If there is one Asian country that can totally leave you speechless, that simply has to be Cambodia. This unique country is home to stunning landscapes, picturesque hills, rich wildlife, lush jungles, peaceful ancient temples, and breathless petite islands that would make you come back for more. With all the incredible wonders Cambodia has to offer, you won’t be able to stop and take a rest at some culture or foodie corner since there is everything a keen traveler seeks, even those nitty-gritty ones. People usually spend a week to two weeks exploring Cambodia, and if you still haven’t placed this majestic country on your bucket lists, here are the top reasons why you should do that ASAP and travel here.
1. Experiencing serenity at Angkor Wat
With a riveting blend of spirituality and uniqueness, the temples of Angkor Wat are the main reason why many visitors set their destination towards Cambodia. This supreme temple is the reflection of Khmer’s genius of symmetry and complexity, not only that, but given the fact that this city dates back to the twelfth century, the entire complex is an archaeological divinity that should be experienced up close. Witness the masterful sunrise overleaping some of the temple’s towers, and experience serenity. One piece of advice is that you should arrive early to catch the stunning beauty of the sunrise, and to avoid the crowds. The best time to see the capital of the Khmer Empire is anytime during March and September.
2. Immerse in Kampot through volunteering
Located near the southern coastline and about an hour’s drive from Phnom Penh, this low-key little seaside town has some of the largest cave systems in the whole of Cambodia. Kampot is a charming and rural cultured region that pays attention to the environment and conservation. Not only that, but through the city of Kampot there are a plethora of pepper farms, hotels, and resorts, but volunteers around the globe are allured to come here mainly to help restore Mangrove plantations that are of crucial importance to the local ecosystem. If you like getting your hands dirty, and if you have always thought about volunteering abroad in Asia, then the western beaches around Kampot are a great way to start your immersion. In their free time, volunteers usually go rock climbing, rent a motor to go up to Bokor Mountain, or go paddle boarding along the beautiful Tuek Chhou river.
3. Be part of “Walk with the heard”
Riding elephants is strictly forbidden here, and if you wish to be part of a warmhearted, ethical, and sustainable project that protects wildlife, then you should come for a walk with elephants. The “Walking with the Herd” project has been an original idea to support sustainable conservation and treat and protect elephants from overworking, injuring, or poachers. Also, the idea is for tourists not to ride these majestic animals but rather walk with them around the 1500-hectare sanctuary in the gorgeous mountain valley in Mondulkiri. Bunong people care for rescued elephants, teach them conservation skills, and help travelers walk with them, feed and bathe them. A once-in-a-lifetime experience.
4. Explore the vast Preah Vihear Temple
Cambodia has its fair share of temples and ancient sanctuaries, however, one such ravishing temple is located close to the Thai border, just about an hour’s drive north of Siem Reap – Preah Vihear Temple. Even though at first glance this may look like a remote clifftop temple since tourists rarely visit them, this ancient temple has a rich history worth exploring. Wear good trainers, and comfy clothes, and get ready to hike around 625 meters to reach the temple and see its marvels. Overlooking the northern Cambodian plains and Thailand forests, the temple can be entered from five ceremonial entrance gates and every single visitor has reported having all their senses enlivened by the stunning cliff-top temple.
5. Unwind at lovely Koh Rong Sanloem
If you are not looking for an adventurous, package holiday and meeting pushy tourists all around, then you should go to the relaxing Koh Rong Sanloem. Unlike the Koh Rong which is a frenzy party island, Koh Rong Sanloem is a chilling island located off Cambodia’s southern coastline where you can maximally unwind. The sand is white, the waters are transparent and perfectly aquamarine and rich in marine life. There is an abundance of activities to be done on this island, but the most popular are snorkeling and diving, hiking to the northern tip of the island, watching the sea eagles, and the great hornbill birds, and even meeting the monkeys. You can pay a small fine and go to the lighthouse to take a glimpse (and a photo) of the breathtaking ocean view.
By and large, there is so much more Comabidia can offer to visitors and volunteers, but these top 5 reasons are the pivotal reason why every single person on the globe should come to this dazzling country.