Things to do in Cambodia

Apsara Dance – Witnessing the Khmer performance

For the lovers of art, theatrics, & dance, the Apsara Show, or the traditional Khmer performance, is one of the best things to do in Cambodia. This cultural dance form draws its roots from the mythological courts of kings and Gods, from where it has developed into its modern, unique form that we see today. The Khmer dance revolves around a storyline which it narrates through the attractive, flexible movements of the performers and their colourful, eye-catching attires, which is why it is among the top things to do in Cambodia.

View Angkor Wat at sunset

With the guidance of your guide, tour the temple before taking in the spectacular sunset. Sitting on one of the old temple walls and watching the sun go down is a magnificent memory. The greatest religious structures in the world can be seen being illuminated by the blazing red sun, which is also visible in the sky above. You feel the world is so vast and magnificent as you sit on the stairs and watch the sunset with your companions.

Shopping – Grab souvenirs from the local markets

With its massive variety of inexpensive handicraft products, shopping in Cambodia is a natural therapy for shopping freaks.
What to buy: Some of the best things to buy in Cambodia include silver trinkets, precious gems and stones, betel nut boxes, rice paper prints (imprints of Angkor temples), checkered Krama scarves, weaving silk, carved wooden items, and more.
Where to buy: Travelers can buy quality Cambodian items at reasonable prices from Angkor Night Market, Made in Cambodia Market, Angkor Handicraft Association, Old Market, and the Russian Market in Phnom Penh.

Spot freshwater dolphins at Kratie

One of the best places in the world to spot these gentle cetaceans is Kampi dolphin pool in the Mekong River, about 15km (9 miles) north of Kratie. It’s best reached by boat: a kayaking trip will take you gliding through secluded sandbars and haunting flooded forest before culminating at the dolphin pool, up close and personal with these beautiful but rare mammals – and without any engine noise to disturb them.

Uncover the secrets of the ancient Khmer Empire in Angkor Wat

Following the collapse of the nation’s economy, the forest engulfed Angkor Wat, the seat of the most potent Khmer monarchy in Southeast Asia’s history. The existence of the world’s circulation was not realized for more than 500 years, and it was unknown how many mysteries existed. Unresolved secrets await you to relish and discover them, like the enigmatic Khmer grin, the ancient temples with missing blocks, the exquisitely carved stone murals, and the boulder-stacked air corridors.

Osoam Cardamom Community Centre

This ecotourism farm assists hundreds of families from the Chorng and Poer ethnic groups develop sustainable livelihoods in tourism and agriculture. You may choose to volunteer – constructing buildings or teaching English or computing skills. Alternatively, take an adventure with local guides with a single or multi-day hiking trip, where you’ll spot rare wildlife. Alternatively, just hang at the friendly homestay, swimming in lakes, browsing the pepper plantation or enjoying the Khmer food. All profits support the community.

Visit Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre

Every year, thousands of animals are caught by illegal snares in Cambodia’s jungles and destined for the pet trade or sold for body parts for traditional Asian medicines. This organisation cares for over 1,400 rescued animals across more than 100 species. The full-day guided tour includes behind-the-scenes action, such as an elephant with a prosthetic leg allowing staff to change his stump liner. You’ll also meet rescued clouded leopards, tigers, gibbons, bears, and otters.