Must-see temples, landmarks, natural wonders and cultural sites across the Kingdom
Cambodia is packed with world-class attractions — from the monumental temples of Angkor to royal palaces, sacred mountains, floating villages, pristine islands and remote waterfalls. Below is a detailed guide to the highlights every visitor should know about, including what to see, practical tips and approximate fees.
The largest religious monument in the world and Cambodia’s national symbol. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, it later became a Buddhist site. The vast complex is renowned for its perfect symmetry, five central towers, bas-relief galleries and the famous sunrise view reflected in the northern pond.
Angkor Thom was the last great capital of the Khmer Empire. At its centre stands the Bayon, famous for its dozens of serene stone faces looking out from the towers. Nearby are the Terrace of the Elephants, Terrace of the Leper King, Baphuon and the South Gate with its avenue of gods and demons.
Often called the “Jungle Temple,” Ta Prohm was left partly unrestored so that enormous silk-cotton and fig trees still grow through the walls and courtyards. It is one of the most atmospheric sites in the park and was used as a filming location for Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.
A 10th-century temple about 25–30 km from the main Angkor complex, built from pink sandstone and celebrated for its extraordinarily fine carvings of female deities, floral motifs and Hindu mythology. Often described as the “jewel of Khmer art.”
A spectacular UNESCO World Heritage temple perched on a cliff in the Dangrek Mountains near the northern border. The long processional path and the dramatic setting overlooking the plains make it one of Cambodia’s most impressive single temples.
A remote 10th-century capital north-east of Siem Reap, known for the stepped pyramid of Prasat Thom and a cluster of temples in a forest setting. Less crowded than Angkor and ideal for a day trip.
A largely unrestored 12th-century temple engulfed by jungle, similar in style to Angkor Wat but far more overgrown. Wooden walkways allow safe exploration of the collapsed galleries and courtyards.
A UNESCO-listed pre-Angkorian site of brick temples from the Chenla period (7th–8th centuries), set in forest near Kampong Thom. One of the oldest temple complexes in the country.
The official residence of the King of Cambodia and a complex of gilded throne halls, gardens and the Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo), whose floor is covered with silver tiles and which houses important Buddhist treasures including an emerald Buddha.
The leading collection of Khmer art, from prehistoric and pre-Angkorian pieces to the classical Angkor period and beyond. The sandstone sculptures and bronze works are among the finest in Southeast Asia.
Tuol Sleng, a former school turned Khmer Rouge prison, is now a genocide museum. Choeung Ek is the best-known Killing Fields site. Together they form an essential, sobering introduction to Cambodia’s recent history.
Wat Phnom is the hilltop temple that gave the city its name. The Central Market (Phsar Thmei) is an Art Deco landmark for shopping, while the riverside promenade along Sisowath Quay is ideal for an evening stroll and sunset views over the Tonlé Sap and Mekong.
Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake expands dramatically in the wet season. Floating and stilted villages around the lake (including areas near Kampong Phluk and Kampong Khleang) offer a glimpse of life on the water, fishing culture and flooded forests.
Cambodia’s best-known islands, with white-sand beaches, clear water, snorkelling, diving and a range of stays from backpacker bungalows to higher-end resorts. Reached by ferry from Sihanoukville.
Kep is famous for fresh crab with Kampot pepper and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. A short boat ride reaches Rabbit Island, with simple beach huts and clear water.
Notable falls and nature sites include Bousra Waterfall (Mondulkiri, ~US$2), Kbal Chhay (near Sihanoukville, ~US$1), Ka Chanh and Ka Tieng (Ratanakiri, ~US$1), and Yeak Laom Lake (volcanic crater lake, ~US$1). Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri also offer trekking, wildlife and cooler highland air.
Phnom Kulen is a sacred mountain with waterfalls, riverbed carvings and a reclining Buddha; entrance is about US$20. Kbal Spean (“River of a Thousand Lingas”) features Hindu carvings in the riverbed and is often combined with Banteay Srei (about US$5).
Full ticket list: Entrance & Ticket Fees. Destination guides: Places to Go. Guide rates: Tour Guide Fees.