Many Singaporeans have yet to visit Cambodia, a unique Southeast Asian neighbour. This is the first part of a countdown to the top ten must-see sights
Cambodia is a country rich in history and culture. While not forgetting its chequered past, Cambodian people are looking forward with positivity. This can be seen in the liveliness of the people, their resilience, as well as the many buzzing attractions.
There are many thought-provoking or heart-achingly beautiful sights in Cambodia. We countdown ten interesting sights.
10. Central Market
While the Central Market in Phnom Penh may not be much different or unique from other large markets elsewhere, there is one main feature that stands out. Much of the Central Market is housed within a pre-war Art Déco building.
9. Angkor Night Market
One of the most colourful characteristics of Southeast Asia is its night markets. The Angkor Night Market has many things for you to buy and even unusual things to eat. Here, you can get handicrafts, silks and much more.
8. Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville is Cambodia’s beach town paradise. The white sand beaches facing the waters of the Gulf of Thailand, along with many lovely beach bungalows, make this a true tropical getaway. There are ample opportunities to savour fresh seafood, especially crab, prawn, crayfish and ocean-caught fish.
7. Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
One of the main historical sites in Cambodia, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda cannot be missed. One amazing fact is that the buildings of the Royal Treasury and the Villa of Napoleon III here, built in Egypt in 1866 for the opening of the Suez Canal, were transported and presented to the Cambodian king as a gift. Initially constructed out of wood in 1866, the Silver Pagoda was expanded by King Sihanouk who had the floor inlaid with solid silver tiles, hence its name.
6. Tonle Sap Lake
Tonle Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. It has been designated as a “biosphere” by UNESCO due to the richness and diversity of life found there.
Here, you will find colourful houses like no other, young children rowing boats and even playing with pythons, and many Cambodians living off their catch. Tonle Sap is a rustic and magnificent picture. One of the famous residents here is the Giant Mekong Catfish.
To be continued here
Republished from Issue 39.
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