Top 20 Tourist Places in Cambodia

1. Angkor Wat – The Crown Jewel of Cambodia

Angkor Wat, located in Siem Reap, is arguably Cambodia’s most famous landmark and one of the largest religious monuments in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site was built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, later transforming into a Buddhist temple.

The complex spans over 162 hectares and features intricate bas-reliefs, massive stone towers, and an iconic central spire that symbolizes Mount Meru, the center of the Hindu universe. The bas-reliefs depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as historical battles and daily life during the Khmer Empire.

Visitors can explore the terraces, galleries, and courtyards, witnessing the impressive Khmer architectural mastery and the harmonious symmetry that has fascinated travelers for centuries. Sunrise visits at Angkor Wat are particularly popular, as the reflection of the temple on the surrounding moat creates a breathtaking scene. Beyond its architecture, Angkor Wat is a spiritual hub, attracting both tourists and pilgrims who come to admire the sacred ambiance and profound historical significance.

2. Angkor Thom – The Last Capital of the Khmer Empire

Angkor Thom, meaning “Great City,” was the last capital of the Khmer Empire, built by King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century. The fortified city covers 9 square kilometers and is surrounded by massive walls and a moat, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Khmer civilization.

The most iconic feature is the Bayon Temple, located at the center of Angkor Thom. Bayon is famous for its 216 gigantic stone faces that smile enigmatically in all directions. The temple also contains intricate bas-reliefs depicting historical events, everyday life, and battles.

Visitors entering through the city gates are greeted by towering stone statues of gods and demons lining the causeways, symbolizing the epic battle between good and evil. Angkor Thom is not just a temple complex but a testament to urban planning, religious devotion, and architectural innovation. Exploring the city allows travelers to connect with history, wander through jungle-clad ruins, and marvel at the fusion of spirituality and artistry.

3. Ta Prohm – Temple of the Trees

Ta Prohm is one of Angkor’s most photogenic temples, famous for being engulfed by massive banyan and silk-cotton trees. Built by King Jayavarman VII as a Buddhist monastery and university, Ta Prohm was intentionally left largely unrestored to preserve the dramatic interplay between nature and architecture.

The temple’s walls are intertwined with tree roots, and stone corridors crumble amidst lush greenery, creating a mysterious and cinematic ambiance. Ta Prohm gained international fame after being featured in the movie Tomb Raider, and its untouched charm attracts photographers, historians, and adventure seekers alike.

Visitors can wander through narrow passageways, explore hidden courtyards, and admire the intricate carvings partially swallowed by nature. The site offers a unique experience of walking through history, where the forces of human creativity and nature’s power coexist in awe-inspiring harmony.

4. Phnom Penh – Cambodia’s Bustling Capital

Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, sits at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonlé Sap, and Bassac rivers. The city blends colonial architecture, Buddhist pagodas, and modern developments, offering a dynamic travel experience.

Visitors can stroll along the riverside promenade, explore lively markets, and enjoy local cuisine ranging from street food to upscale restaurants. Phnom Penh is also a cultural and historical hub, housing numerous museums, galleries, and traditional performance venues.

The city’s history is both rich and tragic. It witnessed the rise and fall of the Khmer Rouge, and visitors can explore memorial sites that commemorate this period. Despite this, Phnom Penh exudes resilience, offering a blend of history, modernity, and Cambodian charm that appeals to diverse travelers.

5. Royal Palace (Phnom Penh) – Majestic Residence of the King

The Royal Palace is an opulent complex in the heart of Phnom Penh, serving as the residence of the King of Cambodia. Built in the 1860s during French colonial times, the palace blends traditional Khmer architecture with French influences.

The complex includes the Throne Hall, Moonlight Pavilion, and lush gardens. The buildings are adorned with gilded spires, intricate carvings, and colorful roofs, showcasing Cambodia’s royal heritage and architectural grandeur.

Visitors can walk through the palace grounds, admire ceremonial halls, and witness the beauty of traditional Khmer design. The palace also serves as a venue for official ceremonies and state functions, making it an important cultural and political symbol.

6. Silver Pagoda – Jewel of the Royal Palace

Located within the Royal Palace complex, the Silver Pagoda is named after its floor, which contains over 5,000 silver tiles. The pagoda houses numerous national treasures, including a life-sized gold Buddha encrusted with 9,584 diamonds and a silver Buddha.

The interior walls feature murals depicting the life of the Buddha, Khmer mythology, and historical events. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship, symbolism, and spiritual ambiance while learning about Cambodia’s Buddhist traditions. The Silver Pagoda remains a place of worship, reflecting the country’s religious devotion alongside its artistic heritage.

7. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) – A Sobering Historical Site

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, located in Phnom Penh, was a former high school turned into Security Prison 21 (S-21) during the Khmer Rouge regime. The museum documents the atrocities committed between 1975 and 1979, serving as a stark reminder of Cambodia’s dark past.

Visitors can explore prison cells, torture chambers, and photographic exhibits of victims. Detailed historical information provides insight into the Khmer Rouge’s rise to power, human rights abuses, and the resilience of survivors. Visiting Tuol Sleng is a deeply moving experience, emphasizing the importance of remembrance, education, and human rights advocacy.

8. Killing Fields of Choeung Ek – Memorial of Remembrance

The Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, located just outside Phnom Penh, are a memorial site for the thousands of victims of the Khmer Rouge. Mass graves, a memorial stupa, and informative displays mark the tragic events of Cambodia’s recent history.

Visitors can walk through the grounds, observe personal artifacts recovered from the site, and reflect on the enormity of the atrocities. The site serves as both a historical lesson and a place for contemplation, ensuring the memory of those lost is preserved for future generations.

9. Tonlé Sap Lake – Cambodia’s Lifeline

Tonlé Sap is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and a vital ecological and economic resource for Cambodia. The lake expands and contracts seasonally, creating unique floating ecosystems and supporting biodiversity.

Tonlé Sap is home to floating villages where locals live, fish, and farm on stilts. Visiting these villages offers insight into traditional lifestyles, fishing practices, and community living. Boat tours provide opportunities to observe wetlands, birds, and the daily rhythm of life on the water.

Tonlé Sap represents both the environmental richness and cultural heritage of Cambodia, offering a unique combination of natural beauty and human ingenuity.

10. Kampong Phluk – Floating Village Experience

Kampong Phluk, located on Tonlé Sap Lake, is a remarkable floating village where houses, schools, and markets rest on stilts above the water. The village is accessible by boat, and visitors can witness daily life as residents fish, trade, and navigate the lake using small boats.

The village is especially striking during the wet season when water levels rise, and the community becomes fully afloat. Kampong Phluk provides an intimate look at traditional Cambodian waterway living, photography opportunities, and cultural immersion. Tourists gain an appreciation for the resilience, adaptability, and close-knit lifestyle of this unique lakeside community.

11. Sihanoukville – Cambodia’s Coastal Playground

Sihanoukville, also known as Kampong Som, is Cambodia’s premier beach city, located on the Gulf of Thailand. The city is famous for its sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife. It has become a hub for both domestic tourists and international travelers seeking sun, sea, and relaxation.

The beaches range from bustling city shores to more secluded stretches, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Otres Beach, Serendipity Beach, and Independence Beach are particularly popular, each offering a unique vibe—Otres being more laid-back, while Serendipity is lively and full of restaurants and bars.

Sihanoukville also serves as a gateway to nearby islands like Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, making it a strategic base for island-hopping adventures. The city’s seafood scene is exceptional, with fresh catches cooked in traditional Khmer or international styles.

Beyond beaches, visitors can explore the Ream National Park nearby, which offers mangroves, wildlife, and nature trails. Sihanoukville’s rapid development has brought casinos and resorts, but there are still pockets of authentic Cambodian coastal life, particularly in local fishing villages.

Whether you’re seeking a beach holiday, island excursions, or cultural experiences, Sihanoukville blends natural beauty, adventure, and leisure in a tropical setting.

12. Koh Rong – Paradise Island

Koh Rong is a tropical island off Cambodia’s southwestern coast, renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It is perfect for travelers seeking a serene and less-commercialized island escape.

The island offers a variety of activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and jungle trekking. Long Beach is the most famous stretch of sand, ideal for sunbathing and swimming, while secluded beaches provide tranquility for those wanting to escape the crowds.

Koh Rong’s interior features dense forests and small local villages, giving visitors a glimpse into traditional island life. Bungalows and eco-lodges provide accommodation options ranging from rustic to luxurious, catering to backpackers and luxury travelers alike.

Sunset views on Koh Rong are breathtaking, with golden skies reflecting off calm waters. The island also has a growing nightlife scene with beach bars and fire shows. Its combination of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation makes Koh Rong one of Cambodia’s most sought-after destinations.

13. Koh Rong Samloem – Tranquil Island Retreat

Located near Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem is quieter and less developed, offering a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking solitude. The island is characterized by turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical vegetation.

The main beaches—Saracen Bay, M’Pai Bay, and Lazy Beach—provide opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Unlike Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem has limited nightlife, which preserves its serene atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy kayaking through calm waters, exploring mangroves, or hiking through forested trails to hidden viewpoints. The local villages showcase traditional fishing life, allowing cultural immersion.

Koh Rong Samloem is ideal for honeymooners, families, and travelers seeking a rejuvenating experience in nature, away from crowds. Its combination of stunning beaches, calm seas, and eco-conscious accommodations make it a tranquil paradise.

14. Battambang – Colonial Charm and Countryside

Battambang is Cambodia’s second-largest city, known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture, lively arts scene, and rural countryside. The city is surrounded by rice paddies, bamboo forests, and limestone mountains, offering a scenic backdrop.

The city itself has vibrant street markets, charming cafés, and art galleries showcasing local talent. Battambang is famous for its cultural initiatives, including the Phare Ponleu Selpak circus school, which combines performing arts with social development.

A highlight of Battambang is the Bamboo Train (Norry), a unique local experience where small bamboo platforms glide along abandoned railway tracks through the countryside. Visitors can also explore nearby temples, caves, and villages to witness traditional Cambodian life.

Battambang’s blend of history, arts, and rural landscapes makes it an authentic and immersive travel destination.

15. Phnom Sampeau – Hilltop Temples and Caves

Located near Battambang, Phnom Sampeau is a hill rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. The site features Buddhist temples, sacred caves, and memorials related to Cambodia’s tragic past.

Visitors can hike up the hill to explore caves with intricate carvings, stalactites, and impressive views of the surrounding countryside. The Killing Caves serve as a poignant reminder of Khmer Rouge atrocities, while Buddhist shrines offer spiritual insight.

The hilltop provides panoramic views of rice paddies, rivers, and mountains, making it ideal for photography and sightseeing. A resident population of bats exits the caves at dusk, creating a spectacular natural phenomenon for visitors.

Phnom Sampeau combines natural beauty, spiritual significance, and historical remembrance, making it a must-visit near Battambang.

16. Bokor Hill Station – Misty Colonial Retreat

Bokor Hill Station, located in the mountains of Kampot province, is an abandoned French colonial hill station shrouded in mist and mystery. Constructed in the 1920s, it was intended as a resort and refuge from the tropical heat of the lowlands.

Visitors can explore crumbling mansions, an old church, and a casino, all overlooking dramatic cliffs and the Gulf of Thailand. The area’s cool climate, foggy atmosphere, and breathtaking views attract photographers and adventure seekers alike.

The surrounding Bokor National Park offers hiking, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Despite its abandoned nature, the site has been partially restored, providing a glimpse into Cambodia’s colonial past while offering a unique off-the-beaten-path experience.

17. Kep – Coastal Tranquility and Seafood

Kep is a small coastal town renowned for its quiet beaches, fresh seafood, and colonial charm. Once a popular resort during the French colonial era, Kep offers a relaxed atmosphere compared to busier Cambodian coastal towns.

The town is famous for its crab market, where visitors can enjoy freshly cooked seafood along the shoreline. Nearby, Kep National Park offers forested trails with stunning views over the coast and nearby islands.

Kep’s beaches, such as Kep Beach and Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay), provide peaceful sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling opportunities. The town’s combination of culinary delights, coastal scenery, and natural exploration makes it a charming getaway.

18. Kampot – Riverside Town and Pepper Plantations

Kampot is a scenic riverside town in southern Cambodia, famous for its pepper plantations, colonial architecture, and relaxed lifestyle. The town lies along the Kampot River, providing picturesque riverfront views.

Visitors can tour pepper farms, exploring the cultivation of the world-renowned Kampot pepper. Colonial-era buildings, cafes, and riverside bars add to the town’s charm. The nearby Bokor Mountains and limestone cliffs offer hiking, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.

Kampot’s combination of culinary, historical, and natural attractions makes it ideal for travelers seeking a mix of culture and relaxation. The town is often paired with nearby Kep for a comprehensive coastal and countryside experience.

19. Preah Vihear Temple – Cliff-Top Khmer Sanctuary

Preah Vihear is an ancient Khmer temple perched atop a cliff on the Cambodia-Thailand border. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it dates back to the 9th–12th centuries and is dedicated to Shiva.

The temple’s location provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding plains, and its architecture reflects classic Khmer artistry with intricate carvings, staircases, and sanctuaries. Access involves climbing hundreds of steps, but the dramatic scenery and historical significance make it worthwhile.

Preah Vihear is both a spiritual and historical destination, symbolizing Cambodia’s cultural heritage and architectural brilliance.

20. Cardamom Mountains – Wilderness and Adventure

The Cardamom Mountains, located in southwest Cambodia, are a vast rainforest and biodiversity hotspot. This remote region is home to rare wildlife such as elephants, tigers, gibbons, and hornbills, making it a paradise for eco-tourism and adventure travelers.

Visitors can engage in trekking, river kayaking, and jungle exploration while staying in eco-lodges or local villages. The mountains are dotted with waterfalls, caves, and indigenous communities, offering both natural beauty and cultural immersion.

The Cardamoms represent one of Southeast Asia’s last great rainforests, combining pristine wilderness, wildlife, and adventure opportunities for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.