Cambodia

Cambodia is a land where ancient history and modern resilience coexist amidst a landscape of emerald rice paddies and winding rivers. You will find yourself dwarfed by the massive stone faces of Bayon and the sprawling, jungle-reclaimed ruins of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Beyond the temples, the country offers serene rural life, chaotic yet charming urban markets, and pristine white-sand islands. It is a destination that challenges you with its complex 20th-century history while warming you with the genuine, soft-spoken hospitality of the Khmer people. From the bustling riverfront of Phnom Penh to the sleepy colonial streets of Battambang, Cambodia reveals a Southeast Asian spirit that is both haunting and deeply beautiful.

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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

1 city

3 guides

$53 Daily Budget

Quick Facts

Capital

Phnom Penh

Languages

Khmer

Currency

Cambodian Riel (KHR) — official; US Dollar (USD) widely used

1 $ ≈ 4,020 ៛

Plug Type

Type A, C, G

Driving Side

Right

Dial Code

+855

Entry Requirements

Check requirements →

Time Zone

ICT (UTC+7)

Emergency

117 (Police), 118 (Fire), 119 (Ambulance)

Why Visit Cambodia

The Temples of Angkor

Exploring the sprawling archaeological park near Siem Reap is a bucket-list experience where you can witness 12th-century engineering marvels being reclaimed by giant banyan tree roots. The intricate carvings and sheer scale of sites like Ta Prohm and Angkor Wat are unrivaled anywhere else in the world.

Untouched Island Paradises

While neighboring countries have seen heavy coastal development, Cambodian islands like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem offer a more laid-back atmosphere. You can enjoy turquoise waters, glowing bioluminescent plankton at night, and rustic bungalows nestled right on the sand.

Deeply Moving History

Visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields in Phnom Penh provides a profound understanding of the country's past. While the experience is somber, it highlights the incredible strength and forgiveness of the Cambodian people who have rebuilt their nation.

Affordable Adventure

With an average daily budget of ~$53 / ៛213,075, Cambodia remains one of the most accessible destinations for travelers. You can enjoy high-quality boutique accommodation, delicious street food for ~$2.36–$4.71 / ៛9,470–៛18,940, and private tuk-tuk tours without breaking the bank.

Authentic Rural Life

Heading into the countryside allows you to witness traditional Khmer life, from ox-carts roaming through dust-filled lanes to stilted houses rising above the floodplains. The pace of life slows down significantly, offering a peaceful contrast to the buzz of the cities.

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Cambodia

Siem Reap

Tropical

From $53 /day

Cost Guide Where to Stay

Regions

Siem Reap & Angkor

This is the primary gateway for travelers, serving as the base for exploring the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park. The city itself features a vibrant night market, the famous Pub Street for evening entertainment, and many high-end boutique hotels.

Phnom Penh

The nation's capital sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, blending French colonial architecture with modern developments. It is the cultural and political heart of Cambodia, home to the Royal Palace and the somber S21 historic site.

The South Coast

This region includes the seaside town of Sihanoukville and the tranquil riverside escape of Kampot, famous for its world-class pepper. Offshore, islands like Koh Rong offer white-sand beaches and a relaxed pace far removed from the mainland bustle.

Battambang

Known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture and a thriving contemporary art scene, this northwestern city offers a more authentic Cambodian experience. It is famous for the Bamboo Train and the dramatic bat caves at Phnom Sampeau.

Mondulkiri

Located in the hilly northeast, this province is the center for eco-tourism and elephant conservation projects. It offers a cooler climate and a rugged landscape of waterfalls and forests that are home to indigenous Bunong communities.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the cool, dry season when weather is optimal for temple exploration. Avoid the peak heat of late spring and the heavy afternoon downpours of the monsoon season.

Peak Season

Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb

Clear skies and comfortable temperatures ranging from 24–30°C (75–86°F) make this the busiest period. Early morning starts at 05:00 are recommended to manage crowds at sites like Angkor Wat.

Shoulder Season

Mar, Apr, May, Oct

March to May brings intense heat reaching up to 35–40°C (95–104°F), while October marks the transition out of the rainy season with lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists.

Off-Peak

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

The 'Green Season' features high humidity and frequent afternoon rain. While travel can be slower, accommodation prices can drop by 30–50% and the countryside is vibrantly green.

Getting Around

Cambodia's transport network relies heavily on road travel, with buses and tuk-tuks being the most common choices for tourists. Infrastructure is improving, but rural roads remain challenging.

Tuk-Tuk

The iconic local transport for short distances; use ride-hailing apps like Grab or PassApp to ensure transparent pricing of ~$1.18–$3.53 / ៛4,735–៛14,205 for city trips.

Bus

Modern air-conditioned buses and minivans connect major hubs like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap; tickets typically cost ~$12–$18 / ៛47,350–៛71,025 for a 6-hour journey.

Flight

Domestic flights efficiently connect Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville in under 1 hour, though they are significantly more expensive than ground travel.

Train

The Royal Railway offers limited but scenic services between Phnom Penh, Battambang, and Sihanoukville, with tickets priced at ~$5.89–$12 / ៛23,675–៛47,350.

Food & Drink

Khmer cuisine is often overshadowed by its neighbors but offers a delicate balance of sweet, salty, sour, and bitter flavors. It relies heavily on fresh herbs, fermented fish paste known as Prahok, and the creamy richness of coconut milk.

Must Try

Fish Amok

The national dish of Cambodia, this creamy curry features white fish steamed in a banana leaf with coconut milk and a complex spice paste called Kroeung.

Beef Lok Lak

A beloved stir-fry of tender beef served on a bed of lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, accompanied by a signature dipping sauce of lime, sea salt, and Kampot pepper.

Kuy Teav

A popular breakfast noodle soup made from pork or beef stock and served with rice vermicelli, bean sprouts, and various meats or seafood.

Nom Banh Chok

Often called Khmer noodles, this dish consists of thin rice noodles topped with a green fish gravy and a mountain of fresh cucumbers, banana flower, and herbs.

Bai Sach Chrouk

A simple yet delicious street food staple featuring thinly sliced pork marinated in garlic and coconut milk, grilled over charcoal and served with broken rice.

Prahok Ktis

A savory dip made from fermented fish paste, minced pork, and coconut milk, typically served with crunchy raw vegetables for dipping.

Kafe Toek Doh Ko

Traditional Cambodian iced coffee made with strong, dark-roasted beans and a generous amount of sweetened condensed milk, served over plenty of ice.

Money & Costs

A dual-currency system operates where US Dollars are used for large transactions and Riel for small change. A typical daily budget for a mid-range traveler is ~$53 / ៛213,075.

Tipping

Tipping is not traditional but appreciated; rounding up a tuk-tuk fare or leaving ~$1.18 / ៛4,735 per person for guides is common practice.

Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in upscale hotels and restaurants in major cities, but cash is mandatory for markets, street food, and small vendors.

ATMs

ATMs are ubiquitous in urban areas and primarily dispense USD; however, they charge significant foreign card fees ranging from ~$5.3–$11 / ៛21,308–៛44,983 per withdrawal.

Culture & Etiquette

Cambodian culture is deeply rooted in Theravada Buddhism and traditional Khmer values, emphasizing respect for elders and monks. Visitors who follow local customs regarding modesty and social interaction will find themselves welcomed with great warmth.

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Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural areas by ensuring your shoulders and knees are fully covered.

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Use both hands when giving or receiving objects, especially money or gifts, as a sign of respect.

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Perform the Sampeah greeting by placing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture to show respect to locals.

Never touch a Cambodian person on the head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body.

Avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects like Buddha statues, as feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body.

Don't engage in public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, which are generally frowned upon in Khmer culture.

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Ask for permission before taking photographs of local people, particularly monks or children.

Avoid losing your temper or raising your voice in public, as this causes a loss of face for everyone involved.

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Remove your shoes before entering someone's home or a Buddhist temple pagoda.

Safety & Health

Tourists should exercise increased caution due to street crime and landmines in rural areas. Violent crime is rare against tourists, but bag snatching is common in cities.

Tap Water

Not safe to drink

Vaccinations

Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended for most travelers; proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is required if arriving from a yellow-fever-risk country (including certain long airport transits).

Common Scams

⚠ Bag snatching: Drive-by thefts of phones and purses by pairs on motorcycles.
⚠ Milk scam: A woman asks you to buy expensive milk for her baby, only to return it to the shop for a refund once you leave.
⚠ Fake monks: Individuals dressed as monks asking for cash donations (real monks do not solicit money).
⚠ Tuk-tuk commission: Drivers claiming a hotel is 'closed' to take you to another where they receive a kickback.
⚠ Border visa overcharge: Touts at land borders charging extra fees to 'expedite' the official visa process.

Local medical facilities do not meet international standards; comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation to Bangkok or Singapore is essential.

Language

Khmer is the national language; however, English is widely spoken by those working in the tourism industry, particularly in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

English Spoken: Moderately spoken

Key Phrases

Key Phrases
Meaning	Local	Pronunciation
Hello (Formal)	Chom reap sour	chom-reap-sour
Hello (Informal)	Susadei	soo-sa-day
Thank you	Arkun	ar-koon
Yes	Baht (male) / Jah (female)	baht / chaa
No	Ot teh	ot-tei
Sorry / Excuse me	Som dtoh	som-toe
How much?	Bo man?	bow-man
The bill, please	Som ket loy	som-ket-loy

Visa & Entry

Most visitors need a visa (e-visa or visa-on-arrival) unless visa-exempt. Air arrivals must also submit the Cambodia e-Arrival (CeA) electronic arrival card before travel.

Max Stay

30 days (tourist visa); visa-free stays vary by nationality

Passport Validity

At least 6 months from the date you arrive

Visa-free for

Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Timor-Leste, Maldives, Seychelles

Check requirements →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cambodia safe for solo travelers?

While Cambodia is generally welcoming to visitors, you should exercise increased caution due to street crime. Bag snatching is common in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, especially for those riding in open-air tuk-tuks. Additionally, you must stay on marked paths in rural areas because unexploded landmines remain a danger in certain remote provinces.

What is the daily travel budget for Cambodia?

The average daily budget for a traveler in Cambodia is approximately $53 / ៛213,075 per day. This amount typically covers comfortable mid-range accommodation, three local meals, and transport via tuk-tuks. Street food meals can cost as little as ~$2.36–$4.71 / ៛9,470–៛18,940, while a private tour of the Angkor temples might cost ~$29–$41 / ៛118,375–៛165,725 depending on the distance covered.

When is the best time to visit Cambodia?

The peak travel season occurs during the cool, dry months of November, December, January, and February. During this time, temperatures are pleasant, usually ranging from 25–30°C (77–86°F), making it ideal for exploring outdoor temple complexes. The monsoon season from May to October brings heavy rains, but also creates lush, green landscapes and lower prices for tourists.

Do I need a visa for Cambodia?

Most foreign visitors require a visa to enter Cambodia, which is typically granted for a maximum stay of 30 days. You can conveniently apply for an e-visa online before your trip or obtain a visa on arrival at international airports and major land border crossings. If arriving by air, you must also submit the Cambodia e-Arrival (CeA) electronic arrival card. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date you arrive.

Is English widely spoken in Cambodia?

English proficiency is moderate throughout the country, especially among younger people and those working directly in the tourism sector. In hubs like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, most hotel staff, guides, and restaurant workers speak enough English to assist you. However, in rural villages, communication may be more difficult, so learning basic Khmer phrases is helpful.

What should I eat in Cambodia?

You must try the national dish, Fish Amok, which is a mild and fragrant steamed curry. Other essentials include Beef Lok Lak, a savory stir-fry with a peppery lime sauce, and Bai Sach Chrouk, which is grilled pork served with rice for breakfast. For an authentic snack, look for Nom Banh Chok, the traditional Khmer rice noodles.

How do I get around Cambodia?

The transport network relies heavily on roads, with buses and minivans being the primary way to travel between cities. Within towns and cities, tuk-tuks are the most popular and convenient choice for short distances. While infrastructure is improving, rural roads remain challenging, and travel times can be longer than they appear on a map due to traffic.

Can I drink tap water in Cambodia?

Tap water in Cambodia is generally unsafe for consumption, and you should avoid drinking it at all times. It is recommended to use bottled water for drinking and even for brushing your teeth to avoid waterborne illnesses. Most hotels and guest houses provide complimentary bottled water daily, and sealed bottles are available for less than ~$1.18 / ៛4,735 at local shops.

What is the dress code for temples like Angkor Wat?

A strict dress code is enforced at all religious sites in Cambodia, including the Angkor Archaeological Park. You must cover your shoulders and wear trousers or skirts that reach below the knees. Scarves or sarongs used as cover-ups are sometimes rejected by guards, so it is best to wear appropriate clothing before arriving at the temple gates.

Are there any specific scams to avoid in Cambodia?

Travelers should be aware of the 'milk powder' scam, where someone asks you to buy expensive baby formula that they later return for cash. Also, be wary of fixed-price scams at border crossings and always agree on a price with tuk-tuk drivers before starting your journey. Always keep your phone and bags secure to prevent snatch-and-grab thefts in crowded areas.

Why you can trust this guide

Jan Křenek

35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data

Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.

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