Cambodia, officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a Southeast Asian nation located on the Indochinese Peninsula. It is bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the north, and Vietnam to the east and southeast, with a coastline of approximately 443 kilometers along the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. Covering an area of about 181,035 square kilometers (69,898 square miles), Cambodia is slightly smaller than the U.S. state of Missouri. The capital and largest city is Phnom Penh, which serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country.

The geography of Cambodia is dominated by a low-lying central plain that encompasses the Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong River basin. This region is characterized by fertile alluvial soil, which has supported agriculture for centuries. Surrounding this central plain are upland areas and mountain ranges, including the Cardamom Mountains in the southwest and the Dangrek Mountains to the north. The landscape is dotted with rivers, wetlands, and forests, contributing to its rich biodiversity. The climate is tropical monsoon, with distinct wet and dry seasons that significantly influence agricultural practices.

With a population of approximately 17 million people, Cambodia’s demographic makeup includes a majority of ethnic Khmer, alongside significant Vietnamese and Chinese communities. The official language is Khmer, but English is widely spoken in urban areas due to tourism and international business interests. Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its traditions, cuisine, and festivals that attract visitors from around the world.

Explore Cambodia

• Cambodia [Country Info]
• Common Misconceptions – Cambodia
• Currency Guide – Cambodia
• Essential Travel Tips for Cambodia
• Geographical Regions of Cambodia
• Popular Cities To Visit In Cambodia
• Popular Foods In Cambodia
• Popular Museums To Visit In Cambodia
• Safety Guide For Travelers To Cambodia
• Top 50 Things To Do In Cambodia
• Top Historical Places To Visit In Cambodia

History Of Cambodia

Cambodia’s history is marked by its rise and fall as a major power in Southeast Asia. The Khmer Empire, founded in 802 AD by King Jayavarman II, was one of the most powerful empires in Southeast Asia during its peak in the 12th century. The empire’s capital was Angkor, home to magnificent temples such as Angkor Wat—considered one of the largest religious monuments in the world. The Khmer Empire facilitated the spread of Hinduism and Buddhism throughout Southeast Asia and undertook extensive architectural projects that still stand today.

However, by the 15th century, Cambodia began to decline due to internal strife and external pressures from neighboring kingdoms. The empire was eventually sacked by the Ayutthaya Kingdom in Thailand around 1432 AD. Following centuries of foreign domination and political instability, Cambodia became a French protectorate in 1863. This colonial period lasted until World War II when Japan briefly occupied the country.

After gaining independence in 1953 under King Norodom Sihanouk, Cambodia faced significant challenges during the following decades. The rise of the Khmer Rouge regime in 1975 led to one of history’s most tragic genocides, resulting in the deaths of an estimated two million people through forced labor, starvation, and execution. After years of civil war and foreign intervention by Vietnam, Cambodia began a process of recovery under a new government established in 1979.

Since then, Cambodia has made strides toward rebuilding its economy and political system while grappling with its tumultuous past. Today, it has established a constitutional monarchy with regular elections and a growing economy driven by tourism and agriculture.

Landscapes In Cambodia

Cambodia’s landscapes are diverse and reflect its geographical features:

• Central Plain: This low-lying area is characterized by fertile alluvial soil from rivers like the Mekong and Tonle Sap. It supports extensive rice cultivation and other agricultural activities.
• Tonle Sap Lake: Known as one of Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lakes, Tonle Sap undergoes significant seasonal changes in size due to monsoonal rains. It serves as a vital resource for fishing and agriculture.
• Mekong River: Flowing through Cambodia from north to south, this river is crucial for transportation and irrigation while supporting diverse ecosystems along its banks.
• Mountain Ranges: The Cardamom Mountains in southwestern Cambodia are among Southeast Asia’s last remaining rainforests, home to unique wildlife and plant species. The Dangrek Mountains form a natural border with Thailand.
• Coastal Areas: Cambodia’s coastline along the Gulf of Thailand features sandy beaches, mangrove forests, and small islands that attract tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.

The country’s varied topography provides opportunities for eco-tourism activities such as hiking in national parks or exploring remote islands.

Weather In Cambodia

Cambodia experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The country typically has three main seasons: the dry season from November to April, the pre-monsoon season from May to October, and the monsoon season from June to October. During the dry season, temperatures can be quite warm, often reaching highs of around 35°C (95°F), while the nights can be cooler, especially in December and January.

Currently, the weather in Cambodia is pleasant, with temperatures around 25°C (77°F) and sunny conditions. Humidity levels are moderate at 64%, which is typical for this time of year. Winds are mild, blowing at about 8 mph from the east, contributing to a comfortable atmosphere for outdoor activities. The visibility is good at 6 miles, and there is no precipitation reported, making it an ideal time for tourism and exploration.

Looking ahead, the forecast remains favorable with sunny conditions expected for the next few days. On November 18th through November 20th, clear skies are predicted, followed by partly cloudy weather on November 21st. There may be some patchy rain starting on November 22nd and continuing into November 23rd. Overall, this period showcases Cambodia’s typical dry season weather, providing an excellent opportunity for visitors to enjoy its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Currency Used In Cambodia

Cambodia operates under a dual currency system, with the Cambodian Riel (KHR) as the official currency and the US Dollar (USD) widely accepted for transactions. The Riel is represented by the symbol ៛ and comes in various denominations, including 100, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 riel. The exchange rate is approximately 4,000 riel to 1 US dollar, making it convenient for travelers to use either currency depending on the context of their purchases.

While the Riel is predominantly used for everyday transactions, especially in rural areas, the US Dollar is often preferred in urban centers and tourist hotspots. Many businesses quote prices in dollars and provide change in riel. However, small denominations of US dollars ($1, $2, and $5) are increasingly being phased out of circulation due to a de-dollarization campaign initiated by the Cambodian government. As a result, travelers are advised to carry larger bills (like $10 and $20) and be prepared to receive change in Riel for their purchases.

For those traveling to Cambodia, it’s essential to plan how to manage your currency. ATMs are widely available in cities and dispense both riel and US dollars; however, they typically charge a fee for withdrawals. Currency exchange services can be found in major tourist areas like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. It is generally recommended to avoid exchanging money at airports due to unfavorable rates. Instead, travelers should consider using licensed money changers or withdrawing cash from ATMs for better rates.

See Currency Guide – Cambodia

See Currencies Around The World

Emergency Numbers In Cambodia

In Cambodia, knowing the emergency contact numbers is crucial for both residents and travelers. The country has designated numbers for various emergency services, ensuring that help can be reached quickly in critical situations.

• Police: For police assistance, dial 117. This number connects you to local law enforcement, and English-speaking operators are available at +(012) 999 999 for those who may need language support.
• Fire Department: In case of a fire, contact the fire department at 118. This service operates 24 hours a day, providing immediate response to fire emergencies.
• Ambulance and Rescue Service: For medical emergencies, the ambulance service can be reached at 119. They also have an English-speaking line available at 023-723840.

Additionally, there are specific contacts for tourist police, which can be particularly helpful for visitors. In Phnom Penh, the tourist police can be reached at +(023) 724 793, while in Siem Reap, their contact is +(012) 402 424. These units are trained to assist tourists and often have personnel who speak English.

For medical emergencies, the Calmette Hospital in Phnom Penh is a key facility with various contact numbers including (023) 426 948 and (012) 912 947. It’s advisable to save these numbers in your phone or keep them accessible during your stay in Cambodia to ensure prompt assistance when needed.

See Safety Guide For Travelers To Cambodia

Top 20 Cities

1. Phnom Penh
2. Siem Reap
3. Battambang
4. Sihanoukville
5. Kampong Cham
6. Takeo
7. Pursat
8. Banteay Meanchey
9. Prey Veng
10. Kampong Thom
11. Kandal
12. Svay Rieng
13. Ratanakiri
14. Mondulkiri
15. Kratie
16. Oddar Meanchey
17. Pailin
18. Kep
19. Svey Rieng
20. Siem Reap

See Popular Cities To Visit In Cambodia for more details

Interesting Facts About Cambodia

1. Angkor Wat: Angkor Wat is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also one of the largest religious monuments globally.
2. Khmer Language: Khmer is one of Southeast Asia’s oldest languages still spoken today.
3. Biodiversity: Cambodia is home to diverse ecosystems including tropical forests that support many endangered species like the Indochinese tiger.
4. Cultural Festivals: Major festivals such as Pchum Ben (Ancestor’s Day) showcase Cambodian traditions through food offerings at pagodas.
5. Rice Cultivation: Rice is a staple food in Cambodian cuisine; it plays a crucial role in both culture and economy.
6. Traditional Dance: Apsara dance is an ancient form of Cambodian dance that tells stories through graceful movements.
7. Historical Sites: Beyond Angkor Wat, sites like Ta Prohm are famous for their unique blend of nature reclaiming ancient structures.
8. Monsoon Climate: The annual monsoon season significantly impacts agriculture; it typically runs from May to October.
9. French Colonial Influence: French architecture can be seen throughout Phnom Penh with colonial-era buildings still standing today.
10. Emerging Economy: In recent years, tourism has become one of Cambodia’s leading industries contributing significantly to its GDP.

Customs and Norms

Cambodian culture emphasizes respect for tradition and community values:

• Hospitality: Cambodians are known for their warm hospitality; it’s common for hosts to offer food or drink when guests arrive at their homes.
• Dining Etiquette: Meals are often shared family-style; it’s polite to wait for elders to start eating before beginning your meal.
• Greetings: A traditional greeting involves placing palms together at chest level (known as “sampeah”) while bowing slightly; this gesture shows respect.
• Dress Code: Modest clothing is preferred; visitors should dress conservatively when visiting temples or rural areas.
• Respect for Buddhism: As a predominantly Buddhist nation, showing respect for religious sites and practices is essential; visitors should be mindful during ceremonies or rituals.

Understanding these customs can enhance interactions with locals while exploring this beautiful country rich in history and culture.

Cambodia offers travelers an extraordinary blend of ancient heritage alongside stunning landscapes—a destination that provides unique experiences waiting to be discovered amid its vibrant culture and resilient spirit following years of hardship.

External Resources:

• World Factbook – Cambodia: https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/cambodia/
• Wiki Travel – Cambodia: https://wikitravel.org/en/Cambodia
• State Travel Advisory – Cambodia: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/cambodia-travel-advisory.html