News

Siem Reap Provinces

Siem Reap is not a province itself, but rather a province in Cambodia. However, Siem Reap is indeed well-known for being home to the famous Angkor Wat temple complex. Here are some provinces in Cambodia, including Siem Reap:
1. Siem Reap Province: Located in the northwest of Cambodia, Siem Reap is known for its rich history and the Angkor Archaeological Park, which includes the iconic Angkor Wat temple. The province attracts millions of tourists each year.
2. Phnom Penh: As the capital and largest city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is not a province but an administrative division. It is situated in the south-central part of the country and serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Cambodia.
3. Battambang: Located in the northwest, Battambang is the second-largest city in Cambodia and the capital of Battambang Province. It is known for its French colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and the bamboo train, a unique local transportation experience.
4. Sihanoukville: Situated on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, Sihanoukville is a popular beach destination in Cambodia. It is the capital of Sihanoukville Province and is famous for its white sandy beaches, tropical islands, and vibrant nightlife.
5. Kampong Cham: Located in the eastern part of the country, Kampong Cham is the capital of Kampong Cham Province. It is the third-largest city in Cambodia and is known for its scenic countryside, French colonial buildings, and the Mekong River.
6. Kampong Thom: Situated in central Cambodia, Kampong Thom is the capital of Kampong Thom Province. The province is known for its archaeological sites, such as Sambor Prei Kuk, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its rural landscapes.
7. Preah Vihear: Preah Vihear Province is located in the northern part of Cambodia, bordering Thailand. It is known for the Preah Vihear Temple, an ancient Hindu temple situated on a cliff, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
These are just a few examples of the provinces in Cambodia, each with its own unique attractions, history, and cultural significance.

What is Cambodia country known for?

Cambodia, officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a country located in Southeast Asia. It is known for several notable aspects:

  1.  Angkor Wat: Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous landmarks in Cambodia. It is a massive temple complex located in Siem Reap and is considered the largest religious monument in the world. Angkor Wat represents the pinnacle of ancient Khmer architecture and is a significant symbol of the country’s cultural heritage.
  2.  Khmer Empire: Cambodia has a rich historical legacy, most notably the Khmer Empire, which ruled over much of Southeast Asia from the 9th to the 15th centuries. During this time, the empire built numerous impressive temples and architectural wonders, including Angkor Wat.
  3. Temples and Archaeological Sites: Apart from Angkor Wat, Cambodia is home to several other ancient temples and archaeological sites. The Angkor Archaeological Park encompasses dozens of temples, such as Bayon, Ta Prohm, and Banteay Srei, which showcase the grandeur and artistic achievements of the Khmer civilization.
  4. Killing Fields and Khmer Rouge: Cambodia has a tragic history associated with the Khmer Rouge regime led by Pol Pot from 1975 to 1979. During this period, millions of Cambodians lost their lives due to political repression, forced labor, and genocide. The Killing Fields, located near Phnom Penh, are sites where mass executions and burials took place, serving as a somber reminder of this dark chapter in Cambodian history.
  5. Phnom Penh: Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, is located at the confluence of the Mekong, Bassac, and Tonlé Sap rivers. It is a vibrant city with a mix of colonial and modern architecture. The Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum of Cambodia are among the key attractions in Phnom Penh.
  6. Beaches and Islands: Cambodia has a coastline along the Gulf of Thailand, offering beautiful beaches and tropical islands. Sihanoukville, Kep, and Koh Rong are popular beach destinations that attract tourists looking to relax, swim, and enjoy water sports.
  7. Traditional Arts and Culture: Cambodian culture is known for its traditional arts, including dance, music, and crafts. Classical Khmer dance performances, known as Apsara dance, often depict mythical stories and are a significant cultural attraction. Cambodian silk weaving and stone carving are also highly regarded crafts.
  8. Warm Hospitality: Cambodian people are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making the country a popular destination for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences.
It’s worth noting that my knowledge cutoff is in September 2021, so there may have been some developments or changes in Cambodia since then.

About Cambodia, Kingdom of Wonder

Cambodia, officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a country located in Southeast Asia. Here are some key points about Cambodia:
  1.  Geography: Cambodia shares borders with Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. The country has a diverse landscape that includes plains, mountains, and coastal areas. The Mekong River, one of the longest rivers in Southeast Asia, flows through Cambodia.
  2.  Capital and Major Cities: The capital city of Cambodia is Phnom Penh, which is also the country’s largest city. Other major cities include Siem Reap, known for its proximity to the Angkor Wat temple complex, and Sihanoukville, a coastal city known for its beaches.
  3.  History: Cambodia has a rich and complex history that dates back to ancient times. It was once the center of the powerful Khmer Empire, which left behind remarkable architectural wonders such as the Angkor Wat temple complex. In more recent history, Cambodia experienced a period of turmoil during the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s, which resulted in widespread suffering and loss of life.
  4.  Culture and Religion: Cambodian culture is heavily influenced by Theravada Buddhism, which is the predominant religion in the country. Buddhism plays a significant role in daily life, and Cambodia is home to many beautiful Buddhist temples and pagodas. The traditional arts, such as classical dance and music, also hold an important place in Cambodian culture.
  5.  Cuisine: Cambodian cuisine is diverse and known for its flavors and fresh ingredients. Some popular dishes include Amok (a fish curry), Lok Lak (stir-fried beef), and Nom Banh Chok (rice noodles with a fish-based sauce). Rice is a staple food in Cambodia, and fresh tropical fruits are abundant.
  6.  Language: The official language of Cambodia is Khmer. However, due to its historical ties to France, French was widely spoken in the past and continues to be spoken by some older generations. English is becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly in urban areas and among the younger population.
  7.  Tourism: Cambodia is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat, with its stunning temple ruins, is a major draw. Other attractions include the capital city of Phnom Penh with its historical and cultural sites, the beautiful beaches of Sihanoukville, and the countryside with its picturesque landscapes and rural villages.
Cambodia is a country that has faced significant challenges in its history but is now striving to develop and improve the well-being of its people. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Cambodia offers a unique and captivating experience for travelers.

Is Cambodia a rich or Poor country?

Cambodia is generally considered a developing country with a lower-middle-income economy. It has made significant progress in recent decades, but it still faces various socio-economic challenges. Cambodia has experienced robust economic growth in recent years, driven by sectors such as garment manufacturing, construction, tourism, and agriculture. However, poverty and income inequality remain significant issues. According to the World Bank, as of 2020, approximately 17.7% of the population in Cambodia lived below the national poverty line. The country has made strides in reducing poverty and improving living standards over the past two decades. The government has implemented policies to promote economic development, attract foreign investment, and improve social services. Efforts have been made to enhance education, healthcare, and infrastructure. However, there are still disparities between urban and rural areas, and challenges such as limited access to quality education, healthcare, and employment opportunities persist, particularly in rural and remote regions. It’s important to note that the economic status of a country can vary across different regions and among different population groups. While Cambodia continues to work towards further economic development and poverty reduction, it is necessary to address the remaining challenges to ensure inclusive growth and improve the well-being of its population. Certainly! Here are some additional points about Cambodia’s economy and development:
  1. Economic Growth: Cambodia has experienced strong economic growth over the past two decades, with an average annual GDP growth rate of around 7%. However, like many developing countries, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on Cambodia’s economy in 2020 and 2021, particularly in the tourism and garment sectors, which are major sources of foreign exchange and employment.
  2. Agriculture: Agriculture plays a vital role in Cambodia’s economy, employing a large portion of the population, particularly in rural areas. Rice is the country’s main agricultural product, and Cambodia is known for its high-quality fragrant rice. Other important crops include rubber, cassava, corn, and vegetables.
  3. Garment Manufacturing: The garment and textile industry is one of Cambodia’s key economic sectors. The country is a major exporter of garments, with a significant portion of its manufacturing centered around producing clothing for international brands. The industry has contributed to employment generation and export earnings, but it also faces challenges such as labor rights issues and competition from neighboring countries.
  4. Tourism: Tourism is a significant contributor to Cambodia’s economy, with attractions such as the Angkor Wat temple complex, Phnom Penh’s cultural sites, and coastal areas drawing visitors from around the world. Prior to the pandemic, tourism was a growing sector, creating jobs and generating revenue for the country. However, the industry has been heavily impacted by travel restrictions and reduced international travel.
  5. Development Challenges: Cambodia faces various development challenges, including limited access to quality education and healthcare services, inadequate infrastructure in some areas, and a high prevalence of poverty in rural and remote regions. Efforts are being made to address these challenges through investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and poverty reduction programs.
  6. International Aid and Investments: Cambodia receives significant support from international aid organizations and development partners to address its development needs. Foreign investments, particularly from countries like China and Vietnam, have also played a role in infrastructure development and other sectors.
  7. Social Development: Cambodia has made progress in improving social indicators, such as increasing school enrollment rates, reducing child mortality rates, and improving access to clean water and sanitation. However, there is still work to be done to ensure equitable access to quality education, healthcare, and basic services for all Cambodians.
It’s important to note that the economic and development landscape of Cambodia is constantly evolving. The government, along with international partners, continues to implement policies and programs to promote sustainable economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve the well-being of its population.

The Royal Palace of Cambodia

The Royal Palace is one of the most prominent landmarks in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It serves as the official residence of the King of Cambodia and is a significant symbol of the country’s monarchy. Here are some key details about the Royal Palace:
  1. Architecture: The Royal Palace showcases a stunning blend of traditional Khmer architecture and French colonial influences. It features intricate designs, gilded roofs, and ornate decorations. The buildings within the complex are constructed with beautiful materials, including gold, silver, and precious gems.
  2. Silver Pagoda: Located within the Royal Palace complex, the Silver Pagoda (officially known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) is a major highlight. This sacred temple houses many precious Buddha statues, including a life-sized gold Buddha adorned with over 9,000 diamonds. The floor of the Silver Pagoda is covered with more than 5,000 silver tiles, hence its name.
  3. Throne Hall: The Throne Hall is the most significant building in the Royal Palace. It serves as the venue for important royal ceremonies, including coronations and royal weddings. The Throne Hall features a grand staircase, intricate artwork, and a replica of the royal crown.
  4. Moonlight Pavilion: This open-air pavilion is located within the palace grounds and serves as a venue for traditional dance performances and cultural events. It offers a serene and picturesque setting.
  5. Khemarin Palace: Khemarin Palace is the private residence of the King and is not open to the public. It is situated within the Royal Palace complex and is accessible only during certain royal ceremonies or events.
  6. Gardens and Surroundings: The Royal Palace is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and courtyards. Visitors can stroll through these lush green spaces, enjoy the tranquility, and admire the intricate architecture from different angles.
  7. Dress Code: Visitors are required to dress modestly when visiting the Royal Palace. It is advised to wear clothing that covers the shoulders, upper arms, and knees. Sarongs and scarves are often available for rent at the entrance if needed.
The Royal Palace is not only a significant cultural and historical site but also a remarkable architectural masterpiece. It offers visitors a glimpse into Cambodia’s royal heritage and provides a serene and grand atmosphere.

News Update May 2023

As of May 2023, Cambodia’s tourism industry is slowly recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The country has implemented various measures to ensure the safety of tourists, such as requiring vaccination certificates and negative COVID-19 test results upon entry, and enforcing social distancing and mask-wearing in public places.

In recent years, Cambodia has been working to diversify its tourism offerings beyond the temples of Angkor Wat. The country has been promoting its beaches, national parks, and cultural attractions in an effort to attract more tourists.

In 2022, Cambodia welcomed approximately 2 million international tourists, which is still well below pre-pandemic levels. However, this represents a significant increase from the previous year, when the country only received around 1 million visitors due to travel restrictions and lockdowns.

The government has also been investing in infrastructure and tourism development projects, such as the construction of new airports and the expansion of existing ones, as well as the development of ecotourism initiatives and community-based tourism programs.

Overall, while the tourism industry in Cambodia still faces challenges due to the pandemic and other factors, there is optimism that the country’s diverse attractions and ongoing development efforts will continue to attract more visitors in the coming years.

Top 10 Places to Visit Cambodia

Cambodia is a country located in Southeast Asia, bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. Its capital and largest city is Phnom Penh.

Cambodia has a population of over 15 million people and is known for its rich history, ancient temples, and stunning natural beauty. The official language is Khmer, and the predominant religion is Buddhism.

In the past, Cambodia was the center of the Khmer Empire, which was one of the largest and most powerful empires in Southeast Asia. The most famous symbol of this period is the temple complex of Angkor Wat, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

However, Cambodia also has a tragic recent history, including the brutal rule of the Khmer Rouge from 1975 to 1979, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1.7 million people, or about a quarter of the country’s population at the time. Cambodia has since made significant progress in rebuilding and developing its economy, but it still faces challenges related to poverty, corruption, and political stability.

10 Places to visit Cambodia

Visiting Cambodia right now. You could consider including the following places and information:
1. Angkor Wat – a colossal Buddhist temple complex and the largest religious structure in the world. It is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia.

2. The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh – a huge complex of buildings and is the residence of the King of Cambodia. The palace is a beautiful example of Khmer architecture and is open to visitors.

3. Prasat Preah Vihear – a beautiful temple complex perched 550 m above Cambodia’s lowlands atop the Dangrek Mountains. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum – a museum in Phnom Penh that chronicles the Cambodian genocide. The museum is housed in a former high school that was used as a prison by the Khmer Rouge regime.

5. Central Market – a busy art market in Phnom Penh. The market is housed in a beautiful Art Deco building and is a great place to buy souvenirs and local handicrafts.

6. Sihanoukville – a coastal city known for its beaches. The city has several beautiful beaches, including Otres Beach and Serendipity Beach.

7. Tonle Sap Lake – the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. The lake is home to many floating villages and is an important source of fish for the local population.

8. Battambang – a city known for its French colonial architecture and bamboo train. The city has several beautiful colonial buildings and is also home to the famous bamboo train, which is a unique way to see the countryside.

9. Kampot – a riverside town known for its pepper plantations and colonial architecture. Kampot pepper is considered some of the best in the world and visitors can tour local pepper plantations to learn more about this important crop.

10. Koh Rong – an island off the coast of Sihanoukville known for its beaches and coral reefs. The island has several beautiful beaches and is also home to several coral reefs that are popular with snorkelers and divers.

The Temples of Cambodia

Explore Cambodia’s temples.

Angkor is a region in Cambodia that served as the seat of the Khmer Empire, the largest empire of Southeast Asia that flourished between the 9th and 15th centuries. This ancient and revered Cambodian province is home to astonishing and enduring architectural evidence of the Khmer Empire’s Hindu and Mahayana Buddhist beliefs; the temples of Angkor are awe-inspiring reminders of what was the largest preindustrial urban center in the world, larger than modern day New York.
Angkor Wat
While there are over 100 stone temples scattered throughout the Angkor region, the 5 listed here are the definite must-sees. Unquestionably topping this list is the temple at Angkor Wat, built by Suryavaram II to honor the Hindu god Vishnu. The enormous temple consists of 5 concentric rectangular walls and moats, symbolizing a cosmic chain of mountains and ocean. Angkor Wat is the best-preserved temple in Angkor; it appears on the country’s national flag and is the prime attraction for tourists.
The construction of Angkor Wat lasted at least 37 years. The main tower of the central temple represents the mountain Meru, the center of the Hindu and Buddhist universe. When touring Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples and religious monuments, it’s also possible to visit nearby Siem Reap, a small colonial town just north of Southeast Asia’s largest lake, Tonle Sap. If you’d like to stay a day or 2 to bask in the Angkor’s spiritual sanctity, Siem Reap has many hotels offering reasonable prices.
Banteay Srei
Banteay Srei, or the Temple of Women, has been called a jewel of Khmer art. Its great reliefs depict many mythological Hindu events including the duel between the monkey princes, Bali and Sugreeva; Narasimha’s slaying of the demon Hiranyakasipu; and the burning of Khandava Forest.
Banteay Srei is unique among Angkor’s noble temples because it was built by a wealthy courtier and scholar who served as an advisor to the Cambodian king, and not the monarch himself. Banteay Srei was dedicated to the Hindu god, Siva in 967; the temple is therefore considerably older than the other Angkor sites.
The grounds, buildings and layout at Banteay Srei are small, contrasting with the monumental scale of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. While the buildings may be compact, they don’t feel crowded, and the structural layout enhances the narrative relief carvings covering Banteay Srei’s red sandstone walls and passageways.
Preah Khan
Preah Khan is another of King Jayavarman’s creations and an inscription on the temple suggests he built it on the site where he defeated invaders from Champa, a region that is now Southern Vietnam. The successive rectangular galleries surrounding the Buddhist sanctuary have largely been left untouched.
This large complex not only functioned as a monastic house of worship, it was also a university including elements of Buddhist, Vaishnava and Shaiva worship. When visiting this hallowed ground, make sure to explore the Prasat Preah Stung, a central tower with 4 ornate Bayon-like carvings. Once inside, meander through the galleries and 2 libraries.This is another Angkor site you can explore while staying in Siem Reap. The Preah Khan hotel takes its name from the site and offers guests modern luxuries near this enduring cultural landmark.
Ta Prohm
The Khmer monarch completed the construction of this royal monastery in the 12th century and dedicated the grounds both to his mother and the goddess of wisdom, Prajnaparamita. The central stone pillar, called a foundational stele, chronicles the dedication and urges successors to protect the revered site.
The location of the temple, set amidst the lush Cambodian jungle, makes it extremely popular for tourists. Ta Prohm was home to more than 12,500 people, and the temple served as a place of worship for thousands of souls in surrounding villages. Now this peaceful town stands as a reminder of Cambodia’s early spirituality and religious beliefs.
Bayon
Another of Angkor’s sacred temple sites is Bayon is a walled capital city known especially for its jungle of face towers. These towers bear massive stone carvings depicting the face of the king and a message of spiritual worship. This is a place where the teachings of Hinduism and Buddhism exist in a unique spiritual balance, most visibly evident in the massive stone faces carved into Bayon’s many towers.
To explore these sacred Cambodian sites, it’s possible to book a temple tour. History and spirituality combine in this ancient land where mythology and religion share the same stone face, and cultural customs wait to be discovered at every turn.
Source: travelchannel
By: Erica Walsh