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If you're familiar with Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Siem Reap, Koh Rong,.. on your visit to Cambodia, this time, explore the temple land with seemingly 'forgotten' destinations for a new and unique experience. Beyond the captivating island beauty, grand towers, and luxury, Cambodia still holds other distinct, simple beauties.
Top 5 Famous Yet Overlooked Tourist Spots in Cambodia
1. Kratie
Kratie, situated in northeastern Cambodia along the serene Mekong River, offers a picturesque escape. Embarking on a Cambodia tour to Kratie feels like stepping into a tranquil rural painting, with narrow streets, cozy old houses lining up, and mopeds gracefully navigating through, while sandy shores and islands dot the river.
Kratie nestles beside the gentle Mekong River. (Photo: Internet)
During the Cambodia tour journey, travelers cruise along the river, admiring the scenic beauty of the town on both sides. Kratie's main attraction is the rarest freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. Alternatively, explore the famous 100-column pagoda in Sambor district. Stroll around classical French architecture, and by night, immerse in Kratie's streets to savor local specialties like freshly baked corn cakes, dried buffalo meat, grilled beef, and more.
Tranquil rural life in Kratie. (Photo: Internet)
Freshwater dolphins in the Mekong River. (Photo: Internet)
2. Bokor Plateau
Bokor Plateau (Mount Ta Lon), stands as one of the beloved Cambodian tourist destinations, located south of the capital, Phnom Penh. This area remains relatively undiscovered by many travelers. Bokor has gained fame through oral tales of ancient ascetics, creating a mystical atmosphere within the Southern community. Referred to as Cambodia's ghost town, Bokor features well-preserved French colonial structures, providing an eerie yet captivating experience. Standing atop the mountain, you can marvel at the lush vegetation of Cambodia and gaze across the Gulf of Thailand.
Bokor Plateau's majestic landscapes. (Photo: Internet)
Abandoned French architectural marvels on the Bokor Plateau. (Photo: Internet)
3. Virachey National Park
Located across the provinces of Ratanakiri and Stung Treng, Virachey National Park is an ideal destination for a Cambodian off-road adventure. Virachey boasts a lush flora and diverse fauna, contributing to the enchanting landscape of northeastern Cambodia. Exploring this site, visitors stroll beneath shady tree canopies, accompanied by the melodious tunes of singing birds blending with the rustling wind. It all harmonizes like a tranquil yet poetically rich natural painting.
The pristine and mystical beauty of Virachey National Park. (Photo: Internet)
Common landscapes include evergreen forests, bamboo groves, high grass fields, and river valleys. This enclosed and diverse ecosystem houses rare species such as pig-tailed macaques, pygmy slow lorises, hornbills, leopards, elephants, creating a wild and majestic space: mountainous forests, cascading waterfalls revealing the hidden charm of this place.
A small corner of Virachey National Park. (Photo: Internet)
4. Koh Tonsay
Koh Tonsay, also known as Rabbit Island, is an island located near the southern coast of Cambodia, approximately 4.6 km from Kep city. While Koh Rong and Koh Salem have gained immense popularity, Koh Tonsay remains relatively untouched, retaining its pristine charm. Untouched by mass tourism, with pleasant weather, crystal-clear beaches, and fine white sand, the marine ecosystem offers unforgettable experiences for visitors.
The serene and unspoiled beauty of Koh Tonsay. (Photo: Internet)
The waters surrounding Koh Tonsay are shallow with a gradual slope, making it an ideal spot for swimming. Additionally, there are enticing sea activities such as fishing, coral reef snorkeling, beach volleyball, and more. Beyond the untouched beauty of the sea, visitors can embark on a jungle trek, explore the island's ecosystem, and delve into the wild nature of Koh Tonsay during a 6-day, 5-night Cambodia-Thailand tour.
Koh Tonsay - the untouched, tranquil paradise of Cambodia. (Photo: Internet)
5. Battambang
Located approximately 5 hours by bus from Siem Reap, Battambang impresses travelers with its serene countryside. Small villages nestled behind bamboo forests, peaceful roadside temples, expansive green rice fields, and a meandering river characterize this picturesque destination. What makes Battambang unique is the bamboo trains, which every traveler glimpsing them wishes to ride at least once. Each bamboo train, carrying 10-15 passengers, glides across stone paths and lush fields for distances of 5 – 7 km.
Ta Dumbong Monument in central Battambang. (Photo: Internet)
Bamboo train - An intriguing experience for visitors in Battambang. (Photo: Internet)
Travelers can embark on an exploration of the rural areas surrounding Battambang by bicycle on their budget-friendly Cambodia travel adventure. Wandering through the streets of Battambang, visitors easily discover affordable local restaurants, tranquil coffee shops catering to their preferences, or Western cuisine-focused eateries.
Explore more: >>> Latest Cambodia Travel Destinations
