When planning your next adventure, skip the usual tourist spots and explore these 10 lesser-known Places to Visit by Bus from Phnom Penh. These hidden gems offer unique experiences and are easily accessible by bus, giving you a deeper look into life across Cambodia’s diverse landscapes.
Whether you’re into history, nature, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, these destinations will surprise you with their charm and beauty. Book your journey today safely and securely with camboticket.com and uncover Cambodia’s hidden treasures!
Here are our hidden gems perfect for an off-the-beaten-path adventure:
1. Kampong Chhnang
- Distance: ~90 km from Phnom Penh
- Travel Time: 2 hours by bus
- Why Visit: Known for its traditional pottery villages, Kampong Chhnang offers a glimpse into rural Cambodian life. You can visit the floating villages on the Tonle Sap River or explore the surrounding countryside with its peaceful pagodas and scenic rice fields.
- Book a Bus: Phnom Penh to Kampong Chhnang
2. Kep
- Distance: ~160 km from Phnom Penh
- Travel Time: 3 hours by bus
- Why Visit: Kep is a sleepy seaside town, famous for its crab market and stunning coastal scenery. Its national park offers hiking trails with views of the sea, while nearby Rabbit Island is a quiet retreat with sandy beaches.
- Book a Bus: Phnom Penh to Kep
3. Kratie
- Distance: ~250 km from Phnom Penh
- Travel Time: 6 hours by bus
- Why Visit: If you’re looking to experience more of Cambodia’s wildlife, Kratie is the place to go. It’s home to the rare Irrawaddy dolphins that can be spotted in the Mekong River. The town itself offers French colonial architecture and a laid-back vibe, perfect for a relaxed getaway.
- Book a Bus: Phnom Penh to Kratie
4. Kampong Cham
- Distance: ~125 km from Phnom Penh
- Travel Time: 2.5 hours by bus
- Why Visit: This underrated town along the Mekong River boasts incredible countryside temples like Wat Nokor, and the famous bamboo bridge that is seasonally rebuilt. It’s a fantastic destination for those interested in rural life and ancient temples without the crowds.
- Book a Bus: Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham
5. Takeo
- Distance: ~75 km from Phnom Penh
- Travel Time: 1.5 hours by bus
- Why Visit: As a province filled with ancient history, Takeo is home to Angkor Borei, a pre-Angkorian archaeological site. You can also visit Phnom Da, a hilltop temple with amazing views of the countryside. It’s an ideal destination for history buffs and culture seekers.
- Book a Bus: Phnom Penh to Takeo
6. Pursat
- Distance: ~190 km from Phnom Penh
- Travel Time: 4 hours by bus
- Why Visit: While often overlooked, Pursat is the gateway to the Cardamom Mountains. It’s a great starting point for eco-tourism activities, including hiking and boat trips to floating villages on the Tonle Sap. Visit the nearby tomb of Neak Ta Khleang Moeung, a revered local hero.
- Book a Bus: Phnom Penh to Pursat
7. Udong
- Distance: ~40 km from Phnom Penh
- Travel Time: 1 hour by bus
- Why Visit: Once the capital of Cambodia, Udong is an ancient site filled with beautiful stupas and panoramic views of the surrounding plains. It’s a perfect day trip for those looking to learn more about Cambodian history and spirituality.
- Book a Bus: Phnom Penh to Udong
8. Prey Veng
- Distance: ~90 km from Phnom Penh
- Travel Time: 2 hours by bus
- Why Visit: This peaceful province is rarely visited by tourists, but offers a rich experience of rural Cambodia. Visit Wat Vihear Suor, where locals still practice traditional ceremonies and enjoy biking through endless rice fields.
- Book a Bus: Phnom Penh to Prey Veng
9. Mondulkiri
- Distance: ~370 km from Phnom Penh
- Travel Time: 8-9 hours by bus
- Why Visit: If you’re looking for nature and adventure, Mondulkiri’s rolling hills and waterfalls are worth the long trip. Visit the Elephant Valley Project, trek through forests, and explore the unique culture of Cambodia’s indigenous Bunong people.
- Book a Bus: Phnom Penh to Mondulkiri
10. Koh Kong
- Distance: ~270 km from Phnom Penh
- Travel Time: 6-7 hours by bus
- Why Visit: Koh Kong is perfect for ecotourism, featuring the Cardamom Mountains and the Tatai Waterfall. The area offers boat trips through mangroves, jungle trekking, and pristine beaches that are far less crowded than Sihanoukville.
- Book a Bus: Phnom Penh to Koh Kong
These lesser-known Places to Visit by Bus from Phnom Penh offer a variety of unique experiences, from ancient temples and floating villages to scenic mountains and coastlines. Each of these spots is easily accessible by bus from Phnom Penh, making them perfect for both short getaways and extended adventures.
Book these routes easily on CamboTicket with peace of mind, as you explore Cambodia’s hidden treasures!