North-western Cambodia Travel Guide
Plan your trip to North-Western Cambodia with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in this beautiful region of Cambodia.
- Introduction to North-Western Cambodia
- List of Places to Visit in North-Western Cambodia
- Hiking/Biking Routes of North-Western Cambodia
- Best Things to Do in North-Western Cambodia: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for North-Western Cambodia
- Food and Drink Scene of North-Western Cambodia
- Where to Stay in North-Western Cambodia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in North-Western Cambodia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of North-Western Cambodia
- Best Time to Visit North-Western Cambodia
- Do’s and Don’ts of North-Western Cambodia
- Safety and Health
- Getting to North-Western Cambodia: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in North-Western Cambodia
- Where to Go Next from North-Western Cambodia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to North-Western Cambodia
North-Western Cambodia is a region located in the north-western part of Cambodia. It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture. The region is bordered by Thailand to the north and the Cardamom Mountains to the south, providing unique outdoor adventures and experiences for visitors.
List of Places to Visit in North-Western Cambodia
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Angkor Wat
- Angkor Thom
- Ta Prohm
- Preah Vihear Temple
- Banteay Chhmar
- Koh Ker
Natural Attractions of North-Western Cambodia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary
- Tonle Sap Lake
- Kulen Mountain National Park
- Phnom Sampeau
- Battambang Bamboo Train
- Phnom Kulen Waterfall
Hiking/Biking Routes of North-Western Cambodia
- Samrong to Prasat Preah Vihear Route
- Thma Koul to Preah Khan Route
- Koh Ker to Beng Mealea Route
- Siem Reap to Sambor Prei Kuk Route
Best Things to Do in North-Western Cambodia: Activities and Tours
- Hot Air Balloon Rides over Angkor Wat
- Street Food Tours in Siem Reap and Battambang
- Kayaking in the Mekong River
- Sunset Cruise on Tonle Sap Lake
- Cambodian Cooking Classes
Week-Long Itinerary for North-Western Cambodia
Day 1-2: Siem Reap, Angkor Wat, and Angkor Thom Day 3-4: Battambang and Banteay Chhmar Day 5-6: Preah Vihear Temple and Kulen Mountain National Park Day 7: Return to Siem Reap
Food and Drink Scene of North-Western Cambodia
Must-Try Dishes
- Fish Amok
- Khmer Red Curry
- Beef Lok Lak
- Nom Banh Chok
- Fried Spiders
Local Beverages
- Angkor Beer
- Palm Wine
- Cambodian Coffee
- Sugar Cane Juice
Where to Stay in North-Western Cambodia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Templation Angkor Resort (Siem Reap)
- Bambu Battambang Hotel (Battambang)
- Preah Vihear Boutique Hotel (Preah Vihear)
- Nature Lodge (Kulen Mountain)
What to Buy in North-Western Cambodia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Handmade Silk Scarves and Bags
- Silver Jewelry from Cambodian Craftsmen
- Traditional Handicrafts such as Baskets and Pottery
- Kampot Pepper
- Palm Sugar
Local Culture and Customs of North-Western Cambodia
- Dress Modestly when Visiting Religious Sites
- Remove Shoes before Entering a Temple or Home
- Use Only Your Right Hand for Eating or Passing Objects
- Bow Slightly When Greeting Someone Older or in a Position of Authority
Best Time to Visit North-Western Cambodia
The best time to visit North-Western Cambodia is between November and February, during the dry season where the skies are clear and humidity is low.
Do’s and Don’ts of North-Western Cambodia
Do:
- Respect Local Customs and Beliefs
- Bargain at Markets and local vendors
- Try Local Food and Beverages
- Smile and Be Friendly to Locals
Don’t:
- Wear Revealing Clothes
- Touch Monks or Religious Objects
- Show Public Displays of Affection
Safety and Health
Safety in North-Western Cambodia
North-Western Cambodia is generally safe for tourists. However, travelers should take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and scams, especially in tourist areas.
Health in North-Western Cambodia
It is recommended for travelers to have up-to-date vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus. Dengue fever is present in the region, and travelers should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
Getting to North-Western Cambodia: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near North-Western Cambodia
- Siem Reap International Airport
- Phnom Penh International Airport
Bus Stations Near North-Western Cambodia
- Battambang Bus Station
- Siem Reap Bus Station
Other Options
- Private Car and Driver Services
- Shared Taxis and Minivans
How to Get Around in North-Western Cambodia
The best way to get around North-Western Cambodia is by renting a motorbike or hiring a tuk-tuk driver.
Where to Go Next from North-Western Cambodia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia
- Kampot, known for its pepper plantations and stunning beaches
- Kep, a small coastal town with delicious seafood
Conclusion
North-Western Cambodia is an incredible destination with so much to offer. From the stunning temples of Angkor Wat to the lush jungles of Kulen Mountain, there is something for everyone to discover. Plan your trip carefully, respect local customs and beliefs, and enjoy this incredible region of Cambodia.
