Cambodia was one of those countries that surprised me at every stage. I entered overland from Vietnam, not fully knowing what to expect — and left with a deep appreciation for its history, landscapes, and resilience.
Here’s my journey through Cambodia, from bustling cities to jungle temples and island sunsets.
My Cambodia Travel Route
- Phnom Penh
- Kampot
- Koh Rong
- Siem Reap
Crossing from Vietnam to Phnom Penh
I started by taking the bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. The border crossing was straightforward, and within a few hours the scenery shifted — dusty roads, palm trees, and rivers replacing Vietnam’s urban buzz.
Phnom Penh felt busy but layered — modern life moving forward while history quietly lingers everywhere.
Phnom Penh: Culture & History
My first stops were cultural landmarks:
- Wat Ounalom
- National Museum of Cambodia
- Royal Palace, Phnom Penh
- Independence Monument, Phnom Penh
The Royal Palace grounds were beautifully maintained, shining gold under the Cambodian sun, while the National Museum provided context for the country’s ancient Khmer civilisation.
In the evening, I wandered around the Phnom Penh Night Market, trying local dishes and watching families relax along the riverside
Learning Cambodia’s History
Two visits that left a deep impact were:
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21 Prison)
- Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
These sites were difficult but important. They offered insight into Cambodia’s past and made me appreciate even more the warmth and openness of the people I met throughout the country.
Kampot: Pepper Plantations & Mountain Views
Next, I took the bus south to Kampot, a riverside town with a relaxed, local feel.
I hired a motorbike and spent a few days exploring the countryside.
Highlights Around Kampot
- La Plantation – learning about Cambodia’s famous Kampot pepper
- Broteak Krola Lake – peaceful and scenic
- Phnom Chngok Cave – a temple hidden inside a cave
- The Kampot salt fields at sunset
One of my favourite days was riding through Preah Monivong Bokor National Park. The mountain air felt cooler, and the abandoned buildings and old temples gave it a slightly mysterious atmosphere.
In the evenings, I explored local food spots and night markets, soaking up the laid-back vibe that makes Kampot special.
Sihanoukville & Speed Boat to Koh Rong
From Kampot, I took the train to Sihanoukville, then boarded a speedboat to Koh Rong.
Arriving on Koh Rong felt like stepping into a postcard — white sand, turquoise water, and beach bars lining the shore.
Island Life
My days were simple:
- Relaxing on the beach
- Swimming in clear, warm water
- Walking through jungle paths to smaller villages
- Eating local seafood
- Enjoying beach nightlife under the stars
The walk through jungle areas to reach quieter beaches was especially memorable — peaceful, green, and untouched.
After a few days of island living, I caught the speedboat back to Sihanoukville and then the bus north to Siem Reap.
Siem Reap: Angkor & Meaningful Experiences
In Siem Reap, the atmosphere was lively but welcoming.
One meaningful visit was to the APOPO Visitor Centre, where I learned about the HeroRATs trained to detect landmines. It was inspiring to see practical efforts helping Cambodia recover and rebuild.
Sunrise at Angkor Wat
Of course, no visit to Siem Reap is complete without exploring Angkor Wat.
Watching the sunrise here was unforgettable. As the sky slowly changed colour behind the temple towers, everything felt still and almost spiritual.
Beyond Angkor Wat itself, wandering through the wider temple complex revealed intricate carvings, ancient corridors, and jungle-covered ruins.
Angkor Wat gives a 1-day and 3-day pass. A lot can be explored with a 1-day pass, and scooters can also be used, allowing for an easier way to explore the vast historical area in the scorching sun.
In Town, I:
- Explored the night markets
- Watched artisans at work
- Made traditional handmade bracelets
Siem Reap was the perfect place to end my journey.
Final Reflection on Cambodia
Travelling through Cambodia felt like a journey through layers of history, resilience, and beauty.
From:
- The powerful reminders in Phnom Penh
- To the peaceful countryside of Kampot
- The tropical calm of Koh Rong
- And the wonder of Angkor
Each stop offered something completely different.
Cambodia is more than its temples. It’s the stories, the landscapes, the quiet river sunsets, and the kindness of people rebuilding with strength and pride.
It’s a country that stays with you — long after you leave.
