Exploring the Charm of Phnom Penh – Siem Reap on a Budget

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Cambodia Travel: Discovering Phnom Penh – Siem Reap on a 3-Million-Dong Budget

With affordable expenses, Cambodia stands out as a destination captivating numerous Vietnamese tourists with its magnificent landmarks and unique culture.

Cambodia Travel: Discovering Phnom Penh – Siem Reap on a 3-Million-Dong Budget

Before your trip, contact or visit the bus companies on Pham Ngu Lao Street (District 1, Ho Chi Minh City) to book round-trip tickets from HCMC to Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh to Siem Reap.

Ticket prices range from 170,000 to 200,000 dong, including immigration fees (you provide your passport, and the bus company staff will handle the exit procedures at the Vietnam border and entry procedures at the Cambodian border).

Returning from Cambodia, if you travel on weekdays, the border checkpoint won't be crowded. However, on Sundays, you may have to wait for about an hour to complete immigration procedures due to the influx of tour groups returning on the same day.

Ho Chi Minh City – Phnom Penh – Ho Chi Minh City: 450,000 dong.

Phnom Penh – Siem Reap: 500,000 dong.

Accommodation: 250,000 x2 = 500,000 dong.

Meals: 12 meals x $45 = $540.

Tuk-tuk, bicycle rentals: $200.

Entrance tickets: $130 + $450 = $580.

Unexpected expenses including water, fruits, pastries, and massages amounting to 400,000 dong.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City – Phnom Penh

6:30 AM: Departure from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh.

12:00 PM: Arrival at the border gate, completing procedures.

1:00 PM: Arrive in Phnom Penh, have lunch. Must-try dishes at the New Market include grilled skewers, and noodle pohook…

2:00 PM: Explore Phnom Penh's landmarks with a charming tuk-tuk ride. Discover the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. Tuk-tuk rental fee to this destination is $2. Admission fee is 130,000 dong. The Royal Palace serves as the residence of the monarch and the venue for diplomatic ceremonies. The Silver Pagoda, located within the palace grounds, houses the Emerald Buddha statue and exhibits hundreds of Buddha statues, large and small.

5:00 PM: Visit Phnom Temple, dedicated to Lady Penh. From the palace to Phnom Temple, you have two transportation options. If you prefer a scenic walk, head out to Sisowath Boulevard, turning left and walking straight for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can call a tuk-tuk for a direct ride to the temple for $1. The temple is open from 7 AM to 6 PM, with an admission fee of $1 (22,000 dong). This temple is steeped in the legend of Phnom Penh's birth and development.

6:30 PM: Wander through Phnom Penh's night market and enjoy dinner. From Wat Phnom Temple, take a 5-minute walk to Phnom Penh's night market. The market offers a variety of goods, and if you're looking to buy souvenirs, consider bargaining for half the asking price. Venture deeper into the market to savor affordable specialties. For example, grilled shrimp skewers or squid starting at $1, served with spicy shredded papaya salad.

11:00 PM: Departure for Phnom Penh – Siem Reap journey. Ticket price is approximately 230,000 dong.

Day 2: Explore Siem Reap

7:30 AM: Arrive at the bus station in Siem Reap and check into your hotel room.

It's advisable to book your hotel room in advance through various online platforms... For convenience in exploring, consider staying at hotels or guesthouses along the small roads near the main road named National Road No. 6. A room here costs around 250,000 dong per night. Typically, check-in time in Siem Reap starts from 2 PM, but hotel staff will arrange for you to freshen up, have breakfast, and rest.

10:00 AM: Rent a bike to explore Siem Reap. Bike rental prices are approximately 2 USD per day per bike.

10:10 AM: Explore the Western Quarter of Siem Reap.

12:00 PM: Have lunch.

1:00 PM: Wander around and explore the various markets, supermarkets, shopping centers...

You'll arrive in Phnom Penh around 1 PM. The bus from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City departs daily between 3 PM and 3:30 PM.

At 8 PM: Conclude your 4-day adventure from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap with a budget of 3 million VND in Ho Chi Minh City.

Referenced from Zing News

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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour

MytourJune 6th, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the estimated budget for a trip to Cambodia from Ho Chi Minh City?

The estimated budget for a trip to Cambodia from Ho Chi Minh City is around 3 million VND. This covers transportation, accommodation, meals, entrance fees, and unexpected expenses, ensuring a fulfilling travel experience.

How can I book a bus ticket from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh?

You can book a bus ticket from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh by visiting bus companies located on Pham Ngu Lao Street. Ticket prices range from 170,000 to 200,000 VND, including immigration fees.

What are the must-try dishes when visiting Phnom Penh's New Market?

When visiting Phnom Penh's New Market, be sure to try grilled skewers and noodle pohook. These local specialties provide a delicious insight into Cambodian cuisine that visitors should not miss.

What are the popular landmarks to visit in Phnom Penh?

In Phnom Penh, popular landmarks include the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. These sites are rich in history and culture, offering visitors a glimpse into Cambodia's royal heritage.

How much should I budget for meals during my trip to Siem Reap?

During your trip to Siem Reap, budgeting around 540,000 VND for meals is recommended. This amount allows for a variety of local dishes, ensuring an authentic culinary experience.

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