Cambodia

The Land of Temples
and Traditions

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Cambodia, located in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its ancient temples, vibrant culture, and resilient spirit.Best known for the majestic Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s landscapes range from lush jungles and rice paddies to scenic coastlines along the Gulf of Thailand. Cambodian culture reflects a mix of Khmer traditions and Buddhist influence, evident in its art, dance, and festivals.

The cuisine includes flavorful dishes like amok (coconut curry) and lok lak (stir-fried beef), with a focus on fresh herbs and spices. Known for its welcoming people and deep cultural roots, Cambodia offers a unique journey through history and beauty.

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Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Cambodia.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Cambodia.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from ASEAN countries (e.g., Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia) can enter Cambodia with a valid passport and stay for up to 14-30 days (depending on nationality) without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from most other nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Cambodia, though many nationalities are eligible for a visa on arrival or an e-visa.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; a Cambodian visa is still required unless the traveler’s nationality is visa-exempt.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; a Cambodian visa is required unless visa-exempt.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not qualify for visa-free entry; a Cambodian visa is required unless visa-exempt.
  • ID Card Entry: No countries are permitted to enter Cambodia using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 30 days (tourist visa, "T" visa). Can be single-entry, with validity up to 3 months; extendable for another 30 days.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 30 days (business visa, "E" visa). Valid for one year with multiple entries, allowing application for a residence permit (e.g., for work or long-term stays).

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays for ASEAN nationals are limited to 14-30 days. Tourist visas (on arrival or e-visa) allow a 30-day stay, extendable once.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; "E" visas are required for work and can be extended indefinitely with proper documentation.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions, as Cambodia may reintroduce measures like mandatory testing or health declarations.
Toll

Driving in Cambodia

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Cambodia has a few toll roads, including:
    • Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway: A major toll road connecting the capital to the coastal city of Sihanoukville.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For example, a standard car pays approximately KHR 20,000-40,000 (Cambodian Riel) for the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway. For the most current rates, visit the Ministry of Public Works and Transport website: https://www.mpwt.gov.kh/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Cambodian Riel (KHR) is accepted at all toll booths; US Dollars (USD) are also widely accepted.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Limited acceptance; major toll roads may start accepting cards, but cash is preferred.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system is under development but not widely implemented; check for updates on https://www.mpwt.gov.kh/.

Driving in Cambodia

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for front-seat occupants, though enforcement is inconsistent.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60-80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h (e.g., Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway)
  • Road conditions vary; major roads like National Highway 4 are paved but can be congested, while rural roads are often unpaved, narrow, or flooded during the rainy season (May-October).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license, especially for non-ASEAN nationals.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Cambodia does not use a vignette system; tolls are collected at specific points on major roads.
  • Road Safety: Driving can be chaotic due to motorbikes, pedestrians, and livestock on roads. Night driving is risky due to poor lighting and potholes.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is somewhat reliable in urban areas (e.g., Phnom Penh, Siem Reap), but connectivity can be spotty in rural regions; keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 119 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Cambodia Currency

The official currency of Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000 KHR
  • Coins: 50, 100, 200, 500 KHR (rarely used)
  • Symbol: ៛ (often written as KHR)
  • Note: The US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted in Cambodia, often preferred for larger transactions.

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services are available at banks, airports, and markets in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
  • ATMs are widely available in urban areas for direct KHR withdrawals (often dispense USD as well), but may be scarce in rural regions.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas and small establishments; USD is often used for larger payments, with change given in KHR.
  • Credit/debit cards are accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments in tourist areas (e.g., Siem Reap, Phnom Penh), but rarely in rural areas.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash (KHR for small purchases, USD for larger ones) for rural areas, as digital payments are not universal.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards; the KHR fluctuates against the USD.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the National Bank of Cambodia website: https://www.nbc.gov.kh/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Cambodia

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Cambodia, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including life imprisonment or the death penalty. Even small quantities can lead to severe charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Alcohol consumption is permitted, but public intoxication can lead to fines or detention.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces and near certain cultural sites (e.g., Angkor Wat).
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect Buddhist traditions; dress modestly at temples (e.g., cover shoulders and knees at Angkor Wat). Avoid touching monks (especially for women).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention, especially in rural areas.
  • Photography: Restricted at military sites, government buildings, and some temples (e.g., inside Angkor Wat’s main sanctuary). Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially monks.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 2L spirits.
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over USD 10,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, and antiquities (e.g., artifacts from Angkor Wat).
  • Counterfeit goods may face fines or confiscation.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport (e.g., Phnom Penh International Airport).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Cambodia Tourism Authority or the Ministry of Tourism.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., Sihanoukville, Kep) must allow free access within 5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is mandated but not always implemented.

Key Resources

Cambodia Travel Safety

Cambodia is generally safe for travellers, with moderate crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Cambodia.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing, bag-snatching) is common in crowded areas like markets (e.g., Psar Chas in Siem Reap) or tourist sites (e.g., Angkor Wat). Violent crime against tourists is rare but can occur.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Cambodia is considered moderately safe, with locals often eager to help. Female travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be cautious of tuk-tuk scams.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to chaotic traffic, motorbikes, and pedestrians.
    • Avoid night driving due to poor road lighting and frequent accidents.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory but enforcement is lax.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled water only.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea; street food can be risky if not freshly prepared.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for rural travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against dengue, malaria, and Zika, especially during the rainy season (May-October).
  • Altitude Sickness: Not a concern; Cambodia is mostly flat, with the highest point (Phnom Aoral) at 1,813 meters, rarely visited by tourists.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Royal Phnom Penh Hospital offer good care in Phnom Penh. Rural areas often lack advanced medical services.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap; carry essential medications for rural travel.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, as rural care is limited.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 119 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 119 | Fire: 118 | Police: 117.
  • Tourist Police (Phnom Penh): +855 97 778 0002.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Avoid self-driving; hire a local driver or use tuk-tuks for safety. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for treks in areas like Cardamom Mountains or Koh Kong; unexploded ordnance (UXO) from the Khmer Rouge era remains a risk in remote areas.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects; remove shoes when entering temples.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in Phnom Penh; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Cambodia

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