The Kingdom of Cambodia – a Southeast Asian gem that enchants visitors with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat to the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, it offers a captivating blend of ancient wonders and modern delights. Cambodia is best travelled, as an extension to a trip to Vietnam, or as the popular backpacker trail, that covers Vietnam – Cambodia – Laos. 

It’s not surprising to see, that Indian travelers find Cambodia particularly alluring for its affordability, warm hospitality, and shared spiritual heritage. The vibrant street food scene, idyllic beaches, and verdant landscapes beckon adventurers seeking both relaxation and exploration. Irrespective of what you are seeking as a traveller, Cambodia promises an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and enlightenment.

The recent launch of direct flights between India and Cambodia, are indications that Cambodia has gained immense popularity with Indian travellers, and there are travellers interested in travelling and experiencing Cambodia on an immersive trip.

Having said that, here are the Top Things to do in Cambodia, that should definitely find a place on your 7 Day Cambodia Itinerary-

Explore Angkor Wat

It goes without saying that, visiting Angkor Wat is the Best Thing to do in Cambodia. Witness the sunrise over the iconic temple complex of Angkor Wat, then spend days wandering through the intricately carved temples of Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and more. Don’t miss the serene atmosphere of lesser-known temples like Banteay Srei and Preah Khan.

If you’ve got time, I would recommend you to take the 3 day Angkor Wat pass, and explore the Angkor Wat complex, at your own pace. After all, its a once in a lifetime destination, and you don’t want to rush through.

Discover Phnom Penh

Dive into the capital’s tumultuous history at the haunting Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, walk through the lush gardens of the Royal Palace, and pay respects at the towering Independence Monument. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic riverside promenade and explore the vibrant markets like Central Market and Russian Market.

Visit The Floating Villages

This is one of the most interesting things to do in Cambodia, as you get a truly immersive experience. All you have to do is, take a boat trip to the floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake, where you can observe daily life on the water, visit floating markets, and interact with local fishermen and families. You’ll get to marvel at the unique stilted houses and floating gardens, and gain insight into the challenges and resilience of these communities.

Relish Cambodian Cuisine

If you are a foodie like me, you have got to dive into the vibrant flavors of Cambodian cuisine with a cooking class, where you can learn to prepare classic dishes like fish amok, banana flower salad, and beef lok lak. Explore local markets to discover fresh ingredients and spices, and savor street food delights like num pang (Cambodian sandwich) and kuy teav (noodle soup).

The best way to enjoy the Cambodian cuisine, while discovering more about the dishes, is to sign up for an immersive Food Walking Tour in Phnom Penh / Siem Reap. This along with a cooking class, will enhance your understanding about the local Cambodian delicacies.

Explore Kampot and Kep

Discover the picturesque town of Kampot, known for its colonial architecture, riverside promenade, and pepper plantations. Take a sunset cruise along the Kampot River, explore the eerie ruins of Bokor Hill Station, or embark on a kayaking adventure through the tranquil countryside. Don’t miss a visit to Kep, famous for its crab market and scenic seaside views.

Go Trekking or Cycling

Lace up your hiking boots or hop on a bicycle to explore Cambodia’s stunning natural landscapes. Trek through the lush jungles of the Cardamom Mountains, encountering waterfalls, wildlife, and indigenous communities along the way. Cycle through rural villages and rice fields in the countryside surrounding Battambang or Kampot, stopping to sample fresh fruit from roadside stands and chat with friendly locals. There are plenty of cycling tours for you to select from. Be sure to select one, that gives you the most immersive experience, and is value for money. Also, don’t forget to go through the reviews, before signing up for such trips.

Sihanoukville Beaches

Relax on the sun-kissed shores of Sihanoukville’s beaches, such as Otres Beach and Serendipity Beach, where you can swim in turquoise waters, indulge in water sports like snorkeling and kayaking, or simply unwind with a refreshing coconut drink. Not everyone heads to Sihanoukville, so you might find less crowd, which means, you’ll have a better experience.

And if you are heading to Sihanoukville, I’ll recommend that you also explore the nearby Koh Rong Islands, which has been the shooting location for Survivor and King Kong.

Battambang Bamboo Train

Experience the exhilarating ride on Battambang’s bamboo train, a makeshift railway contraption propelled by a small engine, offering a thrilling journey through scenic countryside and rural villages. This is another offbeat thing to do in Cambodia, that should be there on your Cambodia Travel Itinerary.

Cambodian Cultural Performances

To truly appreciate the local Khmer culture, i recommend you to attend the traditional Khmer dance performances in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, where graceful dancers adorned in elaborate costumes narrate ancient myths and legends through intricate movements and gestures, providing a captivating glimpse into Cambodia’s cultural heritage.

Now that you are acquainted with the Best Things to do in Cambodia, its time to pack your bags, and explore the Kingdom of Cambodia.

In conclusion, Cambodia stands as a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences, where ancient wonders blend seamlessly with modern delights. From the majestic temples of Angkor Wat to the bustling streets of Phnom Penh and the serene beaches of Sihanoukville, Cambodia offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, savoring delicious cuisine, or immersing yourself in local traditions, the Kingdom of Cambodia leaves a deep impact on every traveler. With its warm hospitality, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, Cambodia attracts travellers from around the globe to discover its hidden charms and create lasting memories.

PS – Its Visa on Arrival for Indians, but you can also get an eVisa, so please crosscheck with the official website – https://www.evisa.gov.kh/ before travelling to Cambodia.

For any further queries, please reach out to holidays@lykke.travel

About the Author – Arnav Mathur, is an avid traveller and one of the top travel bloggers in India. He is a qualified Civil Engineer, and a well versed Tourism and Hospitality professional, having worked with multiple brands in India and outside. He has travelled quite a bit in South East Asia and Europe, and he is a qualified PADI Dive Master as well. You can follow his journey on different Social Media platforms and on his website theETLRblog.com