Things to Do in Cambodia

About Cambodia

Cambodia operates on two timelines at once—ancient temples and modern survival, monks at dawn and motorbike chaos by noon. The Mekong cuts through the center. Carries sediment, fish, and commerce south. Start at Angkor Wat if you must, but the country extends far beyond those famous stones. Floating villages shift with monsoon water levels, rising several meters between dry and wet seasons. Markets smell like lemongrass and star anise. The coast has fishing boats, decent beaches, and sapphire water that looks better at distance than up close. The rhythms here move slower. Grandmothers still teach old recipes. Silk weavers work looms the same way their grandparents did, though now they sell to tourists instead of traders. Sunset hits temple stones around 5:30 PM most of the year—turns them orange-gold for maybe twenty minutes. Village children make noise everywhere. Hornbills call from jungle canopy in the northeast provinces, though logging has pushed them back. The people smile often, a resilience that stuck after decades of hardship. Each conversation bridges past and present whether you want it to or not. This isn't great destination. It is complicated, poor in places, and still recovering. But it rewards attention.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Download PassApp for reliable tuk-tuk rides with fixed prices. For longer distances, book Mekong Express or Giant Ibis buses—avoid local buses. Rent motorbikes only if experienced; traffic is chaotic. Always negotiate taxi fares beforehand or use ride-sharing apps in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Money: Cambodia uses both USD and Cambodian riel. Carry small USD bills ($1, $5, $10) as change comes in riel. ATMs dispense USD but charge high fees. Most places accept USD; riel is used for amounts under $1. Always have cash—card acceptance is limited.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes before entering temples and homes. Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees at religious sites. Never point feet toward Buddha statues. Use both hands when giving or receiving items. Avoid public displays of affection. Photography inside temple buildings often requires permission.

Food Safety: Stick to busy street stalls with high turnover and avoid raw vegetables unless at upscale restaurants. Drink bottled or filtered water exclusively. Try amok (coconut curry), lok lak (beef stir-fry), and fresh spring rolls. Skip ice in drinks unless at established restaurants.

When to Visit

Cambodia's tropical climate creates distinct seasons that dramatically affect your experience. The cool, dry season (November-March) offers ideal conditions with temperatures of 68-86°F and minimal rainfall, making it peak season with accommodation prices 40-60% higher. December-February is perfect for temple exploration and outdoor activities, though expect crowds at Angkor Wat. The hot season (April-May) brings sweltering temperatures up to 104°F but fewer tourists and 30% lower prices—ideal for budget travelers who can handle the heat. The rainy season (June-October) transforms the landscape into lush greenery with dramatic afternoon downpours, temperatures of 77-95°F, and the lowest prices (50% off peak rates). September-October sees the heaviest rainfall, but mornings are often clear for sightseeing. Key festivals include Khmer New Year (April 13-15), Pchum Ben honoring ancestors (September-October), and Water Festival celebrating the Mekong's flow reversal (November). Adventure seekers should visit June-August when waterfalls are at their most spectacular. Photography ensoiasts will love the golden light and dramatic skies during rainy season, while temple purists should stick to the cool months for comfortable exploration without weather interruptions.