Top 5 must-try experiences when traveling to Cambodia

Not only does Cambodia have the massive Angkor Wat architectural complex, it also has countless other interesting things waiting for you to discover .

Embracing the majestic Mekong River, covered in the lush green of the region's rare primeval forests, traveling to Cambodia is a true adventure rather than just a simple tour.

This country promises to bring you many interesting experiences during your vacation this year. Save the suggestions below in your notebook so you don’t miss out on any interesting things when you come here!

Cambodia has many interesting things for tourists to explore. Photo: Getty Images Pro.

Watching sunrise at Angkor Wat

The Angkor Wat heritage complex will overwhelm you at first sight. The perfect blend of spirituality and architectural symmetry makes Angkor Wat an enduring masterpiece, a testament to man's devotion to the gods.

This is also the best place to watch the sunrise. Come early to find a quiet spot and consider entering from the East door to avoid the crowds.

Sunrise scene at Angkor Wat.

Tip: During March and September, the sun rises directly over the central tower of Angkor Wat. This is the ideal time to watch the sunrise here.

Walk with elephants at Elephant Valley Project

If you want to see Cambodia’s majestic elephants, you should visit the Elephant Valley Project, a new home for elephants that have been overworked or injured.

Dubbed a nursing home for elephants, this 15-square-kilometer sanctuary is nestled in a beautiful valley in Mondulkiri, eastern Cambodia. Riding elephants is strictly prohibited here, and visitors can only walk through the forest with the elephants and observe them in their natural habitat. Along the way, visitors will learn about elephant behavior, the culture of the indigenous Bunong people, and the forest ecosystem.

If you love nature and animals, Elephant Valley Project is a destination you should not miss. Photo: pixabay.

Tip: This place is very popular, so make sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment. The reserve is closed on Saturdays.

Boating experience river tourism

SUP the Teuk Chhou River, winding around palm-covered islets, through mangroves and past traditional fishing villages, all in the shade of Bokor National Park. It also boasts some of the most spectacular sunsets on the south coast.

On this river, do not miss the narrow canal called "Green Cathedral" which is loved by many tourists. This place forms a beautiful sightseeing route on the Teuk Chhou River, passing through mangrove forests and water coconut groves. Along the way, visitors can stop to rest and relax at small guesthouses and resorts.

The Teuk Chhou River is calm in the evening light.

Tip: The Green Cathedral is located about 4km downstream from town on the Teuk Chhou River. SUPs can be rented from nearby hotels and resorts.

Discover the wild beauty of freshwater dolphins

The freshwater Irrawaddy dolphin is an endangered species throughout Asia, found in parts of the Mekong River in Cambodia and Laos, as well as in Bangladesh, Myanmar and the Indonesian island of Borneo in small numbers.

One of the best places in the world to see these gentle animals is Kampi Dolphin Cove on the Mekong River, about 15km north of Kratie.

A corner of Kampi Dolphin Cove.

Tip: Get here by kayak, gliding past secluded sandbanks and magical flooded forests before arriving at Kampi Dolphin Cove, where you can see these beautiful and rare animals without disturbing them.

Lose yourself in Bassac Lane night street in Phnom Penh

Bassac Lane, with its small, eclectic alleys, is home to more than a dozen hidden “tiny” bars. It’s a great place to people-watch Phnom Penh from 5pm to 7pm.

Not only that, Bassac Lane gathers many famous bars such as White Rabbit with impressive cocktails, Library for guests who want quiet, Casa Diego with famous tapas and Harry's with a cool lounge area on the top floor.

Bassac Lane is known as Phnom Penh's artist-style neighborhood, worthy of your visit.