Like all tropical Asian destinations, Cambodia is hot all year round but has a wet and dry season. The wet or rainy season is from May to November, while the dry season runs from November to April. Most visitors choose to visit Cambodia in the dry season, specifically from December to March when it is a little cooler.
Cambodia is fortunate to have an abundance of unique wildlife. Visitors enjoy spotting wild animals they’ve never even heard of before. These may include the rare Sun Bear, Cantor’s Giant Softshell Turtle, Pygmy Slow Loris, Yellow-cheeked Crested Gibbon, Germain’s Silver Langur, Clouded Leopard and Irrawaddy Dolphin. You’ll be pleased to hear that with their abundant diverse wildlife, Cambodia has led its own conservation efforts for many years.
Cambodia’s capital city Phnom Penh sits at the confluence of the Mekong, Bassac and Tonlé Sap rivers. This large bustling city is home to 1.5 million people and some of Cambodia’s most significant historical and cultural sites. Commonly visited attractions include the Royal Palace and Silver Pagola - the King’s residence, the National Museum of Cambodia and Wat Phnom. Phnom Penh has preserved many sobering landmarks that educate visitors of the devastation caused in Cambodia while under the rule of the Khmer Rouge.
One of the most recognised Khmer Rouge landmarks in Phnom Penh is the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center. This Buddhist memorial holds more than 5,000 skulls from the Choeung Ek killing field. During the four year rule of the Pol Pot led regime it is estimated that two million people died from starvation or execution. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is another site where visitors can pay homage to Cambodia’s history. This site was once a high school that was later converted to a political prisoners camp by the Khmer Rouge. Choeung Ek Genocidal Center and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum now serve as memorials that encourage visitors to be messengers of peace.
Many visitors day trip to explore the mighty Mekong River from Phnom Penh. A popular day trip is to visit Koh Dach or ‘silk island’, which is only an hour out of the city and a short ferry ride to a small island in the middle of the Mekong. Here you can learn about Cambodian silk weaving and enjoy the stunning views of the Cambodian countryside. For a relaxing or romantic Mekong experience, we recommend a sunset cruise. Often including dinner and live entertainment, a boat trip down the Mekong River is a fantastic way to see Cambodia.
Krong Siem Reap is a frequented tourist destination due to it being the gateway to Angkor Wat. At over 162 hectares, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. Originally Angkor Wat was constructed as a Hindu temple but eventually transformed into a Buddhist temple. Pictured on the Cambodian flag, Angkor Wat meaning ‘Temple City’ in Khmer, is known for its grand architecture and detailed carvings on its walls.
Those hoping to include a trip to Angkor Wat while in Cambodia have a few options. Firstly, you can plan your own DIY tour. However, we recommend you ask your accommodation for advice on transport and times. Many holidaymakers are choosing to hire motorbikes or scooters to make their way to Angkor Wat. Another popular option is to book a guided tour, where you can learn more about the historical significance of Angkor Wat than you would otherwise on your own.
As Angkor Wat covers such a large area it is best to plan your journey around the complex. It’s recommended to explore in the counterclockwise direction, starting from Angkor Thom and finishing your tour at Angkor Wat. Cambodia’s hot climate means it can be uncomfortable to explore in the middle of the day. Remember to wear light comfortable clothing and try to plan for sunrise or sunset trips.
Besides visiting world-famous Angkor Wat, there are plenty of things to do in Siem Reap. Those looking to buy handmade Cambodian souvenirs should visit the Old Market. From handmade silk scarves to decorative ceramics around every corner, you’ll find something to take home. Foodies will love the local food tours on offer, an authentic Cambodian cooking class and visiting the floating markets.
We can’t blame you for wanting to add a relaxing beach destination to your southeast Asia holiday. Luckily you can’t Koh Rong when visiting Cambodia’s largest island. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Rong Island is a popular destination for tourists to relax on white sandy beaches lined with palm trees. Outdoor adventurers will be in heaven with plenty of thrilling activities on offer. Whether you choose from scuba diving, zip-lining, waterfall jumping or kayaking, you won’t be disappointed.
No matter where you choose to venture on your trip to Cambodia, there are plenty of memorable experiences to be had. Browse the range of Cambodian experience gifts on Gifting Owl for inspiration or to give as a gift to a loved one.