Offbeat Cambodia: 9 Must-Visit Destinations Beyond Angkor Wat

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - When people hear Cambodia, most would summon the images of Angkor Wat, its main attraction, the eighth Wonder of the World, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, Cambodia is not all about the temple. This Southeast Asian country hides many offbeat destinations, from colonial cities and remote islands to nature reserves.

Here are some recommended destinations in Cambodia beyond Angkor Wat.

1. Cambodian Circus in Siem Reap

Experience the magic of Phare, the famous Cambodian circus in Siem Reap. This show features extraordinary acts from artists trained at the Phare Ponleu Selpak’s vocational training center in Battambang. Siem Reap is also a shopping paradise with the fashion and craft center of the Angkor Handicraft Association (AHA). The city also has places that serve authentic Cambodian cuisine, such as Khmer Kitchen Restaurant and Chanrey Tree. 

2. Preah Vihear Temple

This cliff-top temple near the Thai border is a hidden gem. Dating back to the 11th century AD, the Preah Vihear Temple is dedicated to the god Shiva. Despite a long-running ownership dispute between Cambodia and Thailand since the early 1900s, the temple remains well-preserved, showcasing intricate architecture.

3. Phnom Penh

The capital city of Phnom Penh exudes diversity in every way. On one side, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum bears witness to Cambodia’s tragic history, while on the other, the beautiful Wat Phnom temple adorns the city. Other attractions include the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum. An hour’s drive from the city is the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, home to over 1,200 protected animals. 

4. Sihanoukville

Beyond the popular beaches of the coastal city of Sihanoukville, explore the quaint Bamboo Island. Take a ferry from Ochheuteal Beach to the island, relax amidst the silver sands and turquoise waters, and indulge in activities such as short hikes along forest trails, scuba diving, or snorkeling. Visit the multi-layered Kbal Chhay waterfall for a refreshing splash and swim in the Prek Tuk Sap River.

5. Krong Kampot

Krong Kampot is notable for its French Colonial architecture. Aside from its aged buildings, the town also offers several popular attractions including the Kampot salt fields, Rabbit Island, Butterfly Farm, Bokor Night Market, and Phnom Chhngok Cave temple. If you have time, hike up Bokor Mountain for scenic views and a walk through a pepper plantation.

6. Food Tour in Battambang

For foodies, Battambang is known for serving some of Cambodia’s best cuisines. The city joined UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network for Gastronomy in October 2023. One of its well-known restaurants is Jaan Bai, which offers a blend of Khmer, Vietnamese, and Thai flavors.

7. Mondulkiri

For nature lovers, Mondulkiri is a perfect to enjoy waterfalls and trek through Cambodia’s jungle. Dotted with numerous waterfalls, Mondulkiri is home to Bou Sra Waterfall and the Mondulkiri Project (Elephant Sanctuary & Jungle Treks).

8. Kratie

Kratie is a busy junction between Phnom Penh and northeastern Cambodia or southern Laos. It is the starting point for trips to spot the rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong River. Apart from the dolphins, the city has a decaying colonial charm and offers some of the best Mekong sunsets in the country.

9. Cardamom Mountains

If you want to explore Cambodia’s wilderness, the Cardamom Mountains are the place to be. Known for its stunning beauty and biodiversity, this green corridor encompasses many of Cambodia’s most prominent natural sites. From the isolated Stung Areng Valley, the rolling grasslands of Khnong Phsar, award-winning eco-lodges in Botum Sakor National Park, and Tatai Wildlife Sanctuary.

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