Best Places to Visit in Eastern Cambodia | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Eastern Cambodia Travel Guide
Quick overview of Eastern Cambodia with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Eastern Cambodia Travel Videos
- Plan Eastern Cambodia Trip
- Best Places To Visit In Eastern Cambodia
- Hotels Map Of Eastern Cambodia
- Tours And Activities In Eastern Cambodia
- Food And Drinks To Try In Eastern Cambodia
- Best Time To Visit Eastern Cambodia
- Flight Calendar For Eastern Cambodia
- Transportation To Eastern Cambodia
Welcome to Eastern Cambodia, a hidden gem in the heart of Cambodia. This region is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and historical sites that will leave you in awe. From the majestic temples of Angkor to the serene beauty of the Mekong River, Eastern Cambodia offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional villages and witnessing traditional ceremonies. Explore the lush jungles and discover hidden waterfalls, or embark on a boat trip along the mighty Mekong River to witness the vibrant river life. Eastern Cambodia is a destination that will captivate your senses and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Eastern Cambodia Travel Videos
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Best Places To Visit in Eastern Cambodia
1. Phnom Penh: The vibrant capital city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, is a must-visit destination in Eastern Cambodia. It offers a perfect blend of rich history, cultural heritage, and modern development. Explore the iconic Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, which showcase the grandeur of Khmer architecture. Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum to learn about the country's tragic past. Take a stroll along the Riverside Promenade and enjoy the bustling atmosphere, street food, and stunning views of the Mekong River. Phnom Penh also offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants.
2. Siem Reap: Known for its proximity to the magnificent Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is a city that should not be missed. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest religious monument in the world and a true architectural marvel. Spend days exploring the ancient temples, such as Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm, which are engulfed by nature. Siem Reap also offers a vibrant nightlife with its Pub Street, where you can enjoy delicious Khmer cuisine, live music, and vibrant bars. Don't forget to visit the Angkor National Museum to learn more about the history and significance of this incredible site.
3. Kratie: For a more laid-back and off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Kratie. This charming town is located on the banks of the Mekong River and is famous for its Irrawaddy dolphins. Take a boat tour to spot these rare and endangered creatures in their natural habitat. Explore the local markets and try some delicious Mekong fish dishes. Kratie is also home to the beautiful Phnom Sambok Pagoda, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
4. Battambang: Known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture, Battambang is a picturesque city in Eastern Cambodia. Take a ride on the famous Bamboo Train, a unique and thrilling experience. Explore the Phare Ponleu Selpak circus, where talented local performers showcase their skills. Visit the Battambang Museum to learn about the city's history and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Killing Caves of Phnom Sampeau, which serve as a reminder of Cambodia's tragic past.
5. Kampot: Nestled along the banks of the Kampot River, this charming riverside town is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Explore the Bokor National Park, home to lush rainforests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Take a boat trip along the river and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Kampot is also famous for its pepper plantations, where you can learn about the cultivation process and taste some of the world's finest pepper.
6. Kep: If you're a seafood lover, Kep is the place to be. This coastal town is renowned for its fresh and delicious seafood, particularly the famous Kep crab. Visit the Kep National Park and hike to the Kep Hilltop Pagoda, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand. Relax on the pristine beaches, take a boat trip to nearby islands, or explore the Kep Crab Market for a unique culinary experience.
7. Koh Kong: For nature enthusiasts, Koh Kong is a paradise waiting to be explored. This coastal province offers stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. Explore the Tatai Waterfall, where you can swim in crystal-clear pools surrounded by lush greenery. Take a boat trip along the Tatai River and discover the unique mangrove forests. Koh Kong is also a gateway to the Cardamom Mountains, a haven for hikers, birdwatchers, and wildlife lovers.
8. Sen Monorom: Located in the eastern part of Cambodia, Sen Monorom is the capital of Mondulkiri province and a perfect destination for nature lovers. Explore the Mondulkiri Elephant Valley Project, where you can observe and interact with rescued elephants in their natural habitat. Visit the Bousra Waterfall, a stunning cascade surrounded by lush forests. Sen Monorom is also home to indigenous communities, offering a unique opportunity to learn about their traditions and way of life.
9. Banlung: Situated in the northeastern part of Cambodia, Banlung is the capital of Ratanakiri province and a hidden gem for adventure seekers. Explore the Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake, a stunning crater lake surrounded by dense forests. Visit the Virachey National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare species like the Asian elephant and Indochinese tiger. Banlung is also known for its vibrant local markets, where you can find unique handicrafts and traditional textiles.
10. Kampong Cham: Located on the banks of the Mekong River, Kampong Cham is the third-largest city in Cambodia and offers a glimpse into rural Cambodian life. Explore the Wat Nokor Bachey Pagoda, a unique temple complex with a blend of Khmer and Angkorian architecture. Take a boat trip to the nearby Koh Paen Island, where you can cycle through traditional villages and witness local craftsmanship. Kampong Cham is also famous for its bamboo bridge, which is rebuilt every year after the rainy season.
Hotels Map Of Eastern Cambodia
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Tours And Activities In Eastern Cambodia
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Food & Drinks To Try In Eastern Cambodia
1. Amok: This traditional Cambodian dish is a must-try when visiting Eastern Cambodia. It is a flavorful curry made with fish or chicken, coconut milk, and a blend of spices. The dish is typically served with steamed rice and is known for its rich and aromatic taste.
2. Kuy Teav: Another popular dish in Eastern Cambodia is Kuy Teav, a noodle soup that is commonly eaten for breakfast. The soup is made with rice noodles, pork broth, and various toppings such as sliced pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. It is often garnished with fresh herbs and served with a side of lime and chili sauce.
3. Num Banh Chok: This dish consists of rice noodles topped with a fish-based curry sauce and an assortment of fresh vegetables. It is a popular breakfast option in Eastern Cambodia and is often enjoyed with a side of pickled vegetables and herbs.
4. Fish Amok: As Eastern Cambodia is known for its freshwater fish, trying Fish Amok is a must. This dish features fish fillets cooked in a flavorful coconut curry sauce, steamed in banana leaves. The combination of tender fish and aromatic spices makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
5. Trey Chien Chouk: If you're a seafood lover, don't miss out on Trey Chien Chouk, which translates to "fried fish with green mango salad." This dish consists of crispy fried fish served with a tangy green mango salad, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
6. Tuk Prahok: Tuk Prahok is a popular Cambodian dip made from fermented fish paste, prahok. It is often mixed with various ingredients such as pork, eggplant, and chili, creating a savory and spicy condiment. It is commonly eaten with fresh vegetables and rice.
7. Samlor Machu: Samlor Machu is a sour soup made with fish, pineapple, tomatoes, and various herbs and spices. The combination of tangy flavors and fresh ingredients makes it a refreshing and comforting dish, especially during hot weather.
8. Cambodian Coffee: Cambodia is known for its delicious coffee, which is often brewed using a traditional drip filter. The coffee is strong and flavorful, and it is often served with condensed milk or sugar. Trying a cup of Cambodian coffee is a great way to start your day or enjoy a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
9. Sugar Palm Juice: Eastern Cambodia is abundant in sugar palm trees, and the juice extracted from these trees is a popular local drink. The juice is sweet and refreshing, making it a perfect thirst quencher on a hot day.
10. Fresh Fruit Smoothies: Cambodia is known for its wide variety of tropical fruits, and enjoying a fresh fruit smoothie is a must when visiting Eastern Cambodia. You can choose from a range of fruits such as mango, pineapple, dragon fruit, and passion fruit, which are blended with ice and sometimes sweetened with condensed milk or sugar. It's a delicious and healthy way to cool down and indulge in the flavors of the region.
Best Time To Visit Eastern Cambodia
The best time to visit Eastern Cambodia, Cambodia is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the region's natural attractions such as the Mekong River, waterfalls, and national parks. Additionally, the dry season is also the peak tourist season, so visitors can expect crowded attractions and higher prices. If you prefer less crowded and cheaper travel, you may consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of November to December or March to April, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are thinner. However, it's important to note that Eastern Cambodia experiences heavy rainfall during the wet season from May to October, which can make travel and outdoor activities more challenging.
Flight Calendar For Eastern Cambodia
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Eastern Cambodia.
Transportation To Eastern Cambodia
There are several transportation options to Eastern Cambodia, Cambodia.
1. Flight: The nearest airport to Eastern Cambodia is Phnom Penh International Airport. From there, you can take a domestic flight to either Stung Treng Airport or Ratanakiri Airport, which are the two main airports serving Eastern Cambodia.
2. Bus: There are bus services available from Phnom Penh to various destinations in Eastern Cambodia, such as Stung Treng and Banlung. The journey can take several hours, depending on the distance and road conditions.
3. Private car or taxi: You can also hire a private car or taxi to travel to Eastern Cambodia. This option provides more flexibility and convenience, but it can be more expensive compared to other modes of transportation.
4. Boat: If you are traveling to areas along the Mekong River, such as Kratie or Stung Treng, you can also consider taking a boat. There are public boats available, as well as private boat tours, which offer a scenic and unique way to reach Eastern Cambodia.
It is recommended to check the availability and schedules of transportation options in advance, as they may vary depending on the season and demand.