Cambodia Travel Guide
Cambodia is a country of ancient temples, rich culture, and inspiring history. Famous for the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, Cambodia offers a unique experience for travellers seeking adventure and insight into a deep and storied past.
With a population of over 16 million people, Cambodia is home to a diverse mix of ethnicities, and Khmer is the official language. The capital city, Phnom Penh, is a bustling hub of culture and history, while Siem Reap provides access to the iconic Angkor Archaeological Park.
Emerging from its troubled past, Cambodia has become a resilient and welcoming country, offering visitors everything from serene river cruises along the Mekong to exploring lush jungles and discovering its vibrant local traditions.
We've outlined some general information that may be helpful to you when planning your next holiday to Cambodia.
Time Zone & Currency
Cambodia is seven hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) throughout the year. The currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), although US dollars are widely accepted.
Weather in Cambodia
Cambodia has a tropical climate with a rainy season (May to October) and a dry season (November to April). Temperatures remain consistently warm throughout the year, averaging between 25°C to 35°C.
Reading For Your Trip To Cambodia
The Killing Fields by Christopher Hudson
The Quiet American by Graham Greene
The Golden Age of Angkor by Vann Phan
Best time to go to Cambodia
Cambodia is a year-round destination, but November to February is the ideal time to visit, with cooler and drier weather.
Top Tourist Attractions In Cambodia
Food and drink in Cambodia
Cambodian cuisine is a wonderful blend of fresh ingredients, herbs, and influences from neighbouring countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and China. Some must-try dishes include:
- Amok: A traditional Cambodian dish made with fish, chicken, or tofu, cooked in a rich coconut milk and curry paste sauce, often steamed in banana leaves.
- Bai Sach Chrouk: A popular breakfast dish of grilled pork served with rice, often accompanied by pickled vegetables and a fried egg.
- Lok Lak: A stir-fried beef dish typically served with rice and a dipping sauce made from lime, pepper, and salt.
- Nom Banh Chok: A famous Cambodian noodle dish, featuring rice noodles served with a fragrant, herbal fish broth, and topped with fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Khmer Red Curry: A milder version of curry compared to other Southeast Asian varieties, made with beef, chicken, or fish, vegetables, and coconut milk.
Cambodia also offers a wide range of beverages, with Tamarind juice, Sugar Palm juice, and Coconut water being popular choices to quench your thirst. The country is also known for Cambodian beer, with local brands such as Angkor and Cambodia beer.
Cambodia Travel Guide FAQs
Can you give a brief history of Cambodia?
Cambodia has a rich history shaped by its ancient civilisation and struggles for independence. Originally home to the Khmer Empire, which flourished from the 9th to the 15th centuries, Cambodia was renowned for its grand architecture, most notably the iconic temples of Angkor. After the fall of the Khmer Empire, Cambodia was influenced by Thailand and Vietnam, and it faced periods of territorial conflict and foreign domination.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Cambodia became a French protectorate. Following independence from France in 1953, the country struggled with internal instability and political challenges. The Khmer Rouge regime, led by Pol Pot from 1975 to 1979, led to one of the darkest periods in Cambodian history, with an estimated 1.7 million people killed in the genocide. After the fall of the Khmer Rouge, Cambodia slowly recovered, and in 1993, a UN-backed peace agreement led to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.
Today, Cambodia is a resilient and thriving nation, proud of its rich cultural heritage, rapidly growing economy, and the enduring spirit of its people, making it a dynamic and welcoming destination for travellers.
Is Cambodia safe?
The Cambodian people are famed for their welcoming nature and their friendliness. The places included in your itinerary are generally safe, and our guides will always look out for you. However, as with any large or popular destination, opportunists and pickpockets can occasionally be a concern, particularly in busy tourist areas. It’s advisable to stay vigilant and take good care of your personal belongings at all times.
Do I need a holiday visa to Cambodia?
From 1st July 2024, Cambodia has introduced an e-arrival card to streamline the entry process into the country. This digital card replaces the traditional paper immigration form, health declaration, and customs form, providing a convenient all-in-one platform for arrival details. All travellers must complete the e-arrival card within seven days before their arrival. The application form is available on the official website: www.arrival.gov.kh
Useful Links
- For up-to-date information regarding entry into Cambodia please see: www.dfa.ie
- Official Cambodia Tourism Board: www.tourismcambodia.com
