Top 10 Exciting Activities in Cambodia

While the temples of Angkor Wat are justifiably famous, there's a wealth of other sights to explore in Cambodia.

Surrounded by stunning beaches and lush tropical islands, nourished by the mighty Mekong River, cloaked in some of the last remaining emerald wildernesses and national parks, and graced by the ever-friendly Khmers, whose uplifting spirit transforms a visit into both an adventure and a holiday, this nation encapsulates the essence of Southeast Asia in one delightful package.

Discover the top experiences Cambodia has to offer.

1. Witness the breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat

The first glimpse of Angkor Wat, the pinnacle of Khmer artistry, is an unparalleled experience that few can match. This iconic temple is the ultimate destination for witnessing sunrise among the many options at Angkor.

Truly one-of-a-kind, it showcases a magnificent fusion of spirituality and architectural harmony, standing as a timeless testament to humanity's reverence for the divine. Arrive early to secure a peaceful vantage point, and consider entering through the 'back door,' or eastern entrance, to dodge the crowds.

Travel Tip: During the March and September equinoxes, the sun aligns perfectly above the central tower of Angkor Wat – an especially sought-after time to visit.

2. Experience the Herd at Elephant Valley Project

For those seeking an ethical and sustainable way to encounter these magnificent elephants, the innovative 'walking with the herd' project is a must-visit. It collaborates closely with local mahouts to provide a new home for overworked or injured elephants.

Functioning as a retirement sanctuary for elephants, this 15 sq km (5.8 sq mile) haven nestled in a stunning mountain valley in Mondulkiri offers a fantastic opportunity to support sustainable conservation in this remote area of northeastern Cambodia. Riding elephants is strictly forbidden; here, you simply stroll through the forest alongside them, observing their natural behavior while also learning about Indigenous Bunong culture and forest ecology.

Travel Tip: Due to its popularity, make sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment. Note that the center is closed on Saturdays.

3. Paddleboard through the 'Green Cathedral' in Kampot

The ideal way to discover the stunning Tuek Chhou River is by stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). This scenic river meanders past charming palm-lined islands, mangrove forests, and traditional fishing villages, all beneath the watchful eye of Bokor National Park. It boasts some of the most breathtaking sunsets along the South Coast.

Favored by both locals and tourists, the 'Green Cathedral' is a slender waterway that creates a mesmerizing loop through mangroves and aquatic palms, featuring numerous guesthouses and resorts for refreshing breaks along the journey.

Travel Tip: Located about 4km (2.5 miles) from town along the river, paddleboards are available for rent at various hotels and resorts.

4. Search for Freshwater Dolphins in Kratie

The freshwater Irrawaddy dolphin (trey pisaut in Khmer) is an endangered species found across Asia, living in sections of the Mekong River in Cambodia and Laos, as well as in isolated areas of Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Indonesian Borneo, where their numbers continue to dwindle.

One of the top locations in the world to observe these gentle creatures is the Kampi dolphin pool in the Mekong River, located about 15km (9 miles) north of Kratie. The best way to reach it is by boat; a kayaking adventure will glide you through serene sandbars and hauntingly beautiful flooded forests, ultimately bringing you face-to-face with these rare mammals in a tranquil setting free from engine noise.

5. Enjoy a Night Out on Bassac Lane in Phnom Penh

Bassac Lane is a vibrant, quirky alley that hosts a variety of small, unique bars. The iconic Phnom Penh Yacht Club sits at a prime corner on St 308, surrounded by trendy restaurants and bars, making it an excellent spot for people-watching during happy hour (5pm to 7pm).

Other well-loved spots include the White Rabbit speakeasy, known for its exquisite cocktails, the Library for those who enjoy a studious drink, Casa Diego for delightful tapas, and Harry's, which offers a relaxed upstairs lounge. Bassac Lane has firmly established itself as the bohemian hub of Phnom Penh and is definitely worth exploring.

6. Enroll in a Cambodian Cooking Class

While Cambodia may not have the same culinary fame as its neighbors Thailand and Vietnam, its cuisine is uniquely special, offering a diverse array of national dishes, each with a distinct Cambodian flair.

To pick up some culinary skills, consider enrolling in a cooking class. This is a fantastic way to share your Cambodian experience with friends back home, helping you distinguish your teuk trey (fish sauce) from your prahok (fish paste).

Travel Tip: Popular cooking courses can be found in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, and Kampot.

7. Attend the Circus in Siem Reap

Don’t be misled by the name: Phare the Cambodian Circus is far from a traditional circus. Managed by the leading performing arts organization, Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS), it emphasizes performance art infused with social commentary. Animal lovers will be relieved to know that no animals are featured in the show.

Travel Tip: Preshow entertainment kicks off at 5:30pm, with the main performance starting at 8pm for an hour. After the show, audience members have the chance to meet the performers.

8. Unwind on the Beaches of Koh Rong

As one of Cambodia's largest islands, Koh Rong is bordered by some of the nation's most gorgeous beaches. Long Beach, hugging the western coast, is the island's longest continuous stretch at 7km (4.3 miles) of tropical paradise. Remarkably undeveloped for several kilometers, it once served as a major filming location for the hit US TV show Survivor.

For a shorter option, Long Set Beach (also known as 4km Beach) offers a beautiful sandy expanse on Koh Rong's southern coast. While a few hostels and boutique resorts are located here, it remains tranquil and features short paths connecting to nearby Nature Beach and Koh Tuch Beach.

9. Observe Rare Water Birds at Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary

Prek Toal is home to Cambodia's most renowned bird sanctuary. It's a dream come true for birdwatchers, showcasing a remarkable variety of rare species in one compact area, including magnificent greater adjutants, milky storks, and spot-billed pelicans.

During peak season (December to February), the sheer number of birds creates a spectacle reminiscent of a Hitchcock film. Even those unfamiliar with birdwatching will be awestruck by their massive wingspans and impressive nests. Visits to the sanctuary also provide a close look at the intriguing floating village of Prek Toal, a lively hub where shops and schools alike are built on water, serving as a crossroads between Siem Reap and Battambang.

10. Discover the Remote Temples of Preah Vihear

For the ultimate journey into remote temples, embark on a road trip deep into Northern Cambodia to explore the majestic mountain temple of Preah Vihear, dramatically perched atop the Dangrek Mountains; the pyramid temple of Prasat Thom at Koh Ker, which is Cambodia's latest candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status; and the vast jungle ruins of Preah Khan Kompong Svay, the most isolated of all Cambodian temples.

Travel Tip: Set aside a few days to explore these remote roads, some of which trace ancient Angkorian routes, ideally with a 4WD or a dirt bike for those with the necessary experience.