Discover Cambodia

The massive temple complex of Angkor ranks among the most significant religious monuments in the world and was once the center of the Khmer Empire. Beyond Angkor Wat itself, Angkor Thom with its smiling stone faces and Ta Prohm, where tree roots overgrow the ancient walls, are well worth a visit. Sunrise over the temple towers ranks among Asia's most impressive travel experiences.

The pulsing capital at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap surprises with the ornate Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and lively riverside promenades. At the same time, the Tuol Sleng Museum and the Killing Fields serve as poignant reminders of the history of the Khmer Rouge. Modern cafes, night markets and French colonial architecture shape today's cityscape.

Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake changes size dramatically depending on the season and is home to floating villages, where entire communities live on the water. Boat tours pass fishing houses, flooded forests and mangroves, while local families live off fishing. The lake is a lifeline and food source for millions of Cambodians.

Classical Apsara dance, elaborate silk weaving and colorful Buddhist temples shape Cambodia's cultural everyday life. The cuisine impresses with amok, a mild curry cooked in a banana leaf, spicy noodle soups and fresh street food in the markets of Siem Reap. Khmer hospitality is considered especially warm and makes every trip personal.

International flights land at Phnom Penh Airport or the new Siem Reap-Angkor Airport, usually connecting through Bangkok, Singapore, Seoul or Doha. Total travel time from Switzerland including the layover is about 14 to 17 hours. A visa can be easily obtained online in advance as an e-visa or purchased on arrival at the airport.

The official language is Khmer, written in its own elaborate script with over a thousand years of history. In tourist centers like Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, many hotel, restaurant and tour staff speak good English, so communication is usually easy for travelers.

Officially the Cambodian riel applies, but in everyday life the US dollar is accepted almost everywhere and even preferred. Change under a dollar is usually given back in riel. It's advisable to carry both small US dollar bills and some riel for markets and tuk-tuk rides.

Yes, Cambodia ranks among the most affordable destinations in Asia. Simple guesthouses often cost just a few dollars a night, a street food dish is available for one to two dollars, and even guided tours to Angkor Wat or boat trips on the Tonlé Sap remain very affordable compared to Europe.