4 Best Sights in Cambodia

The temples of Angkor, hailed as "the eighth wonder of the world" by some, constitute the world's great ancient sites and Southeast Asia's most impressive archaeological treasure. The massive structures, surrounded by tropical forest, are comparable to Central America's Mayan ruins—and far exceed them in size. Angkor Wat is the world's largest religious structure—so large that it's hard to describe its breadth to someone who hasn't seen it. And that's just one temple in a complex of hundreds. In all, there are some 300 monuments reflecting Hindu and Buddhist influence scattered throughout the jungle, but only the largest have been excavated and only a few of those reconstructed. Most of these lie within a few miles of each other and can be seen in one day, though two or three days will allow you to better appreciate them.

Most people visit the temples of Bayon and Baphuon, which face east, in the morning—the earlier you arrive, the better the light and the smaller the crowd—and west-facing Angkor Wat in the late afternoon, though this most famous of the temples can also be a stunning sight at sunrise. The woodland-surrounded Ta Prohm can be visited any time, though it is best photographed when cloudy, whereas the distant Banteay Srei is prettiest in the late-afternoon light. With so many temples to see, the choice is yours.

The entrance to the complex is 4 km (2½ miles) north of Siem Reap; you’ll need to arrange transportation to get here and around. Most independent travelers hire a car and driver ($35 to $50 per day), moto (motorcycle) driver ($12 to $18), or tuk-tuk ($20 to $35, seats up to four). Renting bicycles ($3 to $5) or electric bikes ($5 to $8) is also an option if you’re up for the exertion in the heat. Tourists may not drive motorized vehicles in the park. If you hire a driver, he’ll stick with you for the whole day. Going with a guide is strongly recommended.

The Angkor complex is open from 5:30 am to 6 pm. You’ll receive a ticket with your photo on it, which you’ll need at each site and to access the restrooms. If you buy your ticket at 5 pm, you'll be admitted for the remaining open hour, in time to see the sunset from Phnom Bakeng to catch the last rays setting Angkor Wat aglow. Your ticket will also count for the following day.

Consider swinging back to Siem Reap for lunch or to your hotel for an afternoon rest so you don't get templed out. Make sure to drink plenty of water.

In the early 20th century, the French built this hill station as a retreat from the heat and humidity of the coast. Aside from the once derelict casino, which has been restored as a hotel, it's now mostly a collection of ruins but it's worth visiting for the spectacular sea views from its 3,000-foot heights. It's 35 km (22 miles) west of Kampot, and easily reachable by rented motorbike. Or you can hire a car with a driver for more comfort (and local knowledge). Besides the hotel, the abandoned church and former royal residences are highlights.

In the countryside 25 km (15 miles) south from the city, this 11th-century hilltop temple has five impressive towers and is sometimes referred to as "the mini Angkor Wat." Reaching the temple involves a hike up 350 or so steps, so go after lunch when it's less hot. Tuk-tuks from Battambang charge $10 to $15 for the round-trip. There is a mystical little cave round the side of the hill whose waters are supposed to induce visions.

Long before the French arrived, Battambang was an important Khmer city, and among its many temples is this 11th-century Angkorian structure. Even though it has been heavily looted over the centuries, the temple still has a few fine stone carvings in excellent condition. In front of the ruins stands a newly built pagoda. It's 10 km (7 miles) north of the city and getting here via tuk-tuk or moto will cost around $10.

Admission is free with a ticket to Wat Banan, but only on the same day.