After taking annual vacations to Europe for over a decade, I followed my dream and moved abroad right after my 32nd birthday. I initially did a six-month stay in Bordeaux, France, before heading to Barcelona, Spain, in early 2020.
21.07.2023 - 07:36 / roughguides.com
Cambodia is known for its vibrant culture, ancient temples and spectacular natural scenery. From exploring the majestic temple complex of Angkor Wat to relaxing on the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville, Cambodia has many of the finest activities to suit a variety of interests. Whether you are a history enthusiast or an adventurer, there are a variety of the best things to do in Cambodia that will leave you captivated and eager to return.
The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Cambodia , your essential guide for visiting Cambodia .
The extravagant Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, in the heart of Phnom Penh, are home to fabulous murals and a treasure trove of Khmer sculpture. The palace was built in Khmer style with French assistance in 1866. It functioned as the official residence of King Norodom Sihanouk from the time of his return to the capital in 1991, followed by his son, King Norodom Sihamoni, who ascended to the throne in 2004.
Leaving the main northern compound of the palace by a marked gateway in the southeastern corner, proceed along a narrow southwesterly route that leads to the North Gate of the celebrated Silver Pagoda compound. Commissioned by King Norodom in 1892, and then extensively rebuilt by Sihanouk in 1962, the floor of the pagoda is lined with more than 5,000 silver tiles weighing more than 1kg each, or 5 tonnes in total.
Prepare for the best things to do in Cambodia on this tailor-made Cambodia Cultural Discovery. Tour the capital, Phnom Penh, with its romantic cafes and haute cuisine, discover ancient, awe-inspiring temples, and stunning countryside and explore one of the greatest wonders of the world.
The Royal Palace, Phnom Penh © mrmichaelangelo/Shutterstock
Harrowing monuments to Cambodia’s grisly past during the Khmer Rouge’s murderous rule. Not for the faint-hearted, just over 1km (0.6 miles) from Tuol Tom Pong Market, to the north of Mao Tse Toung Boulevard, stands the former Tuol Sleng Prison, now Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum I. Here, during Pol Pot’s years in power, around 20,000 people were interrogated under torture and murdered, generally together with their families.
Finally, for those with the stomach for the experience after visiting Tuol Sleng, about 12km (7.5 miles) southwest of the town are the infamous Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Here victims of the Khmer Rouge were executed and buried in mass graves. Many of these graves have now been exhumed, and a stupa-shaped mausoleum has been erected in the victims’ memory.
Prison of the Khmer Rouge high school S-21 turned into a torture and execution centre © diy13/Shutterstock
Visiting the wonderful Phnom Penh city market, packed with vibrant silks and curios is one of the best things to do in
After taking annual vacations to Europe for over a decade, I followed my dream and moved abroad right after my 32nd birthday. I initially did a six-month stay in Bordeaux, France, before heading to Barcelona, Spain, in early 2020.
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