About Cambodia
Cambodia is a Southeast Asian country bordered by Thailand to the west and northwest, Laos to the north, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the south. With a total area of 181,035 square kilometers, Cambodia has a population density estimated at 93 people per square kilometer.
- Official Name: Kingdom of Cambodia
- Capital City: Phnom Penh
- Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR), USD is widely accepted
- Time Zone: UTC +7 (Indochina Time)
Geography & Climate
Cambodia features a diverse landscape, including the fertile Mekong River basin, the Tonlé Sap Lake, and the Cardamom and Dangrek mountain ranges. Phnom Penh, the capital city, is located in the south-central part of the country, near the confluence of the Mekong, Bassac, and Tonlé Sap rivers.
The country has a tropical monsoon climate, with two main seasons:
- Rainy Season: May–October, with heavy rainfall and humidity.
- Dry Season: November–April, characterized by cooler temperatures and less humidity.
Average temperatures range from 21°C to 35°C, with the hottest months being March to May.
Natural & Cultural Attractions
Cambodia is home to stunning natural landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage sites:
- Angkor Wat: The largest religious monument in the world, located in Siem Reap.
- Tonlé Sap Lake: A vast freshwater lake supporting a unique ecosystem and floating villages.
- Cardamom Mountains: A rich biodiversity hotspot perfect for eco-tourism.
- Koh Rong: A tropical island paradise with white-sand beaches.
- Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda: Located in Phnom Penh, these historic sites showcase Cambodia’s royal heritage.
People & Culture
Cambodia has a population of approximately 16.7 million people, with a median age of 26 years. The official language is Khmer, but English and French are commonly spoken in urban areas.
Cambodian culture is deeply influenced by Buddhism, which shapes daily life, architecture, and festivals. The country celebrates several major festivals, including:
- Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) – Celebrated in April.
- Pchum Ben (Ancestor’s Day) – Honoring ancestors in September or October.
- Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) – Marking the river’s flow reversal in November.
Traditional Cambodian dance, such as the Apsara Dance, and unique arts like Khmer silk weaving and stone carving, are integral to the country’s cultural identity.
About Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital, spans 679 square kilometers and serves as the country’s political, economic, and cultural hub. The city experiences tropical weather, with temperatures averaging 25°C to 35°C.
Phnom Penh is home to major landmarks, shopping centers, and conference venues. Transport within the city includes tuk-tuks, taxis, and ride-hailing services. The capital is well connected, with the Phnom Penh International Airport just 10 kilometers from the city center.
Ease of Access
Several international airlines operate flights to Cambodia, including:
- Cambodia Angkor Air
- Thai Airways
- Vietnam Airlines
- Singapore Airlines
- Malaysia Airlines
- Qatar Airways
Direct flights are available from major cities in Asia, including Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Cambodia offers visa-on-arrival and e-visa services for most travellers. ASEAN citizens enjoy visa-free entry. Tourist visas are valid for 30 days and cost $30 USD.
For more information on travel arrangements and public transportation in Cambodia, please visit Tourism Cambodia.