Cambodia Tour Packages

Cambodia has been one of the most famous tourist destinations in South East Asia and globally. Thailand borders this beautiful country to the northwest, the Gulf of Thailand  to the southwest, Vietnam  to the east, and Laos to the north. Cambodia is the perfect place to start the travel journey in South East Asia. Cambodia has a population of 17 million, of which about 26% is involved in the tourism sector, indicating a huge volume of tourists Cambodia receives each year. The major reason behind that is the astounding beauty of the country.

With plenty of beaches and finger licking food, Cambodia offers a blend of nature and a rich culture. As the home of the Khmer Empire, Cambodia allows tourists to experience different cultures and traditions. Moreover, we will also get to learn about the wide history of the region. Not only this, but there are plenty of beaches in the country.

Tourists have the option to enjoy the peace of serene islands as well as enjoy the great nightlife and parties. For instance, in the South of Cambodia, Koh Rong island has incredible nightlife. On the other side of the country, Koh Rong Samloem is a great place for a peaceful stay and witness sustainable tourism.

Thus, for those looking to experience authentic islands, Cambodia is the place to go. With the option of a community homestay, tourists can experience a closer look into the lives of locals. With a plethora of trekking options, we will definitely learn a lot about the uncommon plants and animals. The wildlife tours in the region are full of adventure. These include a wide variety of animals, including bears, elephants, and tigers.

Cambodia is also a heaven for foodies as it offers numerous luscious dishes. Crab, beef (lok lak) and fish (amok) are some of the most common foods in the region. These are consumed daily, usually with rice and noodles. Moreover, there are a number of food tours and cooking classes across the country.

Another major reason that makes Cambodia the ideal travel destination is that we would not need to burn a hole in our pocket to travel around the country. As dollars are widely used across the region, there is no need to worry about the forex exchange.

Cambodians are famous for their hospitality and will ensure that we have a great time in the country.

Most Popular Cambodia Tour Packages 2024

Quick Facts About Cambodia

Currency : Cambodia’s official currency is Riel, which is denoted with ‘៛’. 

Weather : Being slightly above the equator makes Cambodia a tropical nation with year-round temperatures between 21 and 35 °C (69.8 and 95 °F). The temperature here is hot and humid. There isn't a severe winter here.

Places to Visit : We can always find the perfect place in this incredible country as it offers something for everyone. Be it peaceful beaches like Koh Rong Samloem or places with great nightlife for party animals like Koh Rong.

Official Language : Khmer is the national language of Cambodia and is widely spoken around the region. Nevertheless, the majority of people speak English in the country as well.

Covid Guidelines :Before entering a country, it is always advisable to check its Covid guidelines. Cambodia is open to travel for travellers. People from all nationalities can enter the country. Hence, there are no specific rules for any specific country. Fully vaccinated tourists should not face any difficulties. All vaccinations are approved, and there are no criteria for booster doses.

Fully vaccinated tourists only need a certificate to enter the country. While unvaccinated travelers have to undergo a Covid rapid antigen test when arriving in Cambodia.

Time to Visit Cambodia

It is always a good idea to learn more about the climate and weather of a destination beforehand to make the most out of the trip.  Cambodia has two major seasons across the year. These are the Monsoon season and the Dry season. 

It is in the dry season when most tourists come to visit this country, and there is a fairly reasonable reason behind the same. During the dry season, the country sees less amount of rainfall. It typically lasts from November to April. This allows the tourists to enjoy the clear sky on the southern coasts.

From February to April, the temperatures in Cambodia continue to rise as much as 40 degrees Celsius. Even in May and June, the temperature continues to be high. The humidity is also extreme during these times. This eventually results in rainfall.

As soon as the monsoon season begins, Cambodia receives high rainfall. This is a result of high humidity. While it is extremely helpful for local farmers in order to grow costs, the rain often causes problems in remote areas. Due to this, it can be tough to travel in such regions. However, not all areas are impacted by it. Thus, we can also enjoy the greenery and scenic beauty. Flora and fauna during this season are at their peak. Hence, this can be a good time for those who cannot wait for long hours of wildlife exploration.

Even though Cambodia has no official winter season, the months between December and February are quite cooler. This is why many tourists also prefer this time frame. Most of the time, January is the coldest month but even then, the temperatures are around 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. This is perhaps the best time to visit Cambodia  and explore places like Phnom Penh, Temples of Angkor, Battambang, and Siem Reap. As there is comparatively less humidity, it becomes easier to visit a variety of temples and markets. However, this is why Cambodia witnesses more tourists during this time. Thus, we will have a better time if we are prepared for crowds.

Many experts consider October a good time to visit Cambodia. This is because, at this particular time, the rainy season has come to an end. Moreover, the humidity is also quite low. Multiple temples across the country are also quiet in comparison to other months. Also, the tourists can find incredible discounts and offers to push down their expenses further. Lastly, this is a great time to visit the famous Tonle Sap Lake.

We should keep all these points into consideration and choose to visit Cambodia during a time that we believe will be suitable for us. 

How to reach Combodia 

There are many ways to reach Cambodia  from which we can choose to travel. Some of the most popular ways to reach Cambodia include:

By Air : The most convenient way to travel from India to Cambodia is by air. Compared to any other form of transportation, air travel takes the least time. This is why the entire journey becomes extremely comfortable. We can take a flight from the majority of metropolitan areas in India like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai. While in Cambodia, the major airports include Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport. 

Usually, there is a single stop on the journey from India to Cambodia. The typical flight duration is around 6 hours. We can choose from a variety of airlines including Singapore Airlines, Air Asia Philippines, Malaysian Airlines, and Thai Airways. It is always better to book the tickets in advance, especially in October and November, to save a considerable amount on flights.

By Train : There are no direct trains from India to Cambodia. Thus, to travel by train, we will have to book a flight to Bangkok and then take a train and reach Cambodia. This is an ideal option for those looking to explore various regions in SouthEast Asia. Hence, taking a train can be time-saving when travelling between different Southeast Asian countries. This will also allow us to gain many new experiences and learn about the culture and traditions of different Southeast Asian nations.

By Road : The journey from India to Cambodia by road can be quite adventurous. However, we must keep in mind that this will not be simple and easy. We will have to travel through numerous countries to reach the final destination, which can be quite expensive and more time-consuming. We will also need a number of documents when entering and leaving each country, such as passport, international driving permit, credit card and possible itinerary. Nevertheless, when it comes to travelling within Cambodia, it is best to rely on buses. This is because buses are very affordable and easily available in the country. When travelling in some of the remote areas, we can find plenty of tuk-tuks and many other modes of transportation.

So, if we want to reach Cambodia in a short span with great ease, then the airlines are the best option. On the other hand, if we want to explore South East Asian regions as well, then we can choose to take an affordable flight to Bangkok and cover the rest of the journey by train.  

Throughout the pandemic, millions of people moved from one place to the other. Maybe, after more than two years of the pandemic, we are also wondering if it would be safe to travel abroad. 

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Main Destinations of Cambodia

Cambodia's rich history and culture attracts millions of tourists from different parts of the world. Yet it is not the only thing that drives people to this Southeast Asian country. Its beautiful beaches and natural beauty are other major factors. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Cambodia are:

• Angkor Wat (Angkor Archaeological Park)
• Koh Kong Conservation Corridor
• Phnom Penh
• Kampot
• Sambor Prei Kuk
• Ratanakiri

Angkor Wat (Angkor Archaeological Park)

Angkor Archaeological Park is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The temples of the Angkorian era are incredible in size. Angkor Wat is among the world’s must-see ancient sites. Built between 802 and 1432, Angkor Archaeological Park was the largest city in the world during the mediaeval age. Today, it is the largest religious building in the world. Built by King Suryavarman II, this ancient temple can be visited between 5 am to 6 pm.

Koh Kong Conservation Corridor

Located in Cambodia’s Cardamom Mountains, the Koh Kong Conservation Corridor is the ideal place for boat tours and hiking. Encompassed with dense jungles, astounding waterfalls, and a beautiful river, Koh Kong Conservation Corridor has some eco-friendly places to stay. It also has options for homestay and guesthouse accommodation.

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is not only the capital of Cambodia but also its most populated city. Today, Phnom Penh has become one of the most dynamic regions of the world but it was deserted during the Khmer Rouge madness. The city has numerous historical sites that showcase the history of the country. Along with incredible architecture, it has many cafés and restaurants as well. Phnom Penh has numerous tourist attractions including the Royal Palace of Cambodia, National Museum of Cambodia, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and Wat Phnom. The city also has a variety of transportation options including trains, buses, and flights.

Kampot

To spend some peaceful time in the country then Kampot is one of the regions that will provide us with much-needed relaxation time. The town is quite laid-back and has shop-house-designed infrastructure. Many tourists spend a long time in this region because of its beautiful surroundings and peaceful life. Nevertheless, Kampot also has many destinations that are worth visiting. These include Phnom Bokor National Park, Long Set Beach, and Phnom Chhnork Cave Temple.

Sambor Prei Kuk

Sambor Prei Kuk is a temple site that was established in the early seventh century. From an archaeological point of view, this pre-Angkorian temple is quite significant as it is Cambodia’s one of the oldest buildings. Some of the vital sites inside Sambor Prei Kuk include Prasat Yeay Pea, Prasat Tao, and Prasat Sambor.

Ratanakiri

Along with numerous temples, Cambodia offers its tourists a variety of adventure sports as well. Ratanakiri is one such natural region where tourists can try out a variety of sports. We can visit several villages by surpassing the long red-dirt roads that spread over Ratanakiri. This region is heaven for those who are interested in trekking. It has Veun Sai-Siem Pang Conservation Area as well as the Virachey National Park, which is home to many animals, including bears, tigers and elephants. 

Best Hill Stations/ Best Beaches

Cambodia has numerous beaches and islands across the country. The scenic beauty of these beaches allows the tourists to have a peaceful and relaxing time. Some of the most popular beaches in Cambodia include-

• Ream Beach
• Saracen Bay, Koh Rong Samloem
• M'Pai Bai, Koh Rong Samloem
• Otres Beach

Ream Beach

Ream Beach is about half an hour away from Sihanoukville city. It is a part of the Ream National Park. This is another secluded beach where we can see a few fishermen and cafes that are run by families. There is also a mangrove wetland area near the beach. Ream Beach is the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of popular beaches and spend some days surrounded by nature. 

Saracen Bay, Koh Rong Samloem

Koh Rong Samloem is one of the sister islands on Sihanoukville, along with Koh Rong. Saracen Bay once used to be a sleepy fish area but now it has become one of the best tourist islands. This region is very popular among couples and younger visitors. The island has a laid-back vibe that will allow us to forget all our worries and enjoy nature.

M'Pai Bai, Koh Rong Samloem

Located on the northern side of Koh Rong Samloem, M'Pai Bai is not as crowded as Saracen Bay. Thus, it is the perfect place for those who want to escape the crowds and spend quality time in a peaceful environment. M'Pai Bai is deserted for the most part and we can find some local fishermen nearby. This area has some hostels and guest houses. We can go on a hike to explore two nearby waterfalls as well.

Otres Beach

Even though Otres Beach is a part of the Sihanoukville area, it is not as crowded as other regions. This is because it is far from the major beach areas. Hence, we can experience the local vibe of the area. The water around Otres Beach is clearer than many other beaches. Moreover, it is surrounded by palm trees which give the place a spectacular look.

Even though Cambodia is famous for its beaches, it also has a hill station. Bokor hill station is a bunch of French buildings built in the 1920s as a temperate mountain spot for colonial residents. Even though Bokor hill station was abandoned for a long time, it is now easily accessible because of recent developments. The region also has a waterfall that is usually dry in the high season but regains full flow during monsoon. Bokor Hill Station is highly popular among tourists because of its astounding views and great weather.

Places to Visit in Combodia

Cambodia has numerous temples as well as the largest religious building in the world. But there is a lot more to this country than the beaches and monuments. Choosing the right Cambodia Tour Packages will ensure that we get to explore all the must-visit places in the region and gain experiences that will be relished for a lifetime. 

• Mondulkiri
• Siem Reap
• Prasat Preah Vihear
• Battambang
• Tonlé Sap Lake
• Kratie

Mondulkiri

The small town of Sen Monorom is the major tourist attraction in the Mondulkiri region. This place is ideal for those who are more inclined toward making their trip to Cambodia full of adventure. In the Mondulkiri province, there are many options for tourists to enjoy themselves, including trail-bike tours, exploring wildlife, and the popular Elephant Valley Project. Under the Elephant Valley Project, travellers can walk with the elephants of the sanctuary. It is important to keep in mind that riding the elephant is not allowed. 

Siem Reap

Tourists usually consider Siem Reap a significant part of Cambodia’s must-visit places because Angkor Archaeological Park is situated in it. However, the town has a lot more to offer. This is one of the major centres of the region. Thus, we can find a variety of tours ranging from cycling tours to cookery tours as well. We can also find numerous traditional crafts around the area. In the evening, Phare the Cambodian Circus is also organised.

Prasat Preah Vihear

While Angkor Wat may be extremely popular among tourists, we cannot miss the Prasat Preah Vihear location. Prasat Preah Vihear is an incredible temple constructed to honour Lord Shiva. It is at the top of the Dangrek Mountains and offers a break-taking view of Cambodian floodplains. It is quite close to the border of Thailand. Both nations have claimed the temple as their own. This UNESCO World Heritage Sight is a must-visit for tourists in Cambodia.

Battambang

Battambang is a city in Cambodia that is perfect for those who want to spend some time away from the hustle-bustle of Phnom Penh. As compared to the capital, Battambang has a much more relaxed vibe. The northwest of Battambang is surrounded by small villages and rice fields. The city is also rich in its history as historical temples like Wat Ek Phnom, Phnom Sampeau, and Phnom Banan are quite nearby to the region. Due to all this, Battambang has become a significantly famous spot among travellers.

Tonlé Sap Lake

Tonlé Sap Lake is Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. It is considered the most significant waterway for Cambodia. This lake is also home to 170 floating villages whose livelihood depends on it. Tonlé Sap Lake is also a vital source of food for irrigation in Cambodia. Be it shops, schools, or houses; everything is made by sticking together bamboo and barrels. Kompong Luong and Chong Kneas are some of the popular villages around it.

Kratie

Kratie is the ideal place to experience the beauty of Mekong. Kratie has become popular over the years because of the dolphin-watching tours. Irrawaddy dolphins have been endangered in the Mekong. Many steps have been taken to ensure that they are protected. Tourism has played a major role as an alternative to fishing in the region. 

Famous food in Combodia

Even though Cambodian cuisine has started to become popular in other parts of the world, the best way to experience the majority of Cambodian dishes is to visit the country. Thus, while planning the Cambodia trip, make sure to try out all the Cambodian cuisines. Some of the most popular dishes in the country include:

• Amok
• Samlor korkor
• Nom banh chok/Khmer noodles
• Kha trei svay kchai - Caramelised fish with green mango

Amok

Amok is undoubtedly one of the most popular dishes in Cambodia. Similar dishes to it can also be found in neighbouringf countries. The addition of Slok Ngor separates the taste of the Cambodian version from the rest of the world. The curry of the dish is made from kroeung and coconut milk. Initially, Amok was prepared only with snails or fish. However, over the years, chicken is also added to the dish. There are even some vegetarian versions of the dish as well.  

Samlor korkor

Even though Amok is often considered the national dish of Cambodia, Samlor korkor is also extremely popular in the region as well. Samlor korkor has been a popular dish in Cambodia for hundreds of years. The great part is that it can be found even today across the country in different restaurants as well as local stalls. The soup is quite adaptable and can be varied as per the season. Even though any sort of meat can be added, pork belly and catfish are commonly used. 

Nom banh chok/Khmer noodles

Nom banh chok is another Cambodian dish that is extremely popular in other parts of the world. At times, it is called Khmer Noodles in English. Nom banh chok is majorly consumed as breakfast. Thus, tourists usually find women who carry baskets that contain this dish. It is prepared with noodles and many other ingredients including fingerroot ginger, garlic, and turmeric. Quite often banana flowers, cucumbers, beans, edible leaves and flowers are out on top of the dish. 

Kha trei svay kchai - Caramelised fish with green mango

Almost everyone has seen fishes that are quite active even when they are not underwater. These fishes are frequently seen jumping from baskets, trying to escape. Well, it is none other than the striped snakehead fish, also known as Trei roh. It can walk on land. That’s why it can move even when put out of water. It is the key ingredient of this dish. Initially, the steaks are kept in a pot and then caramelised with black pepper, fish sauce, garlic, tomatoes, and palm sugar. The dish is served with Asian basil and green mango on top.

Things to do in Cambodia

From visiting numerous temples to chilling on beaches, Cambodia offers its tourists plenty of fun activities. Here is a list of things to do on a Cambodia trip :

• Watching Apsara Dance Show
• Explore different Cambodian cuisines
• Witness the Phare Cambodian Circus
• Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
• Visit Phnom Penh Palace

Watching Apsara Dance Show

One of the best ways to explore Cambodian culture is to watch the dance show of Apsaras in the Siem Reap region. Apsaras have always been a huge part of Hindu mythology. They used to dance in Lord Indra’s kingdom in heaven. This depicts that the Hindu culture is still deeply rooted in the Cambodian culture. Thus, watching this show will bring us even closer to the culture of Cambodia. The dance show of Apsaras is so deep-rooted in Cambodian culture that it is even drawn on the walls of Angkor Wat. 

Explore different Cambodian cuisines

No trip is ever complete without exploring the different delicacies that the country has to offer. Thus, on our Cambodia trip, try a variety of dishes. Since the majority of these dishes are not easily available outside Cambodia, it makes much more sense to enjoy them as long as we are there. Most of the dishes in the region are non-vegetarian. Moreover, rice and noodles are commonly used in most cuisines.

Witness the Phare Cambodian Circus

Art is a major part of Cambodian culture. Hence, to truly understand the essence of Cambodian culture, we must watch the Phare Cambodian Circus. The circus showcases the rich history of the country. Moreover, the circus has earned a name for itself globally. 

Throughout the circus, we will witness performances including theatre, dancing, and singing. These acts showcase the numerous stories of the country. Phare Cambodian Circus is so famous that it has become a national act. Furthermore, numerous training centres have also opened in various parts of the country to train those interested in performing in the circus. The time of Phare Cambodian Circus is from 8 am to 8 pm. 

Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

When people think that Cambodia has a rich history, their mind will likely go in the direction that everything about its past has been glorious and peaceful. However, it is not the case. Moreover, it is equally important to showcase as well as analyse the other side as well. This is where the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum plays a significant role. It is a remnant of the atrocities conducted in the Khmer regime. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum has been made in the memory of genocide initiated by Khmer rulers. It showcases the terrifying interiors and utilises the painful past to lead to a peaceful tomorrow. A trip to this museum is something that each tourist must do whenever they visit Cambodia. The museum is located in Phnom Penh and the timings are between 8 am and 5 pm. 

Visit Phnom Penh Palace

The Royal Palace of Cambodia is something that tourists should aim to visit when choosing the Cambodia tour package. It is home to the royal family. The gigantic palace has many paintings that showcase the history of the country. Moreover, the architecture is also astounding. The timings are from 8 am to 5 pm. 

Adventurous things to do

Adventurous activities are an assured way to make the Cambodia trip a memorable experience. Cambodia offers a variety of adventure activities, including mountaineering, rock climbing, sailing, fishing, hiking, and much more. 

Explore different parts of the country on a moped

Before everything else, it is vital to ensure that the vehicle given to us fulfils all the safety standards. While riding around different parts of the country can be very exciting, we must follow the safety guidelines, including wearing a helmet and not driving above the given limit. Now, it is time to explore unknown territories and feel freedom. Tourists can easily rent a moto and visit different places in the country.

Take care of a bear

Sun bears and moon bears are some of the most loved animals in Cambodia. Tourists can opt for being a bear keeper for a day. We can work with the volunteers at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre. Wildlife tours can be incredible, but it will never be as exciting as taking care of a bear. 

Check out Kirirom’s Pine Forests

Cambodia has numerous hiking trails, but nothing beats the experience of travelling in pine forests. Kirirom’s Pine Forests will leave us with a memorable experience as they are surrounded by breathtaking waterfalls and foot trails. Thus, it is the perfect place for those who are looking to explore wildlife and do trekking.

Go around Siem Reap on a bicycle

Exploring different areas around Siem Reap on a bicycle can be quite exciting. There is no need to carry our own bicycle as plenty of businesses offer numerous biking tours. Going from one part of the city to the other by cycling will allow the tourists to witness the true beauty of Siem Reap. Witnessing the marvellous sunrise is something that we will remember for a lifetime.

Hike in Kep National Park

Kep National Park has been a major attraction for hikers as well as trekkers for a long time. This park is the perfect place irrespective of whether we are well-versed in hiking or not. As the trails are marked with arrows, even beginners can go a long way without facing any difficulties. So, visit the Kep National Park and explore the new and exciting territory in a guided manner. As we continue our journey, we will get to see great wildlife.

Interesting Facts about Cambodia

There is much more to Cambodia than amazing beaches and historical monuments. Here are some unpopular facts about Cambodia- Cambodia is the only country with a building on its flag

Cambodia is unique from other parts of the world in a variety of ways. The majority of flags around the globe usually either have similar colours & different designs or the same designs & different colours. None of more than 200 countries have a monument on their flag. Yet, Cambodia added Angkor Wat to its flag, making it the only flag with a building. Angkor Wat is the largest religious building in the world. This makes the Cambodian flag quite distinctive.  

Funerals are a costly affair in the country

It can be surprising to find out that funerals in Cambodia have an average cost of USD 9000. Moreover, they go on for 49 days. Many people usually put together the money they have accumulated over time to ensure the funeral cost is covered. Some even have to sell their possessions to do so. All this is done because funerals hold immense importance in Cambodian culture. 

The average age in Cambodia is less than 15

Today, many countries have a high median age. However, Cambodia is running in the opposite direction. We might be astounded to know that approximately 50% of the population of Cambodia is less than 15 years old. Furthermore, 60% of the population of this Southeast Asian nation is less than 30 years old. This is one of the reasons why Cambodia is full of young faces with a positive outlook on life. However, the reason behind such a young average age is not positive whatsoever. It is the result of genocide conducted during the rule of the Khmer Rouge. In a span of just 4 years, the population of Cambodia was reduced by 2-3 million. 

Birthdays are not a big deal in Cambodia

Birthday is one of the most important days of people's life. Hence, they not only eagerly wait for it for weeks but also emphasise celebrating it in the best way possible. However, this is not the case with the majority of the population in Cambodia. Here, birthdays are not considered a major event. Some individuals do not even remember their birthdays; they are only aware of the season of their birthday.

Cambodian Culture

Cambodia has an extremely rich culture. It has been preserved by the people who have been following a variety of traditions for a long time. Gaining a deeper understanding of these cultures and traditions can make the trip to Cambodia even more worthwhile. Apart from choosing the right Cambodia tour packages, it is always better to learn more about the country so that we can enjoy our stay to the fullest. Here are some things we should know about the various culture and traditions in Cambodia: 

The majority of the rural Cambodian diet consists of rice and fish

In the past, Cambodians had to deal with a shortage of food. However, the situation has improved to a great extent in the current times due to international help and political stability. Nevertheless, even today, the rural diet in Cambodia majorly includes fish and rice. Many other ingredients like mint and ginger can also be included. 

People put great emphasis on family life

Even though people are attached to their families across all parts of the globe, Cambodians emphasise their families greatly. The families are generally bigger as extended family members are also closely associated. Distant relatives like uncles, aunts, and cousins usually celebrate most of the festivals together. 

Most Cambodians practice their religion

Numerous temples are a clear indication that a majority of Cambodians are highly religious. Buddhism is the most followed religion in the country. Approximately 97% of people follow Theravada Buddhism in Cambodia. Even the younger individuals are highly engaged in religious activities. Most people visit temples during a variety of festivals. People also hang photos of Buddha in their homes.

Superstitions are quite popular in Cambodia 

Superstitions are quite common in many Asian countries, and Cambodia is no exception. Many Cambodians believe in spirits and superpowers. Superstitions have become a regular part of life for most people. For instance, whenever a new enterprise is opened, it must be blessed. 

Cambodian festivals

Festivals are a major part of Cambodia’s rich history and culture. Plenty of festivals are celebrated in the country throughout the year. During festivals, people come together and make the most out of it. Tourists from different parts of the world also relish these festivities. Learning more about these festivals and traditions will allow us to become a greater part of them and rejoice in them to the fullest. Moreover, we will also be able to plan the Cambodia tour packages effectively to attend the festival we want. Here are some of the most popular festivals that take place in Cambodia: 

Khmer New Year

Khmer New Year is one of the most prominent festivals in Cambodia. During this festival, people with Khmer roots return to their places in order to celebrate the end of the harvest season for three days. Farmers who have worked hard all year long also take a break. Throughout the festivities, people spend time with their families and go to different temples. 

King Norodom Sihamoni’s Birthday

The birth and coronation of the current monarch of Cambodia, King Norodom Sihamoni is celebrated from 13th May to 15th May each year. This day remains of great significance for Cambodians as in the memory of Pol Pot and Khmer Rouge. Hence, the people express their gratitude toward the progressive government. 

Pchum Ben/Ancestor’s Day

Pchum Ben translates to “to gather together a ball of food.” It is also popular as the Festival of the Dead and Hungry Ghosts Festival. People pay respect to the seven generations of ancestors on this day. Food is also distributed as part of the festival.

Cambodian Independence Day

Cambodian Independence Day is widely celebrated across the country to commemorate the end of French rule that lasted for over 90 years. This significant day is celebrated on 9th November in the Independence Monument. People from all walks of time come together to rejoice in this historical day.

Cambodian Visa for Indians 

Gone are the days when getting a visa used to be stressful. Today, Indians can get an eVisa for Cambodia easily, even without reaching out to the Cambodian Embassy. eVisa is ideal for people who are interested in visiting the country as a tourist. 

It is vital to understand that Indian citizens require a visa to go to Cambodia, even for a relatively short span of time. Before departure, Indians can apply for the Cambodia eVisa. With the eVisa, we can spend an entire month In Cambodia for the purpose of tourism. In case, we need to spend more than a month or are going there for any non-tourism related purpose, it is ideal to contact the Cambodian Embassy in India for more information regarding the visa.

Follow these steps to get a Cambodian visa:

• Filling the electronic visa form (for Indians)
• Use a debit card or credit card to pay for the visa
• Forward the visa application to be reviewed.  

It is worth noting that the Cambodian visa processing is quite fast. Moreover, many Indian citizens receive the approved visa within only 3 to 4 business days via email. 

There are majorly two types of visas Indians can choose from to visit Cambodia - Cambodia Tourist Visa for Indians and Cambodia Business Visas for Indians

In order to receive a tourist visa, we would need a few documents including a digital photo, passport, email id, and a debit or credit card.

Thus, before finalising the Cambodia package, make sure we have all the necessary documents.

Foreign Currency

Cambodia's official currency is the Cambodian Riel. However, the United States Dollar has been acting as the unofficial second currency of the country for a long time. The majority of local businesses in Cambodia would accept the USD  without any issues. Moreover, if we receive a visa on arrival, we would also be required to pay the amount in USD. This clearly shows that US dollars should be the ideal choice for international travellers. 

While it is quite clear that USD will go a long way in Cambodia, many tourists still face many issues regarding a forex exchange. From getting the best rate for the bucks to choosing a reliable source, exchanging domestic currency for dollars can be complicated.

Thomas Cook  can help us in solving this issue. A rate card  is available on the official website wherein we can buy and sell the currency of our choice. 

When it comes to buying, tourists can also get a travel card which is much more convenient than carrying cash all the time. We can also choose to sell INR to receive the currency of our choice. 

Moreover, there is an incredible option of Locked-in exchange rates. This will save us the worry of constant fluctuations in the market. The forex travel card can be loaded at the locked-in exchange rate and will ensure that the value of the amount remains the same irrespective of the fluctuations. 

Thomas Cooks understands the customer's pain points and aims to come up with the best possible travel-related solutions. Thus, investing in a travel card can improve the Cambodia tour package. 

Other such places to visit in Cambodia

Cambodia has been a spectacular tourist destination over the years. Its temples, beaches, rich history and culture have won the hearts of millions of tourists. Today, there are incredible Cambodia tour packages available. Nevertheless, after visiting this beautiful country, one would love to explore other Southeast Asian countries as well. So, here’s a list of countries we can try if we loved Cambodia:

Laos : Laos is a nation that could be ideal for those who love nature. Laos has also become a very popular tourist destination over the years. Its adventure sports can excite all the tourists. Similar to Cambodia, Laos also has a UNESCO heritage site: Luang Prabang. While it is not as famous as Angkor Wat, a good number of travellers visit Laos each year in search of new experiences. 

Indonesia : Many would argue that hardly any countries have more scenic beauty than Indonesia . Its divine beaches, incredible forests, and astounding hikes are a call for tourists from countries across the globe.

Vietnam : Vietnam  is one of the safest and most affordable tourist destinations not only in Asia but across the globe. Even wars could not vanish the marvellous beauty of this Southeast Asian country. With a rich history, beautiful infrastructure, and finger-licking food, Vietnam has become one of the favourite tourist destinations. The trip to Asia will be incomplete without visiting Vietnam once.