MAIN Travel South & Southeast Asia Cambodia

Following the devastation by the Khmer Rouge (led by the notorious 1970's communist dictator Pol Pot), Cambodia has recovered its sure footing as a constitutional monarchy.

Today, it continues to grow in popularity as a prime Southeast Asia travel destination for savvy travelers.

The country's main highlights begin in the capital Phnom Pehn, where the Royal Palace is a definite must-see, followed by relaxing walks along the developed river front where other interesting tourist sites, shops and restaurants abound.

Traveling northwest, Siem Reap is another prominent tourist stop offering fine hotels and restaurants, as well as a good jumping-off point for other area attractions.

Nearby, no visit to Cambodia would be complete without a visit to Angkor Wat, truly a man-made wonder and one of the world's largest religious monuments, featuring elaborate 12th century stone carvings that remain hauntingly vivid.

The eerie ruins of Ta Prohm, with its dimly-lit chambers and a giant silver cotton tree growing in its midsts - will also instantly recognizable by film fans as a backdrop for the Hollywood hit film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.

Elsewhere around the country, don't miss opportunities to take in more centuries-old temples, ancient Buddha figures, and stupas (memorial shrines) — such as Choeung Ek that showcases where the Khmer Rouge regime executed about 17,000 people between 1975 and 1979 — with 5,000 human skulls on display at the infamous Killing Fields just outside Phnom Pehn.

More about Cambodia tourim around the Web:

Around the Web, check out the full spectrum of Cambodian travel experiences at top sites featuring practical information on getting there and getting around, recommendations on hotels, restaurants and other major attractions, plus deep background into Cambodian religion, culture and history, and striking photos of the land and its people ...

also see -> Top Beaches in Cambodia, Malaysia and Vietnam

Exploring the Temples of Angkor

Tourism of Cambodia - The official site with an extensive guide to the country's top attractions, photos, history & culture, complete maps of Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and SihanoukVille, online hotel bookings, entertainment highlights, restaurant contact information.

Tourism Cambodia - The official government site featuring top tourist attractions with practical travel tips, history, traditions, native dishes and cultural background, photo gallery, trip planner, basic Khmer phrases with pronunciation guide, FAQ, related links.

Cambodia Tourist Attractions - Photos and information on top attractions including the Angor Wat, temples at Angkor Thom and Bayon, and a special look at Ta Prohm.

Phnom Penh Municipality - Virtual city hall offering local political news & updates, government org chart & contact details plus scroll down to more on history, tourist highlights, event calendar.

Tales of Asia - Siem Reap Guide - Extensive guide to the area including tips on getting there and getting around, maps, transportation costs, recommended restaurants & hotels, Angkor FAQ and nearby attractions.

the temple complex of Angkor Wat - Personal travelogue with photos, description, historic illustrations and architectural plans, an extensive link list to more information plus recommended Siem Reap hotels & restaurants.

also see in Wines of the World -> Wines of Southeast Asia