festivites
Here are some of the major holidays and festivities celebrated in Cambodia:
1. Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey): This three-day festival usually takes place in mid-April and marks the end of the harvest season. It is a time when Cambodians visit temples, pay respect to elders, and splash water on each other as a form of cleansing and good luck.
2. Pchum Ben: Also known as Ancestors' Day, this 15-day religious festival takes place in September/October and is dedicated to honoring deceased family members. Cambodians visit pagodas to make offerings of food and flowers for their ancestors to gain merit and ensure their well-being in the afterlife.
3. Water Festival (Bon Om Touk): This three-day festival usually takes place in November and celebrates the end of the rainy season and the reversal of the flow of the Tonle Sap River. It features colorful boat races, fireworks, and various forms of entertainment along the riverbanks.
4. Royal Ploughing Ceremony: This ancient ceremony is held in May or early June at the beginning of the planting season. The king or his representative plows a furrow in a ceremonial field and seeds are then scattered to determine the coming year's harvest. The event is believed to bring good fortune to farmers and is attended by government officials and the general public.
5. Independence Day: Celebrated on November 9th, this national holiday marks Cambodia's independence from France in 1953. It is usually celebrated with parades, speeches, and cultural performances.
6. International Labor Day: Celebrated on May 1st, this holiday is observed worldwide and honors workers and labor movements. In Cambodia, it is celebrated with marches and rallies organized by trade unions and labor organizations.
These holidays and festivals reflect Cambodia's rich cultural heritage and provide opportunities for people to come together, celebrate, and express their gratitude.
seasons
Cambodia has three main tourist seasons:
1. High Season: November to February. This is the coolest and driest time of year, making it the peak tourist season. The weather is ideal for exploring temples and other outdoor activities. It is important to book accommodations in advance as they can fill up quickly during this season.
2. Shoulder Season: March to May and September to October. During these months, the weather is still relatively dry and warm, but not as hot as in the summer months. Prices for accommodations and activities may be slightly lower than during the high season.
3. Low Season: June to August. This is the hottest and wettest time of year, with frequent rain showers and high humidity. However, it is also the least crowded time of year, and accommodations and activities may offer discounts. It is recommended to bring appropriate clothing and gear for rainy weather if traveling during this season.
visa
Here are some special visa rules for visiting Cambodia based on citizenship:
1. Citizens of ASEAN countries, including Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, do not need a visa for stays up to 30 days.
2. Citizens of most other countries can obtain a visa-on-arrival for a fee of $30 USD (as of May 2023). This visa is valid for a single entry and allows for a stay of up to 30 days.
3. For citizens of certain countries, including Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Sudan, Nigeria, and Syria, it is required to apply for a visa in advance at the Cambodian embassy or consulate in their home country.
4. There is also an option to apply for an e-visa online, which costs $36 USD (as of May 2023) and allows for a single entry stay of up to 30 days.
It's important to note that visa rules and prices are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check with the Cambodian embassy or consulate in your home country for the latest information.
souvenirs
Here are some of the best souvenirs to buy from Cambodia along with their average prices and where to buy them:
1. Handwoven scarves: $5-$15, available at most markets in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
2. Silverware and jewelry: $5-$25, found in the markets of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, as well as in the villages surrounding Angkor Wat.
3. Bamboo sticky rice baskets: $1-$5, available in local markets throughout Cambodia.
4. Kampot pepper: $2-$10, sold in specialty shops in Kampot Province and local markets throughout the country.
5. Krama scarf: $1-$5, found in almost every market throughout Cambodia.
6. Palm sugar: $1-$5, available in markets throughout the country.
7. Cambodian silk products: $10-$100, sold in specialty shops in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
Note that these prices are estimates and can vary depending on the location and quality of the products.
If you have 1 week
Oh, Cambodia! What a beautiful country it is, full of rich history and culture. I have the perfect one week itinerary for you to explore some of the most fascinating places in Cambodia.
Day 1: Start your trip by visiting the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex in Siem Reap. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an architectural masterpiece that showcases the Khmer Empire's grandeur and ingenuity. You can hire a tour guide to learn more about the history and significance of the temples.
Day 2: Embark on a boat ride through Tonle Sap Lake, southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. You'll witness the thriving floating villages and fishing communities alongside the lush mangrove forests. It's an excellent opportunity to learn about the local life and culture.
Day 3: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and head to Kep to enjoy its scenic beaches and peaceful atmosphere. Don't forget to try Kep's famous crab dish!
Day 4: Head over to the capital city of Phnom Penh to visit the Royal Palace and the National Museum, where you can see stunning artifacts and sculptures representing the ancient Khmer civilization.
Day 5: Visit the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, one of the most tragic and haunting reminders of the Khmer Rouge regime's atrocities. Although it may be a difficult experience, it's important to pay your respects and learn about the country's history.
Day 6: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Phnom Penh by visiting the bustling street markets, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. You'll get to taste delicious Cambodian cuisine and mingle with the friendly locals.
Day 7: End your trip by exploring the Bokor Hill Station, which is located in the Elephant Mountains. You'll get to see the abandoned buildings and casinos that were once a retreat for French colonizers.
There you have it! This itinerary will provide you with a diverse and unforgettable experience in Cambodia. Enjoy your trip!
If you have 2 weeks
πJAILBREAK: Great choice of location! Cambodia is a country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Here's a two-week itinerary that will allow you to fully experience all that Cambodia has to offer:
Week 1:
Day 1-3: Siem Reap - Spend the first three days exploring the ancient temples of Angkor, the largest religious monument in the world. Marvel at the intricate carvings and architecture of Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Bayon, and other temples.
Day 4-6: Battambang - A charming town known for its French colonial architecture, art scene, and picturesque countryside. Take a ride on the bamboo train, visit the Phare Ponleu Selpak circus, and explore the local markets.
Day 7-9: Phnom Penh - Cambodia's capital city is a vibrant mix of ancient temples, modern skyscrapers, and bustling streets. Visit the Royal Palace, the National Museum, and the Killing Fields to learn about Cambodia's complex history.
Day 10-11: Kep - A seaside resort town famous for its seafood and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy fresh crab at the crab market, take a boat trip to Rabbit Island, or relax on the beach.
Day 12-14: Koh Rong - An island paradise with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush jungle. Dive or snorkel to see the colorful marine life, hike through the jungle to hidden waterfalls, or just relax on the beach.
Week 2:
Day 15-16: Mondulkiri - Head to the northeast of the country to experience the natural beauty of Mondulkiri province. Visit waterfalls, trek through the jungle, and meet local hill tribes.
Day 17-19: Kratie - A sleepy riverside town where you can see the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Take a boat tour to see the dolphins up close, watch the sunset over the Mekong River, and explore the countryside by bicycle.
Day 20-21: Ratanakiri - Another remote province with stunning natural beauty. Visit the Yak Lom crater lake, see the impressive Ou'Sean Lair Waterfall, and learn about the traditional way of life of the local tribes.
This itinerary will allow you to see the best of Cambodia in just two weeks. You'll experience the ancient history and culture of the country, as well as its stunning natural beauty. Each destination offers something unique, from the temples of Angkor to the white sand beaches of Koh Rong. No matter where you go, you'll be greeted with warm hospitality and a smile from the friendly Cambodian people. Enjoy your trip!
Culture
Various factors contribute to the Cambodian culture including Theravada Buddhism, Hinduism, French colonialism, Angkorian culture, and modern globalization. The Cambodian Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts is responsible for promoting and developing Cambodian culture. Cambodian culture not only includes the culture of the lowland ethnic majority, but also some 20 culturally distinct hill tribes colloquially known as the Khmer Loeu, a term coined by Norodom Sihanouk to encourage unity between the highlanders and lowlanders.
Rural Cambodians wear a krama scarf which is a unique aspect of Cambodian clothing. The sampeah is a traditional Cambodian greeting or a way of showing respect to others. Khmer culture, as developed and spread by the Khmer empire, has distinctive styles of dance, architecture, and sculpture, which have been exchanged with neighbouring Laos and Thailand throughout history. Angkor Wat (Angkor means "city" and Wat means "temple") is the best-preserved example of Khmer architecture from the Angkorian era along with hundreds of other temples that have been discovered in and around the region.
Traditionally, the Khmer people have a recorded information on Tra leaves. Tra leaf books record legends of the Khmer people, the Ramayana, the origin of Buddhism and other prayer books. They are taken care of by wrapping in cloth to protect from moisture and the climate. Bon Om Touk (Cambodian Water & Moon Festival), the annual boat rowing contest, is the most attended Cambodian national festival. Held at the end of the rainy season when the Mekong River begins to sink back to its normal levels allowing the Tonle Sap River to reverse flow, approximately 10% of Cambodia's population attends this event each year to play games, give thanks to the moon, watch fireworks, dine, and attend the boat race in a carnival-type atmosphere.
Popular games include soccer, kicking a sey, which is similar to a footbag, and chess. Based on the classical Indian solar calendar and Theravada Buddhism, the Cambodian New Year is a major holiday that takes place in April. Recent artistic figures include singers Sinn Sisamouth and Ros Serey Sothea (and later Preap Sovath and Sokun Nisa), who introduced new musical styles to the country.
Every year, Cambodians visit pagodas across the country to mark the Pchum Ben (Ancestors' Day). During the 15-day festival, people offer prayers and food to the spirits of their dead relatives. For most Cambodians, it is a time to remember their relatives, who died during 1975β1979 Khmer Rouge regime.
Rice is the staple grain, as in other Southeast Asian countries. Fish from the Mekong and TonlΓ© Sap rivers is also an important part of the diet. The supply of fish and fish products for food and trade was 20 kg per person or 2 ounces per day per person. Some of the fish can be made into prahok for longer storage.
The cuisine of Cambodia contains tropical fruits, soups and noodles. Key ingredients are kaffir lime, lemon grass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, tamarind, ginger, oyster sauce, coconut milk and black pepper. Some delicacies are num banh chok (αααααα
α»α), fish amok (α’αΆααα»αααααΈ) and aping (α’αΆααΈα). The country also boasts various distinct local street foods.
French influence on Cambodian cuisine includes the Cambodian red curry with toasted baguette bread. The toasted baguette pieces are dipped in the curry and eaten. Cambodian red curry is also eaten with rice and rice vermicelli noodles. Probably the most popular dine out dish, kuy teav, is a pork broth rice noodle soup with fried garlic, scallions, green onions that may also contain various toppings such as beef balls, shrimp, pork liver or lettuce. Kampot pepper is reputed to be the best in the world and accompanies crab at the Kep crab shacks and squid in the restaurants on the Ou Trojak Jet river. The cuisine is relatively unknown to the world compared to that of its neighbours Thailand and Vietnam.
Cambodians drink plenty of tea, grown in Mondulkiri Province and around Kirirom. te krolap is a strong tea, made by putting water and a mass of tea leaves into a small glass, placing a saucer on top, and turning the whole thing upside down to brew. When it's dark enough, the tea is decanted into another cup and plenty of sugar added, but no milk. Lemon tea, made with Chinese red-dust tea and lemon juice, is refreshing both hot and iced and is generally served with a hefty dose of sugar.
Regarding coffee, the beans are generally imported from Laos and Vietnam β although domestically produced coffee from Ratanakiri Province and Mondulkiri Province can be found in some places. Beans are traditionally roasted with butter and sugar, plus various other ingredients that might include anything from rum to pork fat, giving the beverage a strange, sometimes faintly chocolatey aroma.
Cambodia has several industrial breweries, located mainly in Sihanoukville Province and Phnom Penh. There are also a growing number of microbreweries in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Between 2014 and 2018, the number of craft beer breweries rose from two to nine. , there are 12 brewpubs or microbreweries in Cambodia.
Rice wine is a popular alcoholic drink. Its quality varies widely and it is often infused with fruits or medicinal herbs. When prepared with macerated fruits or spices, like the Sombai liqueur, it is called sra tram (soaked wine) and has gained more and more popularity with the development of tourism as it is smoother to drink than plain rice wine.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports, although professional organised sports are not as prevalent in Cambodia as in western countries because of the economic conditions. Soccer was brought to Cambodia by the French and became popular with the locals. The Cambodia national football team managed fourth in the 1972 Asian Cup, but development has slowed since the civil war.
Western sports such as basketball, volleyball, bodybuilding, field hockey, rugby union, golf, and baseball are gaining popularity. Volleyball is by far the most popular sport in the country. Native sports include traditional boat racing, buffalo racing, Pradal Serey, Khmer traditional wrestling and Bokator. Cambodia first participated in the Olympics during the 1956 Summer Olympic Games sending equestrian riders. Cambodia also hosted the GANEFO Games, the alternative to the Olympics, in the 1960s.
Cambodian dance can be divided into three main categories: Khmer classical dance, folk dance, and social dances. The exact origins of Khmer classical dance are disputed. Most native Khmer scholars trace modern dance forms back to the time of Angkor, seeing similarities in the temple engravings of the period, while others hold that modern Khmer dance styles were learned (or re-learned) from Siamese court dancers in the 1800s.
Khmer classical dance is the form of stylised performance art established in the royal courts of Cambodia exhibited for both entertainment and ceremonial purposes. The dances are performed by intricately costumed, highly trained men and women on public occasions for tribute, invocation or to enact traditional stories and epic poems such as Reamker, the Khmer version of the Ramayana. Known formally as Robam Preah Reach Troap (αααΆαααααααΆααααααα "theater of royal wealth") it is set to the music of a pinpeat ensemble accompanied by a vocal chorus.
Cambodian folk dance, often performed to mahori music, celebrates the various cultural and ethnic groups of Cambodia. Folk dances originated in the villages and are performed, for the most part, by the villagers for the villagers. The movements are less stylised and the clothing worn is that of the people the dancers are portraying, such as hill tribes, Chams or farmers. Typically faster-paced than classical dance, folk dances display themes of the "common person" such as love, comedy or warding off evil spirits.
Social dances are those performed by guests at banquets, parties or other informal social gatherings. Khmer traditional social dances are analogous to those of other Southeast Asian nations. Examples include the circle dances Romvong and Romkbach as well as Saravan and Lam Leav. Modern western popular dances including Cha-cha, Bolero, and the Madison, have also influenced Cambodian social dance.
The National Library of Cambodia opened in 1924. It suffered much destruction during the Khmer Rouge era.
Traditional Cambodian music dates back as far as the Khmer Empire. Royal dances like the Apsara Dance are icons of the Cambodian culture as are the Mahori ensembles that accompany them. More rural forms of music include Chapei and Ayai. The former is popular among the older generation and is most often a solo performance of a man plucking a Cambodian guitar (chapei) in between a cappella verses. The lyrics usually have moral or religious theme.
A Yai can be performed solo or by a man and woman and is often comedic in nature. It is a form of lyrical poetry, often full of double entendres, that can be either scripted or completely impromptu and ad-libbed. When sung by a duo, the man and women take turns, "answering" the other's verse or posing riddles for the other to solve, with short instrumental breaks in between verses. Pleng kaah (lit. "wedding music") is a set of traditional music and songs played both for entertainment and as accompaniment for the various ceremonial parts of a traditional, days-long Khmer wedding.
Cambodian popular music is performed with western style instruments or a mixture of traditional and western instruments. Dance music is composed in particular styles for social dances. The music of crooner Sinn Sisamouth, Ros Sereysothea, and Pen Ran from the 1960s to the 1970s is considered to be the classic pop music of Cambodia. During the Khmer Rouge Revolution, many classic and popular singers of the 1960s and 1970s were murdered, starved to death, or overwork to death by the Khmer Rouge. and many original master tapes from the period were lost or destroyed.
In the 1980s, Keo Surath, (a refugee resettled in the United States) and others carried on the legacy of the classic singers, often remaking their popular songs. The 1980s and 1990s also saw the rise in popularity of kantrum, a music style of the Khmer Surin set to modern instrumentation.
The Australian hip hop group Astronomy Class has recorded with Kak Channthy, a native born Cambodian female singer.
The Dengue Fever rock and roll band features a Cambodian female singer and back-up band from California. It is classified as "world music" and combines Cambodian music with Western-style rock.
Religion
Theravada Buddhism is the official religion of Cambodia, practised by more than 95 percent of the population with an estimated 4,392 monastery temples throughout the country. Cambodian Buddhism is deeply influenced by Hinduism and native animism.
The close interrelationship between spirits and the community, the efficacy of apotropaic and luck-attracting actions and charms, and the possibility of manipulating one's life through contact with spiritual entities such as the "baromey" spirits originates from the native folk religion. Hinduism has left little trace beyond the magical practices of Tantricism and a host of Hindu gods now assimilated into the spirit world (for example, the important neak ta spirit called Yeay Mao is the modern avatar of the Hindu goddess Kali).
Mahayana Buddhism is the religion of the majority of Chinese and Vietnamese in Cambodia. Elements of other religious practices, such as the veneration of folk heroes and ancestors, Confucianism, and Taoism mix with Chinese Buddhism are also practised.
Islam is followed by about 2% of the population and comes in three varieties, two practised by the Cham people and a third by the descendants of Malays, resident in the country for generations. Cambodia's Muslim population is reported to be 80% ethnic Cham.
Demographics
The first official census conducted by the French protectorate of Cambodia was in 1921; however, only men aged 20 to 60 were counted as its purpose was for the collection of taxes. After the 1962 population census was conducted, Cambodia's civil conflicts and instability lead to a 36-year-long gap before the country could have another official census in 1998.
At present, fifty percent of the Cambodian population is younger than 22 years old. At a 1.04 female to male ratio, Cambodia has the most female-biased sex ratio in the Greater Mekong Subregion. Among the Cambodian population aged over 65, the female to male ratio is 1.6:1.
The total fertility rate in Cambodia was 2.5 children per woman in 2018. The fertility rate was 4.0 children in 2000. Women in urban areas have 2.2 children on average, compared with 3.3 children per woman in rural areas. Fertility is highest in Mondol Kiri and Rattanak Kiri Provinces, where women have an average of 4.5 children, and lowest in Phnom Penh where women have an average of 2.0 children.
Cities:
