Reasons To Visit Cambodia
Otherwise known as the water festival, Bon Om Tuk is when Siem Reap and Phnom Penh come alive. Cambodia's most important festival, Bon Om Tuk celebrates the turning of the water in the Mekong, a phenomenon to which the Tonle Sap owes its very existence.
Despite Cambodia`s turbulent history the Khmer people show true strength of character. Everywhere you travel you will be greeted with a smile, from the urbanites of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh to the eclectic indigenous populations of the remote Rattanakiri and Mondulkiri provinces.
Often overlooked by the more famous cuisine from its neighbours Cambodia is actually home to some savoury delights. Sample a tasty amok at the market in Siem Reap or indulge in Kep's delicious crab. For those more adventurous you could try an infamous deep fried spider or cricket!
From the sleepy coastal town of Kep with its dilapidated 1960s villas to the mangroves near Koh Kong, the Southcoast has plenty to offer. And for a bit of barefoot luxury, you can spend some time at Song Saa or the 'Sweetheart' islands.
The number of visitors to Angkor multiplies exponentially each year but we can recommend ways to appreciate even the busiest sites, like Angkor Wat, and would encourage you to visit some of the lesser-known temples, such as Beng Melea and Banteay Srei. Alternatively, escape the crowds and explore the temples further afield on a temple camping safari.
It's hard to ignore the mass genocide of an estimated 2 million people. The effects of Polpot transcend the nation and every Khmer can tell you a story of their time under the despot, the history can be felt and explored throughout the country - from the historical musuems in Phnom Penh to the final resting place of Pol Pot near Anlong Veng.
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Siem Reap is famous for one thing: the temples at Angkor - the world’s largest religious monument. Here, knowledgeable guides will bring these ancient temples’ colourful history alive.
Take to the water for an exploration of Tonle Sap Lake, stopping along the way to visit the small villages of Chong Kneas and Komphong Phluk.
Believed to be the world's largest religious building, this temple is the perfect fusion of symbolism and symmetry and a source of pride and strength to all Khmers. Watching the sun set, sat on one of the temples ancient walls is a magical experience.
Spend half a day exploring the sites of Baray, Wat Suai Anthiat, Angkor Thom and Bayon by bicycle.
Cycle to the complex from the small town of Siem Reap you are greeted by the magnificent sight of Angkor Wat, passing by as you approach the South Gate of Angkor Thom. The South Gate was one of only five gates entering the great fortified city.
The new toll road to the Koh Ker temples is now complete, making these incredible 10th century structures more accessible than ever before.
Travel southeast to one of the largest and least-visited villages on the Tonle Sap Lake, Kompong Khleang, about 55km from Siem Reap. It has a population of about 10,000 people, all of whom make a living from the fishing industry.
Follow your guide into the countryside immediately surrounding Siem Reap for an insight into a different side of Cambodia seeing how local people live and taking in the rural scenery.
A magical day beginning at dawn amongst the jungle covered ruins of the Ta Prohm temple. Abandoned and engulfed by the jungle hundreds of years ago, giant trees tower above the ruins.
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