in the country, a 20 kilometers coastline, and many beautiful beaches. Sihanoukville is considered the most beautiful coastal city in Cambodia. 

Each year, it attracts millions of domestic and international tourists. Here, you can not only explore nature but also participate in fun and entertaining activities. 

Sihanoukville is a city in southern Cambodia (Cre: Cambodia)

Kep 

Explore Kep, a coastal city located in the south of Cambodia. The most impressive point is Kep beach with peaceful scenery; one side is the sea, the other side is green mountains. You can swim and participate in many different recreational activities. In this province, you can admire some colonial buildings remaining from the French period.

This is an ideal destination that attracts many tourists to Cambodia every holiday.

Explore Kep, a coastal city located in the south of Cambodia (Cre: Guide trip)

Types of tourism in Cambodia

Historical and Cultural Tourism

Cambodia always contains many historical stories and unique cultural features from traditions and people. Many famous historical relics are associated with the development of Cambodia such as Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. In addition, traditional dances are always recreated in performances or major events. 

When coming to Cambodia, tourists are often very interested in learning about culture and history. This is the most preferred type of tourism because it helps them gain a deeper understanding of the development and cultural heritage of this country. 

Cambodia always contains many historical stories and unique cultural features (Cre: ATJ)

Ecotourism

Eco-tourism is also a popular type of tourism in Cambodia. Many tourists choose destinations like the Cardamom Mountains or Tonle Sap Lake. Eco-tourism allows visitors to enjoy relaxing experiences in Cambodia’s nature, connect with local life, and explore the rich biodiversity.

Eco-tourism is also a popular type of tourism in Cambodia (Cre: Asia Trails)

Beach Tourism

Luxury tourism developments on islands such as Song Saa Private Island and Koh Rong Island are adding to the appeal of Cambodia’s coastline. These spots offer clear, pristine beaches and provide relaxing environments along with fun recreational activities for visitors.

Luxury tourism developments on islands (Cre: Song Saa Private Island)

Wellness Tourism

For those who want to rejuvenate and relax, Cambodia is a great destination with health care retreats, meditation, and yoga. Additionally, traditional Khmer massage is very famous, and you should try it at least once when you visit Cambodia.

Cambodia is a great destination with health care retreats (Cre: Song Saa Private Island)

The weather in Cambodia

Cambodia is one of the three Southeast Asian countries that many tourists choose as an attractive destination due to its low cost and ease of access.

The climate is tropical monsoon with two distinct seasons: wet and dry. The average temperature is around 26.7°C, but during the wet season, temperatures can soar to 35°C. To make the most of your trip, choose the right time to visit.

For a beach holiday, the best weather is from mid-to-late November to May. This is when places like Koh Rong Samloem, Koh Rong, Sihanoukville and Kampot are at their best.

The rest of the year is rainy, making it ideal for exploring the quiet and fascinating temples of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. Late summer is also a great time to see the natural beauty of Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. 

The best time to visit Cambodia (Cre: CuddlyNest)

Some tips when traveling Cambodia

Traveling to Cambodia, or anywhere else, comes with certain "rules" that you should respect when visiting that country. Here are some tips for your trip to Cambodia to make your experience even better: 

• Use Both Hands: When giving or receiving something, use both hands as a sign of respect. 
• When visiting temples or pagodas, pay attention to your attire; it is best to wear modest clothing and remove your shoes before entering the worship area. Place your shoes in the designated area and avoid touching statues.
• Keep the environment clean: Pay attention to the surroundings and cleanliness at the places you visit. Don’t litter or pollute the environment. 

Some tips for your trip to Cambodia to make your experience even better (Cre: roasn)

Conclusion

Thanks to its alluring ancient beauty and lively people, Cambodia continues to attract large numbers of tourists each year, with a notable increase in arrivals compared to the same period last year.

Cambodia should be on your vacation itinerary because it is one of the Southeast Asian countries with very affordable travel costs.

Read more: Cambodia Excursions