While the tourists to Cambodia continue to visit en-masse to the world famous Angkor Wat, there are still plenty of other attractions to explore throughout this beautiful country. From its stunning architecture and untouched jungles to the pristine beaches, any well-planned Cambodia holiday can offer a very memorable time.
Here are a few of the iconic places to visit on the Cambodia travel packages:
Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is legendary temple complex that is located in Siem Reap and the single most important attraction to visit Cambodia. This religious monument was initially a Hindu temple, but converted in the 14th century to a Buddhist temple, and seen as the largest religious structure on the planet. The temple complex in the park is astoundingly unique with plenty of Apsaras carvings and grand architecture to admire. Beyond the famous Angkor Wat temple, there are several other large and popular religious structures, including Bayon, Preah Khan and Ta Prom. A visit to a few of the lesser-known temples is worth the time for those travellers on the Cambodia holiday that are planning the longer stay. A great time to visit is early in the morning to miss the build up of crowds, while the Khmer architecture at the less visited temples also comes with minimal foot traffic.
Koh Rong
One of the most striking islands in the Gulf of Thailand is Koh Rong with its turquoise-green waters and sandy white beaches. Koh Rong is easily comparable to some of the more famous tropical island in Thailand. Beyond the ability to fully relax on the sandy beaches lining this vast island, there is the option to go inland and explore the remote and pristine forest areas that are rich in wildlife with plenty of bird species to see. The island spans a total area of 78 sq km to give the option to get involved in all types of activities, such as trekking, snorkelling and diving. Most of the island is still undeveloped and peaceful to give a great place to get a break from the bustling cities while on the Cambodia tours.
Ream National Park
Ream National Park is located about 26 km from Sihanoukville and spans a total area of nearly 210 sq km with most consisting of natural beauty. Its natural attractions include the tumbling waterfalls, coral reefs, two islands, long stretches of unspoilt beaches and mangrove forests. The national park is great for the bird watcher with 200 plus species to spot which includes a few endangered species such as the Brahminy kite and white-bellied sea eagle. For the travellers on an adventurous Cambodia customized tour there are plenty of outside activities like boat trips and forest trekking.
Kratie
Kratie has a tranquil landscape in north-eastern Cambodia and situated in an area that is dominated by a central marketplace. Plus, there are plenty of striking French colonial buildings which escaped most of the destruction during the Khmer Rouge era. Most of these charming buildings are on the riverfront which gives stunning views of the sunset in the evening. A great site for the tourist to Kratie is the ability to see the freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins that live a short distance from town in the Mekong River.
Koh Ker
Koh Ker is a quite remote and intriguing archaeological site that is located in a jungle-filled region of Cambodia that is lightly populated. It dates back to 928 to 944 AD and has for a long time been left abandoned and neglected which has led to the encroachment of the jungle and wildlife, which does have the benefit of creating a greater sense of mystery. A visit to Koh Ker on the Cambodia private tour is easily reached by travelling from Siem Reap with the journey in the region of 120 km. This archaeological site has nearly 42 structures to explore with one of the finest including the seven-tier Prasat Thom.
Popokvil Waterfall
Popokvil Waterfall is a popular attraction in Bokor National Park, which looks quite striking throughout the rainy season. The two-tiered waterfall is surrounded by rainforest to give a great backdrop. A visit to the fall on a trek in the local area is certain to appeal to those looking for a refreshing swim. Plus, for the lucky few it might be possible to spot one of the endangered animals living in the local area, such as the Malayan sun bear and pig-tailed macaque.
Koh Tonsay
A visit to Koh Tonsay with its main beach stretching for 250 m is perfect for the rustic beachcomber lifestyle. It is easily reached from Kep by taking a 20-minute boat ride. The secluded, untouched and simple nature of the islands makes it possible to feel totally removed from civilization.
This peaceful island has a few open-air restaurants and rustic bungalows that make a perfect destination to relax while strolling on the beach, swimming, or lounging in the hammocks. Koh Tonsay is relatively small with the ability to walk around the island in a single day. With no access to air-conditioning, Wi-Fi or television, a trip to Koh Tonsay can help to create a paradise like experience.
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia and its cultural, economic and political centre. This city has a great riverside promenade and colonial buildings. This is a very lively place to visit on the Cambodia tour packages with its contemporary restaurants and bars, crowded markets and glittering Royal Palace.
Mondulkiri
Mondulkiri is a sparsely populated and wild area of Cambodia that is surrounded by valleys, waterfalls, jungles and rolling hills. This part of the country is home to plenty of the endangered and rare wildlife, such as elephants, water buffalo and leopards. Most of this region is taken up by the Bunong minority group who use the traditional hunt and gather methods for their food. This is a great part of Cambodia that is well worth a visit with the opportunity to visit the traditional villages and get close to elephants in their natural environment. Plus, the wildlife-viewing opportunities, stunning scenery and cool climate make it a perfect destination for hiking and trekking.