Is Cambodia Worth Visiting In 2026? My Experience

Is Cambodia Worth Visiting? Quick Answer & My Experience

Yes, Cambodia is absolutely worth a visit, and it is one of my favorite destinations in Southeast Asia.

The country is home to the ancient wonder of Angkor Wat, beautiful islands, and the bustling charm of colonial towns.

Its fascinating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it an unmissable travel destination.

One of my favorite things about Cambodia is how the locals are incredibly friendly and kind. I didn’t feel like a walking wallet when backpacking through Cambodia, which can easily happen when traveling around Southeast Asia.

I traveled to Cambodia as a solo female traveler, and I felt safe and welcomed everywhere I went.

Plus, Cambodia is a budget-friendly destination, making it perfect for backpackers or those who want to enjoy a touch of luxury while saving money.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat in Siem Reap is one of the must-visit destinations in Cambodia and a top reason to visit Cambodia for most travelers.

This ancient temple complex is the largest religious monument in the world and the first UNESCO World Heritage site in Cambodia.

It comprises over 70 major temples and hundreds of smaller temple sites scattered across an area of 162.6 hectares.

You can explore the temples at your own pace by renting a bike or join the Angkor Wat guided tour for a more informed experience.

I went on this Angkor Wat tour where we visited 4 temples and watched the sunrise over Angkor Wat.

Whichever way you choose to discover temples, you’ll have to get a ticket to access the temples separately. The temple ticket price might seem a bit steep compared to the average prices in Cambodia, but it is well worth it!

2. Discover Unique Culture

Even with just 2 weeks in Cambodia, you’ll get to discover Cambodia’s unique culture, deeply rooted in its rich history and greatly influenced by Hinduism, Buddhism, and the French colonial period.

As you travel around Cambodia, you’ll notice that many locals still live the traditional way of life, closely linked to the land and farming.

You can visit pepper farms in the south of the country around Kampot or fishing villages on Lake Tonle Sap close to Siem Reap.

Cambodia is a predominantly Buddhist country, so you can see beautiful temples and monks wearing vibrant orange robes throughout the country.

If you’re wondering what to wear in Cambodia, regular summer clothes will work well as long as you cover your knees and shoulders when visiting religious sites.

Locals love to gather and enjoy a picnic or street food with their friends and family, and I found the act of sharing food and spending time together so heartwarming.

Festivals and celebrations play a significant role in social life, with the Water Festival and Khmer New Year being particularly popular. 

3. Enjoy Beautiful Beaches

Cambodia is not very well known for its beaches and islands, which is a shame because you can find some of the most picturesque white sand beaches on Cambodian islands.

The Islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are quickly gaining popularity as an alternative to Thai islands.

If you prefer a more remote island experience, you can also check out Koh Ta Kiev. It is one of the best hidden gems to visit in Cambodia.

To reach the islands, you’ll first have to get to the port town of Sihanoukville and then take a ferry to the islands. It is a long journey, but it is well worth the trip!

Once you’re on the islands, you can sit back and relax. There are many accommodation options right on the beach, with several of Cambodia’s popular backpacker hostels as well, for those looking to party.

4. Try Delicious Khmer Cousine

Cambodian cuisine is not as well-known worldwide as Thai or Vietnamese cuisine, but it is a gastronomic delight that offers a variety of flavorful dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients.

While Cambodian traditional cuisine is not actually vegan, you’ll also find plenty of vegan-friendly options in Cambodia.

Some must-try Cambodian dishes are amok, lok lak, and Khmer curry or noodles!

If you want to learn more about the local ingredients and cooking practices, the best way to discover Khmer cuisine is by joining a Cambodian cooking class. 

I loved the cooking class I took in Siem Reap, where we got to choose between cooking 16 traditional Cambodian dishes guided by a friendly local chef.

5. Learn Cambodian History

Cambodia is also known for its dark past, with Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s being responsible for the death of millions and leaving deep scars on the country.

It is important to visit the memorial sites and learn more about the history of Cambodia so you can better understand the country and its people. 

Two must-see places are the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh, also known as S21 prison, and the Killing Fields, Choeung Ek Genocidal Center. 

You can visit both sites on the same tour, but even if you don’t get a guided tour, I highly suggest you get an audio guide to learn the important things to know about Cambodia.

If you think genocide memorial sites will be too hard for you to handle, as they are very graphic, another place to learn about Cambodian history in a more lighthearted manner is the APOPO center in Siem Reap.

I loved seeing the giant rats and learning about their role in clearing the minefields across the country.

6. Meet Friendly Locals

After backpacking Southeast Asia for 2 months, I was pleasantly surprised to see how warm and friendly the Cambodian people are!

From tuk-tuk drivers to people in restaurants, the locals are genuinely interested in interacting with tourists, asking about their journey, sharing about their culture, and discussing everyday life.

As a tourist in Cambodia, you’re not just seen as a walking wallet, but as a valued guest and a new friend.

Even if you don’t buy what they are selling or take a tuk-tuk ride with them, the locals will suggest places to visit or give you some tips for your trip.

The genuine warmth and unparalleled hospitality of the locals are what make Cambodia one of my favorite destinations.

7. See Unique Bioluminescence 

Seeing bioluminescence is truly one of Southeast Asia’s bucket list experiences. Imagine stepping into the sea, only to find it twinkling with thousands of tiny star-like lights, illuminating the dark.

Not many people know that the shores of Koh Rong Island transform into a magical light spectacle as night falls.

The islands are one of the best places to admire the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence.

This is the work of bioluminescent plankton, microscopic organisms that emit light when disturbed.

As you move through the water, they create a mesmerizing display of twinkling lights. A swim here under the quiet, starlit sky is an experience that truly encapsulates the magic of nature.

8. Relax On A Yoga Retreat

Yoga retreats in Cambodia are some of the most affordable yoga retreats in Asia and a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of travel.

It’s the perfect way to enhance your travel experience while ensuring your mental and physical well-being.

Just imagine the relaxation, as you immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings, practice yoga and meditation daily, and let all your worries melt away.

You can easily fit a yoga retreat into your Cambodia itinerary by spending several days in a retreat center in Siem Reap.

I spent 3 days on a yoga retreat in the south of the country, in Kampot, which is a great idea if you have more time in the country.

It is also one of the best things to do in Cambodia if you visit during Cambodia’s wet season, and it’s one of the really rainy weeks.

9. Backpacker Friendly Country

When planning a trip as a solo female traveler, it’s always good to know there is a popular backpacker route in the country you’re visiting, and Cambodia offers just that!

Cambodia is a budget-friendly travel destination, making it a popular destination among backpackers and a must-visit country on every backpacking Southeast Asia route.

When compared to the cost of traveling in Europe, accommodations, food, and transportation are all very affordable, allowing you to stretch your travel budget further. 

In addition to being budget-friendly, Cambodia also has a well-developed backpacker scene with plenty of hostels and guesthouses catering specifically to backpackers. This makes it easy to meet other backpackers to join on day trips exploring the country.

I felt very welcomed as a backpacker anywhere I went, and I felt very safe as a solo female traveler in Cambodia.

10. Explore Untouched Nature

Cambodia is home to stunning nature, from dense jungles and misty mountains to serene beaches and stunning waterfalls.

One of the most famous natural landmarks in Cambodia is Phnom Kulen National Park. It is a popular day trip from Siem Reap and a great place to see waterfalls.

Keep in mind that winter in Cambodia is the dry season, so the waterfall might not be as impressive as during the rainy season.

Kirirom National Park in the south of the country is another stunning place to explore.

You can also visit Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, surrounded by floating villages and flooded forests.

If you have more time in Cambodia, Virachey National Park in the northwest of the country is a paradise for jungle trekking.

However, be very careful not to venture off the marked paths when exploring nature in Cambodia.

A crucial thing to know before traveling to Cambodia is that there are still over 5 million landmines in the country, and large areas are considered potential minefields. 

You don’t have to worry about that if you stay on the beaten path, but it is always best to hire a local guide when exploring outside of designated tourist areas.

11. Wander Picturesque Colonial Towns

While most travelers flock to Cambodia for its ancient temples, the country also has some beautiful colonial towns to explore.

Sure, they don’t compare to the stunning Luang Prabang in Laos, but they are quite charming too!

The most popular colonial town is Kampot, located in southern Cambodia. It was a major trading port during French colonial times and still retains much of its old-world charm today.

I loved wandering the streets and looking at the colorful buildings of this sleepy riverside town.

Another place to visit is Battambang, known for its French colonial architecture and the unique bamboo train.

12. Discover Vibrant Nightlife

Cambodia is not a party destination compared to neighboring Thailand or Vietnam, but it still has a vibrant party scene that is worth experiencing.

Siem Reap and Phnom Penh have the most options when it comes to bars and clubs on the mainland. 

Pub Street in Siem Reap is a popular spot among backpackers, with plenty of cheap drinks and live music.

In Phnom Penh, I really liked the small Street 308. It is one of the streets covered in colorful umbrellas with numerous quirky bars.

Also, joining a pub crawl organized by hostels in both cities is a fun way to discover nightlife as a solo female traveler.

Of course, you can’t forget about the islands. The wet season is probably the worst time for a Cambodia trip if you want to party, as it is the low season but there are still things going on!

Koh Rong is a particular favorite among party-goers thanks to its numerous beach bars and full-moon parties.

A quieter but still lively option is the neighboring Koh Rong Samloem, which hosts regular beach parties and offers an eclectic mix of international and local music.

13. Enjoy Relaxing Massages

Cambodia is also a great place to indulge in some self-care and relaxation on a budget.

You can find massage parlors and spas in almost every town and city, but I’ve seen most options in Siem Reap and Kampot.

The most popular treatment is traditional Khmer massage. It combines elements of Thai and Chinese massage techniques with local herbs and oils for a truly therapeutic experience.

I loved the massage I had in Kampot, it was just the right blend of strong and relaxing.

In addition to massages, you can also find a variety of other spa treatments such as facials, body scrubs, and herbal steam baths to enjoy when visiting Cambodia.

14. Browse Local Markets

Cambodia’s markets are a vibrant and integral part of the local culture, offering a wide range of goods from fresh produce to handicrafts.

I was surprised that night markets in Cambodia are not as food-focused as night markets in Thailand or Malaysia.

Instead, they are a great place to browse local handicrafts, souvenirs, and indulge in some bargain hunting. 

You can find everything from traditional silk scarves to hand-carved wooden statues at these markets. Of course, you won’t stay hungry as there is always some food to get your hands on.

You can use US dollars or Cambodian riels on most markets, but you’ll get the change back in riels.

15. Get Off The Beaten Path

If you’re an adventure traveler, the best thing about Cambodia is that there is so much of the country that is still largely untouched by tourism.

While Cambodia has some well-known tourist spots along the SE Asia backpacker route, like Angkor Wat and the bustling capital city of Phnom Penh, there are still many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

It is simple to take a break from the crowds and venture off the beaten path to explore remote villages, secluded beaches, and stunning natural landscapes.