Cambodia: A Cultural Heritage Gem of Southeast Asia

[Simon Hopes]

Cambodia is one of the popular countries of south East Asia. The increasing number of tourists in this nation is rediscovering its golden heritage and culture. The beautiful temple complexes of Angkor Wat draw much of the attention of the foreign tourists. This country has many things to offer the travelers, like tropical sandy beaches, ancient French colonial buildings and natural beauty.

Tourists who are feeling bored exploring the beaches of Thailand and the wonderful scenic beauty of Vietnam, they can go for Cambodia tours. While the large cities are modernizing at a huge rate, the old cultural sites provide the chances of experiencing the tradition of this country. The adventurous activities include kayaking, trekking in the jungles, river cruising, and river rafting.

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is known is the City Temple of Cambodia. It is the most significant and fascinating temple complexes. The Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century. The temple balance, beauty and composition make it one of the beautiful monuments of the world. A huge reservoir surrounds the temple complex that rises through a series of 3 rectangular terraces to the central main building. The main tower is 213 meters tall. The temple represents the home of gods for the Hindus.

The entire complex is scattered with ruins of ancient temples and shrines, farmlands and huge rice fields. Most of the Angkor temples are preserved, making it as one of the World Heritage sites that reveals Khmer dynasty.

Phnom Penh

It is the largest city in Cambodia. It was a capital of the French colonial city. It was once known as a pearl of Asia. The French people had built this prettiest city. The tourists can see the French influence whenever they visit here. This city is situated near the Mekong River and dates back to the 15th century. The top attractions of this place include Royal Palace and National Museum. The latter one is the home of the Khmer culture and artifacts. The night markets of this city are very popular.

Koh Ker

It was the capital of Khmer dynasty from 928 TO 944 AD. During this short time span, the Khmer kings had built many spectacular buildings and sculptures. Prasat Thom dominates the place. It is a tall temple that looks like a pyramid. It was one of the remotest places in Cambodia. New roads are constructed in this place that makes the access way very easy. This area is 75 miles from the city of Siem Reap.

Tonle Sap

It is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.  It is a major tourist place of Cambodia. During the dry months from November to May, the water of this lake drains into the Mekong River. In the rainy seasons of June, the water of this lake floods the surroundings. The tribal communities live around the lake in the floating villages. The scenic beauty of this place attracts the tourists.

Sihanoukville

It is also popular as Kampong Som. It is a port city and a remarkable beach resort on the Gulf of Thailand. The main attraction of this place is the white sand beaches and the tropical islands that surround this place. Most of the tourists come to this place for relaxing.

Other places of interest are Preah Vihear, Silver Pagoda, Kratie, and Banlung. Most of the tour agencies organize trips to various parts of Cambodia. If the backpackers want to explore a mystic site, then Bokor Hill Station is worth to visit. Cambodia tours for families are wonderful and gifts the tourists lifetime experience.