Cambodia- A pearl near the sea
Discover Cambodia: Culture, Nature, and the Majestic Angkor Wat
Cambodia is a gem in the heart of South-east Asia. The raw beauty of this proud country, long misunderstood and maligned by the rest of the world, will never fail to leave you breathless. Enjoy the art, literature, history, culture and hospitality, the colourful markets, beautiful landscapes and rich biodiversity and breathtaking landmarks such as Angkor Wat, which stands completely covered in green moss, an image that speaks of heritage being enveloped by nature.
Cambodia's Rich Culture and Traditions
Cambodia is a country with a strong sense of its forebears, a nation with its own ancient Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Cambodian culture is a blend of the spiritual and everyday practices but has shared many cultural traits over the centuries. The main ethnic group of the Khmer people contributes significantly to the culture of Cambodia. Culturally, the country is noted for its traditional musical style, dance and aesthetics.
Not to be missed is the Apsara Dance, an ancient Cambodian classical dance where sculpted dancers lead visitors through mythological and historical stories through slow graceful movements. Many performances are on offer in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, ensuring that visitors get a deep sense of Khmer culture.
For foodies, Cambodian cuisine delivers. Amok (a coconut fish curry) and Nom Banh Chok (Cambodia’s version of rice noodle soup) carry the balance of flavours you’d expect for food that focuses on freshness over reverence for tradition. It has been as much about balance and harmony as it has been delicious science, with spicy and sour and sweet and salty taking turns to lead the tastebud-tango.
Angkor Wat: The Crown Jewel of Cambodia
A visit to Cambodia is surely incomplete without a trip to the majestic Angkor Wat. This monumental temple complex, the largest religious site in the world, was built in the early 12th century and remains the foremost archaeological site in South East Asia. The magnitude of its structures, the intricacy of its carvings and the tranquility of its sunrises orchestrate it as a global bucket-list destination.
Angkor Wat is part of the Angkor Archaeological Park (the Entire Area of Angkor), which is home to other magnificent temples, including Bayon, with its striking collection of grinning stone faces, and Ta Prohm, the Jungle Temple made famous by the movie Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001) for its trees completely gripping its stone structures by their roots. Try two to three days to fully appreciate the entire site. No matter how long you go, you will leave the gates of this sprawling metropolis of ancient masterpieces with far more questions than answers.
Tip: You’re more likely to beat the daytrippers if you get there first thing in the morning, and it’s a great way to see the sunrise over Angkor Wat, which will blow your mind. A tour guide can add some history and background, but it’s also an option to avoid human interference and ride a bike.
Cambodia’s Stunning Nature
Outside of the temples, Cambodia’s natural beauty also deserves checking out. From the mossy forests of the Cardamom Mountains to the slow-moving bend of the Mekong, the country offers lots for nature enthusiasts.
Animal lovers can visit Botum Sakor National Park, a protected area in Ratanakiri province that boasts rare wildlife including the Asian elephant and clouded leopard. Those wanting to escape for some island life can go to Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, two picturesque islands surrounded by white sand beaches and turquoise waters, making them perfect havens for snorkeling, diving or time away from mainland busyness.
Tip: To get away from the crowds in Cambodia, head to its northeast to provinces such as Ratanakiri or Mondulkiri to see the waterfalls, deep jungles, and meet the minority peoples who live there.
Shopping and Attractions
Markets are the best spots for shopping local produce and handcrafts such as silver jewellery and souvenirs. The Russian Market (Tuol Tom Pong Market) – located in the outskirts area of Phnom Penh, is a good place to find arts and crafts, textiles and silver jewellery. Siem Reap’s Night Market is another popular local site for picking up goods and gazing at the liveliness. Keep in mind to haggle (everyone does and it is part of the fun!).
For a totally different but nonetheless delightful experience, head to Artisans Angkor in Siem Reap. This shop not only showcases traditional Cambodian handicrafts such as silk and wood carvings, it also provides space for you to see the skilled people who make them do it right in front of your eyes.
Cambodia is a renowned producer of silk, so a hand-woven silk scarf or textile would make a good souvenir. The tradition of Khmer silk dates back more than 200 years, and most of the dyes used are derived from plants.
Essential Travel Tips
– Best Time to Travel: The most comfortable season for visiting Cambodia is the dry season, from November to April. The weather is more favourable, and you will be bombarded less often by the rain.
- Getting Around: Cambodia has a good network of buses, tuk-tuks and bikes; renting a tuk-tuk is a convenient way of seeing the cities (especially when you have objects to carry) while bikes allow you to explore quieter areas or even cycle around the Angkor temples.
- Money: The national currency is the Cambodian Riel, although US dollars are widely accepted across the country – just make sure that any bills are not large; change will be given in riel.
- Respect Local Customs: When visiting temples, always cover your shoulders and your knees (and remove your shoes before entering) sacred areas. Kissing should always be done on the back of the hand, and you should bow slightly with your hands together in prayer to say hello to locals (this is called the ‘Sampeah’).
Final Thoughts
Cambodia is a rare destination where ancient and modern worlds merge to form a magical leitmotif whispering travel. Yet nowhere more so.In writting moment i have this country as an to go place, and my next trip to sea, will probaly have some visits to this destination. Whether the truly serene heritage architecture of Angkor temples, the cultural relics of the Khmer or the splendour of the nature parks, Cambodia is a destination for wonder and adventure, ready for you if you have a back pack and the will to be beguiled. Pack your bags and go Cambodia! Explore this pearl today!
