Cambodia is well-known for its historic temples and vibrant culture. Unfortunately, tourists frequently miss out on some of Cambodia’s hidden treasures. Check out our list of places to visit in Cambodia off the beaten track.
Battambang:
- Visit the Bamboo Train: Board the “norry,” or bamboo train, a special method of transportation that travels on a narrow-gauge bamboo track.
- Visit Phare Ponleu Selpak: Essentially Cambodian Cirque du Soleil, this creative NGO presents a range of shows, including theatre, circus, gymnastic feats and dance, all delivered by young people from the local community.
- Take a cycling tour: Cycling is a great way to see the beautiful scenery that surrounds Battambang. You can hire a bike for less than $10 a day, go on an organised tour, or go exploring alone.
- Visit the Bat Cave: to witness the impressive natural spectacle that occurs at twilight as millions of bats emerge from the cave.
- Visit the Psar Nath and Psar Boeung Chhouk Markets: Learn about the local Khmer culture and to shop for fresh fruit, crafts, and souvenirs.
Kratie:
- See the Irrawaddy Dolphins: The Irrawaddy Dolphins are one of Kratie’s top tourist attractions. Take a boat journey to the Kampi Dolphin Pool and see these incredible animals in their natural environment.
- Visit the Phnom Sambok Pagoda: Perched atop a hill you can enjoy breathtaking views of the region and the mighty Mekong River.
- Explore Koh Trong Island: Koh Trong is a tiny island in the Mekong River. The island, is renowned for its traditional Khmer village and stunning scenery, which can be explored easily by bicycle.
- Visit the Wat Roka Kandal: This beautiful temple is located on the outskirts of Kratie and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
- Take a sunset cruise: You can take a boat ride along the Mekong River at sunset and watch the beautiful colors of the sky as the sun goes down. Cambodia literally has some of the most beautiful sunsets on the planet!
Kampot:
- Take a river cruise: The Prek Kampot River is a serene and beautiful location, and you can go on a boat trip to take in the scenery and unwind. Along the river, there are a few eateries where you can savor the local shellfish.
- Explore Bokor National Park: Home to lush forests, waterfalls, and spectacular wildlife. Additionally, you can tour deserted French colonial structures including a hill station, chapel, and casino.
- Adventure Sports: Rock climbing is a wonderful way to stay active and take in the scenery. Kampot has many climbing spots and you can hire a guide and all the necessary gear.
- Unwind on the Beach: Kep Beach and Rabbit Island are two beaches that are conveniently close to Kampot. These are the ideal locations for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxation.
- Take a culinary class: Learn to prepare some delicious Cambodian specialities by enrolling in a cooking class. While enjoying your own culinary masterpieces, you’ll learn about the ingredients and preparation methods used in Cambodian cuisine.
Kep:
- Visit Kep National Park: This stunning park is a wonderful spot to hike and explore and provides breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand. There are many available routes, including the well-liked Sunset Trail.
- Visit the Kep Butterfly Garden: This lovely garden is home to more than 30 different species of butterflies and is a wonderful spot to unwind and take in the surrounding natural beauty.
- Take a bike tour: There are many places in Kep to rent bikes. A leisurely ride along the coast is an option, as is travelling inland to see the nearby towns and countryside.
- Try local seafood: Kep is renowned for its fresh seafood, and you can find the catch of the day in many eateries and markets. A must-try is the crab, considered a local delicacy.
You can easily get around Cambodia in a variety of ways, including bus or taxi. If you intend to travel by bus, Camboticket.com makes it simple to buy bus tickets online. One of the most popular routes for tourists is from Bangkok to Siem Reap. You can easily find a bus that fits your timetable to travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap.
You can also conveniently book a private taxi online, or ask at your hotel or resort.
Cambodia off the beaten track is fascinating and exciting, with a lot to offer for those who are willing to venture off the beaten track. From charming cities to remote temples, there is something for everyone in this fascinating country. If you are planning a trip to Cambodia, make sure to check out some of these hidden gems and experience the true beauty of this amazing country and always know that Camboticket.com will be your faithful travel companion.