Welcome to Cambodia, often called the Kingdom of Wonder, where ancient temples rise from misty jungles, vibrant floating villages thrive on tranquil waters, and golden sunsets paint the skies over rice paddies.
In Cambodia, every corner tells a story: from the grandeur of Angkor Wat to the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, this land is a travel lover and photographer’s dream, brimming with culture, history, and natural beauty.
Embark on a journey in images through some of the Cambodia wonders….
… and beautiful people …
As always, my articles do not intent and can’t be exhaustive, just offering a snapshot of a selection of beautiful places in Land of the Khmer Empire.
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, is where history, culture, and modernity converge along the banks of the mighty Mekong River.
This dynamic city offers a treasure trove of photographic opportunities, from golden pagodas to bustling markets and serene riverfronts.
Royal Palace Phnom Penh
The Grand Palace in Phnom Penh is one of Cambodia’s most iconic landmarks. It serves as a residence for the King of Cambodia and is a symbol of the country’s heritage, monarchy, and culture.
The Royal Palace was constructed in 1866 during the reign of King Norodom after the capital was moved from Oudong to Phnom Penh.
It is a striking example of Khmer architecture, with influences from Thai and French design. The complex is divided into various sections, featuring ornate golden roofs, intricate carvings, and lush gardens.
Moonlight pavilion
The Moonlight Pavilion, also known as Preah Thineang Chan Chhaya, is an open-air pavilion that serves as a ceremonial stage and a venue for royal events, traditional Khmer classical dance performances and important national celebrations.
Positioned along the front of the Royal Palace complex, the Moonlight Pavilion is an emblem of Cambodian monarchy and tradition and serves as a bridge between the royal family and the public.
Royal palace of Cambodia Throne hall
The Throne Hall, known as Preah Thineang Tevea Vinichhay, is one of the most significant and iconic structures within the Royal Palace
It is characterized by its soaring central spire, richly adorned facades, and intricate carvings that reflect Buddhist and Hindu motifs, symbolizing Cambodian culture and spirituality.
The hall is used for coronation ceremonies, royal weddings, and official receptions. It symbolizes the power and continuity of the Cambodian monarchy. Its central spire is topped with the white, four-faced Brahma head, signifying the king’s role as a unifier and protector of the nation.
A guard-changing ceremony is often held in front of the Throne Hall, typically in the morning. This ceremonial event is a formal display of respect and tradition associated with the Cambodian monarchy.
The ceremony takes place in the forecourt of the Throne Hall, with the stunning architecture of the hall serving as a backdrop. An excellent opportunity for photography!
Napoleon III Pavillon
The Napoleon III Pavilion, often referred to as the “Napoleon Castle” stands out due to its distinct European architectural style, which is in stark contrast to the traditional Khmer structures surrounding it.
The pavilion was a gift from Emperor Napoleon III of France during the 19th century. Originally constructed in Egypt for the inauguration of the Suez Canal in 1869, it was later dismantled and reassembled in Phnom Penh.
Silver Pagoda and stupas
The Silver Pagoda, also known as Wat Preah Keo Morakot (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), and the surrounding stupas are iconic features of the Royal Palace complex.
The name “Silver Pagoda” comes from the floor, which is tiled with over 5,000 silver tiles. There are many notable features inside (The baccarat crystal Emerald Buddha, a golden Buddha adorned with diamonds etc.) but pictures are not allowed inside 😢
There are many more wonders to discover in that area, just keep walking around in that large complex…
Royal palace Park
The park is directly across from the Royal Palace and near the banks of the Tonle Sap River and offers a striking perspective of the palace’s rooftops, especially around sunset.
As the palace is usually closed before sunset time, that’s the only opportunity to capture it under glorious sunset light
People in the evening hang out in the garden around the decorative illuminated billboard that displays a portrait of King Norodom Sihamoni
In the mornings and evenings, feeding pigeons is a popular pastime, especially among families and children.
Golden Temple (Mongkol Serey Temple)
The Golden Temple, also known as Mongkol Serey Kien Khleang Pagoda, is a remarkable Buddhist sanctuary in Phnom Penh The temple’s exterior is adorned with a radiant golden hue, symbolizing purity and enlightenment,
Situated along National Highway 6A, the temple is approximately 15 kilometers north of central Phnom Penh
Visitors can admire detailed carvings and murals that depict various aspects of Buddhist teachings and Khmer artistry.
Railway Tracks communities
The railway tracks community are the neighborhoods that have developed along the city’s railway lines, such as those near Boeung Kak, Toul Kork, and other areas connecting to the city’s outskirts.
These areas are home to many families, often living in makeshift homes adjacent to or on the railway tracks.
Many residents are low-income families or migrant workers who have settled in the area due to “informal” housing opportunities.
These areas are bustling with activity, with children playing, vendors selling goods, and locals navigating their lives around the train schedules.
Residents are highly attuned to the train schedules, with daily life and activities organized around train movements. The proximity to the tracks poses however safety challenges, especially for children.
These poor communities face many issues like, lack of access to proper sanitation or vulnerability to evictions due to urban development projects.
Like everywhere else, Monks go on daily alms rounds (Tak Bat in Khmer), carrying their alms bowls to collect food offerings from those poor people that earn merit (good karma) through their generosity.
Many railway track communities have been displaced already or face ongoing threats of relocation, often without “less worse”options than the one they have today.
These are people’s homes and lives, so approach with respect and avoid treating the area as a tourist attraction. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their homes.
Wat Phnom
Wat Phnom Daun Penh, commonly known as Wat Phnom name originates from its founder, Lady Penh a wealthy widow who is said to have established the temple in 1372.
Lady Penh discovered four bronze Buddha statues inside a koki tree floating on the Tonlé Sap River. She built a small hill (phnom) and enshrined the statues in a shrine on top, which eventually became Wat Phnom.
The temple is situated on a 27-meter-high hill, with its “famous” clock at its base
The temple serves as a center for Buddhist worship and ceremonies, particularly during Cambodian New Year and Pchum Ben (Ancestor’s Day).
The tradition of releasing birds at Wat Phnom remains a common practice. Releasing birds is believed to symbolize the act of giving freedom for compassion, liberation, and accumulating merit (good karma).
Critics argue however that the practice can harm birds as many are caught in the wild or raised in poor conditions, and their repeated capture and release can stress the animals or reduce their survival chances 😢
Phnom Penh Mekong River perspective
A Mekong River cruise in Phnom Penh is a memorable and scenic experiences, offering great views of the city.
It is clearly recommended for photography around sunset to enjoy the contrast between the bustling cityscape and the tranquil river.
Clearly, the views over Royal Palace are much less nice than 15 years ago, as so many buildings have been growing around but the boat tour is still worth for other views of the city.
In conclusion, that popular and relaxing activity offers stunning views of the city’s skyline for travel lovers and photographers
Phnom Penh central Market
The Phnom Penh Central Market is known locally as Phsar Thmei, meaning “New Market” It is located at the intersection of Street 53 and Street 128, in the heart of old Phnom Penh.
The market was designed in 1937 by French architects and features a unique Art Deco dome with four sprawling wings extending outwards.
It is renowned for its bustling atmosphere and clearly a great spot for photography
One wing is dedicated to fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers
Another section sells fresh and dried seafood, meats, and spices.
Street food stalls offeras well local delights like noodle soups, spring rolls, and Cambodian desserts.
Silk Island (Koh Dach)
Silk Island (Koh Dach) is located along the Mekong River, just a short distance from Phnom Penh. The island is famous for its traditional silk weaving industry. Local artisans raise silkworms and produce fine silk fabrics using age-old techniques.
You can visit local workshops where you can watch the weaving process and purchase high-quality, handmade silk products, or simply interact and photograph locals.
On Silk Island, one of the traditional industries besides silk weaving is the production of dry noodles, a popular and vital food item in Cambodian cuisine.
The main ingredients for Cambodian dry noodles are rice flour or wheat flour, mixed with water to form a dough. The dough is kneaded by hand to achieve the right consistency, ensuring it’s smooth and pliable.
The noodles are carefully laid out to dry. This step is essential to give the noodles their characteristic texture and shelf life.
East and northern wonders
From the towering ruins of Koh Ker to the awe-inspiring Phreah Vihear Temple and the serene sanctuaries of Prasat Sanbor Prei Kouk, Cambodia’s east and north offer a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.
That area remains a fantastic opportunity for travelers and photographers to still find some off-the-beaten-path experiences (or at least not fully beaten path yet 😢😂)
Santuk Mountain
Phnom Santuk (about 25 kilometers west of Kampong Thom) is home to several Buddhist temples, stupas, and shrines that are spread across the slopes of the mountain.
One of the most notable features of the mountain is the large stupa at the top, which is often the focal point for religious activities.
Many visitors climb the steps leading up the mountain as part of a spiritual journey or to make merit, reflecting the mountain’s importance in the Buddhist faith.
The area is also home to a monastic community of monks who reside at the site and engage in daily prayers, rituals, meditation…
..and having fun sometimes …
Lots of monkeys around 😊 …
The summit of Phnom Santuk offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains, rice fields, and nearby mountains, making it a great place around sunset, 😊
It is a serene place for photography, offering a chance to capture the spiritual atmosphere of the mountain.
Stone carving at the foot of Santuk Mountain
At the foot of Phnom Santuk Mountain, have a look at the stone carving factory where skilled artisans craft Buddhist statues and religious carvings using local stone stone extracted around Phnom Santuk and Kampong Thom.
The Holi stone (sometimes referred to as holi granite or holi marble) is highly valued for carving because of its smooth texture and ability to hold intricate details.
Skilled sculptors use hand tools and sometimes modern equipment to transform rough stone blocks into finely detailed religious artworks.
Buddhist statues are the most common carvings produced, and these are often used for temples, shrines, and monasteries throughout Cambodia.
While the statues carved here are seen as symbols of Buddhist devotion and are highly revered by the local community, this is clearly a very tough job or the artists workers.
Prasat Sambor Prei Kuk
Prasat Sambor Prei Kuk is an UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site located in the Kampong Thom Province, about 30 kilometers north of Kampong Thom town
It is one of the most important and ancient temple complexes “pre Angkor” in the country, with a history that dates back to the 7th century.
Prasat Sambor Prei Kuk was the capital of the Chenla Kingdom and Civilization, which existed before the rise of the Angkor Empire. Many of the temples are entwined with trees and roots, as a testimony of nature power
The temple complex was built during the reign of King Isanavarman I (reigned 616–637 AD), making it one of the earliest examples of Khmer architecture. It was originally a Hindu temple complex, though later it became a Buddhist site.
The site consists of over 100 temples scattered throughout the forested area. Many of these temples are still in good condition and provide valuable insights into early Khmer religious architecture. You can see many within 2 hours walk around
Restoration and maintenance work is still ongoing at Prasat Sambor Prei Kuk, though the efforts have largely shifted toward preservation rather than active restoration.
Preah Vihear temple
Preah Vihear Temple that atop a 525-meter-high cliff on the border with Thailand in the Dangrek Mountain Range. That significant masterpiece of Khmer architecture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The temple was built between the 9th and 12th centuries, primarily during the reigns of King Yasovarman I, King Suryavarman I, and King Suryavarman II, who also constructed Angkor Wat.
It is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, symbolizing Mount Meru, the sacred center of the universe in Hindu cosmology. Starting in the 13th century, as Theravāda Buddhism became the dominant religion in Cambodia, Preah Vihear Temple began to be adapted for Buddhist worship.
Preah Vihear Temple is unique in its linear layout, designed as a series of sanctuaries leading up to the main shrine at the cliff’s edge. The temple’s design symbolizes a spiritual journey ascending toward heaven.
The main Sanctuary is located at the southernmost point of the temple. It is the holiest section
Preah Vihear served as an important pilgrimage site, playing a central role in the spiritual life of the Khmer Empire. Hindu sculptures and carvings were retained after the “ religion shift” toward but were often complemented by Buddhist additions.
From the temple’s summit, visitors can enjoy stunning views of Cambodia’s lowlands and the forests of Thailand, and beautiful sunsets…
Due to its strategic location on the border, the temple has been the subject of disputes between Cambodia and Thailand. The International Court of Justice ruled that the temple belongs to Cambodia but conflicts occasionally flare up over the surrounding land. Not always as peaceful as it looks 😂
Koh Ker temples
Koh Ker Temples are a fascinating and less-visited archaeological complex about 80 km southeast of Preah Vihear Temple. This site served as the capital of the Khmer Empire for a brief period in the 10th century under King Jayavarman IV.
After the capital moved back to Angkor, Koh Ker was largely abandoned and reclaimed by the jungle.
The site features over 180 temples, though only about 20 are easily accessible. The Koh Ker temples are not only remarkable for their architecture but also for the way nature has reclaimed parts of the complex.
Many of the temples are entwined with trees and roots, creating a mystical and photogenic atmosphere reminiscent of Ta Prohm at Angkor..
Siem Reap and Angkor Archaeological Park
The Siem Reap area is of course famous as the gateway to the Angkor Archeological Park . Beyond Angkor (that I’ll obviously cover below), the area offers diverse cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
Kampong Phluk
Kampong Phluk is a fascinating floating village located about 30 kilometers southeast of Siem Reap. It is located on the shores of Tonle Sap Lake, which is a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve.
The village offers visitors a unique glimpse into the daily life of communities that live on and rely on Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake.
The wooden houses are built on high stilts, ranging from 6 to 10 meters tall,. During the rainy season (June to October), the water level rises, creating the appearance of a floating village, while in the dry season, the stilts are revealing their impressive height.
The village is deeply rooted in fishing culture. You’ll see villagers catching fish, drying them, and preparing prahok (fermented fish paste) — a staple of Cambodian cuisine.
The village is as well a great place for people photography
Spending an hour in the main street (during dry season) is a very rewarding experience
Sunset on Tonle Sap Lake from Kampong Phluk is a very popular experience as well.
For photographers or travel lovers, getting your boat to align the sun with other tourists boats while enjoying a cold beer is a fine way to end up the day 😂.
Angkor Archaeological Park
The Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap is one of the world’s most important cultural sites. it is not just a UNESCO World Heritage site; it’s a living testament to the grandeur of the Khmer Empire
Spanning over 400 square kilometers, the park contains the magnificent remains of the Khmer Empire’s capital cities from the 9th to the 15th century.
This is where ancient temples, hidden in the Cambodian jungle rise majestically against the sunrise and sunset, offering a glimpse into a bygone empire that continues to awe the world.
Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is the world’s largest religious monument. It was originally built as a Hindu temple in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II. In the 14th century, the temple was gradually converted into a Buddhist site as Cambodia’s predominant religion shifted.
Angkor Wat appears on Cambodia’s national flag, emphasizing its cultural and historical importance. It is the crown jewel of the Angkor Archaeological Park, attracting millions of visitors annually.
The sunrise at Angkor Wat is a spectacular sight, with the sun rising behind the iconic temple complex and reflections in the pools located directly in front of the temple.
Having been there 11 years ago and end 2024 again, I must say that today, the rush (run) for ponds front tripod spots at opening, combined with hugly barriers and other visual nuisances, tourists groups lights etc makes the moment far less magical and serene than what my images show 😢 . But still …
Angkor Wat was “rediscovered” by the West in the 19th century by French explorer Henri Mouhot, though it was never truly abandoned and remained a site of worship.
The precision of its layout, the advanced engineering techniques, and the artistic detail make Angkor Wat one of humanity’s greatest architectural achievements.
Unlike most temples, Angkor Wat faces west, which is associated with Vishnu and the setting sun.
Ta Loek Gopura
Still on the Angkor Wat “island” , Ta Loek Gopura located on the north side of the temple complex is a gateway (gopura) that was part of the ancient infrastructure,
While Angkor Wat itself is the main draw for tourists, minor structures like the Ta Loek Gopura are important for understanding the scale and grandeur of the overall site.
Somewhat secluded location allows for a quieter, more reflective experience, providing an interesting alternative to the more crowded parts of Angkor Wat.
Ta Prohm
Famously known as the “Tomb Raider Temple” after its appearance in the 2001 movie starring Angelina Jolie, Ta Prohm has been left partially overgrown by jungle, with tree roots enveloping the stone ruins.
It is one of the most iconic temples within the Angkor Archaeological Park, renowned for its enchanting blend of ancient Khmer architecture and nature.
Built in the late 12th to early 13th century by King Jayavarman VII, it was originally dedicated to his mother and functioned as a Buddhist monastery and university.
Ta Prohm has an unique appeal and mystical, “lost-in-time” atmosphere as its famously intertwined with Spung trees and strangler figs, whose roots cascade over walls, doorways, and rooftops.
Ta Prohm features intricate carvings of apsaras (celestial dancers), Buddhist motifs, and even some debated “prehistoric” figures, like the supposed stegosaurus carving.
The main shrine is surrounded by smaller galleries and courtyards, creating a labyrinth-like layout.
Clearly a great section of the archaeological park to spend time in (It needs time if you want to be patient to avoid tourists in your images 😢)
Bayon Temple
Bayon Temple is one of the most remarkable and distinctive temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
It is located at the heart of Angkor Thom (city), the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire.
Bayon is known for its massive stone faces, Bayon is famous for its 200+ smiling, serene faces of Avalokiteshvara or the king himself, which adorn the towers of the temple.
The temple was built in the late 12th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII. It is both a state temple and a symbolic center of his empire, reflecting both religious and political significance.
The temple is a prime example of the blend of Buddhist and Hindu iconography, with numerous relief carvings depicting scenes from the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and historical events.
The central sanctuary, surrounded by galleries and a series of towers, is (like in other places described above) a symbol of Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
Though it’s a must-see due to its incredible craftsmanship, Bayon Temple tends to be slightly less crowded than Angkor Wat, allowing for a more intimate exploration of its stunning stone faces and bas-reliefs.
This is a picture from a weekend trip there in 2013 with a dancer in front of Bayon Temple Buddha’s faces. It does seems this is still happening those days 😢
Dei Chhnang Gate (Angkor Thom North Gate)
Just north of Bayon temple, the Dei Chhnang Gate, the North Gate entrance of Angkor Thom, the ancient capital city of the Khmer Empire during the late 12th and early 13th centuries.
Tis is one of the five gates that surround the city. It is particularly renowned for its impressive stone faces, which are carved into the central tower.
These faces are similar in style to those found at the Bayon Temple, suggesting a connection to the same period of King Jayavarman VII’s reign, who commissioned many of the structures in Angkor Thom.
The gate is also known for being a fantastic spot for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light adds depth and contrast to the stone faces and the surrounding landscape.
Tonle Om Gate (Southern Gate)
Staying on gates theme, the Tonle Om Gate (also known as the Southern Gate of Angkor Thom) is adorned with the same stone faces of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara as the above north gate. That gate is the most visually striking and historically significant of the five gates in my view.
One of the defining features of the Tonle Om Gate is the dramatic row of stone statues that line the causeway leading up to the entrance.
The Southern Gate is flanked by statues representing devas (gods) on one side and asuras (demons) on the other.
The figures are shown pulling a serpent, illustrating the mythological struggle between good and evil. This vivid depiction of the battle between the gods and demons is a hallmark of Khmer art and iconography.
The gate, named after Tonle Om, a nearby body of water, is one of the most frequently photographed entrances due to its dramatic and imposing structure reflecting in the pod.
The gate is really striking at sunset, with the warm golden light casting shadows on the stone faces and creating a magical atmosphere.
Banteay Srei Temple
Banteay Srei Temple, often referred to as the “Citadel of Women,” is one of the most intricately detailed and beautifully preserved temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Located about 25 kilometers (15 miles) northeast of Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei stands out for its exceptional craftsmanship and finely detailed carvings, which make it a favorite among visitors and photographers.
Banteay Srei was constructed in the late 10th century during the reign of King Rajendravarman II. The temple is built from red sandstone, which allows for incredibly fine and delicate carvings, especially when compared to the larger sandstone temples in the Angkor complex.
PS: I did not had the time to get there during december 2024 trip so those are some of my pictures from a short 2013 trip (just in case it does not look as nice today 😢😊)
Chaw Srei Vibol Temple
As an example of the endless lesser-known Angkor-era sites in and outside the main Angkor Archaeological Park, here is Srei Vibol (17 km east of Siem Reap).
The temple features a small, ruined central sanctuary atop a hill. I was Built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII (late 12th to early 13th century). Today the beautiful trees and people are the highlight 😊
While not as grand as temples like Bayon or Ta Prohm, it offers a tranquil and remote atmosphere (and monks are more interesting than tourists on pictures 😂)
Like Ta Prohm, the temple has a somewhat overgrown appearance, with vegetation creeping over the ruins, adding to its charm.
Like everywhere in Cambodia, the monks and people offers endless opportunities for photography 🤩
Srah Srang
Srah Srang is a serene huge man-made reservoir (or baray) that dates back to the Khmer Empire.
Known as the “Royal Bath,” it was originally constructed in the mid-10th century and later renovated in the 12th century by King Jayavarman VII. Srah Srang is especially famous for its sunrise views
Pre Rup Temple
Near Srah Srang reservoir, Pre Rup Temple is a 10th-century Hindu temple-mountain dedicated to Shiva. Built by King Rajendravarman II in 961 AD, it served as the Khmer Empire’s state temple during his reign.
The temple is designed to represent Mount Meru, the sacred center of the universe in Hindu cosmology. It is built on a stepped, pyramid-like base with three tiers, each smaller than the one below.
Keep exploring the huge area …
The areas in and around the Angkor Archaeological Park are renowned for their stunning landscapes, featuring a mix of sugar palm trees and lush rice fields, creating quintessential Cambodian scenery.
These features are especially prominent in the rural outskirts of the temples, offering picturesque views that are ideal for photography or simply soaking in the beauty of the region.
Water buffaloes are commonly seen in the countryside around the Angkor Archaeological Park and its surrounding areas. They are an integral part of rural Cambodian life.
You’ll see around as well beautiful active pagoda or shrines used by locals for worship.
recto verso images 😂
Western part of Cambodia
From the peaceful retreats of Oudong Sontte Wat to the floating villages of Kampong Chhnang and the cultural richness of Battambang, western Cambodia invites travel lovers and photographers to immerse in vibrant landscapes, ancient temples, and the timeless flow of the Sangker River.
Udong Sontte Wan Buddhist Complex
The Sontte Wan Buddhist Complex is situated in Udong, approximately 40 kilometers from Phnom Penh.
Udong itself is a mountain area that served as the capital of Cambodia from the 17th century until the mid-19th century.
This complex is one of the prominent Buddhist sites in the region. Like many other Buddhist sites in Cambodia, it serves as a place for meditation, spiritual growth, and study of Buddhist teachings.
The Sontte Wan complex is likely home to a community of Buddhist monks and nuns who live and practice at the site
The site offers a space for meditation practitioners to immerse themselves in the daily life of the monastic community and learn from monks about Buddhist philosophy and practice.
Getting a glimpse about the daily life of that monks and nuns’ community is a great opportunity…
.. and of course, that place offers endless photography options…
…especially when witnessing monks lunch ..
The monastery is at the foot of Phnom Preah Reach Troap Mountain that translates as “Mountain of the Sacred Royal Banner”. It is a significant Buddhist hilltop site closely associated with the Sontte Wan Buddhist Complex
On top of the mountain, there are Buddhist temples, shrines, and stupas that attract pilgrims and visitors.
Kampong Chhnang
90 km north of Phnom Penh, Kampong Chhnang is a charming provincial city in central Cambodia. While this is clearly not one of the main touristic zones in Cambodia, that place is worth a visit on the way towards North or on the way back to Phnom Penh
Floating villages
The floating villages in Kampong Chhnang are among its most iconic and fascinating attractions, offering a glimpse into the unique way of life along the Tonle Sap River.
Those villages are home to communities living entirely on the water. The families use small boats to navigate the waterways, often tripling as homes, transportation and fishing vessels.
Residents depend on fishing and aquaculture for their livelihood, cultivating fish farms under their homes.
Another place again that is providing fantastic photography opportunities.
Not to leave it unsaid, the river starts to contain much more plastic than fishes, as the image below illustrates
Those are obviously poor communities, facing significant challenges, one of them being the need to drink the increasingly and hugely polluted Tonle Sap River waters
Countryside
Kampong Chhnang is well-known for its traditional sugar palm farming, which plays a vital role in the local economy and culture.
The sugar palm tree is an iconic feature of Cambodia’s rural landscapes, particularly in this province, where the industry thrives. Farmers climb the tall sugar palm trees using bamboo ladders or handmade ropes.
They tap the sap from the flowers by making small cuts and hanging bamboo or plastic containers to collect the dripping liquid.
Like everywhere in Cambodia, where there a fields and water, you’ll find fishemens 238
And of course, there are always opportunities for people photography 😊…
Battambang
Battambang is a charming city located 170 kilometers (105 miles) by road southwest of Siem Reap. It is the second-largest city in Cambodia, but it offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh.
Cruising to Battambang
Traveling from Siem Reap to Battambang by boat is a scenic and unique way to see a different side of Cambodia that you wouldn’t experience by road.
This journey takes you along the Tonle Sap Lake and the Sangker River, passing through rural villages, floating houses, and lush landscapes.
The boat route is longer, as it follows the Tonle Sap Lake and Sangker River (at least 7 hours versus 3 or 4 by car ) but is worth the extra time if you like travel and people photography
The floating villages are fascinating communities that adapt to the changing water levels between the dry and wet seasons. During shoulder season, large houses are migrating from the lake to the river or vice versa like the images below. Pretty amazing
As you’ll start to get bored by the long boat trip (😢), you can do a few stops on the way like at Wat Chheu Kmao temple on the banks of the Sangker river…
Yes, more monks’ pictures 😂…
You can see as well large fishing nets along the Sangker River like the Trawl Nets dragged through the water by boats, often in a circular motion, to capture fish in the area.
Overall, the boat journey from Siem Reap to Battambang is a fantastic way to explore rural Cambodia and experience the Tonle Sap Lake and its surroundings from a different perspective. It’s an adventure that many travelers enjoy for both its beauty and authenticity.
Tak Bat in Battambang
Across Cambodia, the tradition of monks receiving alms is an important part of daily life. The practice of almsgiving (Tak bat) is a ritual where residents offer food to Buddhist monks as they go on their morning rounds.
Monks walk through the streets in single file, carrying their alms bowls.
The procession is typically silent, with the monks in their traditional saffron robes, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
Tak bat is important for both the monks and the laypeople. For monks, receiving alms is a way to sustain themselves while they focus on their spiritual practices and teachings. For the community, giving alms is a way to earn merit, contributing to their own spiritual growth and development.
Visitors and photographers should approach the almsgiving ritual with respect and mindfulness.
You can as well capture monks as they are coming in and out for Tak bat 😊
Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS)
Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS) is an NGO and arts school in Battambang that aims changing lives through the arts
It is renowned for its transformative work in the fields of circus & visual arts, music, theater and animation, offering young people the opportunity to develop their artistic talents while also providing education and life skills training.
Phare Ponleu Selpak was founded in 1994 by a group of Cambodian artists (and a french artist Véronique Decrop) who had lived in refugee camps along the Thai-Cambodian border after the Khmer Rouge regime.
Their mission was to help young Cambodians heal from the trauma of war and rebuild their lives through creative expression.
The name “Ponleu Selpak” translates to “Bright Future”, reflecting the organization’s goal to help the youth of Cambodia shape a better future through artistic education and empowerment.
The performances are highly dynamic and dramatic, often blending traditional Cambodian culture with modern circus techniques.
The circus is an emotional and visual spectacle that addresses themes of Cambodian culture, history, and social issues.
The circus performances have gained international recognition and are known for their energy, creativity, and powerful storytelling.
Phare Ponleu Selpak has made a significant social impact by providing young Cambodians with a creative outlet, an opportunity to escape poverty.
The Phare Ponleu Selpak performances are held regularly at the organization’s venue in Battambang. These shows are an entertainment and educational experience.
Phare Ponleu Selpak in Battambang is an incredible place that combines art, culture, and social development. Don’t miss it if you’re there. !
Wat Slaket
If you’re not yet tired about the endless number of temples in that article (🤨), Wat Slaket on the banks of the Sangker River in Battambang (between Street 527 and Street 156) is for you 😂
Visitors can have the opportunity to interact with local monks and witness the monks’ lunch tradition
In Buddhist monasteries, this is a vital part of daily monastic life, especially in Theravada Buddhism, which is practiced in countries like Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Laos.
Beyond this, the beautiful temple under glorious blue with monks passing by is a great playground for travel photography lovers …
.. And the young monks are always very happy to be on a picture 😊
Bamboo train
The Bamboo Train in Battambang, Cambodia, locally known as “Norry”, is a unique and quirky mode of transportation that has become a popular attraction for tourists.
Originally used by locals to transport goods and people across rural areas, the Bamboo Train operates on an abandoned section of the railway and offers a fun experience.
The train is essentially a small bamboo platform mounted on two axles with wheels, powered by a simple engine. It runs along the tracks at speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph)
When two trains meet on a single track, one must be disassembled (the one with less passengers on it) to let the other pass—a fun demonstration of teamwork and ingenuity.
So here is my takeaway in images from amazing Cambodia, Kingdom of Wonder. I hope this may inspire you to go or return there !
