We visited the ancient Cambodian temples for the first time over 25 years ago. It was love at first sight. Since then, we visit the country regularly in search for more temples.
Nothing can prepare you to the sheer beauty of Cambodia. Massive old trees populate the country. In between them, equally beautiful archaeological remains. No other place in the world combines nature and architecture like Cambodia.
The temples are distributed all around the country. Reaching them is not that hard. The following are our favorite ones. We are convinced you will love them all as much as we do.
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Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is the mother of all the temples. It’s our favorite place in the world. Every time we visit, it feels like the first time.
We are talking about 405 acres (163 hectares) of the most amazing jungle interspersed by gorgeous temples. It’s like visiting paradise! You will never get tired of Angkor.
In fact, every time we visit, we discover something new. There we go, walking about the massive trees, looking for temples, breathing fresh air, wondering at the harmony of the place.
How to Visit Angkor Wat
You simply cannot rush through the best ancient temples of Cambodia. You need at least 3 days to see Angkor Wat. We encourage you to get the 7 day ticket. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
The best way to visit the temples is with a tuk tuk. Your tuk tuk driver will take you comfortably and safely to where you want to go. He’ll wait for you with cold water and give you great tips.
You can drive your own motorcycle too. If you are in great shape, you can bike around the temples. Going on an organized tour is also a good option and a great way to meet fellow travelers.
Koh Ker
Koh Ker is the newest Cambodian addition to UNESCOS’s World Heritage Site List and it still under the radar. Trust us, it’s so beautiful that it will soon become popular.
Koh Ker is unique because it looks like a massive pyramid. You can climb all the way to the top. It towers above the jungle, so the views from the top are epic.
The area comprises over 100 structures, but you can’t visit most. The entire area is still pretty underdeveloped and that’s why we love it! You get to see rural Cambodia.
How to Visit Koh Ker
Koh Ker is some 75 miles (120 km) northeast of Siem Reap. The best way to reach it is with a private car. We don’t drive, so we hired a driver.
We strongly recommend spending at least one night near the temples. We did so in a cute hotel in Phumi Moreal Village and loved the experience. You will have more time to enjoy Koh Ker and hang out with the locals.
Since it’s 2 hours from Siem Reap you can go on a day trip to Koh Ker and be back at night. You can also join an organized tour. Biking all the way there is only for pros.
Sambor Prei Kuk
You won’t believe how beautiful and empty of crowds Sambor Prei Kuk is. The archaeological site is as grand as it gets, but to our delight, not many people visit.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 6th Century. Once again we must mention the lush forest that surrounds it. The area includes over 100 temples.
Most temples are being restored now. The ones you can see are not far from each other. The jungle is pretty dense and walking about is a must.
How to Visit Sambor Prei Kuk
Sambor Prei Kuk is almost halfway between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Thus, you can hire a driver in either place. Though you can go on a day trip, spending at least a night is a must.
We always take a van from Phnom Penh to Kampong Thom. From there, we hire a tuk tuk to take us to the temples, spend a couple of nights, and continue to Siem Reap with another van.
You can also go on an organized tour from either Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. You will have to rush a bit, but you will see the most important temples.
Nokor Bachey
Nokor Bachey is another sight worth visiting. The majestic pagoda is near the town of Kampong Cham, some 63 miles (100 km) from Phnom Penh.
We love it because it combines an ancient temple with a modern one that’s in use today. Locals visit to pray and the atmosphere is as magical as it gets.
Besides, some of the carvings and reliefs rival those found in Angkor Wat. Kampong Cham itself is pretty interesting. The town lies on the mighty Mekong and has superb French colonial architecture.
How to Visit Nokor Bachey
The best way to visit Nokor Bachey is with a private car from Phnom Penh. You can ask your driver to continue to Siem Reap or to go back to Phnom Penh. However, we believe you should spend at least one night in Kampong Cham.
We always take a van from Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham and stop for a couple of nights. We hire a tuk tuk there and visit the temples for as long as we like.
Then, we continue to Kratie, a charming little town some 80 miles (130 km) to the northeast. Note that there are no organized tours to Nokor Bachey.
Oudong
From the 17th to the 19th Centuries, Oudong was the capital of Cambodia. Then King Norodom decided to leave and establish his capital in Phnom Penh. Oudong slowly fell into oblivion.
The temples are perched on Oudong Hill. You have to climb over 500 steps to reach the top. Remember to bring some socks to avoid burning your feet.
Your effort will be rewarded with unforgettable views over the forest. You have to visit three pagodas and then come down from the northern side of the hill. You will see other stupas and shrines.
How to Visit Oudong
Oudong is pretty close to Phnom Penh. You can hire a tuk tuk in the city and be there in an hour or so. Thus, Oudong makes for a great day trip.
You can also go on organized tour and be back on the same day. However, spending a night next to the temples is a great idea. You will most likely be the only foreigner in town.
The town itself is worth your time. There’s a lively market and several contemporary temples. We don’t recommend walking from the town to the temples. Better hire an inexpensive tuk tuk.
Traveling Around Cambodia
Moving around Cambodia with a tuk tuk offers a unique travel experience. You will be super comfortable and get to know local people. Cambodians are professional, warm, and cautions drivers.
We would like to recommend our friend Borey for all your travels in Cambodia. He’s got a super cool tuk tuk and now a modern van perfect for groups. He’s taken us all around the country and showed us places only locals know.
If you consider the distances and the privilege of private transportation, local drivers are a steal. Vans operate between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kampong Thom and Kampong Cham. Though they take hours, it’s a great way to learn about the local culture.
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