Why Tourists Love Visiting Cambodia

Cambodia, often referred to as the “Kingdom of Wonder,” is a country that captivates its visitors with its enchanting landscapes, rich history, and the innate hospitality of its people¹.

Here are some reasons why tourists love visiting Cambodia:

Cultural Heritage

Cambodia is home to the Khmer Empire, offering a unique experience to every tourist². The magnificent past of the Khmer Empire can be experienced in Siem Reap, and the recent past of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh².

The most iconic symbol of Cambodia’s cultural heritage is undoubtedly Angkor Wat. Visited by two million tourists every year, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest religious monument in the world and the symbol of Cambodia². Built by the Khmer King Suryavarnam II during the 12th century, the temples of Angkor Wat are a beautiful testimony of the grandeur of the Khmer architecture².

Natural Beauty

Cambodia’s nature is amazing: it ranges from the gorgeous National Parks to the relaxing islands². The country’s natural beauty is just one of the countless jaw-dropping areas that keep visitors coming back for more³.

The remote islands off the southwest coast of Cambodia, in the Gulf of Thailand, are often overlooked but are unspoilt and authentic³. Koh Rong holds the crown as a party island, while nearby Koh Rong Samloem has pristine beaches blessed with tropical flora³.

Authentic Travel Experiences

Today’s travelers prefer more authentic experiences over a couple of weeks’ lazing in the sun, and Cambodia has this in abundance³. Here you can enjoy a community homestay, then spend a few days trekking through the jungle, soak up the rare flora and fauna and cycle through unspoilt countryside³.

Wildlife

Cambodia is also home to a wide range of animals that have been rescued from the clutches of poachers and the illegal trade³. These creatures are then rehabilitated before being released back into the wild³.

Rich Culture

Cambodia’s culture is a blend of indigenous animistic beliefs and the Indian religions of Buddhism and Hinduism⁴. The country’s unparalleled achievements in art, architectures, music, and dance from the 9th and 14th century have had a great influence on many neighboring kingdoms⁴. Cambodians are resilient, gentle, family-oriented, and religious⁵. They love to learn and are deeply superstitious⁵.

Biodiversity

Cambodia is home to over 8,000 plant species, more than 250 species of amphibian and reptile, nearly 900 fish species, and over 500 bird species⁶. The country’s wildlife diversity is at critically low levels due to deforestation and habitat destruction¹. It is home to about 16 globally endangered species and 2 critically endangered species¹.

Unique Travel Experiences

From exploring Angkor Wat to learning to cook local dishes in Phnom Penh, Cambodia offers a wide range of unique travel experiences⁷. The country is home to seven national parks and dozens more wildlife sanctuaries and protected areas⁷. The Botum Sakor National Park, located in the country’s south, near the Gulf of Thailand, is the largest protected area in the country⁷.

In conclusion, Cambodia is a small country, but it offers everything. It offers an incredible amount of history and culture, and its nature is amazing². If you’re planning to visit Southeast Asia, Cambodia is a must-visit country².