But before you set foot in the Kingdom of Wonder, there’s one essential step: securing your Cambodia tourist visa. Thankfully, Cambodia offers a convenient e-visa system that makes travel planning easier than ever. In this guide, we’ll show you how to apply online and explore the best tourist places to visit across the country.
Let’s dive into your perfect Cambodia journey!
How to Apply for a Cambodia Tourist Visa Online
Getting your visa for Cambodia is fast and simple thanks to the government’s official e-Visa system. It allows travelers from many countries to apply online without visiting an embassy.
What You Need:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- A recent digital passport-size photo
- A scanned copy of your passport bio page
- A valid email address
- A credit or debit card for the visa fee
Application Steps:
- Visit the official Cambodia e-Visa portal: : https://www.evisagov.co/official/en/
Fill out the application form with your personal and travel details. - Upload the required documents and pay the visa fee (around $36 USD).
- Wait for confirmation via email (usually within 3 working days).
- Download and print your e-visa to present upon arrival.
✈️ Cambodia’s e-visa is valid for 30 days, single entry only. If you plan to stay longer or require multiple entries, apply through the nearest Cambodian embassy.
Siem Reap – Gateway to Angkor Temples
Siem Reap is the cultural heart of Cambodia and the launchpad for exploring the legendary Angkor Archaeological Park. Beyond the temples, the city offers lively night markets, authentic Khmer food, and rich traditions.
Must-See Highlights:
- Angkor Wat: The largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Ta Prohm: The “Tomb Raider” temple with tree roots growing through ancient stone
- Angkor Thom & Bayon Temple: Known for its massive stone faces
- Pub Street: A fun area for nightlife, restaurants, and local markets
Wake up early to catch sunrise at Angkor Wat, then spend the day exploring ancient ruins by tuk-tuk or bicycle.
Phnom Penh – Cambodia’s Capital of Contrasts
Phnom Penh blends French colonial charm with a sobering yet important history. It’s the capital and largest city, where you’ll find grand palaces, cultural museums, and a glimpse into Cambodia’s resilience.
What to Explore:
- Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda: Glimmering spires and beautiful gardens
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum & Killing Fields of Choeung Ek: Memorials to the victims of the Khmer Rouge
- Wat Phnom: A peaceful temple on a hill in the city center
- Russian Market & Central Market: Great spots for souvenirs and local goods
Phnom Penh is a place of reflection, history, and revitalization — a must-visit for understanding Cambodia’s past and present.
Sihanoukville – Beaches and Island Getaways
Once a quiet port town, Sihanoukville is now a hub for reaching Cambodia’s beautiful islands. Though the city is under fast development, it remains a convenient stop before heading to the coast.
Where to Go:
- Otres Beach: Quieter alternative to the city’s main beach, perfect for relaxing
- Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem: Idyllic islands with turquoise waters and white-sand beaches
- Scuba diving, snorkeling, and boat tours are popular water activities
🏝 From Sihanoukville, ferries run daily to nearby islands — ideal for travelers seeking peace, parties, or both!
Battambang – Art, Culture & Countryside
Battambang is a charming riverside town known for colonial architecture, artsy vibes, and lush landscapes. It’s a great stop between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
Top Experiences:
- Bamboo Train: A fun and quirky ride on makeshift tracks
- Phnom Sampeau: Caves, temples, and the bat exodus at sunset
- Wat Banan Temple: Often called a “mini Angkor Wat”
- Local art galleries and street food tours
Battambang offers a slower pace and authentic glimpse into rural Cambodian life.
Kampot & Kep – Riverside Charm and Seafood
These two laid-back towns in southern Cambodia are perfect for relaxing, with scenic views, colonial remnants, and delicious food.
Highlights in Kampot:
- Bokor Mountain National Park: Misty peaks, waterfalls, and abandoned French ruins
- Kampot Pepper Plantations: World-famous spice tours and tastings
- River cruises at sunset
Things to Do in Kep:
- Kep Beach and the Crab Market
- Hiking in Kep National Park
- Boat rides to Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay)
If you love coastal scenery and fresh seafood, you’ll feel right at home.
Mondulkiri & Ratanakiri – Eastern Adventures
These remote provinces in eastern Cambodia are rich in jungles, waterfalls, and ethnic minority cultures. Perfect for off-the-beaten-path exploration.
In Mondulkiri:
- Elephant Valley Project: Ethical elephant sanctuary experience
- Bou Sra Waterfall and nature treks
- Hill tribe villages and coffee plantations
In Ratanakiri:
- Yeak Laom Crater Lake
- Jungle hikes, caves, and volcanic hills
- Minority markets in Banlung
Wild and unspoiled, these provinces are ideal for adventurous travelers.
Top Experiences in Cambodia
- 🚲 Explore Angkor Wat by bike
- 🍜 Try Khmer dishes like fish amok, beef lok lak, and num banh chok
- 🚤 Take a boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake
- 🏖️ Relax on the islands of Koh Rong or Koh Ta Kiev
- 🎭 Watch an Apsara dance performance
- 🛶 Go kayaking in Kampot or along the Mekong River
Travel Tips for Tourists
- Best time to visit: November to March (cooler and dry season)
- Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR) & USD widely accepted
- Language: Khmer (English is commonly spoken in tourist areas)
- Connectivity: Local SIM cards are cheap and widely available
- Safety: Cambodia is generally safe, but beware of scams or petty theft in busy areas
- Health: Use insect repellent and drink bottled water
Final Thoughts
Cambodia is a country that surprises and inspires. From the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor to the serene beaches of the southern coast, every stop reveals something new. With a warm smile and resilient spirit, the Cambodian people welcome travelers with open arms and open hearts.
Don’t forget to apply for your Cambodia tourist visa online before your journey — and get ready to discover a land of ancient history, tropical adventures, and unforgettable memories.
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