Bathed by the blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand, the coastal region stretches from the pepper plantations of Kampot and Kep to the heavenly islands scattered off Sihanoukville.
The Mekong River winds its way through Cambodia and has been an integral part of the country’s culture for thousands of years. Following the mythical River towards the north, you will discover an authentic rural Cambodia where time seems to have no hold.
In Kampong Cham province you will appreciate the colonial heritage but also the Wat Nokor Bachey temple, an amazing fusion of a 19th century pagoda and an ancient temple built at the end of the 12th century, the Wat Moha Leap pagoda, one of the last wooden pagodas in the kingdom, or the Wat Hanchey pagoda and its breathtaking view on the Mekong river.
From Cambodia’s lively and chaotic capital city to surrounding regions, a journey to Phnom Pehn is enriched with modern and historical wonders.
Shadows of the nation’s turbulent past continue to linger, and the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge regime are on full display in memorial sites such as the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek killing fields. As important as it is to visit these sites, it’s also worth dedicating time to explore other heritage attractions.
Located in Cambodia’s far northeast corner on the borders of Laos and Vietnam, this secluded province offers rare perspectives of Indigenous hill tribes. Local hill tribes, collectively known as the Chunchiet people, make up about 70% of this region’s population — while representing only about 1% of the country’s total makeup. Massive deforestation to make way for rubber plantations and other industries has displaced these ethnic tribes, and their traditional way of life is under constant threat.
Growing beyond its legacy as the gateway to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap has come into its own as a city of cultural wonders. Get to know the city itself and explore more of the northwestern province where you’ll uncover hidden temples, immersive homestays, markets and museums.
Once a quiet beach destination, Sihanoukville and its surrounding areas have been transformed by international investors who ushered in lavish casinos and luxury resorts, as well as cruise ships pulling into the active port. Tracing the region’s cultural heritage means seeking out temples and shrines, and meeting locals who can share their traditions.
