29 Places to Visit in Cambodia: Best Time to Visit These Places

 Cambodia is a country with a rich history and vibrant culture that attracts global tourists. The numerous temples, street food, the warmth of the locals, and places to visit in Cambodia will leave you spellbound.

Currency in Cambodia: The official currency in Cambodia is Cambodian Riel (KHR). 1 Cambodian Riel is equal to 0.020  Indian Rupee as on 30 March 2023*.

*Currency rates change are subjected to the market exchange rate.

To know the top tourist places in Cambodia, refer to the following sections.

Mentioned below is the list of top tourist places to visit in Cambodia, which comprises stunning landscapes, white sand beaches, national parks, jungle-swathed countryside and other historical sites.

Your trip to Cambodia would remain incomplete without visiting these famous historical spots:

1. Royal Palace, Phnom Penh

The Royal Palace lies in the heart of the capital and serves as the residence of the Cambodian king. The palace complex was built in 1866 by King Norodom. The complex consists of several buildings, including the Throne Hall, Silver Pagoda, and Napoleon's Pavilion. Visitors can tour the complex and see the beautiful architecture and design of the buildings.

• Location: HW7J+HG6, Samdach Sothearos Blvd (3), Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• Timings: 7:30 am to 11 am and 2 pm to 5 pm
• Entry fees: 25343 KHR (adult) and 40550 KHR (photography charges)
• Best time to visit: Throughout the year
• Things to do: Explore the Khmer architecture

2. National Museum of Cambodia, Phnom Penh

The National Museum of Cambodia, situated in Phnom Penh, was established in 1920 and houses an extensive Khmer art collection. The museum is divided into four galleries, displaying artefacts from the prehistoric, Angkorian, post-Angkorian, and pre-Angkorian periods. Anyone interested in Cambodian history and culture can visit this museum display.

• Location: Preah Ang Eng St. (13), Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• Timings: 8 am to 11:30 am and 1:30 pm to 5 pm
• Entry fees: 20275 KHR (10 to 17 years) and 40550 KHR (above 18 years)
• Best time to visit: Throughout the year
• Things to do: Explore the bronze / wooden sculptures, ethnographic items, the eight-armed statue of Lord Vishnu and other sandstone sculptures.

3. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Phnom Penh

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a top tourist attraction that has major historical significance and is ideal for history lovers. It was a prison before, which is now transformed into a museum chronicling the Cambodian genocide. You can not only go through the victim’s photograph but also get a glimpse of the regime of the Khmer Rouge.

• Location: ST 113, Phnom Penh Cambodia
• Timings: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Entry fees: 20275 KHR (adult), 12165 KHR (child), and Free (children under 10 years)
• Best time to visit: Throughout the year
• Things to do: The site holds the chronicles of the Cambodian genocide. You can get a live exposure to the experimentation tools, internment and techniques used by Khmer Rouge when the place was used as a security prison in 1975.

4. Koh Ker, Northern Cambodia

One of the most popular tourist places in Cambodia, Koh Ker is a standing embodiment of history. Tourists can explore almost 180 archaeological ruins in this place. Besides, the site is surrounded by lush greenery, so nature lovers can also enjoy it a lot.

• Location: Kaoh Ker, Cambodia
• Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
• Entry fees: 40550 KHR (adult)
• Best time to visit: October to January
• Things to do: Temple trip, spiritual activities, exploring history and culture

5. Banteay Srei, Siem Reap

Banteay Srei is a famous temple in Cambodia, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Hindu god. This archaeological excellence is built with red sandstone and is extremely popular among history lovers. People from different countries come here to indulge in spiritual activities. The libraries and sanctuaries are some famous attractions of this temple.

• Location: Northeastern Siem Reap
• Timings: 5 am to 5 pm
• Entry fees: 81960 KHR (adult)
• Best time to visit: Throughout the year
• Things to do: Exploring history, art and architecture

The stunning national parks are also significant tourist attractions in Cambodia which reflect the beauty and biodiversity of nature. The majestic park also houses a variety of flora and fauna.

6. Ream National Park, Preah Siha, Preah Sihanouk

This place is located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand. The park covers an area of 200 square kilometres and is home to a variety of plants and animals like monkeys, gibbons, deer, and bears. There are many different kinds of birds seen out here. This park is a great place for bird-watching and enjoying the scenery with your loved ones.

• Location: GMMV+5M3, Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia
• Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: November to April
• Things to do: Exploring wildlife and nature

7. Phnom Kulen National Park, Svay Leu

Phnom Kulen National Park is one of the top national parks in Cambodia. It is a part of the Phnom Kulen mountain massif and is considered to be a sacred site. The place carries both historical and cultural significance. Besides the vast wildlife and stunning waterfall site, this place includes other notable attractions like Preah ang Thom Statue and Kbal Spean.

• Location: Svay Leu District
• Timings: 7 am to 4 pm
• Entry fees: 80974 KHR (adult)
• Best time to visit: October to January
• Things to do: Exploring nature, wildlife and culture

8. Kirirom National Park, Traeng Trayueng

Established in 1993, Kirirom National Park is one of the most visited tourist places in Cambodia. The place is marked by its bounteous nature and picturesque landscape. Adventure lovers can enjoy hiking, trekking and other adventure sports here a lot. Tourists can also explore the lifestyle of different animals here.

• Location: Traeng Trayueng, Cambodia
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry fees: 20243 KHR (adult)
• Best time to visit: October to February
• Things to do: Adventure sports, exploring wildlife

9. Virachey National Park, Ratanakiri

Situated in Ratanakiri, Virachey National Park is a protected area and is quite an amazing place. The national park is famous for its attractive hilly landscape. Besides, the national park is surrounded by some famous trekking trails, so adventure lovers can spend a great time here. However, tourists can also enjoy staying in luxurious hotels nearby.

• Location: Ratanakiri, Cambodia
• Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
• Entry fees: 20243 KHR (adult)
• Best time to visit: October to February
• Things to do: Trekking, hiking, sightseeing, enjoying nature

If you wish to explore the beaches, lakes and Islands in Cambodia, refer to the following sections to know the popular sites.

10. Saracen Bay, Rong Samloem

Saracen Bay is a graceful crescent-shaped bay that encompasses a stretch of sand and teeming jungles.  This beach site blesses visitors with a site of tropical perfection. This bay is well-linked with Sihanoukville via powered speedboats. It is a peaceful, relaxing site where you will also be able to enjoy the nightlife. The tropical jungle clubbed with the tranquillity of the turquoise ocean water will fill one’s heart with full contentment.

• Location: Rong Samloem, Cambodia
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: Mid-November to May
• Things to do: Enjoying watersports and beach activities

11. Ream Beach, The Ream National Park

Ream Beach is nestled within the premises of Ream National Park. It is surrounded by a large stretch of coastal mangroves and unspoiled sand. A visit to this place will bring you closer to the exquisiteness of nature. The backdrop of mountains and waterfalls is another reason why this place stands out. You can also catch a glimpse of lovely tropical birds here.

• Location: The Ream National Park, Cambodia
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: October to February
• Things to do: nature walk, trekking, hiking

12. Serendipity Beach, Centre of Sihanoukville

Serendipity Beach is another famous beach site in Cambodia. This rocky beach is not only visited by vacationers but also by local residents. The innumerable shops, cafes and shopping stalls lining the beach are another reason why tourists will love going here. The beauty of the sunsets and sunrise clubbed with the tranquil sounds of waves makes one visit to this place worthwhile.

• Location: Centre of Sihanoukville, Cambodia (Gulf of Thailand)
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: Between November to February
• Things to do: Watersports activities, enjoying nature

13. Kon Rong, Southwest Cambodia

Kon Rong, part of the stunning Cardamom Mountain Range, is another popular tourist spot in Cambodia. It houses numerous stunning beaches. Besides enjoying the stunning landscapes of mountains and beaches, you can indulge in a wide range of adventure activities like kayaking, go diving, snorkelling etc. Some of the famous beaches are Koh Toch Beach, Police Beach etc.

• Location:  Southwest Cambodia
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: Mid-November to the start of May
• Things to do: Ziplining, boat trip, sunbathing, jungle trekking

14. Koh Tonsay, South Kep Town

Koh Tonsay, also called Rabbit Island, offers a peaceful abode to tourists. This Island looks like a rabbit and is hugged by coconut palms. Spend a day in leisure by relaxing in the hammocks and lazy chairs. You can also explore the Island and understand Cambodian life and enjoy the local delicacies or go to the main beach for snorkelling.

• Location:  South Kep Town, Cambodia
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: January, February, December and March
• Things to do: Boating, watersports, exploring wildlife

15. Otres Beach, Sihanoukville

Otres Beach is a picturesque beach in Cambodia that is surrounded by lush green forests and boundless casuarina trees. It is among the quietest and cleanest beaches, which will offer you scenic views. Otres Beach is famous for its night market.  You will get an old-town vibe here which enhances the charm of the beach.

• Location: Sihanoukville, Cambodia
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: November to February
• Things to do: Swimming, watersports, sunbathing

16. Lake Tonle Sap, Siem Reap

This place is located 10 km from Siem Reap and is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, with an area of about 26,600 square kilometres. The Tonle Sap flows into the Mekong River and is an important source of fish in Cambodia. The Tonle Sap is an important source of income for many Cambodian fishers. The lake is a popular tourist attraction in Cambodia, many tour operators offer boat trips around the lake.

• Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
• Timings: 11 am to 4 pm
• Entry fees: 101217 KHR (adult)
• Best time to visit: June to October
• Things to do: Boating, swimming, fishing

You can take a short hike or trek to the top of mountains at these top tourist places in Cambodia:

17. Mount Bokor (Elephant Mountains), Phumi Pôpôk Vil

Bokor National Park is considered the most picturesque place in the south of Cambodia. The main feature of Bokor National Park is the old Bokor Mountain, which is 1048 metres high.  The highest point of Mount Bokor is 1,081 metres above sea level. The top of the mountain is always shrouded in mist, which creates an unforgettable atmosphere. On the way to the top, you can also see fantastic jungle views and the coast bordering it.

• Location: J2GF+VWH, Phumi Pôpôk Vil, Cambodia
• Timings: 8 am to 9 pm
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: October to February
• Things to do: Trekking, hiking, and other adventure sports

18. Mondulkiri, Mondulkiri Province

One of the most visited hill regions in Cambodia, Mondulkiri, is a great place for nature lovers. The cascading waterfalls are another big attraction of this place. One of the biggest waterfalls in Cambodia, Bou Sra, is situated in Mondulkiri. Another important attraction of Mondulkiri is the coffee farms. The scenic view of the region attracts photographers as well.

• Location: Southeastern Mondulkiri Province
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: October to February
• Things to do: Nature walk, photography, trekking, hiking, mountain climbing

19. Ratanakiri, Northeast Cambodia

Ratanakiri is a great natural spot and one of the famous places to visit in Cambodia. Apart from enjoying nature, people can also explore a plethora of wildlife here. In addition, the place is well-known for the availability of multiple adventure sports as well. The tranquil atmosphere of Ratanakiri is a perfect escape from the din and bustle of regular city life.

• Location: Northeast Cambodia
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: October to February
• Things to do: Adventure sports, photography

The temples in Cambodia are ancient and bear religious significance to date. Their architecture is also impressive. To learn about the temples there, refer to the sections below:

20. Silver Pagoda, Phnom Penh

The Silver Pagoda is located in the Royal Palace complex in Phnom Penh. It is a Buddhist temple. The pagoda contains a number of artefacts, including an emerald Buddha and a small model of Angkor Wat. Due to its vibrant history, Silver Pagoda has become one of the best tourist places in Cambodia.

• Location: HW6J+XMV, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• Timings: 7:30 am to 11 am and 2 pm to 5 pm
• Entry fees: 12146 KHR (adult)
• Best time to visit: Throughout the year
• Things to do: Religious activities, exploring history and architecture

21. Angkor Wat Temple, Krong Siem Reap

The Angkor Wat temple is one of the largest religious monuments in the world. The temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, was built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Southeast Asia's most well-preserved temple complexes.

• Location: Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
• Timings: 5 am to 5:30 pm
• Entry fee: One-day pass- 150035 KHR (adult), three-day pass- 251410 KHR (adult), and seven-day pass- 291960 KHR (adult)
• Best time to visit: November to Mid-April
• Things to do: Exploring the majestic architecture, visit the landmine museum, exploring history and culture

22. Wat Banan Temple, Battambang Province

Twenty kilometres south of the city of Battambang is a mountain with a temple on top of it - Wat Banan. The temple was built in the 11th century and is a small-scale version of the Angkor Wat temple. Wat Banan Temple, too, has five towers arranged in a checkerboard pattern, with the walls decorated with frescoes and ornaments.

• Location: Battambang Province, Cambodia
• Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: October to Early May
• Things to do: Sightseeing, exploring architecture, religious activities

23. Bayon Temple, Angkor Archeological Park

The majestic Bayon Temple is located in the centre of the ancient city of Angkor Thom and is distinguished by its impressive size. The temple is spread over an area of 9 square kilometres. The Bayon competes with the Angkor Wat temple for the title of the most sought-after architectural monument, although it's interior design and external architecture differ. The Bayon temple dates back to the end of the 12th century.

• Location: Angkor Archeological Park, Krong Siem Reap, 17000, Cambodia
• Timings: 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
• Entry fees: One-day pass- 149802 (adult), three-day pass- 251019 KHR (adult), and seven-day pass- 291506 KHR (adult)
• Best time to visit: November to March
• Things to do: Exploring art and architecture, religious activities

24. Preah Vihear Temple, Cambodia

Right on top of the Dangrek mountain range, on the very border of Cambodia and Thailand, there is an ancient attraction of Cambodia - a temple complex built sometime between the 11th and 12th centuries AD in honour of the Hindu deity Shiva. The era of Khmer civilisation was characterised by the widespread construction of temples, most of which have survived to this day. This historical and cultural object is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

• Location: North East Angkor, Cambodia
• Timings: 7 am to 5 pm
• Entry fees: 40487 KHR (adult)
• Best time to visit: October to February
• Things to do: Religious and cultural tour

Cambodian cities are full of attractive tourist attractions. Some of them are as follows:

25. Street 08, Siem Reap

One of the most popular tourist places to visit in Cambodia is Street 08. The locality is full of different entertainment means such as bars, clubs, and shopping places. People can also enjoy the attractive nightlife of Cambodia by walking on this street.

• Location: Siem Reap, Columbia
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: Throughout the year
• Things to do: Bar hopping, shopping, and exploring city life

26. Central Market, Phnom Penh

One of the largest Asian markets, the Central Market in Cambodia, is a great place for tourists. You can collect different souvenirs from this place for your loved ones. The place is famous for antique coins, ornaments, clothes etc. Besides, you can also find a great deal of electronic goods here. Besides, the food stalls in this market serve some authentic Cambodian dishes, which is another attraction of this place.

• Location: Phnom Penh
• Timings: 7 am to 6 pm
• Entry fees: Free
• Best time to visit: Throughout the year
• Things to do: Shopping, and enjoying local food

27. Choeung Ek, Phnom Penh

If you are a history lover, you must pay a visit to Choeung Ek in Cambodia. There is a monument on this site which is built on a mass grave. The site displays the excavated skulls of the Khmer Rouge victims. Tourists mainly come here to explore the architecture and history of Cambodia.

• Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• Timings: 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
• Entry fees: 24292 KHR (adult)
• Best time to visit: October to May
• Things to Do: Visit the National Museum, explore the Royal Palace, climb Wat Phnom and enjoy the view from the hilltop

28. Russian Market, Phnom Penh

It is one of the most visited places in Cambodia, the Russian market has hidden treasures in it. One of the most popular souvenirs in this market is the miniature idols of Lord Buddha. Apart from this, wooden materials, ornaments, musical instruments etc., are also popular in this market.

• Location: Phnom Penh
• Timings: 6 am to 4:30 pm
• Entry fees: 25343 KHR
• Best time to visit: November to May
• Things to do: Shopping and enjoying local food

29. Independence Monument, Phnom Penh

Another popular Angkorian-Style architecture in Cambodia is Independence Monument. The night lighting of the monument is truly amazing. Besides, tourists can also enjoy the intricate architecture of this monument. In addition, you can also visit some nearby places, for example, Royal Palace, to have a complete day trip.

• Location: Phnom Penh
• Timings: Throughout the day
• Entry fees: No entry fee
• Best time to visit: Throughout the year
• Things to Do: Exploring architecture and cultural history