Cambodia is a country that does not lack its share of magnificent temples of Angkor Wat and which attracts millions of tourists annually. Although the magnificence of these ancient ruins cannot be denied, the nation is keeping a lot of secrets that are not on the tourist radar. Whether it is the remote villages and peaceful islands, jungle-surrounded temples and unexplored caves, Cambodia has a lot to offer to the traveller who is interested in finding out the real thing.
A visit to these obscure spots makes a journey more interesting and valuable. But prior to getting into these offbeat journeys, it is important to know the Cambodia tourist visa procedure. Applying online or through an embassy, the clarity of the requirements of the visa to make a Cambodia trip will make your trip begin well. So, it is the high time to reveal what are the special locations and make Cambodia unforgettable.
Here are some of the hidden gems to see in Cambodia.
1. Koh Rong Samloem An Island Retreat
Koh Rong Samloem is a quiet paradise off the coast of Sihanoukville that is frequently shadowed by its bigger sister island, Koh Rong. This island with its white sand beaches, the turquoise waters, and the relaxed atmosphere is ideal to the travelers who want to get away with the crowds. It is a magical location through snorkeling, diving, and the sight of bioluminescent planktons.
2. Bamboo Train of Battambang – An Adventure in the countryside
Battambang is the second-largest city of Cambodia, yet it has a rustic countryside atmosphere. The bamboo train is one of the most distinctive attractions of this country, which is a homemade rail transport that rushes across the countryside. It is a playful and odd method to see the countryside of Cambodia and meet locals.
3. Banteay Chhmar the Forgotten Temple Complex
Banteay Chhmar is a huge and relatively unexplored temple complex located far away in Siem Reap and is similar to Angkor in size and detail. This location is well-concealed in the far northwest on the Thai border with a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere in the jungle ruins and complex stone carvings.
4. Kratie- The Irrawaddy Dolphins Land
Kratie is located on the banks of the Mekong River and is known because of the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. A boat ride here is an opportunity to view these exotic animals as well as experience the serene life by the river banks. The adjacent Koh Trong is a good place to cycle around fruit orchards and villages.
5. Phnom Kulen- Sacred Mountain and Waterfalls
Phnom Kulen is a holy mountain that is located close to Siem Reap and is sacred to the Cambodians. It houses reclining Buddha figures, the River of a Thousand Lingas and beautiful falls which are suitable swimming areas. Fewer people frequent this site thus making it a peaceful spiritual encounter with nature.
6. Mondulkiri – Elephant Sanctuary and Tribal life
Mondulkiri is a small province in the eastern highlands of Cambodia with cool weather, hills, and ethical elephant sanctuaries. It is a paradise of nature lovers and people who are interested in tribal cultures. Time spent with the Bunong people and walks through jungle paths provide a completely different picture of Cambodia.
7. Kep and Kampot -Beach and Pepper Plantations
These two coastal towns are ideal places to slow travel. Kep is known as a crab market and peaceful beaches whereas Kampot exudes French colonialism and riverfront cafes as well as excursions to the local pepper plantations. The trip on the Kampot River by sunset is a must-have relaxing experience.
Conclusion
The famous temples of Cambodia are worth all the hype, but what is really magical is to dive into the obscure places of the country. The beauty of less popular islands, countryside, holy mountains and undisturbed temples provide tourists with a chance to get in touch with the land and people. These destinations uncover the cultural, natural and emotional hospitality that makes Cambodia a unique gem in the Southeast Asia region.
When you pack your bags, do not miss the most important thing, that is, learning the process of acquiring the Cambodia tourist visa. The majority of nationalities can apply online (eVisa) or on arrival easily. Nevertheless, one should ensure that he/she has checked the visa formalities of a trip to Cambodia such as passport validity, latest photographs, and place of entry eligibility. An easy visa procedure leaves you to jump into the adventure.
Discovering these off-the-beaten-paths means not only avoiding tourists but also contributing to sustainable tourism in the less developed areas. The Cambodia backwaters are the places where you can take your time, dig deeper and come back with tales of few.
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