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Places to visit in Cambodia

The land of ancient temples

We had a calendar at home with many destinations across the world showcased each month. Angkor Wat was also one of them. I never knew the extent of how large these temples are until I visited Seam Reap. Angkor Wat is a testament to human ingenuity, culture and respect for larger powers

We combined a visit to the two neighbors Thailand and Cambodia

Best time to visit

We went in October to avoid rains and hot summer. You might have noticed that we always choose spring or autumn for most of our travel. November to April is dry season- most suitable time to be here

Visa

It was on arrival for $30. The process was smooth

Getting In

Siem Reap is connected to major cities in South-East Asia. We came in from Bangkok. You can choose to go via Singapore if coming directly from India. There are direct flights which operate from Delhi to Phnom Penh

Currency

USD is accepted everywhere. We did not change any money into local currency riel. We got change in local currency at times which we ended up using before leaving the country

Getting around

Tuk Tuks are the best way to go around. Rates are pretty standard in Angkor Wat from $15-20per day with $5 extra for sun rise

Places to visit in Cambodia- Siem Reap

  • Little Circuit: Angkor Thom, Bayon, Baphuom, Angkor Wat
  • Great circuit: Pre Rup, East Mebon, Ta Som, Neak Poan, Preah Khan
  • Outer temples: Banteay Srei , Kbal Spean amidst the forests with rock carvings within the waters of the river
  • Tonle Sap lake
  • Apsara dance show

Details in a separate post here

Things to know

  1. Angkor Wat was discovered in 1840s although built much earlier in 12th century
  2. Many Hindu temples have been converted into Buddhist places of worship. You will see a blend of two religions
  3. Watch an Apsara dance show, the classical dance of Cambodia characterized by slow movements
  4. Cambodians are quite poor living on less than $10 per day. Please be generous and bring a smile on their face
  5. Be modestly dressed while visiting temples, covering shoulder and legs
  6. You can buy Angkor passes online

How much does it cost

Around $550 per person if travelling from India

  • Flights: $120 Round trip from Bangkok. Expect to pay $350 from India to Cambodia
  • Hotel : <$20
  • Transport: $30
  • Entry fee: $75; $62 for 3 day pass + Dance show with dinner
  • Food: $35 (We carry our own food/ shop at supermarkets)
  • Visa: $30

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