14 Places To Visit In Cambodia: Temples, Markets And Landscapes

Cambodia, a Southeast Asian nation steeped in history and culture, offers travellers a unique blend of ancient temples, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes. From the iconic Angkor Wat to the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, Cambodia is a destination that captivates the imagination. The various places to visit in Cambodia showcase the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether exploring ancient ruins or enjoying serene beaches, Cambodia has something for everyone.

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14 Best Places To Visit In Cambodia

Here is the list of top 14 places to visit in Cambodia to elevate the experience on your next vacation here.

1. Angkor Wat, Siem Reap

Angkor Wat's west-facing temple facade with intricate carvings, a great tourist place to visit in Cambodia

Photo: sam garza Wikimedia Commons

Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, is a must-visit destination in Cambodia. Built in the 12th century, this iconic temple complex is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Visitors can explore the extensive grounds, including the surrounding temples like Bayon and Ta Prohm, which are equally captivating. Angkor Wat is undoubtedly one of the most significant tourist places in Cambodia for history enthusiasts.

Major Highlights: Sunrise views, ancient carvings, vast temple

2. Phnom Penh Royal Palace

The renowned Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh, showcasing its ornate architecture

Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons

The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh is a splendid example of Cambodian royal architecture. This grand palace, the residence of the King of Cambodia, is a symbol of the nation’s history and culture. The Silver Pagoda within the palace complex is particularly famous for its floor, covered with over 5,000 silver tiles. The Royal Palace is essential in the list of places for a Cambodia trip for those interested in the country’s royal history.

Major Highlights: Silver Pagoda, Khmer architecture, gardens

3. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Phnom Penh

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh, a site of historical and cultural significance in Cambodia

Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a sombre reminder of Cambodia’s history under the Khmer Rouge regime. Originally a high school, the building was converted into a prison and interrogation centre known as S-21 during the 1970s. Today, it serves as a museum dedicated to educating visitors about this period in Cambodia’s history. The museum’s exhibits include photographs, personal stories, and artefacts that provide an insight into the lives of the victims.

Major Highlights: Historic prison, sobering exhibits, memorial

Suggested Read: National Museum Phnom Penh

4. Sihanoukville Beaches

Serendipity Beach in Sihanoukville, a great tourist place in Cambodia, known for its sandy shores and views

Photo: Kiensvay / Wikimedia Commons

Sihanoukville, located on the southern coast of Cambodia, is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. The white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters make it a popular destination for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Cambodia. From the bustling Ochheuteal Beach to the quieter Otres Beach, there’s something for every type of beachgoer. This coastal city is a must-visit place in Cambodia for beach lovers.

Major Highlights: White sand, water sports, beach bars

5. Kampot And Bokor National Park

Melastoma malabathricum flower, a favourite feature of the Bokor National Park, common in Cambodia’s natural areas

Photo: Mx. Granger / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Kampot, a charming riverside town, is famous for its colonial architecture and pepper plantations. Nearby, Bokor National Park offers stunning views, cool mountain air, and the eerie ruins of the French hill station. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including gibbons and hornbills. Kampot and Bokor National Park are perfect for those looking to escape the city and enjoy the natural beauty and history of Cambodia. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Kampot.

Major Highlights: Colonial ruins, waterfalls, misty hills

Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Cambodia

6. Preah Vihear Temple

Preah Vihear Temple is a beautiful place to visit in Cambodia, perched on a cliff, offering panoramic views

Photo: Tetsuya Kitahata/ Wikimedia Commons

Perched on a mountaintop near the Thai border, Preah Vihear Temple is one of Cambodia’s most spectacular ancient sites. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views, the temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset. Despite its remote location, Preah Vihear is one of the popular places to visit in Cambodia for those interested in history, architecture, and panoramic vistas.

Major Highlights: Cliffside shrine, panoramic views, UNESCO site

7. Battambang

View of vibrant colonial-era townhouses in Battambang, reflecting historical architecture

Photo: Pierrevang3/ Wikimedia Commons

Battambang, Cambodia’s second-largest city, is known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture and vibrant arts scene. The city’s rural surroundings are home to ancient temples, including Wat Ek Phnom and Phnom Banan, as well as the famous Bamboo Train, a unique and adventurous way to explore the countryside. Battambang is also known for its cultural performances, particularly the Phare Ponleu Selpak Circus, which combines theatre, music, and acrobatics.

Major Highlights: Bamboo train, art scene, colonial charm

8. Koh Ker

Ancient stone temple ruins surrounded by dense forest at Koh Ker, Cambodia

Photo: PsamatheM / Wikimedia Commons

Koh Ker, once the capital of the Khmer Empire, is an archaeological site located in the jungles of northern Cambodia. The site is dominated by Prasat Thom, a seven-tiered pyramid temple that rises dramatically above the surrounding forest. The site contains numerous other temples, each with its own unique characteristics and carvings. For those interested in archaeology and history, Koh Ker in Cambodia offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Major Highlights: Remote pyramidal temple, jungle setting

9. Kratie And The Mekong River Dolphins

Mekong River dolphins, a rare and endangered species in Cambodia for wildlife enthusiasts to witness

Photo: Claudia 14 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Kratie is a small town on the banks of the Mekong River, known for its picturesque sunsets and the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. A boat trip on the Mekong offers the chance to see these endangered dolphins in their natural habitat. Kratie is a great tourist attraction in Cambodia for nature lovers and those looking to experience the slower pace of rural life along the Mekong.

Major Highlights: Irrawaddy dolphins, river cruises, sunsets

Suggested Read: Cambodia Beaches

10. Ratanakiri

View of the traditional wooden houses on stilts in a rural village in Ratanakiri, Cambodia

Photo: Jensre / Wikimedia Commons

Ratanakiri, located in northeastern Cambodia, is a region known for its rugged landscapes, waterfalls, and indigenous cultures. Visitors can explore the Virachey National Park, visit the Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake, or learn about the traditional practices of the local tribes. Ratanakiri is a remote place to visit in Cambodia that offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure and a deeper connection with nature and local cultures.

Major Highlights: Volcanic lakes, jungle treks, ethnic villages

11. Prasat Preah Khan Of Kampong Svay

Expansive temple ruins hidden in forest, featuring ancient stone carvings and overgrown pathways.

Photo: Brijender Dua / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Hidden in the remote countryside, Prasat Preah Khan of Kampong Svay is Cambodia’s largest Angkorian temple complex, yet is rarely explored by visitors. Its ancient towers, elaborate carvings, and sprawling enclosures speak to royal power and religious devotion from the 11th and 12th centuries. This atmospheric site, once a center for iron production and a royal residence, offers a tranquil, mysterious setting amid dense greenery and wildlife. With haunting ruins, intricate stone art, and a sense of splendid isolation, visiting Prasat Preah Khan feels like stepping back into an era of Khmer grandeur.

Major Highlights: Vast ruins, forested site, ancient history

Suggested Read: Top Cambodia Temples

12. Botum Sakor National Park

Coastal park with mangroves, rare wildlife, and eco-tourism trails in Cambodia’s southwest.

Photo: Mani Kumar Kundurthi / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Botum Sakor National Park sprawls over 1,700 square kilometers of untamed wilderness in southwest Cambodia, making it the country’s largest national park. Jungle trails wind through mangrove forests, river estuaries, and bamboo thickets, sheltering rare fauna like lorises, elephants, and the elusive fishing cat. Adventurers can join guided eco-tours, kayak through pristine creeks, or even stay in sustainable lodges bordering the forest. Whether spotting exotic birdlife, listening to gibbons in the dawn, or simply enjoying the untouched landscapes, Botum Sakor promises authentic encounters. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Cambodia with kids.

Major Highlights: Wildlife sanctuary, mangroves, eco-adventures

13. Bou Sra Waterfall

Dramatic multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by forest, popular for scenic views and local picnics, one of the best places to visit in Cambodia.

Photo: Mahesh S / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Cascading in two spectacular tiers near Sen Monorom in Mondulkiri, Bou Sra Waterfall is one of the most celebrated places to visit in Cambodia with family. Its dramatic flow tumbles into wide pools, perfect for cooling swims and riverside picnics. Surrounded by lush forest, Bou Sra radiates tranquility and is beloved by both locals and travellers for its easy access and timeless charm. During the rainy season, its roar intensifies and rainbows often shimmer in the mist. Cultural festivities sometimes take place here, with local people sharing stories, music, and traditional flavours.

Major Highlights: Multi-tiered cascade, forest trails, picnic spots

Suggested Read: Discover Waterfalls In Cambodia

14. Kbal Spean

Sacred riverbed site with intricate stone carvings, accessed via a lush jungle trek, one of the best places to visit in Cambodia.

Photo: Sasi Kumar S / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Known as the “River of a Thousand Lingas,” Kbal Spean is a sacred archaeological site nestled deep in the forest north of Angkor. After a scenic hike, visitors discover ancient carvings of Hindu deities and lingas etched into the rocky riverbed and waterfalls. The gently flowing stream is surrounded by lush forest, creating a peaceful retreat and a unique blend of art, spirituality, and nature. Kbal Spean’s mystical aura and intricate rock art, dating back centuries, make it an inspiring and photogenic destination. This, one of the best places to visit in Cambodia for couples, makes it Cambodia’s lesser-known wonders and quiet spiritual beauty.

Major Highlights: Riverbed carvings, jungle hike, sacred site

The places to visit in Cambodia offer an extraordinary mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the majestic Angkor Wat to the tranquil beaches of Sihanoukville, Cambodia is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences. Whether exploring ancient temples, enjoying vibrant city life, or immersing in nature, there is something for every traveller. Start planning your Cambodian adventure now, and let TripXL assist you in making it a memorable journey.

Cover Photo: Manfred Werner / Wikimedia Commons

Top 14 Places To Visit In Cambodia: Your Guide To The Must -Visit Wonders