Cambodia-7-day-itinerary

Cambodia: A 7-Day Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on exploring the historical and cultural highlights of Cambodia.

Visa Requirements:

  • Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival for $30 USD (valid for 30 days). Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining.
  • You can also apply for an e-visa online before your trip.

Transportation:

  • Tuk-tuks: Widely available and cheap for short distances within cities. Negotiate the price beforehand.
  • Buses: Comfortable and affordable for traveling between major cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.
  • Private Cars/Drivers: Offer more comfort and flexibility but are pricier.

Currency: US Dollars are widely accepted, but you’ll receive Cambodian Riel (KHR) as change.

Day 1: Arrival in Phnom Penh & City Exploration

  • Arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH).

  • Things to know: ATMs are readily available, and English is spoken in tourist areas.

  • Afternoon: Check into your hotel.

  • Explore the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, marveling at the intricate architecture and gilded statues.

  • Visit Wat Phnom, a hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the city.

Day 2: History & Remembrance in Phnom Penh

  • Morning: Reflect on Cambodia’s tragic past at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21), a former school turned into a Khmer Rouge prison.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, a sobering memorial to the victims of the regime.

Day 3: Siem Reap & Angkor Wat

  • Take an early morning bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (approx. 6 hours).

  • Afternoon: Check into your hotel and unwind.

  • Sunset: Witness the awe-inspiring sunset over Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world.

Day 4: Exploring the Temples of Angkor

  • Hire a tuk-tuk driver for the day to explore the sprawling Angkor Archaeological Park.
  • Must-see temples:
    • Angkor Thom: Explore the Bayon temple with its enigmatic smiling faces and the Terrace of the Elephants.
    • Ta Prohm: Marvel at the overgrown temple intertwined with massive tree roots, made famous by the movie “Tomb Raider”.

Day 5: Beyond Angkor & Cambodian Culture

  • Morning: Visit Banteay Srei, a beautifully preserved pink sandstone temple dedicated to Shiva.

  • Afternoon: Learn about traditional Cambodian silk weaving and crafts at the Angkor Silk Farm.

  • Evening: Enjoy an Apsara dance performance, showcasing Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.

Day 6: Relaxation & Nature

  • Take a boat trip on Tonlé Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake.
  • Explore the floating villages and observe local life.
  • Relax by the hotel pool or indulge in a traditional Khmer massage.

Day 7: Departure from Siem Reap

  • Depart from Siem Reap International Airport (REP).

Other Things to Consider:

  • Food: Cambodian cuisine is delicious and affordable. Try amok (fish curry), lok lak (stir-fried beef), and num banh chok (Khmer noodles).

  • Shopping: Bargain for souvenirs at the night markets in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

  • Accommodation: Options range from budget guesthouses to luxurious hotels.

  • Safety: Cambodia is generally safe, but be aware of petty theft. Keep valuables secure.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through Cambodia!