Places of interest in Cambodia
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, the archaeological site of Angkor is the emblem of Cambodia. These ruins are home to the Capital Temple, whose towers are featured on the country's flag. Angkor is also home to one of Cambodia's most romantic sites, Ta Phrom temple. Surrounded by jungle and with a capacity of 12,000, this temple was built by Jayavarman in the Bayon style as a Buddhist monastery and school in 1186. Equally impressive is the Baphuon temple, the work of King Udayadityavarman II. Overhung by a five-level rectangular pyramid housing the central sanctuary, this temple comprises 3 passages and is set in the middle of a rectangular enclosure measuring 425m by 125m. Inside, a sandstone causeway slumbers on a 1.20m stilt built over the enclosure's former basins. During the reign of Jayavarman, the Terrace of the Elephants was built in the 12th century. Bordering the former royal palace and dominating Angkor Thom's main square, this temple is 15m wide, 300m long and 3 to 5m high, and is bordered on all sides by a snake-shaped balustrade (naga). Further north, the Terrace of the Leper King is one of Cambodia's oldest monuments and features a representation (a reproduction, as the Phnom Penh National Museum holds the original) of Yama, the Hindu God of Death, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In addition to the archaeological ruins for which it is famous, Cambodia is a destination full of life. Nicknamed the "Pearl of South-East Asia", the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh stands out for its colonial remains and temples, including the Royal Palace. Located on the region's coast, the village of Sihanoukville is a must-see seaside resort. With its immense beaches, including the 4km-long BeachOtres Beach, the shores are lined with bars and restaurants where you can enjoy cocktails and meals in the sun. Formerly known for its pepper trade, Kampot is a prime tourist destination. Located in the south of Cambodia, this peaceful town blends the Cambodian way of life with the architectural style of the colonial period. The town is home to the abandoned Bokor health resort, a popular attraction at its 1000 m altitude. South of Battambang, the Bamboo Train site awaits visitors. Built with bamboo platforms that can be dismantled, the chassis of this benchmark attraction are mounted on candles and have retained their originality to this day.
In Kratie are the unusual freshwater dolphins. With their gray skin and small hump before the fin, these rare specimens measure between two and three meters. A more or less endangered species, they congregate in the Irrawaddy River in Burma and in Kratie. The Mondulkiri region, meanwhile, has been preserved in its wild state. The surrounding area is dominated by jungle as far as the eye can see, consisting mainly of immense rainforest. The Popokvil Falls are also well worth a visit, with their cascades falling from two tiers, 14m and 18m high respectively.
When to visit Cambodia ?
Cambodia has two monsoon periods. The first is in the north, which is dry and cold from November to March. The second is the South-West monsoon, which lasts from May to October and is often wet. Year-round temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C. The coolest month is January and the hottest is April. Consequently, the best time to go is from November to March. But no matter when you visit, you're sure to find restaurants serving Amok, Cambodia's national dish.