Introduction to Cambodia and Cambodia itinerary 14 days on budget : Cambodia, officially known as the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a country located in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the northeast, Vietnam to the east and southeast, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest. With a population of over 16 million people, Cambodia is the 69th most populous country in the world.
The country has a rich cultural heritage and a long and fascinating history. During the 9th to 15th centuries, Cambodia was ruled by the powerful Khmer Empire, which left behind numerous stunning temples and monuments, including the famous Angkor Wat temple complex. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Cambodia was a French protectorate and gained independence in 1953.
Cambodia has a tropical monsoon climate, with warm and humid conditions throughout the year. The rainy season lasts from May to October, while the dry season lasts from November to April.
Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city of Cambodia, while Siem Reap is a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to the Angkor temples. Other major cities include Battambang, Sihanoukville, and Kampot.
The official language of Cambodia is Khmer, while English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Buddhism is the dominant religion in the country, with a majority of the population following the Theravada tradition.
Cambodia has a developing economy, with agriculture and tourism being the main sources of income. Rice, cassava, rubber, and maize are the main agricultural products, while tourism is driven by the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, including the Angkor temples, beaches, and islands.
Overall, Cambodia is a unique and fascinating country that offers a rich cultural experience and breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy exploring ancient temples, relaxing on tropical beaches, and learning about the country’s rich heritage and fascinating history.
Cambodia Itinerary 14 Days on a Budget
Day 1: Arrival in Phnom Penh
- Arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport
- Check-in at budget accommodation
- Explore the city by tuk-tuk or on foot
- Visit Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and National Museum
Day 2: Phnom Penh to Battambang
- Take a bus or private taxi to Battambang
- Explore the city and visit the Bamboo Train and Phnom Sampeau Cave
Day 3: Battambang to Siem Reap
- Take a bus or private taxi to Siem Reap
- Check-in at budget accommodation
- Visit Angkor Wat and Bayon Temple in the evening
Day 4-6: Explore the Angkor Temple Complex
- Visit Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, and other temples within the complex
- Visit the Floating Village of Tonle Sap Lake
- Enjoy a traditional Apsara dance performance
Day 7: Siem Reap to Kampot
- Take a bus or private taxi to Kampot
- Check-in at budget accommodation
- Visit the nearby Bokor National Park and the abandoned Bokor Hill Station
Day 8-9: Explore the surrounding areas of Kampot
- Visit the Salt Fields and the Pepper Plantations
- Take a boat trip to the nearby islands of Kep
Day 10-11: Kampot to Sihanoukville
- Take a bus or private taxi to Sihanoukville
- Check-in at budget accommodation
- Enjoy the beaches and island-hopping
Day 12-13: Sihanoukville to Koh Rong
- Take a ferry or speedboat to the nearby island of Koh Rong
- Check-in at budget accommodation
- Enjoy island activities such as snorkeling, beach lounging, and island-exploring
Day 14: Departure from Sihanoukville
- Return to Sihanoukville and take a bus or flight back to Phnom Penh
- Departure from Cambodia
Note: Budget options include street food, local restaurants, and basic accommodations. To reduce costs, avoid peak travel season, opt for public transportation, and stick to a budget-friendly itinerary.
Expense Plan for 14 Days in Cambodia on a Budget
Accommodation:
- Budget hotels or guesthouses: $10-$15 per night
- Dormitory beds: $5-$10 per night
Transportation:
- Local buses: $5-$10 per journey
- Tuk-tuk or private taxi: $10-$20 per journey
- Ferry or speedboat: $15-$30 per journey
Food and Drink:
- Street food: $1-$3 per meal
- Local restaurants: $3-$5 per meal
- Bottled water: $0.50-$1 per bottle
Entrance Fees:
- Angkor Wat: $37 for a three-day pass
- Other temples in the Angkor complex: $5-$20 per temple
- National Museum: $5 per person
- Bamboo Train: $2-$5 per person
- Phnom Sampeau Cave: $2-$5 per person
Miscellaneous:
- Snorkeling gear rental: $5-$10 per day
- Island-hopping tours: $10-$20 per tour
- Apsara dance performance: $10-$15 per person
Total Expense Estimate: $150-$300 per person, excluding flights to and from Cambodia.
Note: The cost estimate may vary based on individual preferences and spending habits. It is important to have some extra cash for unexpected expenses and to keep an eye out for local deals and discounts.