Cambodia is a fascinating land rich in history: from mythical temples to lively towns, here is everything you absolutely must see
Un trip to Cambodia it's a dive into the purest authenticity. It is a place where ancient Khmer temples suddenly arise among the rice fields, leaving everyone speechless, and where surprising floating villages give way to paradisiacal beaches worthy of the most fascinating dreams. A trip to Cambodia is a journey between splendid colonial cities and memories of a sometimes painful past, and within the borders of this country with a thousand faces it is possible to be inebriated both by the scents of a lush nature and by the flavors of one of the tastiest cuisines in Asia. Organize a DIY trip to Cambodia it's possible: here's how to get a taste of the best Cambodian views and not miss anything that the land of temples has to offer.
Do-it-yourself trip to Cambodia: useful information
It's possible visit Cambodia accompanied by tour operators and expert guides, but it is not at all complicated to create a do-it-yourself itinerary to explore it freely. Flights to Cambodia stop at the country's two international airports, that of Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap. However, there are no direct flights from Italy, and the best and often cheapest way to reach the heart of Cambodia is to stop in Bangkok, Thailand, and then take a low-cost flight to the country using the of the numerous Asian companies. A second valid option for entering the country is to do so on the bus: There are many cheap transporters that travel between Bangkok and Siem Reap or from Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam to Phnom Penh.
The bus is also one of the most characteristic and economical options for moving within the country: those who want greater comfort and have a higher budget can instead opt for taxis or private drivers. Travelers who choose to visit Cambodia independently should know that entry into the country requires a passport with residual validity of at least 6 months and a visa, which Italian citizens can request directly upon entry into the country, at the border or at the airport of arrival, or book and obtain online before departure (the cost is approximately $30). Cambodia is a generally safe country, and compulsory vaccinations are not necessary to enter its perimeters, but it is always good to consult the official websites before traveling and evaluate the risks together with the relevant health authorities.
Although Cambodia an earthly paradise that is worth visiting throughout the year, the most recommended period climatically speaking is from December to mid-February. From March onwards the temperatures rise, even considerably, and the country is subject in the summer months to the unpredictable phenomenon of monsoons which make it particularly rainy. What about the costs? The Cambodian territory gives low-cost travelers the opportunity to stay on a very tight budget both in terms of accommodation and food, but it also offers more luxurious options for those who don't want to give up comfort and prefer a less adventurous trip.
What to see in Cambodia
In Cambodia, every corner of the country exudes endless charm and those looking for strong emotions and genuine cultures will find what they are looking for here. Between lush rice fields and tropical islands, elegant cities of ancient splendor and fishermen who pass down their traditions from generation to generation, it is truly impossible not to be captivated by this corner of the world. What to visit during a trip to Cambodia it depends a lot on the time available for discovery, but there are some places not to be missed for any reason in the world. The most famous and precious Cambodian treasure is Angkor Wat , a Khmer temple that is among the most impressive religious monuments in the world, located near the city of Siem Reap. King Suryavarman dedicated it to Vishnu, and it is one of the wonders of the world that manages to make the eyes of anyone who finds themselves in his presence shine. Angkor Wat is only the largest of the countless temples of the Angkor area, the ancient Khmer capital, which today hosts several archaeological ruins immersed in an incredibly evocative way in the dense vegetation.
Il Bayon temple it is famous for its stone faces, while Banteay Srei is adorned with refined reliefs and the Koh Ker pyramid is very reminiscent of the Mayan ones. In short, Angkor ensures an immersion in unique sensations, among the strongest ever experienced. To visit this wonder, more than one day should be planned and the best way to visit the area is on board a tuk-tuk, given the considerable distances between one temple and another. There Siem Reap city it is considered the starting point for visiting the temples of Angkor, but it is in itself a destination not to be missed thanks to its liveliness and its offer of restaurants, boutiques and galleries, and the most original markets. In addition to appreciating the crisp climate and gastronomic panorama of Siem Reap, a visit to the nearby Tonlé Sap lake and its floating villages, an attraction halfway between the rare and the surreal, declared a Biosphere Heritage site by UNESCO. The surface of this enormous freshwater lake is in fact dotted with stilt houses and boats full of fruit and vegetables, and is animated by fishermen at work and women intent on trading their artisanal products.
An unmissable glimpse of Cambodian life. The Cambodian capital Phnom Penh is a place suspended between a past with deep roots and a strong push towards the future. Chaotic and colourful, as only Asian cities can be, it offers visitors elegant hotels and clubs overlooking the riverfront that runs through it. Not to be missed in Phnom Penh Royal Palace, a majestic building inside which is located the spectacular Silver Pagoda. Guarded in the pagoda is a treasure of inestimable value, the Emerald Buddha of Cambodia: a statue covered in thousands of diamonds of immeasurable beauty and value. Also in Phnom Penh are the Tuol Sleng prisons, a sad reminder of the darkest periods of Cambodian history, and the National Museum of Cambodia which traces the culture and history of the country through statues, ceramics and other works of art. For a sip of the most authentic Cambodia, it is an obligatory stop Battambang area. An oasis of peace and green terraces, which still retains the French atmosphere of bygone eras and offers moments of absolute relaxation. Small artisan shops and little-frequented temples will allow you to enjoy the most sincere atmosphere.
In Cambodia, between nature and islands
Those who love contact with nature should not miss out on a visit to Mondulkiri, where it is possible to go trekking in the Seima Protected Forest and spot specimens of the local fauna, or take a walk with the elephants at the Elephant Valley Project, for an unforgettable experience. Mondulkiri is also imbued with an ancient spirituality, and its inhabitants are convinced animists: a breath of pure air full of depth awaits those who choose to enter this area of eastern Cambodia. Absolutely adventurous experiences are also possible along the Mekong Discovery Trail, north of the city of Kratie. For the more fearless, this route offers itineraries along the river with boat excursions and overnight stays in typically local stilt houses.
The pretty town of Kratie it is also famous as a starting point for trips out into the waves in search of Mekong dolphins, a particular Asian dolphin. Finally, in the south of Cambodia, Sihanoukville was brought to prominence by its enchanting white sand beaches, where it is impossible not to lie down for long sessions of sunbathing and absolute relaxation.
In short, the perfect spot in Cambodia to unwind after days of exploration divided between thrills and new discoveries. A few kilometers from Sihanoukville, the Ream National Park it is one of the most uncontaminated places in the Cambodian territory, while just off the coast of the city the Southern Cambodian Islands rise from the sea, capable of satisfying anyone with their rich offer of beauty and activities. Among the numerous emerged lands of this area, one cannot fail to mention, for example Koh Rong e Koh Rong Samloem. The first is an island with a hippie and party atmosphere, especially in its village of Koh Tuch, where the jungle reigns supreme and allows you to take refuge in its foliage, distancing yourself from the world. The second is a quieter island also suitable for traveling families thanks to its shallow waters and the resorts located there. In short, a country like Cambodia cannot leave you indifferent: giving it the chance to be discovered in all its nuances allows you to experience a journey that truly has the contours of a dream.
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