A long and painful history, a striking artistic revival. Museums that stay with you, a contemporary circus among Asia's best, and classical Khmer dance recognised by UNESCO.
Tuol Sleng S-21, Choeung Ek, National Museum of Phnom Penh, Angkor National Museum — the essentials and how to approach them without exhausting yourself.
See the guide →A modern and clear museum to understand currency, trade, and the transformations of contemporary Cambodia.
See the guide →The mother school where the Phare project started: a tent show and social commitment — different from the large tent in Siem Reap.
See the Battambang guide →The royal court Khmer dance, inscribed in UNESCO's intangible heritage. Evening performances, restaurants with shows included — where to see the real version.
See the guide →Meditation, monastic life, temporary ordination for men — how to immerse yourself in Cambodian Buddhism, even for a few days.
See the guide →22 sites by electric bus or tuk-tuk, video guide in 10 languages — the colonial, Art Deco, and Khmer architecture of the capital in 2.5 hours. 22 USD · our tour.
See the tour →Cambodia lost much of its artists, intellectuals and musicians during the Khmer Rouge genocide (1975–1979). The artistic renaissance of the last 40 years is an act of cultural resilience. Understanding that changes how you see everything.
S-21 and Choeung Ek are difficult but essential visits. The National Museum and its pre-Angkorian collections offer the positive counterpoint — the grandeur of Khmer civilisation.
Phare Circus, apsara dance shows, batik workshops, contemporary art galleries — Siem Reap has become an unexpected artistic hub.
90% of Cambodians are Theravada Buddhist. Alms to monks at dawn, active wats everywhere — religion is omnipresent and open to respectful visitors.
