Cambodia Travel FAQ

The best time is generally November to February, when the weather is cooler and relatively dry — ideal for temple visits and outdoor activities. March to May is hotter (often above 35°C), while June to October is the rainy season. Rain usually comes in short afternoon showers and does not stop travel, but some rural roads and floating-village access can be affected. Peak season (Dec–Jan) means more visitors at Angkor and higher hotel rates.

Many foreign visitors need a visa, while citizens of some ASEAN countries can enter visa-free for short stays (typically 14–30 days). Cambodia also offers an e-Visa for eligible travellers and Visa on Arrival at major airports and land borders. Check the latest requirements on the official site evisa.gov.kh and our Travel Info – Visa page before travelling.

The tourist e-Visa is typically around US$30–36 (including processing). Visa on Arrival is usually US$30 for a tourist visa (cash in clean USD notes) or US$35 for a business visa. Fees can change — always check the official Cambodian immigration / e-Visa information before applying. See also our Entrance & Ticket Fees and Visa pages.

The official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR). The US dollar (USD) is also widely used, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants and for larger purchases. Small change is often given in riel. ATMs that dispense USD are common in cities. Carry a mix of clean USD notes and some riel for markets and local transport.

Cambodia can be a relatively affordable destination. Budget travellers can find hostels, street food and shared transport at low cost. Mid-range hotels, private drivers and good restaurants remain reasonable by regional standards. Luxury resorts, private guides and fine dining are also available. Overall costs depend on your style of travel — from backpacker to high-end.

Popular destinations include:

• Siem Reap & Angkor
• Phnom Penh
• Sihanoukville
• Koh Rong & Koh Rong Sanloem
• Battambang
• Kampot & Kep
• Koh Kong
• Mondulkiri & Ratanakiri
• Preah Vihear

See our full Places to Go guide for details on each destination.

Angkor Wat near Siem Reap is Cambodia’s most famous attraction and one of the world’s most important archaeological and religious sites. The wider Angkor Archaeological Park also includes Bayon, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei and many other temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the symbol of Cambodia.

Angkor Enterprise manages admission to the Angkor Archaeological Park. Approximate prices:

• 1-day pass: US$37
• 3-day pass: US$62
• 7-day pass: US$72

Prices can change — check the current official rate before travelling. Full list: Entrance & Ticket Fees.

For a first trip, 5–7 days is a good starting point (e.g. Siem Reap + Phnom Penh, or Siem Reap + a beach). For a more complete trip covering temples, cities, beaches and countryside, 10–14 days is better. Longer stays allow time for Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri, Kampot/Kep or Koh Kong.

You can visit Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, Tonlé Sap Lake and floating villages, Cambodian cultural shows, night markets, Pub Street, local villages and the countryside. Cooking classes, countryside bike rides and visits to artisan workshops are also popular.

Popular beach and island destinations include Koh Rong, Koh Rong Sanloem, Sihanoukville (Occheuteal, Otres), Kep and Koh Sdach. The islands generally offer clearer water and a more relaxed atmosphere than the mainland beaches.

Cambodia is visited by millions of travellers and many tourist areas are generally safe. Visitors should still take normal precautions: watch belongings in crowded places, be careful with traffic (especially motorbikes), avoid unlicensed guides or overly aggressive touts, and use common sense at night. Stick to reputable transport and accommodation.

Popular Cambodian dishes include:

• Fish Amok (steamed fish curry in banana leaf)
• Beef Lok Lak
• Kuy Teav (noodle soup)
• Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles)
• Bai Sach Chrouk (pork and rice)
• Kampot Pepper Crab
• Samlor Korko (traditional soup)

Don’t miss fresh tropical fruit and strong Cambodian coffee.

Yes. Buses and minivans connect most major tourist destinations, including Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, Kampot, Kep and Sihanoukville. Well-known companies include Giant Ibis, Mekong Express and Virak Buntham. Book reputable operators for better safety and comfort.

Yes. A private car with an English-speaking driver is a popular option, especially for multi-day tours and trips between cities. It offers flexibility for temple circuits, countryside stops and transfers. For Sihanoukville and cruise arrivals, local operators such as cheaptaxicambodia.com can arrange cars and tours.

You can travel by bus or minivan (about 5–6 hours on the modern highway), private car/taxi, or airplane (short domestic flight). A private car is convenient if you want to stop at attractions along the way (e.g. Kampong Thom / Sambor Prei Kuk).

You can use a bus, minivan, private taxi/car, or flight. The same companies and routes operate in both directions. Morning departures are popular so you arrive with time to spare.

Most visitors travel to Sihanoukville first (bus, private car or flight) and then take a ferry or speedboat to Koh Rong. Crossing time is typically 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on the boat. Check return schedules carefully if you have a cruise or onward connection.

Khmer is the official language. English is widely used in hotels, restaurants, tour companies and major tourist destinations. Learning a few Khmer phrases (hello – suas-dei, thank you – aw-koun) is appreciated.

Many people working in tourism speak English, especially in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Kampot and other popular tourist areas. Outside these zones, English is less common, so a translation app or a guide can help.

Wear respectful clothing. At major temples and religious sites it is recommended to cover the shoulders and knees. Lightweight long trousers or a long skirt and a shirt with sleeves work well. Some sites may refuse entry if clothing is too revealing. A light scarf is useful for covering shoulders.

Yes. A one-day Angkor ticket allows you to see many major temples (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom/Bayon, Ta Prohm and more). However, 2–3 days is better if you want to explore the archaeological park more thoroughly and include sites such as Banteay Srei or a sunrise visit without rushing.

You can explore Angkor by tuk-tuk, private car, bicycle or guided tour. A private driver or licensed guide can make it easier to visit several temples efficiently and understand the history. Sunrise at Angkor Wat is popular — start early and expect crowds in peak season.

Tonlé Sap is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and an important part of Cambodia’s environment, culture, fishing industry and local communities. Its water level rises dramatically in the wet season when the Mekong backs up into the lake.

Yes. Several communities around Tonlé Sap are visited by tourists, particularly from Siem Reap (e.g. areas near Kampong Phluk or Kampong Khleang). Conditions and visitor experiences vary by season and location. Choose responsible operators that benefit local communities.

Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city of Cambodia. It sits at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonlé Sap and Bassac rivers and is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country.

Popular attractions include the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Wat Phnom, the Mekong riverside, Central Market, Russian Market and the Phnom Penh riverside promenade. Many visitors also visit Tuol Tleng (S-21) and Choeung Ek for a deeper understanding of recent history.

Yes. Cambodia offers temples, beaches, nature, cultural experiences, wildlife activities and family-friendly hotels and restaurants. Private drivers make logistics easier with children. Some temples involve steps and heat, so plan shorter visits and plenty of water and shade.

Yes. Couples can combine Siem Reap’s temples and luxury hotels, countryside experiences, and Cambodia’s tropical islands and beaches (Koh Rong, Koh Rong Sanloem). Sunset cruises, spa resorts and private dinners are widely available.

Some popular islands include:

• Koh Rong
• Koh Rong Sanloem
• Koh Sdach
• Koh Ta Kiev
• Koh Thmei

Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are the best known for beaches and diving/snorkelling.

It depends on your itinerary. Private cars, buses, minivans, domestic flights, tuk-tuks and boats are all useful depending on the destination. For flexibility and comfort on multi-stop trips, a private car with driver is often the best choice.

Motorbike rental is available in many destinations. Travelers should make sure they are legally permitted to ride (valid licence), wear a helmet, and understand local traffic conditions. Traffic can be chaotic and accident risk is real — many visitors prefer tuk-tuks or cars instead.

Consider Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri, the Cardamom Mountains, Bokor National Park, Koh Kong, Kep and Cambodia’s islands. These areas offer waterfalls, forests, wildlife, trekking and cooler highland climates (especially Mondulkiri).

Visitors can experience Khmer food, traditional dance (Apsara), local markets, Buddhist temples, rural villages, handicrafts, festivals and Cambodian history — from the Angkor era to the modern period. Cooking classes and artisan workshops are excellent ways to engage with local culture.

Popular souvenirs include Cambodian silk, handicrafts, traditional scarves (krama), handmade products, Kampot pepper, coffee, silverwork and Cambodian artwork. Buy from reputable shops or social enterprises when possible to support local producers.

Kampot is particularly known for Kampot Pepper (a world-famous pepper with protected status), riverside scenery, countryside, caves and nearby Bokor Mountain / Bokor National Park. It has a relaxed atmosphere popular with longer-stay visitors.

Kep is famous for its seafood, especially crab with Kampot pepper, coastal scenery and nearby Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay). The Crab Market is a highlight for food lovers. Kep is a short drive from Kampot.

Battambang is known for its colonial architecture, countryside, temples, arts and culture, and the famous Bamboo Train (norry) experience. It is one of Cambodia’s most pleasant smaller cities and a good base for rural exploration.

Preah Vihear is an ancient Khmer temple located on a mountain near Cambodia’s northern border. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with spectacular views. Access is usually by road from Siem Reap or the northern provinces; check current border and access conditions before travel.

Yes. Travelers can enjoy trekking, cycling, kayaking, jungle excursions, boat trips, island activities, camping and other outdoor experiences — especially in Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri, the Cardamoms, Koh Kong and around the coast and islands.