1,626,000sqm. 400 acres. That’s how big Angkor Wat, the largest religious structure on Earth, is, and it sits proudly in Cambodia. It’s more than double the second largest, Sri Ranganathasvamy, in India. This massive structure even inspired the hit mobile game, Temple Run, and really, it might even be for that reason alone that you want to visit!
There’s so much more that Cambodia has to offer, though. So from stunning cultural landmarks, to harrowing history, to the kind and hospitable Khmer people, we’ll check out this nation’s biggest tourism trends. By the end of the article, you’ll know where to go, how to get there, and how to create memories with a local Cambodia tour guide. Let’s go!
Key Tourism Statistics in Cambodia for 2025: Quick Facts & Figures
Let’s begin with What percentage of Cambodia’s GDP is tourism. In 2023, the tourism sector accounted for 7.5% of Cambodia’s GDP, and the travel and tourism market is expected to reach US$348.00m by 2029, with 73% of total revenue expected to come from online sales.
So, travel is a big industry for Cambodia, known for its top sights of Angkor Wat, the capital of Phnom Penh and the port city of Sihanoukville. What is Cambodia’s rank in tourism, though?
Well, in January 2024, Tripadvisor ranked Phnom Penh as 9th among the top 10 most trending tourist destinations in the world! Angkor Wat also ranked 12th in the world by Tripadvisor’s Travel Choice Awards 2024, just highlighting how these are Cambodia’s most famous tourist attractions that are gaining even more attention.
But how many tourists visit Cambodia per year? Here’s the run-down:
As you can see, Cambodia, like most countries, was hit hard by COVID-19 and the subsequent restrictions, with 2022 the first year of travel recovery in Cambodia.
Now that you know how many tourists visit Cambodia each year, let’s explore these figures a bit deeper by looking at tourism in Cambodia by country.
Well, as for which nationality visits Cambodia the most, in 2024, Thailand took the crown:
- Thailand: 2,146,674
- Vietnam: 1,340,587
- China: 848,952
- Lao PDR: 334,448
- USA: 214,529
These nations are currently leading the international tourism arrivals in the first half of 2024, too! Of these visitors in 2024, 1,752,583 arrived via Phnom Penh International Airport.
Cambodia’s Demographic: Quick Facts
Cambodia currently has a population of 17.7m, ranking 73rd in the world for largest country by population. Only 26% of the population is urban, though, showing that most people live outside the cities, meaning if you want to truly experience Cambodia, make sure you head out to see what the countryside has to offer!
Cambodia Tourism Statistics Quick Facts
- 5.45 million - The number of visitors that touched down in Cambodia in 2023
- 7.5% - The percentage that the tourism industry contributes to Cambodia’s GDP
- #111/116 - Cambodia’s current global ranking in terms of English proficiency (very low proficiency 421)
- Thailand - The country that contributed the most visitors to Cambodia in 2023
Top Tourist Attractions in Cambodia: A Comprehensive Guide
Nestled between Vietnam, Laos and Thailand, Cambodia is famous for the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat, but the country has much more to explore, from the historical depths of Phnom Penh to the serene landscapes of Kampot and Kep.
Whether you're drawn to the haunting history of the Khmer Rouge, the rich cultural heritage or the natural beauty of its rivers and jungles, Cambodia promises an unforgettable journey.
This guide highlights the must-visit spots and hidden gems that make Cambodia a top choice for travelers in Southeast Asia.
Phnom Penh: The capital, with a riverside charm along the Mekong. Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields for a somber reflection on Cambodia's past. Explore the Royal Palace and bustling markets like the Russian Market and the Phnom Penh Night Market. Tuk-tuks are the best way to get around!
Travel Tip: Understanding The City
To get the best of Phnom Penh, connect with locals, avoid heavy language barriers, and understand the city’s complex history, a local Phnom Penh guide is recommended.
- Siem Reap: Famous for the Angkor Wat temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore other attractions like Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider Temple) and Banteay Srei. The town is vibrant with cafés, markets and French restaurants. Don’t miss Pub Street for nightlife and the Old Market for street food.
- Angkor Wat: A must-visit, the world's largest religious monument. Best seen at sunrise or sunset, reflecting in the surrounding lake. A local guide enhances the experience by providing historical insights.
- Koh Ker: An ancient temple complex, less crowded than Angkor Wat, featuring a unique pyramid-shaped shrine. Explore over 200 temples, including Prasat Thom and the photogenic Prasat Neang Khmau.
- Kompong Phluk Floating Village: A fascinating village on stilts near Siem Reap. Best visited during the rainy season. Experience life on the water and explore the mangrove forest by canoe.
- Battambang: Ride the Bamboo Train through scenic rice fields. Visit the Killing Caves, a poignant reminder of the Khmer Rouge era.
- Kratié: A peaceful town by the Mekong River, perfect for spotting the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to see these ‘smiling’ creatures.
- Mondulkiri: Visit the Elephant Valley Project, an ethical sanctuary where elephants live freely. Stay overnight to fully immerse in the jungle experience.
- Kep: A coastal village known for its relaxed vibe and delicious seafood, particularly pepper crab. Hike in Kep National Park or explore the abandoned French villas.
- Kampot: A riverside city with colonial architecture, great food and a laid-back atmosphere. Take a sunset cruise, visit pepper plantations, or explore Bokor Mountain for stunning views and historical ruins.
- Bokor Mountain: Near Kampot, home to the ruins of The Black Palace and a giant goddess statue. Visit the abandoned Bokor Old Church and the highest Buddhist pagoda in Cambodia.
Cambodia’s Cultural Festivals: Celebrations For Each Season
Cambodia's festivals are a vibrant showcase of its rich culture and deep-rooted traditions, with many focusing on family and food. Let’s go over some of the main ones:
- Khmer New Year (Chol Chnam Thmay): Celebrated in mid-April, this three-day festival marks the traditional New Year. It's a time for family reunions, temple visits and lively water fights, symbolizing purification. It’s not a great time to visit Cambodia, though, as most of the country shuts down during this period as people return to their hometowns.
- Water Festival (Bon Om Touk): Held in October or November, this festival features boat races on the Tonle Sap River, celebrating the river's reversal. The event also includes night markets and concerts, creating a festive atmosphere.
- Angkor Festival: Set against the iconic Angkor Wat, this festival highlights traditional and contemporary performing arts. It offers a mesmerizing blend of dance, music and mythic storytelling.
- Visak Bochea: In May, this Buddhist festival honors the birth, enlightenment and passing of Buddha. Candlelit processions and temple gatherings reflect Buddhism's profound influence on Cambodian society.
Culinary Adventures in Cambodia: Exploring Khmer Cuisine
Cambodia's cuisine, deeply influenced by its abundant waterways and cultural history, prominently features freshwater fish and seafood like salmon, squid and prawns, often found in soups, curries and stir-fries.
While meats such as beef, pork and chicken are available, they are pricier than fish. Rice is the staple food, with noodles as a common alternative, and meals are enriched with fresh or wok-fried vegetables and a variety of herbs.
Signature dishes:
- Amok: Cambodia's national dish, a coconut fish curry steamed in banana leaves.
- Kuy Teav: A noodle soup typically eaten for breakfast, made with rice vermicelli and flavored broth.
- Nom Banh Chok: Fermented rice noodles with a coconut and fish gravy, topped with fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Samlar Machu: A sour soup made with meat, fish or seafood, flavored with prahok (fermented fish paste) and kroeung (a spice paste).
- Kampot Pepper Crab: Fresh crabs stir-fried with Kampot green peppercorns.
- Lok Lak: A stir-fry dish with beef or chicken served on a bed of lettuce, cucumbers and tomatoes.
- Lap Khmer: A bold beef salad marinated in lime juice, herbs and spices.
- Samlar Kari: A rich chicken curry with coconut milk, kroeung and vegetables.
- Yaohon: Cambodian hot pot with a variety of meats, seafood and vegetables.
Desserts & Snacks:
- Sangkhia: A pumpkin coconut custard, often enjoyed during special occasions.
- Num Ansom Chek: Sticky rice with coconut, wrapped in banana leaves. It’s a traditional celebration dish.
- Banana Blossom Salad: A refreshing salad with stir-fried banana blossom, peanuts, and aromatics.
- Ang Dtray-Meuk: Grilled squid, a light snack often found in coastal areas.
- Num Pang Pâté: A Cambodian sandwich similar to Vietnam’s Banh Mi, filled with meats and fresh vegetables.
What Is The Best Time To Travel Cambodia? Selecting Seasons
Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate, with hot temperatures year-round. The weather is divided into wet and dry seasons, with some regional variations, but the north experiences slightly colder winters than the south. Monsoon rains can cause flooding, especially in Phnom Penh, during late July and early August.
Wet Season (June to October)
The rainy season brings lush landscapes, making it a magical time to visit, especially for photography — the temples of Angkor are particularly striking. Afternoon rains are common but usually brief, allowing for easy planning around them. Boat travel becomes more reliable as water levels rise. Many people prefer not to travel during wet seasons, though.
Cool and Dry Season (November to February)
This is the most popular time to visit Cambodia, with pleasant temperatures averaging in the mid-20s°C. The rain stops by mid-November, making December and January ideal for exploring temples and beaches. February remains dry, with cool evenings and warm days.
Hot and Dry Season (March to May)
Temperatures rise, peaking in April and May, with midday highs reaching the mid to upper 30s°C. Rainfall is minimal, making road travel reliable, but river levels are low, affecting boat travel.
Cool and Wet Season (September to Early November)
Temperatures gradually cool down and rainfall decreases by October. September is still wet, but by November, the weather becomes more comfortable, with midday temperatures around 30°C.
How to Travel Around Cambodia: A Guide to Transportation Options
Traveling in Cambodia offers a mix of adventure and convenience, thanks to significant improvements in the road network, though journeys can still be slow and bumpy. Here’s some information about what to expect:
- Trains: Cambodia's railway network is gradually being restored. The Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville line is operational, offering a scenic but limited service on weekends. Other routes are still under renovation, so you most likely won’t be traveling by train.
- Buses: Buses are the most affordable and widely used option for getting around Cambodia. Major companies like Phnom Penh Sorya and Giant Ibis provide comfortable and reliable services between key cities, but you will have to make your way to their offices to depart, rather than there being a central bus terminal.
- Minibuses: Faster than regular buses, minibuses serve the same routes but can be cramped. Deluxe services are available on popular routes.
- Flights: Domestic flights between Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville are available, and while they get you around faster, they’re the most expensive option.
- Shared Taxis: Shared taxis offer a quicker but often crowded and risky alternative to buses, particularly for reaching off-the-beaten-path destinations. It’s advised to book private car transportation if you’re looking for safety and exclusivity.
- Motorbikes and Scooters: Renting a motorbike is popular for exploring rural areas, but riding in cities can be hazardous. Be cautious of scams and always wear a helmet.
- Bicycles: Cycling is an enjoyable way to explore Cambodia’s countryside, though urban traffic can be challenging.
- Boats: Though less common now, boats still connect Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Battambang, offering scenic routes, particularly along the Sangker River.
- City Transport: In towns, tuk-tuks and motos are the go-to options for short trips. Tuk-tuks are more comfortable, while motos are faster but less safe. Taxis are available in larger cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
Tips for Traveling in Cambodia for Tourists
Traveling is fantastic for trying new foods, learning about different cultures, and simply learning more about the world.
It can be daunting though, navigating another culture respectively to not offend people and while, as a tourist, you’re given some leeway, it’s still great to know about some cultural practices to make your trip seamless.
Here are some tips to keep in mind while in Cambodia.
Dos:
- Removing Shoes: Always take off your shoes when entering temples, homes, and many restaurants.
- Using Your Right Hand: Eat and do business with your right hand, as the left is considered unclean.
- Learning Some Khmer: Speaking a few words of the local language is appreciated. Use the greeting, som pas, and say arkun, for thank you.
- Haggling Politely: Bargaining is expected. Allow the seller to save face by compromising slightly on the final price.
Don'ts:
- Touching Monks & People’s Heads: Women should never touch monks or give them anything. Also, don't touch anyone's head, as it’s disrespectful.
- Discussing Politics or War: Cambodia’s history is painful. Avoid conversations about war, politics or the Khmer Rouge. If touring with a local guide, let them lead the conversation about history and politics.
- Revealing Clothes: Wear conservative clothing, especially at temples or government buildings. Avoid revealing outfits and religious-themed attire.
- Heavy Public Affection: Keep public displays of affection minimal. Holding hands is okay, but avoid more intimate gestures.
Growth of International Tourism in Cambodia
Cambodia’s tourism sector is expected to improve in 2024 after a challenging period. In 2023, nearly 5.5 million foreign tourists visited, a 139.5% increase from 2022. Key factors for success include political stability, improved infrastructure, more direct flights and new government strategies to promote tourism.
Ecotourism is gaining popularity and the government is targeting countries like India and Indonesia to boost arrivals, but limited infrastructure, especially insufficient direct flights, still remains a challenge. New airports, such as Siem Reap Angkor and Techo Takhmao (opening in 2025), are set to increase travel and support further growth.
Conclusion
As a tourist in Cambodia, there’s an incredible array of sights, food and culture just waiting to be explored. To help, you can book a Cambodia tour guide to help you get around or a pre-established private tour!
We can’t wait to see you there!
