Visiting Cambodia - Beyond Angkor Wat

Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, and Tonle Sap Lake

Aug 20, 2008

Many travellers to Cambodia only see the sites of Angkor. But there is much more of note in Cambodia. Here are some suggestions.

Anghor Wat is justifiably world famous, and many visitors to Cambodia simply fly into the airport at Siem Reap, visit the main Angkor sites, and leave. But there are many other places of interest in this fascinating country, which has so recently opened up to tourism. Here are some suggestions…

Phnom Penh, Cambodia's Capital City

Cambodia’s capital city is definitely worth a visit. One can now go to the infamous ‘Killing Fields’, as well as the Khmer Rouge Genocide Museum. But Phnom Penh has more to see than its horrific recent past. Travellers can visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, and enjoy a walk by the lively waterfront area. The Russian market is well worth a visit, and sundowners in the famous Foreign Correspondents Club are almost a must!

Siem Reap, not just the Gateway to Angkor

This small town has more than just an airport for arriving visitors to the cities of Angkor. Its market is worth a visit, and there is also a handicraft school and an unusual landmines museum. The town itself is a lively place – perhaps too lively for some people – but its nightlife is a lot of fun!

A boat trip on this lake is a journey back in time. It is possible to take a boat from near Siem Reap all the way to Battambang along the lake, and this is highly recommended. One will see floating villages, flooded forests, and Buddhist temples. Travellers will pass local people in small craft, fishing and transporting goods down the river. It is possible to stop at a floating restaurant, and view a great deal of local colour. There is also some fascinating birdlife. Conditions in this area are primitive, and it is not for everyone, but it is a unique and worthwhile experience for those who can handle the conditions.

Battambang, off the Beaten Track

Cambodia’s third town (after Phnom Penh and Siem Reap) is well worth exploring. One can check out its French colonial architecture, or simply watch the world go by, as it is a peaceful place. And for those who are tired of meeting other tourists, Battambang is wonderful, as it is rarely visited and one sees very few Europeans and Americans.

There are a number of other places in Cambodia worthy of a visit; these are only a few suggestions. In all of the above towns, a good standard of accommodation is possible to find. This is not the case in some smaller places, however, which are probably only suitable for the more adventurous traveller.

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