To say that visiting Cambodia is an overwhelmingly spectacular experience would be an understatement. There is something mystical, something magical about the gigantic sanctuaries in stone, the dense, dark mangroves and the spectacular architecture, the sublimity of which is best understood when experienced. A casual stroll or a mad dash through it is simply not enough. Cambodia needs to be savored. And savor you can. Take a week out to hit the highlights in a country that epitomizes the soul of the East. Get ready, for this is just awe-inspiring!
The Kingdom of Cambodia, as it is known, is located in southwestern part of the Indochina Peninsula, bordered by Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. It has a coastline of around 400 kilometers and is bounded by the Gulf of Thailand in the Southwest. Cambodia experiences what we know as “tropical” climate and is generally hot and humid with the mercury hovering at around 28°C. It is ideal to visit and explore Cambodia during the months of December and January as the weather is relatively pleasant then. The capital of Cambodia is Phnom Penh and its currency is the Cambodian Riel, available in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 50,000 and 100,000. US Dollars and Thai Baht are accepted in many places. Out of the four airports in the country, the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport serves the needs of a majority of international travellers in and out of Cambodia. Tourists need to note that despite the turmoil that wreaked havoc with the country’s transport system, highways in Cambodia have been recently paved and upgraded to international standards. Though public transport is relatively efficient, renting a car would allow you to set a pace you are comfortable with.
A typical itinerary would include a start at Siem Reap and a quick journey to Phnom Penh, the capital buzzing with the pulsating energy of the frantic masses! Give yourself a day to visit the innumerable art galleries and the museums filled to the brim with Angkorian sculpture. The National Museum, The Silver Pagoda and the shopping scene at Psar Tuol Tom Pong – “The Russian Market” are some of the must-sees! Breathe in the scenic riverfront at Sisowath Quay and spend the rest of the evening checking out the nightlife followed by a scrumptious supper at any of the fantastic restaurants or eating joints littered all over the city! Phnom Penh has something for everyone! I recommend that you take the time out to visit the town of Kampot, a colonial town near the Elephant Mountains. Choose from an array of activities that include cave exploration, short trips to the islands nearby, fishing, cycling and hiking. You could also opt for a guided tour currently being offered by tour agencies at competitive prices if you are heading to Bokor, Kep or Phnom Sorsia.
Steep your senses in incredible history with a cruise on the Mekong and spend a glorious moment soaking in the picturesque beauty of the quaint fishing villages scattered along the river bank! Take some time out to sample some exotic Khmer fare in Prek Leap! Head north to Angkor Wat for a peek into the grandeur of a bygone era! Having withstood the test of time, this magnificent masterpiece is perfection personified. Feel the cosmos envelop you as you explore the chambers, the elevated towers, the massive courtyards and stare at the bas reliefs in sheer disbelief!
Do remember that this is just one of the suggested itineraries, there are many more destinations and provinces waiting to be explored! Whether you opt to head out to the densely packed jungles to take in the exotic wildlife or spend a laid back vacation tuning in into the rustic rhythms of the countryside, the Cambodian spirit is sure to leave you spellbound!