Rich in history, high in cultural value, and predominately known for its wonderful Angkor Wat, Cambodia simply cannot be missed. This very iconic temple complex symbolizes the greatness of the Khmer Empire, receiving millions of visitors annually. While Angkor Wat is an amazing site, there’s much more that Cambodia has in store to see other than temples. For the traveler who ventures off the beaten path, Cambodia has its hidden gems waiting to reward him with one-of-a-kind experiences, untouched nature, and profound cultural encounters.
Look Out For The Hidden Gems of Cambodia
Koh Ker: The Forgotten Capital
Located in Preah Vihear, a vast northern province, Koh Ker was briefly the capital of the Khmer Empire during the 10th century. While Angkor is sprawling, Koh Ker is an almost forgotten complex of temples, mysterious and smothered in dense jungle. Dominating the site is the seven-tiered pyramid of Prasat Thom, rearing 36 meters into the sky to give panoramic views of the surrounding forest. This temple is of a unique pyramid shape among the Khmer temples.
One reason that many say it is attractive to visit Koh Ker is the fact that it is off the beaten track; thus, the ancient ruins are almost free from sightseers. One can wander through overgrown pathways, discovering smaller temples and shrines hidden within the jungle. Isolation and natural encroachment of these ruins hint at the past when nature reclaimed what once was a vibrant city. This land will let visitors find Koh Ker as a tranquil and mystical experience away from the more famous tourist attractions in Cambodia.
Battambang: Cambodia’s Cultural Heartland
While Siem Reap and Phnom Penh hold the largest spots on travelers’ itineraries, Battambang is generally an underrated city that gives meaning to Cambodian culture. With its well-preserved French-colonial architecture, dynamic art scene, and bountiful agricultural landscapes in the northwestern part of the country, Battambang is the spot to witness characteristic Cambodian cultural experiences.
From what I have gathered, the art scene in Battambang seems very active, with dozens of galleries representing local artists. It features Phare Ponleu Selpak, an art school that offers free education in the arts to poor and underprivileged children. That is, tourists get to attend performances undertaken by students from the school. These are not just entertaining in themselves but, in so doing, give a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Cambodia and the resilience of the Cambodian people.
Apart from the city itself, Battambang is surrounded by the countryside that spells ancient temples, rice paddies, and small villages. A must-do activity in Battambang is a ride on the bamboo train. With this, travelers can feel, in a rough and ready sort of way, part of rural Cambodian simplicity, gliding through the countryside on a makeshift railway cart. Cultural soaking and a blend of natural beauty typify Battambang, making it a must-see destination in Cambodia for those seeking a deeper understanding of the country.
Preah Vihear: A Temple with a View
Perched on a cliff in the Dângrêk Mountains, near the Thai border, is Preah Vihear Temple—one of Cambodia’s most breathtaking, yet overlooked, sites. The 9th-century temple was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, and it is this stunning location, combined with enormous architectural significance, that has made it one of the country’s most dazzling sites. Unlike the crowded temples of Angkor, Preah Vihear offers serenity, with far fewer visitors.
Going to Preah Vihear is part of the adventure. This AD sixth-century temple perches on top of a steep hill, and visitors can either choose to hike or go by local truck. The view from the top is breathtaking, as one can see the long sweep of every vista of the surrounding plains extending far into Thailand. The construction of the temple of Preah Vihear is essentially along a long axis, with many sanctuaries attached to several stairways and causeways. These intricated carvings and well-preserved structures tell a lot about the skill of the Khmer architects.
This makes Preah Vihear the ideal getaway from it all, given the inaccessibility that makes it not too crowded with visitors. The strategic location and historical importance also granted this temple a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Hence, Preah Vihear is such a Cambodian tourist spot that no history enthusiast or nature lover should miss.
Mondulkiri: The Untamed Wilderness
While the central part of Cambodia is characterized by flat plains, Mondulkiri represents central Cambodia with rolling hills, dense forests, and a cool refreshing climate. Lying in the east of the country, it remains the most sparsely inhabited province of Cambodia, ensuring at least an environment of solitude if one is looking for that, or for a nature lover, an environment without the pollution of mankind.
Mondulkiri is home to Bunong, an indigenous ethnic tribe, with very distinctive culture and traditions. Animist traditions and the care taken of the elephants by them are the kind of Bunong traditions that may similarly be learned at Mondulkiri. The province is famous for its elephant sanctuaries that have rescued elephants in their natural environment. Indeed, the sanctuaries differ from the usual elephant camps for tourists, since they do not press for amusements for tourists at the cost of harming the elephants.
This is also a paradise for trekkers. Many trails through the forest lead to magnificent waterfalls, including Bou Sra, one of the country’s biggest and most beautiful. Mondulkiri remains a virgin land where its pristine beauty and cultural richness have made it a must-visit place in Cambodia for those interested in discovering the natural wonders and indigenous traditions of the country.
Conclusion
Angkor Wat may be the crown jewel of all Cambodian tourist attractions, but some of the country’s lesser-known destinations are equally rewarding. From the forgotten temples of Koh Ker through the cultural richness of Battambang to the natural beauty of Mondulkiri, Cambodia is a place of diverse and incredible experiences. Going through such places to visit in Cambodia beyond Angkor Wat helps a curious traveler find what makes the country so unique. If you truly want a memorable trip and explore some hidden treasures, it’s time to venture down the road less traveled with Traveludo into must-see places in Cambodia.