Major Tourist Destinations of Cambodia

The second largest city in Cambodia, Battambang is located on a rich and fertile plain, which provides much of the rice and other important crops for the country. The Sangker River cuts through the town center, which is filled with colonial and shophouse architecture. The region has numerous Angkorian and post-Angkorian sites. Some of the most interesting are the Wat Ek and Phnom Banon (both 11th century - Suryavarman I).

Cambodia's only deep-sea port is located here and considerable international aid has been spent to improve the infrastructure in the province. Although tourism has increased over the past few years, the lovely beaches of Sihanoukville are some of the most unspoiled in all of Southeast Asia. It is a perfect tropical getaway, with facilities for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving or just sun-bathing. Boat trips are also available to many of the nearby islands. There are several hotels and local restaurants serving fresh, delicious seafood on the beach.

The capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia is located at the confluence of three rivers: the Mekong, the Bassac and the Tonle Sap. Once considered the loveliest city of Indochina, the city still maintains considerable charm. There is plenty to see in this small colonial capital. The many sidewalk cafes, established along the riverfront, invite the visitor for a rest. In addition to such tourist sites as the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, the National Museum and Wat Phnom, there are several markets selling silk, silver, gems and antiques. Also worthwhile is a visit to the notorious "Killing Fields" and Tuol Sleng Museum, which chronicle the unfortunate years under the brutal rule of the Khmer Rouge.

A one-day excursion from Phnom Penh allows the traveler to visit some of the major archeological sites of Cambodia. Ta Phrom temple (12th century) can be found near Tonle Bati Lake and the fine Angkorian temple of Suryagiri (11th century) is located on top of Phnom Chisor mountain. Other interesting stops include Angkor Borei, the first capital of the Pre-Angkorian Kingdom of Chenla, Phnom Da temple (6th century) and Asram Maharosei, a unique Indian-style sandstone temple.  These excursions also give the visitor a chance to discover the Khmer countryside with its traditional villages and handicrafts.

Kampot is a pleasant town on the banks of the lovely Kamchay River. The nearby seaside resort of Kep (formerly known as Kep-sur-Mer) is located 30 km from Kampot. This beautiful coastal area was once the favorite holiday spot for Cambodia's French-influenced elite during the turn of the century. The town is once again developing a reputation as an appealing retreat with quiet beaches and wonderful seafood. Kampot is also a base for excursions to Bokor, in the Elephant Mountains. The National Park is famous for the beauty of its forests and waterfalls and from the long abandoned hill resort of Bokor, the visitor can enjoy an amazing view of the Gulf of Siam.

Home of Angkor Wat, one of the greatest religious monuments in the world, Siem Reap is a charming tree-lined city with a narrow river flowing through the center of town.  While most visitors spend their time exploring the ancient temple ruins, there are plenty of other diversions in town. The Tonle Sap Lake (and river), considered the heart of Cambodia, is located near here and boat tours offer visitors a glimpse into the traditional Khmer way of life. Floating villages, sunset cruises and tours of the bird reserve of Prek Tuol are all worthwhile.

Kompong Thom is a small town located on the banks of the Stung Sen River. It is the base for excursions to the archaeological site of Sambor Prei Kuk. Located 35 km from the city, the ancient capital of Chenla still contains 100 temples from the pre-Angkorian period (7th century) which are surrounded by lush forest.

This lively port on the banks of the Mekong has some good examples of colonial architecture, as well as some interesting temples (including Wat Nokhor and Wat Kohear Nokor). Outside the provincial capital, on the other bank of the Mekong River, is Chhup, a rubber plantation that was first established in the region by the French tire maker Michelin.

There are over 20 different ethnic groups, each with their own distinct language, culture, traditions and handicrafts, in these two provinces. These highland people still practice a way of life untouched by progress. Various birds, elephant and tigers living in the dense jungle are protected from hunting. Trekking through the forests to the waterfalls, lakes and villages provide an alternative insight.