Valentine’s Day, despite many saying how commercialised the whole affair is, is a special day when you get to express your love to your partner more extravagantly and exclusively. If you are looking for things to do on Valentine’s Day in Cambodia, there’s a lot for you to experience and explore. The beauty of Cambodia is that there are experiences that align with the interests of every traveller. Whether you like beaches, ancient historical temples, cruise rides or a fine dining experience, every bit of your expectations can be fulfilled in this country.
10 Things To Do On Valentine’s Day In Cambodia
There are several things to do on Valentine’s Day in Cambodia, be it exploring ancient temples, bustling markets, serene beaches and romantic cruises.
1. Explore The Temples Of Angkor Wat At Sunrise
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The most alluring part of your Cambodia trip involves exploring the temples of Angkor Wat. This is the tourist destination that allures the majority of the tourists and rightfully so. However, for a magical experience with your partner on Valentine’s Day, you can visit this iconic landmark at sunrise and start your day from there. The beauty of these temples at sunrise is beyond explanation, something that is bound to leave you mesmerised. Also, wandering through the intricately carved temples with your partner allows you to soak in the history and romance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Location: Siem Reap
Entry Fees: $37 for a one-day pass
2. Take A Romantic Mekong River Cruise
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One of the most popular romantic activities that couples indulge in when in Cambodia is booking a river cruise experience across the Mekong Delta. The sunset cruise is undoubtedly one of the absolute best experiences. The cruise usually departs from Phnom Penh and offers stunning views of the city skyline, traditional villages, and the lush countryside. Also, most of the river cruises have gourmet dinners, live music, and the opportunity to watch the sunset as you glide along the river, making the experience even more romantic. The peaceful experience is great for individuals who want a laid-back yet fun experience.
Location: Phnom Penh
Entry Fees: $30 – $100
3. Visit The Royal Palace And Silver Pagoda
Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you and your partner are history buffs and like to learn more about the history and traditions of a place, a visit down to the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda is a must. These magnificent structures feel like they are straight out of a movie and exploring all of that in real-time with your partner by your side is an experience you can’t miss out on. The Silver Pagoda, with its floor inlaid with over 5,000 silver tiles, and the Emerald Buddha statue are particularly impressive. You can also take pictures around the well-manicured gardens of the palace grounds, adding to the charm of the experience further.
Location: Phnom Penh
Entry Fees: $10
4. Relax On The Beaches Of Sihanoukville
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Sometimes, despite it being a special day dedicated to celebrating love, all that you want to do is relax, unwind and spend some quality time with your partner. When in Cambodia, you can do just that on the beaches of Sihanoukville. There are free access and private beaches available, so you can pick and choose the ones that best align with your interests and budget. This coastal island is perfect for couples who are looking to lounge on the beach, enjoy water sports, or indulge in a beachfront massage. There’s a unique beach activity waiting for every individual visiting there.
Location: Sihanoukville
Entry Fees: Free
5. Discover The Charm of Battambang’s Architecture
If you are looking to spend your Valentine’s Day uniquely, exploring the roads and the architecture of Cambodia, head to Battambang. Their French colonial architecture and influence on the streets and the markets make it a must-visit spot for tourists. A walk through the city with your partner offers a glimpse into Cambodia’s past, with charming buildings, quaint cafes, and art galleries lining the streets. Also, the city has a relaxed vibe to it, which further explains why it is such a popular spot for tourists, especially couples that want to spend some time in front of the riverside.
Location: Battambang
Entry Fees: Free
6. Experience A Cambodian Cooking Class Together
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One of the most engaging activities that you can do as a couple in Cambodia on Valentine’s Day is learning how to cook local and authentic dishes together. This is an activity that is quite popular across Southeast Asia where you can sign up for a cooking class and truly immerse yourself in the activity. Taking a Cambodian cooking class on Valentine’s Day is a fun yet resourceful way to spend your day with your partner. Some of the classes even start at the local market where you get to pick out the fresh ingredients that you will cook with.
Location: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, or Battambang
Entry Fees: $20 – $50
7. Visit The Phnom Kulen National Park
Nothing screams adventure and fun better than a wildlife safari inside a national park. When you are in Cambodia, head to Phnom Kulen National Park. The park is home to stunning waterfalls, ancient temples, and the famous “River of a Thousand Lingas,” where you can see intricate carvings on the riverbed. If safaris aren’t your thing but the adventure is, you can also opt for hiking experiences through the lush jungle, which adds to the charm of the experience. Some of the waterfalls even have a natural pool at the base, which makes for a great spot for you and your partner to take a dip in.
Location: Siem Reap Province
Entry Fees: $20
8. Shop For Handicrafts At The Artisans Angkor
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Shopping is a great couple’s activity that the two of you can indulge in, especially when you are in a foreign country as diverse as Cambodia. One of the best spots for buying handicrafts in Cambodia, especially in Siem Reap is at Artisans Angkor. This is a social enterprise that allows you to watch skilled artisans at work, creating intricate silk products, stone carvings, and other handicrafts. So, if you are planning to get your partner something unique yet memorable, you can always start Valentine’s Day shopping there. There are several gifting options including handmade jewellery, silk scarves, or home décor.
Location: Chantiers-Ecoles Stung Thmey, Street, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia
Entry Fees: Free
9. Enjoy A Traditional Khmer Massage
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Valentine’s Day can be a great time for you and your partner to unwind and treat yourself to a self-care session. You can do so by booking a traditional Khmer massage session at any of the major cities across Cambodia like Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. These massages focus on acupressure techniques to relieve tension and promote overall well-being. Many spas in Cambodia offer couples’ packages, allowing you to enjoy a soothing massage side by side, making your Valentine’s Day something you remember and cherish for a long time.
Location: Various spas in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh
Entry Fees: $10 – $50
10. Dine At A Riverside Restaurant In Kampot
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No Valentine’s Day is complete without a beautiful candlelight dinner and when you get to do that at a riverside restaurant in Kampot, the experience is beyond explanation. The views, the peace and the company, all make it well worth the time and the money you spend. Fresh seafood, locally grown Kampot pepper, and French-inspired dishes are highlights of the local dining scene. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with views of the river and Bokor Mountain, providing a romantic backdrop for your evening.
Location: Kampot
Entry Fees: Varies
Spending Valentine’s Day in Cambodia is an experience you have to indulge in at least once in your life. With so many unique experiences and such amazing people you encounter there, the whole day’s experience is elevated and beyond anyone’s imagination. Most of the experiences you share with your partner are quite affordable too. Without any delay, plan your next trip to Cambodia with TripXL around the Valentine’s Day period to create lasting memories.
Cover Photo: allPhoto Bangkok / Pexels