5 Must See Places For The Historical Traveler in Cambodia

For travelers looking to get an appreciation of their destination through its history, Cambodia tours are perfect for a holiday. Although its history is both uplifting and depressing, you can be sure to have an inspiring adventure as you tour these five must see places to visit in Cambodia.

Temples of Angkor

An important archaeological site, Angkor plays host to the Temple of Angkor Wat, Preah Khan and Ta Prohm and the Bayon. Extending over 400 square kilometers, Angkor was at one point the center of the Khmer Kingdom. Wander through its vast landscape and marvel at the impressive monuments, awe-inspiring architecture and extensive collection of art from the 9th to
14th centuries.

The Killing Fields (Choeung Ek)

Located 15 kilometers outside Phnom Penh, The Killing Fields are where prisoners were taken in 1975-79 to be executed after interrogation by Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. Heartbreaking and confronting, The Killing Fields Museum is a monument to the estimated 2 million Cambodians who lost their lives during this period. It’s a kind gesture to pay your respects and honor the memories of the victims of the Khmer Rouge’s reign of terror.

Battambang

History buffs with a passion for architecture will delight in a visit to Battambang as it encompasses beautifully preserved French-period architecture dating back to the early 1900s. Climb the stairs to Wat Banan, a Buddhist temple built some time in the 10th to 13th centuries and featuring intricate carvings and towers. Or visit the Laang Spean cave, the most ancient Cambodian archaeological site dating back to 6000 BC.

Koh Ker

Once the capital of the Angkorian empire, Koh Ker is the home of the Prasat Thom, a 55 meter wide, 40 meter high pyramid shrouded by jungle built in
921 AD. Climb to the top for expansive views over the jungle. Don’t forget to visit the monuments along the ring-road, including Prasat Balang and Prasat Thneng. After touring these archaeological wonders, it’s a good idea to hire a motorbike or car and take yourself on a self-guided tour of the spectacular buildings and sculptures dotted all around Koh Ker, soaking in the history of this remote area on your way.

Bokor Hill Station

Known as a “French ghost town”, construction of Bokor Hill Station began in 1921 on the Damrei Mountains but was abandoned in the 1940s during the
First Indochina War. Although it is now merely a collection of ruins, the site remains important, as it is a testament to the way the colonial settlers spent their leisure time. Bring a picnic and climb to the top for an unmatched view of the Gulf of Thailand.

If you are looking for a holiday destination steeped in history, you really cannot do better than Cambodia. Traveling independently is fairly easy but if you late to have things taken care of for you Cambodia tours are  an easy way to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

Is Cambodia a destination you’d like to visit? Or maybe visited already? What do you like about this part of the world, or what do you expect to see? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below, and this post too if you liked it!