Banlung

Located in northeastern Cambodia, the town of Banlung serves as the capital of the Ratanakiri Province. This dusty red town is a popular jumping off point for visitors who want to explore the surrounding Ratanakiri region. One of the main highlights of the area is Boeng Yeak Lom, a beautiful, emerald-hued volcanic crater lake fringed by lush green jungle. Visitors can look forward to a host of activities such as: browsing the local handicrafts at the traditional market, discover the nearby Cha Ong waterfall, rent a bicycle to explore the streets and scenic surrounds, sample a variety of Cambodian cuisine. Other popular attractions include: Wat Rahtanharahm and Virachey National Park.

Banteay Chhmar

Banteay Chhmar, in northwest Cambodia’s Banteay Meanchey province, roughly 20 kilometres from the Thai border, encompasses 14 villages which surround and extraordinary UNESCO-listed heritage site. The Banteay Chhmar Temple and nine satellite temples form one of the largest Angkorian era complexes, a remarkable collection of 12th-century sacred stone structures decorated with fine carvings. This is one of only two places outside of the Bayon Temple where the charismatic Bayon-style faces can be seen. The temples are surrounded by lush, untamed jungle. There are a number of tourist experiences on offer including community-based homestays and tours of the area.

Cardamom Mountains

Also known as the Kravanh Mountains, the Cardamom Mountains are situated in the west of Cambodia. These famous mountains appear on the provincial seal of Trat Province in Thailand and are known for their scenic landscapes, endangered fauna and flora, ecotourism opportunities and thrilling ecoadventures. Stretching over more than 4 million hectares, the Cardamom Mountains are home to Southeast Asia’s largest remaining rainforest. This mountain range features a number of wildlife sanctuaries and encompasses the Central Cardamoms Protected Forest. Visitors can use the remote village of Osoam, a community tourism centre, and the Cardamoms’ northern gateway town of Pursat, as a base to explore the surrounding region. Discover one of Southeast Asia’s most pristine expanses of wilderness, explore the vast blanket of tropical rainforest, and soak up the mountain, marsh, plain and river landscapes.

Chhlong

Situated just south of the Cambodian town of Kratie, the sleepy riverside village of Chhlong rests on the southern banks of the world-renowned Mekong River. Once a bustling port, this little village makes for a lovely laid-back day trip from Kratie, where visitors can soak up authentic Cambodian culture, wander the quiet streets and browse the local market for an array of fascinating items. Visitors can also look forward to discovering the hilltop Roka Kandal Pagoda – it is said to be one of the oldest in the region and boasts simple lines and an idyllic position; visit Chhlong’s famous stilted home – known as the House of a Hundred Pillars- featuring over 100 posts; and view the French-colonial buildings lining the scenic riverfront. Don’t miss the opportunity to jump on a motorbike or bicycle to explore the magnificent riverside landscapes as well as some traditional Cham minority villages resting on the shores of the Mekong.

Chi Phat

Resting in the southwestern part of the spectacular Cardamom Mountain Range, Chi Phat is an authentic Cambodian village. Boasting serene surroundings comprising of mountainous terrain, dense green rainforests, seasonal wetlands and rushing rivers; this charming little village is the ideal destination for travellers wanting to have an ‘off-the-beaten-track’ experience inspired by nature. Explorers can stroll down the dusty red streets lined with palms and sandalwood trees, admire the hand-built stilt homes and interact with the many welcoming locals. Chi Phat serves as a gateway to the tranquil Cardamon Mountains, which offer a variety of adventures for visitors to enjoy including trekking, cycling or hiking through the lush forest. Don’t miss the opportunity to jump on a scenic boat cruise along the glistening waters of the Phipot River, or volunteer at the wonderful Wildlife Alliance.

Kampong Cham

Named for the Cham Muslim residents who immigrated here centuries ago, Kampong Cham is one of eastern Cambodia’s largest urban centres and a key transit point for onward travel connections. It is nevertheless a laid-back city with a picturesque riverside setting and an evocative mish-mash of historical architecture – which includes traditional Chinese shophouses, elegantly weathered French colonial buildings and the so-called ‘New Khmer Architecture’ that was developed in Cambodia’s 1960s heyday. Several ancient temples and shrines and are dotted across the town’s surrounds, adding to the town’s timeless, mystical allure.

Kampong Speu Province

Kampong Speu is an inland province located in southern Cambodia. The capital is Chbar Mon, but most visitors to Kampong Speu are drawn by its significant natural beauty, particularly in the eastern region, which is home to the extraordinarily scenic Cardamom Mountains. Key destinations include the Kirirom National Park, a region of rich forests, scenic peaks and waterfalls, offering hiking and walking trails of varying difficulties, and nearby Chambok, a community-run ecotourism site where you can take a pleasant hike to a spectacular 40-metre-high waterfall. Elsewhere in Kampong Speu, the popular Te Teuk Pus Hot Spring is found in Phnom Te village, and the town of Oudong, situated at the base of Phnom Udong Mountain, boasts the province’s best cultural sight: the Arthross Temple, which contains a large golden statue of the Buddha.

Kampong Thom Province

Neighbouring Cambodia’s well-known province of Siem Reap, the Kampong Thom Province is the second largest province of the country and stretches out from the banks of the Stung Sen River. It falls within the UNESCO-listed Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve, a unique ecological area surrounding the Tonle Sap freshwater lake. The landscape features abundant woodlands, glittering lakes, rice paddies and diverse wildlife. This lush region is scattered with countless rural villages and an array ancient Angkorian sites. Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Chenla, the Sambor Prei Kuk temple complex, known as one of the most important pre-Angkorian sites in Cambodia.

Kampot

With its riverside setting, elegantly decayed buildings, and timeless atmosphere, Kampot is one of Cambodia’s most beguiling towns. Days here go by in a pleasant haze of waterside wandering, sunsets over the river, laid-back boat cruises and culinary indulgences, followed by a lively nightlife in an array of restaurants and bars. The Central Market and Night Market provide a dose of local culture and cuisine, while the ironically named ‘Old Market’ has been recently renovated and is far more geared to tourists, with an array of international restaurants and several tour operators. Dotted about the town are quaint fishing villages, while just across the river, Bokor National Park offers an incredible kaleidoscope of tropical flora and wildlife, as well as a glitzy modern casino.

Kep Province

The coastal province of Kep is located in southwest Cambodia. Despite being the smallest province in the country, this mountainous and arable province offers a diverse array of attractions, including an intriguing capital city (also known as Kep), rugged national parks and nearby islands. The capital, which contains abandoned French-style villas from when the city was established in 1908, makes a great base for exploring Phnom Sar Sear – a cultural and natural preserve home to Buddhist pagodas and caves containing beautiful mountain wells – and the Kep National Park, which offers jungle treks of varying lengths and difficulties. Finally, though Kep Beach is popular, most visitors will want to make the trip to nearby Rabbit Island, an idyllic retreat of towering palm trees, white sand beaches and brightly coloured tropical fish.

Kirirom National Park

Located just a two-hour road trip from Phnom Penh, Kirirom National Park, which means ‘Happy Mountain’, is one of Cambodia’s most convenient nature destinations. Visitors can look forward to lush pine forests punctuated by a network of hiking and mountain biking trails that take in meandering streams and crystal-clear cascading waterfalls – particularly in the monsoon season. It is also an excellent bird-watching spot, home to over 300 avian species, as well as deer, wild ox (gaur and banteng), elephant and leopard. Visitors can take scenic walking trails, lie under the picnic shelters and enjoy local flavors in a lakeside lunch. Several resorts and lodges offer everything from world-class luxurious accomodation to camping and family-friendly spots providing a variety of activities. Visitors can also explore the local villages in the neighbouring area of Chambok.

Koh Rong

Koh Rong, also known as Monkey Island, is a blissful breath of sea air after travelling some of Cambodia’s more rough and rugged inland destinations. This little island, situated 25km off the coast of Sihanoukville, has 43km of exquisite sand beaches lining the east and west coasts, lapped by temperate turquoise waters. The interior is largely covered with rainforests where you can go hiking along beautiful trails. Koh Rong is still a relatively under the radar destination, with just a handful of accommodation options and entertainment venues, although there is good nightlife to be had at Tui Bay.

Koh Rong Archipelago

Resting about 30 km off the coast of Sihanoukville in southern Cambodia, Koh Rong is an idyllic little archipelago comprised of a number of islands including Koh Rong, Koh Sanloem, and the two tiny ‘Sweetheart Islands’ of Koh Ouen and Koh Bong, which are collectively known as Songsaa Private Island. These exquisite tropical islands have miraculously remained off the main tourist track and feature some pristine beaches lapped by temperate turquoise waters and fringed by lush unspoiled rainforest. Whether you are keen for the backpacker party scene of Koh Rong Island; the laidback Robinson Crusoe-style vibe of rustic Koh Sanloem; or the ultra luxurious experience of the Songsaa Private Island, you are sure to find the island getaway of your dreams in this little pocket of paradise.

Krong Kaeb

The sleepy fishing village of Krong Kaeb, simply known as Kep, rests on the Gulf of Thailand and is the capital of Kep Province in southern Cambodia. Once a vibrant resort town, Krong Kaeb is now a serene seaside township dotted with remains of dilapidated shells of lavish French colonial mansions. Travellers flock to the area to visit the famous crab market where seafood lovers voraciously consume the delicious delicacy. Within walking distance from Kep Beach is an 8-kilometre track that leads to Kep National Park. Along the route, trekkers can take the ‘Stairway to Heaven’ trail that leads to a tranquil Buddhist temple, a nunnery and Sunset Rock viewpoint that offers sweeping vistas of the town, mountains, the beach and views of the island of Phu Quoc.

Mondulkiri Province

Spanning a vast wilderness area in eastern Cambodia, the Mondulkiri Province is the largest and most sparsely populated of Cambodia’s provinces, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking a truly off-the-beaten-track adventure. Here, visitors are invited to soak up the tranquil yet invigorating landscapes of fertile jungle, densely-forested hills, and thundering waterfalls such as the impressive Bou Sra Waterfall. One of the prime attractions in the area is the Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary, an important conservation site for a number of rare plant and animal species, including wild cats, Asian elephants, gibbons, and a variety of bird species. Don’t miss a chance to explore the charming village of Sen Monorom, which serves as the province’s capital and a popular tourist hub. Other activities include camping, jungle trekking, and kayaking expeditions, as well as swimming and relaxing at the many beautiful waterfalls found near Sen Monorom.

Oudong

This picturesque city has a long and noble history – it served as Cambodia’s capital and royal residence for more than 200 years. Set below the twin peaks of Phnom Oudong, it is today considered an important sacred city, with many temples and shrines dotted across its lush canvas, including a series of ancient pagodas atop the mountain’s ridges. These holy vantage points offer panoramic views over Oudong and the river beyond – most spectacular in the light of the setting sun.

Pailin

Resting on the forested foothills of the Cardamom Mountains, the city of Pailin is a remote small-town situated west of Cambodia, close to the border of Thailand. For over a hundred years this unassuming town was the gem-mining hub of Cambodia, it’s surface liberally strewn with sapphires, topazes rubies and garnets. Although the mines have now dried out, the area is still rich with natural treasures that include Phnom Khieu waterfall, O’Tavao waterfall and Phnom Yat mountain. The mountain holds great cultural and historical significance to the locals as it features sacred sites including an old pagoda, large and small stupas and a hermitage. Other attractions include the Independence Monument, Psar Pailin market, and Wat Khaong Kang, a Burmese-style stupa built in 1922.

Phnom Penh

Located at the meeting of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, Cambodia’s energetic capital, Phnom Penh, is known for its rich history, friendly locals and world-class food scene. The primary drawcard of the city its visible heritage. The National Museum of Cambodia features a millennium’s worth and more of incredible Khmer design. The monumental Royal Palace, the official residence of King Sihamoni, houses the famous Throne Hall, used for coronations and ceremonies. Within the Royal Palace is the spectacular Silver Pagoda, named for its floor covered with five tons of gleaming silver. The Tonle Sap riverfront area provides a charming place to enjoy a meal and some fine French wine (an enduring colonial legacy), while the local nightclubs provide a fun, if somewhat bizarre, time out on the town, complete with karaoke singers and stage dancers.

Preah Vihear Province

Located where the northern plains of Cambodia meet the Dangrek Mountains in the north and the Mekong River to the west, the rugged and thickly-forested Preah Vihear Province is renowned for its impressive Angkorian temple ruins. Chief among these are the 10th-century Koh Ker Temple complex, the UNESCO accredited mountaintop Prasat Preah Vihear temple, and the Preah Khan Kompong Svay site, with its stunning 1000-year-old artworks. Adventurous visitors will have plenty to keep them busy with a variety of outdoor activities on offer. These include unforgettable motorcycle tours into lush jungles to discover remote temples and hiking or mountaineering trips through a remarkable variety of natural habitats – forest, jungle, grasslands and wetlands – where unique and endangered wildlife and birdlife are protected, including Cambodia’s national bird, the Giant Ibis.

Ratanakiri Province

Aptly dubbed the ‘wild east’ of Cambodia, the rugged Ratanakiri Province is characterised by a diverse range of scenic landscapes, including towering mountains, lush rolling hills, highland plateaus and lowland watersheds. This impressive ecotourism destination is renowned for its abundant wildlife, its conservation of endangered birds, and its remote tribal villages set in fertile forests. A major attraction is the massive and largely unexplored Virachey National Park, a pristine wilderness area offering exceptional trekking opportunities through dense tropical forest inhabited by an extraordinary variety of rare plants, colourful birds and exotic animals. Other popular outdoor activities include exploring the area’s numerous spectacular waterfalls; visiting the wonderful Lumphat Wildlife Sanctuary; and hiking to the magnificent Yeak Laom volcanic lake where visitors can swim and walk around the crater rim, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding natural landscape.

Sen Monorom

Located in the Mondulkiri Province, the largest province in Cambodia, Sen Monorom is the largest town in the area and serves as the provincial capital. This frontier town is home to the indigenous Pnong community. In the heart of the town, visitors can view two magnificent lakes which add to the town’s charm. The surrounding area around Sen Monorom is scattered with glorious waterfalls amidst thick jungle and a lush rolling landscape dotted with hill tribe villages. Visitors can sample local Cambodian fare at an array restaurants that line the main strip, enjoy a drink at a buzzing bar and stay over in one of the many comforatable hotels. Other popular activities include: hill trekking, ecotourism trips, motorbike tours, and cultural experiences with the local indigenous Bunong people.

Siem Reap

Best known as the gateway to the magnificent ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is a pleasant town with lovely French colonial and Chinese architecture, and a laid-back ambience. The main attraction here is of course the Angkor complex. Covering an area larger than Paris, it encompasses scores of exquisite temple structures featuring intricately carved detail – dancing ladies and lotus flowers embellish the walls, five-headed naga (serpent deities) fan out from chunks of rock. Abandoned for unknown reasons thousands of years ago, it was rediscovered in 1860 by a French explorer, Henri Mahout, and has been Cambodia’s crowning glory ever since. Other attractions in and around Siem Reap include an array of arts and crafts shops, a cultural village that allows a glimpse into traditional local life, and a bird sanctuary on the outskirts of town.

Sihanoukville

Set on a peninsula that juts out into the Thai Gulf, Sihanoukville is Cambodia’s most popular seaside destination, thanks to the sandy beaches that line its coast. By day, these shores and the surrounding ocean are the area’s main attractions – visitors can simply soak up the sun, enjoy drinks or a meal at one of the beachside bars or restaurants, or get active with snorkelling, scuba diving or jet-skiing. There’s also loads of nightlife to be had here – in recent years Sihanoukville has evolved into a bustling town with an abundance of bars, nightclubs, beach parties and even several casinos. And if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, head to one of the region’s idyllic offshore islands, or to nearby Ream National Park, with its bird-rich mangrove swamps and secluded beaches.

Takeo Province

Situated in the Southwest of Cambodia, bordering Vietnam, and once home to the mighty Funan Kingdom (an ancient Indianised state, 100 – 600 CE), the Takeo Province is known as the cradle of the Cambodian civilization. Takeo offers many ancient historical sites, artifacts and relics, such as the popular Chup Pol temple, in the Doun Peaeng Village, as well as numerous important archaeological sites and the informative Takeo museum in the district of Angkor Borei. Traveller can also look forward to visiting the bamboo shacks on the banks of the Tonle Bati Lake, which offer a number of ideal scenic picnic spots. Don’t miss a trip to the Phnom Ta Moa Wildlife Rescue Centre and Nature reserve, where you can enjoy a hike up one of the 5 mountains in the area or take a quiet stroll in the lush forests.