Cambodia Travel Guide: Complete Travel Information for Cambodia

Cambodia is a Southeast Asian destination known for the temples of Angkor, the Mekong River, Phnom Penh’s history, Siem Reap’s tourism scene, tropical islands, Khmer cuisine and a warm, resilient culture. It is well suited to cultural travel, backpacking, family trips, food journeys, river travel, beach holidays and longer Southeast Asia itineraries.

The capital is Phnom Penh. The official currency is the Cambodian riel (KHR), although the US dollar is widely used in everyday transactions. Cambodia uses Indochina Time, UTC+7, and does not observe daylight saving time.

1. Entry Requirements & Documents

Passport and visa requirements

Entry requirements for Cambodia depend on nationality, passport type, purpose of travel and intended duration of stay. Most visitors need a tourist visa, an electronic visa, or a visa on arrival. Visa rules, eligible entry points, permitted length of stay and entry procedures can change, so verify the current rules before departure.

Your passport should generally be valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival.
Most visitors need a visa before arrival or can apply for a visa on arrival at eligible border points.
A tourist eVisa is available for many nationalities and is often the easiest option for airport entry.
Visitors should have a return or onward ticket and accommodation details available.
Overstaying can lead to daily fines, immigration difficulties and delays when departing.
Some land borders and visa-on-arrival rules may have specific restrictions.

Apply only through the official government portal: Cambodia eVisa – Official Government Website.

The official Cambodia eVisa service states that applications can be made online and are normally processed within approximately three business days. For current contact information, the official eVisa service lists telephone numbers +855 23 224 973 and +855 99 334 973, with English support available.

Useful travel documents

Passport and visa or eVisa approval where required.
Arrival card or electronic arrival declaration if required.
Return or onward travel ticket.
Hotel booking or accommodation address.
Travel health-insurance certificate.
International driving permit if planning to drive or rent a vehicle.
Prescription documents for regular medication.
Digital and paper copies of passport, visa, insurance and bookings.

Customs and restricted items

Cambodia has strict laws regarding narcotics, weapons, pornography and protected cultural objects. Do not purchase or export antiques, archaeological objects, religious artefacts or wildlife products without proper certification. Prescription medicines should be carried in original packaging with a prescription or doctor’s letter.

Visitors should also respect rules protecting Angkor and other heritage sites. Do not remove stones, carvings or objects from temples, archaeological sites, forests or protected areas.

2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Health preparation

Medical facilities are improving in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, but serious conditions may require treatment in Thailand, Vietnam or Singapore. Healthcare quality, ambulance access and specialist services can be limited outside major cities.

Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
Discuss hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tetanus, rabies, typhoid and Japanese encephalitis with a travel clinic if relevant.
Pack a travel medical kit with rehydration salts, insect repellent, sunscreen, diarrhoea medication and plasters.
Carry prescribed medication in original packaging with a doctor’s letter.
Use bottled, boiled or properly filtered water rather than tap water.

Travel health insurance

Comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Select a policy that includes private hospital treatment, medical evacuation, repatriation, personal liability, motorbike accidents and adventure activities if relevant.

Check whether motorbike riding is covered, including helmet and licence requirements.
Confirm emergency evacuation and treatment in neighbouring countries if required.
Ensure your policy covers scuba diving, trekking, boat trips and other planned activities.
Carry your insurer’s emergency assistance number offline.

Mosquito-borne diseases

Dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses can occur in Cambodia. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers at dawn and dusk, and stay in accommodation with screens, air conditioning or mosquito nets where possible.

Heat, humidity and food safety

Drink water regularly, especially when visiting Angkor temples or travelling by boat.
Use sunscreen, a hat and breathable clothing in hot weather.
Eat freshly cooked food served hot.
Wash hands regularly and carry hand sanitiser.
Avoid ice and raw food if hygiene conditions are uncertain.

3. Safety & Travel Advisories

General safety

Cambodia is a popular destination for independent travellers, but visitors should use more caution than in many Western European or East Asian countries. Common risks include bag snatching, scams, traffic accidents, drink spiking, poorly regulated activities, limited emergency care and unexploded ordnance in rural areas.

Keep phones, bags, passports and jewellery secure, especially on busy streets and when riding in tuk-tuks.
Do not display expensive devices or large amounts of cash.
Use hotel safes where available and carry only essential valuables.
Be cautious after dark, particularly in quiet streets, beaches and isolated areas.
Use reputable transport companies, licensed guides and established accommodation.
Avoid drugs; penalties can be severe and police scams are reported.

Bag snatching and transport safety

Bag snatching from passing motorbikes is a known risk in Phnom Penh and other urban areas. Keep bags on the side away from traffic, avoid using your phone near the road, and do not resist if threatened.

Wear bags cross-body and keep them closed.
Do not place bags loosely in tuk-tuks or on the outside of a vehicle.
Use a helmet when riding on any motorbike or scooter.
Do not rent a motorbike unless you are properly licensed, experienced and insured.
Traffic can be chaotic; cross roads slowly and predictably.

Landmines and unexploded ordnance

Landmines and unexploded ordnance remain a risk in some rural and former conflict areas, particularly away from established routes near border regions. Stay on marked paths, do not walk through unmarked fields or forest areas, and follow local advice.

Official travel advice

4. Emergency & Important Numbers

Emergency numbers

Police: 117
Fire service: 118
Ambulance: 119
Emergency hotline for foreigners: +855 31 201 2345 or +855 31 601 2345
Tourist Police, Phnom Penh: +855 12 942 484
Tourist Police, Siem Reap: +855 12 402 424
Tourist Police English support: +855 77 788 603

Official UK government travel advice confirms Cambodia’s core emergency numbers: police 117, fire 118 and ambulance 119. It also advises travellers to report crimes to the Tourist Police where possible.

Official Cambodia Tourist Police contact information: Cambodia Tourist Police Contacts.

Official travel emergency information: Cambodia Emergency Services and Tourist Police – GOV.UK.

Reporting a crime

In Phnom Penh, contact the Tourist Police at Street 598, Phnom Penh, or call +855 12 942 484.
In Siem Reap, the Tourist Police office is located near the Angkor temple ticketing area.
For insurance claims, request a written police report where possible.
Contact your embassy and insurer promptly after theft, assault, serious accident or passport loss.

Emergency planning checklist

Save 117, 118, 119, Tourist Police contacts and your insurer’s assistance number.
Keep your hotel address and a local contact number accessible offline.
Carry photocopies of your passport and visa separately from the originals.
Share your route and arrival plans before remote island, jungle or rural travel.
Use a reputable clinic or international hospital for serious medical issues.

5. Embassies & Consulates

Consular assistance

Phnom Penh hosts many foreign embassies and consulates. Contact your responsible embassy if you lose your passport, are arrested, need emergency travel documents, become seriously ill or are involved in a serious accident.

Useful embassy and consular links

United States Embassy emergency contact

U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh main telephone: +855 23 728 402
U.S. Embassy emergency after-hours telephone: +855 23 728 000

Confirm all current contact details, office hours and emergency procedures directly on your embassy website before travel.

6. Background on Cambodia & Society

Country overview

Cambodia is located in mainland Southeast Asia and borders Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and the Gulf of Thailand. It is shaped by the Mekong River, Tonle Sap Lake, lowland rice plains, forested mountains and a long coastline with islands and beaches.

Cambodia is internationally known for the Khmer Empire and the Angkor temple complex, one of the world’s most important archaeological landscapes. The country’s recent history includes French colonial rule, civil conflict, the Khmer Rouge era and ongoing recovery. Visitors should approach historical topics with respect and sensitivity.

Society, religion and culture

Official language: Khmer.
Main religion: Theravada Buddhism.
Currency: Cambodian riel, with widespread US dollar use.
Culture: Khmer traditions, Buddhist values, family life, hospitality and respect for elders are important.
National identity: Strongly connected with Angkor heritage, Khmer language, traditional dance and the Cambodian flag.

Respectful behaviour

Dress modestly at temples, pagodas and religious sites.
Remove hats and shoes where requested at temples and private homes.
Do not touch people on the head, including children.
Do not point your feet toward people, Buddha images or religious objects.
Use both hands or the right hand when giving or receiving money, gifts or food.
Ask permission before taking close photographs of monks, children, families or market sellers.
Avoid disrespectful behaviour at genocide memorials, prisons and war-related sites.

7. Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate

Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate with a dry season, a hot season and a rainy season. Temperatures are high throughout the year, while humidity and rainfall vary by month and region.

Best time to visit

November to February: Generally the most comfortable period, with lower rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures.
March to May: Very hot, especially in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and inland areas.
May to October: Rainy season, with heavy showers, humidity and greener landscapes.
June to September: Good for fewer crowds and lush scenery, but expect rain and possible transport disruption.

Clothing recommendations

Wear light, breathable clothing suitable for tropical heat.
Carry a rain jacket or compact umbrella during the rainy season.
Bring a hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen for temple visits and boat trips.
Use comfortable shoes or sandals with good grip for wet paths and temple stairs.
Pack clothing that covers shoulders and knees for Angkor temples and pagodas.
Bring mosquito protection, especially for evening and rural travel.

8. Language & Communication

Language

Official language: Khmer.
English: Widely used in hotels, restaurants, tourism, younger urban communities and business settings.
French: Still used by some older people and in selected institutions.
Chinese and Vietnamese: Common in some business and tourism contexts.

Useful Khmer phrases

Hello: Sua sdei
Thank you: Aw kohn
Please: Som
Yes: Ba for men / Jah for women
No: Ot te
Excuse me: Som toh
How much is this? Tlay ponman?
Where is the toilet? Bon tob tuk nov ae na?

Internet, SIM cards and roaming

Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafés, restaurants and guesthouses in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kampot and major tourist areas. Local SIM cards are inexpensive and useful for ride-hailing, maps and mobile data. Coverage can be weaker on islands, in jungle areas and in remote provinces.

Major operators include Smart, Cellcard and Metfone.
Buy a SIM card from an official shop and carry your passport for registration.
Download offline maps and keep accommodation details saved before travelling outside major cities.
Carry a power bank for long bus, boat and island journeys.

9. Voltage & Plug Types

Electricity in Cambodia

Voltage: Usually 230 V.
Frequency: 50 Hz.
Plug types: Type A, Type C and Type G can all be found.

Adapter and converter advice

Cambodia uses a mixture of socket types. Travellers from Germany, Austria and many European countries may be able to use Type C plugs in some locations, but a universal travel adapter is strongly recommended. Travellers from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia and other regions should bring an adapter.

Most modern phone, laptop and camera chargers support 100–240 V. Check each device before travel. Power cuts and inconsistent electricity can occur outside major cities, so carry a power bank and spare charging cable.

10. Money & Finances

Currency

Cambodia’s official currency is the Cambodian riel (KHR), but the US dollar (USD) is widely used for accommodation, transport, restaurant bills and tourist services. Small change is commonly given in riel.

Use clean, undamaged US dollar notes. Torn, marked or old notes may be refused by shops, banks and hotels.

Check current exchange rates: XE Currency Converter for KHR.

Payments and cash

Cash remains very important across Cambodia.
US dollars are commonly accepted, while riel is used for small transactions and change.
Cards are accepted at many hotels, upscale restaurants, malls and tour operators in major cities.
Visa and Mastercard are more common than American Express.
ATMs are widespread in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kampot, Battambang and coastal towns.
Carry small denominations of US dollars and riel for tuk-tuks, markets, tips and rural travel.

Price level

Cambodia is generally affordable compared with Western Europe, North America, Australia and Singapore. Local food, guesthouses, buses and tuk-tuks can be inexpensive, while upscale hotels, private tours, imported products and island resorts may cost significantly more.

Tipping culture

Tipping is appreciated but usually not obligatory.
In restaurants, a small tip or around 5–10% is appreciated for good service.
Tip guides, drivers, hotel staff and boat crews where service has been helpful.
Small tips are common at temples, heritage sites and for luggage assistance.

11. Transport & Arrival

Main airports

Phnom Penh International Airport: Main gateway to the capital.
Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport: Main airport for Siem Reap and Angkor temples.
Sihanouk International Airport: Gateway to Sihanoukville, beaches and nearby islands.

Check airport information, flight status and transport options through: Cambodia Airports.

Transport within Cambodia

Buses and minivans: Main method of travel between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, Kampot, Kep and Sihanoukville.
Private transfers: Useful for families, groups and flexible day trips.
Tuk-tuks: Common for short trips in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and provincial towns.
Ride-hailing: Useful in major cities for tuk-tuks and cars.
Boats and ferries: Essential for travel to Koh Rong, Koh Rong Sanloem and some river destinations.
Domestic flights: Limited but useful for selected routes.
Rail: Cambodia has limited train routes, mainly linking Phnom Penh with Sihanoukville, Kampot and other destinations.

Taxis and transport apps

Tuk-tuks are convenient and inexpensive, but agree on the fare before setting off unless using an app. For longer journeys, book established bus companies or private transfers through reputable hotels or agencies.

Motorbike and road travel

Motorbike accidents are a serious risk in Cambodia. Roads can be busy, poorly lit and affected by animals, trucks, rain or loose surfaces. Only rent a motorbike if you are properly licensed, experienced, insured and willing to wear a suitable helmet at all times.

12. Accommodation & Practical On-Site Information

Accommodation types

Luxury hotels and resorts: Available in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville and island destinations.
Boutique hotels: Common in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Kampot and Battambang.
Guesthouses: Affordable, family-run options found across the country.
Hostels: Widely available in backpacker destinations and major cities.
Eco-lodges: Available in jungle, river and rural destinations.
Island bungalows: Popular on Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem, ranging from basic to upscale.

Recommended areas to stay

Phnom Penh riverside: Central for restaurants, river views, museums and nightlife.
BKK1, Phnom Penh: Popular expatriate and traveller district with cafés, restaurants and hotels.
Siem Reap centre: Convenient for restaurants, markets, nightlife and Angkor day trips.
Wat Bo area, Siem Reap: Quieter boutique hotels and easy access to the centre.
Kampot riverside: Relaxed guesthouses, cafés and river scenery.
Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem: Beach stays, island bungalows and boat access.

Opening hours and shopping

Convenience stores, supermarkets and tourist businesses in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap often open late.
Markets are usually busiest in the morning and late afternoon.
Government offices and banks generally close on public holidays.
Island services can be limited, so carry cash, medication and essential supplies.
Power and internet can be less reliable outside major cities.

Popular markets and shopping areas

Central Market, Phnom Penh: Landmark market for jewellery, souvenirs, clothing and food.
Russian Market, Phnom Penh: Crafts, clothing, souvenirs and local shopping.
Night Market, Phnom Penh: Evening food and souvenir stalls.
Old Market, Siem Reap: Central market near restaurants and nightlife.
Made in Cambodia Market, Siem Reap: Local crafts, food and ethical shopping.

13. Food, Drink & Cuisine

Typical Cambodian dishes

Fish amok: Steamed fish curry with coconut milk, herbs and kroeung paste, often served in banana leaves.
Lok lak: Stir-fried beef served with rice, egg, vegetables and lime-pepper dipping sauce.
Kuy teav: Noodle soup commonly eaten for breakfast.
Bai sach chrouk: Grilled pork with rice, often served in the morning.
Nom banh chok: Khmer rice noodles with fish curry and fresh herbs.
Samlor korkor: Traditional vegetable and meat stew.
Khmer red curry: Milder coconut curry often served with bread.
Green mango salad: Fresh, tangy and sometimes spicy salad.

Drinks

Fresh sugar-cane juice and coconut water.
Iced coffee with condensed milk.
Fresh fruit shakes and juices.
Local beer and imported beverages are widely available in cities and tourist areas.
Herbal teas and traditional rice wines may be offered in rural settings.

Food hygiene and dietary needs

Cambodia has a lively street-food culture. Choose busy stalls where food is cooked freshly and served hot. Vegetarian and vegan options are common in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and tourist destinations, but fish sauce, shrimp paste and meat stock are often used in traditional dishes.

Drink sealed bottled water or treated water.
Be cautious with raw salads, ice and unpeeled fruit where hygiene is uncertain.
Explain allergies clearly using a translation app or Khmer-language dietary card.
Carry snacks if you have strict dietary requirements during rural or island travel.

14. Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time zone

Time zone: Indochina Time, UTC+7.
Daylight saving time: Cambodia does not observe daylight saving time.
Difference from Central Europe: Usually six hours ahead of Germany, Austria and Switzerland in winter, and five hours ahead during Central European Summer Time.
Difference from the United Kingdom: Usually seven hours ahead in winter and six hours ahead during British Summer Time.

Important public holidays

International New Year: 1 January.
Victory over Genocide Day: 7 January.
Meak Bochea Day: Date changes annually according to the Buddhist calendar.
Khmer New Year: Usually in mid-April and one of the country’s most important holiday periods.
International Labour Day: 1 May.
Royal Ploughing Ceremony: Date varies.
Visak Bochea Day: Date varies according to the Buddhist calendar.
King Norodom Sihamoni’s Birthday: 14 May.
Constitution Day: 24 September.
Pchum Ben: Important Buddhist festival, dates vary.
Independence Day: 9 November.
Water Festival: Usually in November, based on the lunar calendar.

Khmer New Year and the Water Festival are major travel periods. Transport, accommodation and domestic flights can be busy, while some businesses and government offices may close. Book transport early if travelling during these holidays.

15. Attractions & Highlights

Siem Reap and Angkor

Angkor Wat: Cambodia’s most famous temple and one of the world’s largest religious monuments.
Angkor Thom: Ancient walled city including the Bayon Temple and its famous stone faces.
Ta Prohm: Temple complex known for tree roots growing through ruins.
Banteay Srei: Temple known for detailed pink sandstone carvings.
Tonle Sap Lake: Floating villages, wetlands and seasonal lake landscapes.
Phare, The Cambodian Circus: Cultural performance combining theatre, music, circus skills and storytelling.

Phnom Penh

Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda: Important royal and religious complex.
National Museum of Cambodia: Khmer art, sculpture and archaeological collections.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Former S-21 prison; visit respectfully due to its difficult historical context.
Choeung Ek Killing Fields: Memorial site connected to the Khmer Rouge period.
Riverside promenade: Restaurants, cafés, river views and evening activity.
Wat Phnom: Historic hilltop temple associated with the city’s founding story.

Beaches, islands and nature

Koh Rong: Island with beaches, snorkelling, diving and a backpacker atmosphere.
Koh Rong Sanloem: Quieter island with beaches, bays and relaxed resorts.
Kampot: Riverside town with colonial architecture, cafés and access to Bokor National Park.
Kep: Coastal town known for seafood, crab market and quiet beach escapes.
Mondulkiri: Forested eastern province with waterfalls, hills and elephant-focused ethical tourism projects.
Cardamom Mountains: Jungle, rivers, wildlife and eco-lodges.
Preah Vihear Temple: Dramatic Khmer temple on a mountaintop near the Thai border; check access conditions.

Official Cambodia tourism information: Tourism Cambodia.

16. Nightlife & Events

Nightlife

Phnom Penh and Siem Reap have Cambodia’s most active nightlife, with rooftop bars, restaurants, live music, markets, cocktail bars, clubs and riverside venues. Beach and island nightlife is strongest in Sihanoukville and selected parts of Koh Rong, although the atmosphere varies considerably between locations.

Phnom Penh riverside: Restaurants, bars, river views and nightlife.
Bassac Lane, Phnom Penh: Small cocktail bars, restaurants and a more relaxed evening scene.
Siem Reap Pub Street: Busy bars, restaurants, markets and nightlife near the Old Market.
Kampot: Relaxed riverfront cafés, bars and live-music venues.
Koh Rong: Beach bars, parties and backpacker nightlife in selected areas.

Festivals and cultural events

Khmer New Year: Major April celebration with water, food, music and family gatherings.
Water Festival: Boat races and celebrations in Phnom Penh, usually in November.
Angkor Photo Festival: Photography and visual-arts events in Siem Reap.
Phare performances: Regular cultural shows in Siem Reap.
Pchum Ben: Important Buddhist festival honouring ancestors.
Royal Ploughing Ceremony: Traditional agricultural ceremony.

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