Cambodia Overview

Among the 4 countries of Indochina, Cambodia is the smallest one but it is still an attractive destination. Despite the fatal and brutal trace of Pol Pot's destructive regime in the 1970s, Cambodia has strongly recovered in recent years and become an attractive destination in Southeast Asia in general and in Indochina in particular.

1. Cambodia General Overview


Cambodia tourist map

- Location: Southeast Asia, bordered by Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam

- Capital: Phnom Penh

- Population: Approximately 17 million people

- Ethnic Groups: Predominantly Khmer (90%), with Vietnamese, Chinese, and ethnic hill tribes making up the rest

- Official Language: Khmer (Cambodian), with English widely spoken in tourist areas

- Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR), though US Dollars are also commonly used

- Seasons: Tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons — Wet (May to October) and Dry (November to April)

- Calling Code: +855

- Time Zone: Indochina Time (ICT), GMT +7

- Electrical Outlet: Cambodia uses Type A, C, and G outlets. The standard voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Make sure to bring a universal adapter for your devices.

2. 5 Reasons to Visit Cambodia

2.1. Millennial structures of Angkor Wat and Angkor Temples

During the Golden Time from the 9th to 14th century, the Khmer civilization reached its highest development. And Cambodia's most famous structures such as Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Angkor Temples, Preah Vihear are the beautiful results of Khmer civilization.

Bayon Temple

2.2. Rich and diverse culture

Throughout more than 2 millennia of establishing life along the Mekong River, Cambodia has built up a rich and diverse culture. It can be said that Cambodian culture is characterized by Khmer culture under the strong influence of Indian Culture. Its trace is well-preserved in architecture, sculpture, literature, music, and Apsara dance.

The culture of Cambodia is strongly affected by Buddhism with 95% of the population being Buddhist followers. Traveling around Cambodia, you may catch a lot of pagodas – the religious, political, and cultural centers of the community living around.

Apsara Dance

2.3. Unique lifestyle 

The population of Cambodia is approximately 14 million of which 90% are Khmer (Cambodian). The rest 10% is made up of Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai, Burmese, and various ethnic hill tribes.

Unlike the modern life of developed countries, Cambodia is a developing country. Cambodians make a living on farming. In Cambodia, people are hardly affected by modern life and still keep their daily lives for thousands of years. They wake up early, work hard on their farm, and even use buffalo instead of agrimotor for farming activities.

Most Cambodians live in villages and almost spend their whole life living in their place of birth. As a result, they are a bit shy but very warm and friendly.

Generally, coming to Cambodia, you may witness the unique and calm lifestyle of Cambodians which is far different from the busy, bustling lifestyle of modern life.

Monks in Siem Reap

2.4. Great food

Cambodia has a lot of delicious street food with fresh ingredients in Cambodia among which fried rice and fried noodles are worth trying. Moreover, in Cambodia, some dishes are challenging your dares such as barbecue crickets, spiders, or snakes.  You can find fresh fruits like coconut and sugarcane everywhere in Cambodia and they are amazingly cheap.

You can find easily a local restaurant in Siem Reap so do not worry when you join a tour in Siem Reap if lunch is not included in your tour. Most of the travelers will be happy with the food in Siem Reap.

When you travel to Phnom Penh there is an influence of Vietnamese food there but you still can see the difference of the local food there for Khmer people.

Cambodian Cuisine

2.5. Low budget

In Cambodia, all services are cheap. For example, you can find a hotel room for 15-20 USD/night. Street food is just around 2-5 dollars/meal. With only 30 to 50 USD/day, you may have a happy day for Cambodia Holiday.

Siem Reap Night Market

With so many amazing reasons to visit, why haven't you planned your trip to Cambodia yet? Get ready to explore Cambodian ancient temples, experience rich cultural heritage, and enjoy delicious local cuisine. Contact Incredible Asia Journeys today, and let us help you create free quotes for an itinerary in the Kingdom of Wonder!

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