Are you considering a trip to Cambodia? If so, prepare to satisfy your curiosity with the country’s rich history, majestic ruins, friendly people, and fascinating traditions and culture. Cambodia, also known as Kampuchea or the Kingdom of Wonder, is a popular tourist destination in mainland Southeast Asia on the Indochinese Peninsula.
Siem Reap, Cambodia’s ancient stone city, and the famous Angkor Wat temple are well-known destinations you may have already heard about. This itinerary will guide you through Cambodia’s most exciting, historic, picturesque, and must-see destinations, ensuring you make the most of your time in the Kingdom of Wonder.
Cambodia has something for everyone with its beautiful countryside, ancient cities, exotic temples, timeless landscapes, world-renowned acrobat shows, and vibrant culture. Let us take you on a 7-day journey exploring the most thrilling areas of Cambodia.
Day 1: Travel to Sien Reap
The initial step of your journey to Cambodia should be visiting Siem Reap, which offers an unparalleled first impression of the country. Siem Reap is renowned for its extensive Angkor Wat temple complex and is a favored destination, yet it maintains a serene atmosphere. In addition to the ancient city’s spires, Pub Street, and the river, Siem Reap’s silk farms, bird sanctuaries, and more than 50 historical temples in the surrounding countryside will astonish you.
To ensure a smooth experience, make your bookings in advance. The people of Siem Reap will greet you with open arms, just like an old acquaintance. Nonetheless, I recommend setting the alarm to guarantee you don’t miss the breathtaking sight of Angkor Wat at sunrise.
Day 2: Explore the Angok Archeological Park
For day two of your trip, waking up before sunrise is crucial. Arrange for an auto-rickshaw from Siem Reap to take you to the Angkor Archaeological Park, which should only take about 20 minutes. Here, you will be greeted by the remarkable ruins of the famous Angkor Wat temple. As the largest religious monument in the world, it’s one of the most renowned temples in Cambodia, attracting many tourists each year.
Plan to spend at least 4 to 5 hours exploring this 12th-century UNESCO World Heritage site, where you’ll be captivated by the intricate wall carvings and a stunning sunrise over the pink-orange sky. The temple spans nearly 1 square mile, so bring breakfast and savor your tour.
Day 3: Visit Battambang
Battambang is a charming city in northwestern Cambodia that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Some must-visit attractions in Battambang include the iconic Bamboo Train, the stunning Wat Banan Temple, and the city’s beautiful countryside.
Other popular activities in Battambang include visiting local markets, sampling delicious Cambodian cuisine, and exploring the city’s vibrant art scene. Additionally, the city is well-known for its traditional performing arts, including the famous Battambang Circus, which features a variety of acrobatic and aerial performances.
Although the temple at Battambang cannot match the grandeur of Siem Reap, it’s worth pondering why you should halt here. The charming French colonial city also boasts picturesque spots, vibrant traveler bars, and numerous fruit bats. It takes around five hours by bus to get to Battambang from Siem Reap, and although it may not offer much sightseeing, it is still a popular tourist stop worth exploring.
Day 4: Take a Bus to Phnom Penh
If you travel by bus from Battambang to Phnom Penh, expect the journey to take about six to seven hours. Phnom Penh is a great place to experience the blend of modern Cambodia with its rich cultural past.
If you catch an early morning bus, you’ll have extra time to enjoy a healthy lunch at the Backyard Cafe along the riverfront. Afterward, take a stroll between the Royal Palace and the local market. As the evening approaches, unwind with a few drinks at one of the upscale rooftop bars on the Mekong River before gearing up for a day of exploring the sobering political history of Cambodia.
Day 5: Visit the Killing Fields and 21 Prison
On day 5, we plan to visit the Phnom Penh Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng / S21 Prison. Before making this trip, reading up on Cambodia’s recent history may be advisable, as it could deter you from going or spark your curiosity further.
While the journey to these sites is a somber one, it is also among the most meaningful activities to undertake in Cambodia. Hence, we recommend booking your visit online or at your hotel upon arrival.
Day 6: Visit the Country Side
Cambodia’s rural areas are abundant in picturesque landscapes and diverse tourist attractions. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the country’s culture and natural beauty, consider hiring a guide to lead you through one of the stunning Cambodian countryside on your visit.
Day 7: Take a Plane to Sihanoukville, a Ferry to the Islands
If you want to make the most of your final day in Cambodia, catching a flight to Sihanoukville would be your top choice. While a bus ride from there might be exhausting, you could take a ferry from Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Islands instead. That will allow you to spend a lovely day soaking up the sun on the beach and sipping cocktails.
Conclusion
Cambodia is a fascinating and diverse country that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. From exploring ancient temples and historical sites to enjoying beautiful beaches and natural landscapes, there is something for everyone in Cambodia. Despite its troubled past, the country has made remarkable strides in recent years and is now a safe and welcoming destination.
With its rich cultural heritage, friendly people, and delicious cuisine, visiting Cambodia will surely be an unforgettable experience. Whether interested in history, adventure, or relaxation, Cambodia has it all and is worth adding to your travel bucket list.
