Welcome to Bassac Lane

Bassac Lane is a narrow lane located off Street 308 in the Tonlé Bassac neighbourhood of Phnom Penh.

Originally it was a “sleepy residential lane” in a leafy part of the city; over the past decade it has been transformed into a buzzing hub of bars, restaurants, boutiques and cafés.

In fact, the lane’s rise as a nightlife and dining destination can be traced back to the early-2010s when a few pioneering bar/resto entrepreneurs saw its potential. For example, the bar Seibur (“aperitif room”) opened around 2013 by Kiwi brothers William & George Norbert-Munns, marking a shift toward cocktail-led venues in the lane.

The broader Tonlé Bassac area also saw rapid development as Phnom Penh’s central districts expanded, making Bassac Lane an accessible spot for both expats and visitors.
international.realestate.com.kh

What to expect today — tourism, dining & nightlife

Ambience: The lane presents an up-market yet approachable feel. Many international tourists, expats living in Phnom Penh, and local Khmer patrons mix in its bars and restaurants.

Because it’s compact, you can easily explore several venues in one evening. As one write-up puts it: “you can walk the entire area in five minutes—but you’ll likely spend hours hopping between its cozy corners.”
Cambodia Bucket List

Dining & bars:

A wide spread of cuisines: local Khmer food, fusion, international menus (burgers, tacos, pizza) and plenty of drinks options.
Cambodia Bucket List

Cocktail bars and speakeasy-style venues: for instance, the bar Cicada is referenced as a “classic cocktail bar” in the lane.

Boutique shopping and small lifestyle stores: though the main draw is dining & drinking, there are shops for gifts, homewares, apparel nearby.

Nightlife & culture:

The lane is particularly lively in the evenings; it’s known for its bar-hopping culture and late-night atmosphere.

It also features the kind of “micro-bar” scene that has made Phnom Penh’s nightlife more interesting: smaller, theme-driven bars, often tucked away, rather than big loud clubs.
Gourmet Traveller

Live music, themed nights and art/design‐led venues are part of the appeal.

What’s new / what’s happening

Post-COVID recovery: In 2020, during the pandemic, Bassac Lane’s businesses were hit—bars and restaurants shut temporarily. Reports noted the “street of restaurant and bar … slowly gets back to business”.

Ongoing evolution: As of recently, the lane keeps adding new venues, and its reputation continues to strengthen among visitors as a must-go nightlife/dining area in Phnom Penh. Reviews list it among the top “things to do” in the city.

A trend toward quality: Rather than just many bars, the focus seems to be on better crafted drinks, design-led interiors and curated dining experiences. (See discussion of “raising the bar standard” in earlier years.)

Best time to go: Arrive around early evening to grab dinner or drinks in a more relaxed vibe, then stay as the atmosphere builds into night.

Entry & access: The lane is entered off Street 308 (which comes off Norodom Boulevard) in Tonlé Bassac. According to TripAdvisor, there is paid parking opposite Seibur.

Explore alleyways: Some of the smaller off-shoot lanes from the main one hold hidden gems. The lane is compact so you can bar hop easily.

Dress & etiquette: The vibe is stylish–casual. No strict formal dress codes, but smart-casual works. Be respectful of venues.

Price range: As a more up-market corridor compared to regular local bars, expect prices to be higher than simple street-bars—but still reasonable for many travellers.

Safety: Generally safe, even at night, given the focused nightlife and mixed local/expat crowd. As with any nightlife district, it pays to stay alert.

Highlight for your blog: The mix of modern cocktail culture with the ever-present local flavour (Cambodian dishes, local crowd) offers a nice contrast to purely tourist-driven nightlife streets. The lane lends itself well to a blog piece that blends “what to eat/where to drink” with “local story of transformation”.

Chaktomuk Walking Street is a pedestrian-only zone along Phnom Penh’s Sisowath Quay that is open on weekends from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., featuring street food, live music, performances, and local crafts. It was launched in February 2025 as a pilot project by the Phnom Penh Municipal Administration and has since become a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Location: Stretches along Sisowath Quay, from near the old post office to the Royal Palace.

Operating Hours: Saturdays and Sundays from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m..

Activities: Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping for local crafts and souvenirs, trying street food, and watching live performances and traditional music.

Purpose: The street aims to create a vibrant public space for residents and tourists, boost tourism, and promote Cambodian culture.

Key features: The area is closed to vehicles during operating hours, with parking spaces available nearby.

Welcome, Expats! – Your Cambodia Resource Starts Here

Welcome to Cambodia — and welcome to your new adventure in the Kingdom of Wonder! Whether you’ve just arrived or are planning your move, this space is here to help make your journey smoother. Living, working, or traveling in Cambodia can be exciting, inspiring, and sometimes a little overwhelming — but you’re not alone.

Special Events Cambodia is here to help. From navigating visas and finding a place to live, to discovering cultural events, local festivals, and connecting with the expat community — we’re building a one-stop guide for everything you need to know.

Explore life in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kampot, and beyond. Find tips on jobs, housing, healthcare, transport, and day-to-day living. Stay in the loop with what’s happening around Cambodia — from major holidays to hidden-gem events locals love.

This is more than a travel blog. It’s your guide, your noticeboard, and your connection to life in Cambodia.

Street 172 – Where Expats Connect in Phnom Penh

If you’ve spent any time in Phnom Penh, chances are you’ve heard of Street 172. Tucked just a few blocks away from the busy boulevards, this street has become a low-key hub for long-term expats, backpackers-turned-locals, and people who know the city beyond the tourist spots.

Here, you’ll find small guesthouses, local cafes, motorbike repair shops, and bars where people know each other by name. It’s not flashy — and that’s the charm. It’s the kind of street where stories get shared, tips get passed around, and people help each other out. Need a place to stay? A job lead? Advice on visas or clinics? Someone on 172 probably knows.

Many expats living on or around Street 172 are happy to help newcomers find their way — whether it’s pointing you to a cheap rental, helping you understand how to top up your phone, or just grabbing a beer and sharing a story.

If you’re new to Cambodia or just looking for real connections, start with Street 172. It’s not in the guidebooks — but it’s where Cambodia starts to feel like home.

Sihanoukville – From Beach Town to Boom Town (and Back Again?)

Once a laid-back coastal getaway with golden beaches, cheap guesthouses, and a chill backpacker scene, Sihanoukville used to be the kind of place you came for a few days and ended up staying for months. It was Cambodia’s beach town — surf shacks, reggae bars, fresh seafood, and the gateway to the islands.

Then came the boom.

In the late 2010s, Chinese investment flooded into the city. Construction sites popped up everywhere, with dozens of high-rise hotels, casinos, and luxury developments changing the face of the town almost overnight. For a while, Sihanoukville felt more like a construction zone than a beach town, and many expats — along with local businesses — packed up and left.

So What’s It Like Now?

As of recent years, things have started to slow down again. Many casino projects stalled or closed. Some beaches have reopened, and there’s a small but steady effort to bring back a bit of the charm. It’s still rough around the edges, but parts of the coastline and the islands nearby remain stunning.

Where Expats Live (Those Who Stayed)

• Otres Area (especially Otres 2): Otres Beach used to be the go-to spot for expats and backpackers. A lot has changed, but Otres 2 still holds onto some of that old-school vibe. Some long-timers have stayed or returned here for the slower pace and cleaner beach.

• Victory Hill: Once a big expat hangout, Victory has quieted down. Some expats still rent here long-term because it’s cheaper and a bit away from the chaos.

• Downtown Sihanoukville: A few brave expats still run businesses or work in the city center, though it’s not the same relaxed scene it once was.

• The Islands (Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem): Many expats moved offshore — literally. If you’re looking for that original beach vibe, the islands now offer more of what Sihanoukville used to be: bungalows, sunsets, small bars, and community.

Final Word

A Personal Note on Sihanoukville – It’s Still Worth It

I know what people say about Sihanoukville — that it’s not like it used to be. And they’re right. The dusty backpacker town full of reggae bars and $5 bungalows is mostly gone. But don’t let that stop you from going. I was there last year, and honestly? The beaches are still breathtaking. Some of the best I’ve seen anywhere in Southeast Asia.

If you go with fresh eyes, not looking for the past, you’ll see the potential. Cleaner beaches are coming back, especially around Otres, and if you want peace and beauty, just hop a ferry to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem — it’s all still there.

Yes, the city center can feel chaotic and unfinished. But Sihanoukville is changing again, and I believe it still has a future as a major beach destination. The old-school charm might be gone, but the natural beauty never left.

Siem Reap – More Than Just Temples

Siem Reap is best known as the gateway to Angkor Wat, one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. For decades, the town grew alongside the rise of tourism, especially after Cambodia opened up more in the early 2000s. It transformed from a quiet riverside town into a global destination — with hotels, cafes, and nightlife blooming to support the millions of visitors coming to see the temples.

But beyond the tuk-tuks and temples, Siem Reap has a strong expat heartbeat. Artists, NGO workers, teachers, digital nomads, and retirees from around the world have made this place home. It’s a smaller and quieter scene than Phnom Penh, but that’s exactly what draws many people in.

Where Expats Hang Out or Live

• Wat Bo Area: This leafy, quieter side of the river has become a favorite for long-term expats. You’ll find boutique cafes, coworking spaces, yoga studios, and chilled-out guesthouses. It’s close to everything, but with a relaxed vibe.

• Sala Kamreuk & Sla Kram: Just outside the tourist center, these areas offer affordable housing and a local feel. Many expats live here for the space and calm, just a short bike or tuk-tuk ride from town.

• Kandal Village: A trendy little pocket filled with shops, bakeries, and small bars. Great for daytime coffee or evening wine — very popular with younger expats and creatives.

• Pub Street (in moderation): While mostly for tourists, some expats still dip into the Pub Street scene for social nights. But most long-timers tend to head to more local spots nearby.

The Expat Vibe

Siem Reap’s expat scene is close-knit. It’s easy to meet people — especially through community events, open mic nights, or volunteering. Many people stay longer than they planned because life here moves at a slower pace, with a stronger connection to both locals and nature.

Whether you’re looking for peace, purpose, or just a break from the chaos of big cities, Siem Reap has a rhythm of its own.

Kep & Kampot – The Laid-Back Hideouts

Once quiet fishing towns, Kep and Kampot have slowly turned into favorites for expats looking for something a little slower and more relaxed than the big cities or Sihanoukville’s chaos.

Kampot is famous for its pepper farms, colonial architecture, and riverside cafés. It’s got that small-town charm with a growing expat crowd — artists, writers, retirees, and anyone who just wants to unwind. The riverfront at sunset is a perfect spot to meet locals and expats alike.

Just down the road, Kep is known for its fresh seafood (especially crab) and its quiet beaches. It’s smaller and quieter than Kampot but has a cool mix of local markets and a handful of great restaurants and guesthouses.

A lot of expats came to these towns after the Sihanoukville boom — escaping the noise and construction to find a calmer life. You’ll find plenty of friendly faces, good food spots, and that easygoing vibe that makes Kep and Kampot special.

Battambang – Cambodia’s Laid-Back Heartland

Battambang is a charming, easygoing city that feels a world away from the hustle of Phnom Penh or even Siem Reap. Known for its French colonial architecture, rice fields, and vibrant arts scene, it’s one of Cambodia’s oldest cities and a cultural hub in the northwest.

Most expats here keep it simple — living around town, working on local projects, or just soaking up the relaxed pace of life. Friendly locals, good food, and plenty of markets make it a comfortable spot to settle in or just pass through.

And of course, no visit to Battambang is complete without hopping on the famous Bamboo Train — a quirky, one-of-a-kind experience that’s as much fun as it is a local legend. (I’ve ridden it myself — highly recommended!)

If you want a laid-back base with a genuine Cambodian feel and a friendly expat community, Battambang’s got you covered.

Living in Cambodia

• Affordable living: Rent can be as low as $200-$400 for a decent apartment.
• Relaxed lifestyle: The atmosphere is laid-back, with people not typically rushing.
• Friendly locals: The Cambodian people are generally very friendly and welcoming.
• Growing economy: There are business opportunities, and the country has a young demographic.
• Easy visa extensions: It is relatively easy to extend a long-term visa. 

• Developing infrastructure: As a developing country, infrastructure and public services may not be as advanced as in other countries.
• Language barrier: The language difference can be challenging if you don’t know the local language.
• Safety concerns: While generally friendly, be cautious of scams, especially those involving new acquaintances inviting you to meet their family. 

• Housing: Expect to pay between $250 and $1000+ per month for housing, depending on your needs and desired amenities.
• Visas: A valid visa is required for residency. You can renew it through an agent or the immigration department.
• Health and safety: Be cautious of scams and be aware that infrastructure is not as developed as in some other countries.
• Business and economy: The economy is growing rapidly, offering business opportunities, but be aware of the developing infrastructure. 

Important Embassy / Consular Contacts in Phnom Penh

Here are the Embassy & Consular Contacts for major countries in Cambodia, useful for expats. Save the ones relevant to you and make sure you have the numbers handy (both in your phone and a printed backup).

Important Emergency Numbers

• Police: 117 Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia+4Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia+4Tourism Cambodia+4

• Fire brigade: 118 Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia+2Sonasia Holiday+2

• Ambulance / medical emergencies: 119 Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia+2Wallet Cambodia Online+2

• Tourist police (Phnom Penh): +855 12 942 484 Tourism Cambodia+1

• Tourist police (Siem Reap): +855 12 402 424 Tourism Cambodia+1

Festivals and Events of Southeast Asia

Top 10 best street food cambodia

Here are Top 10 Street Foods You Must Try in Cambodia, especially around Siem Reap, Phnom Penh or smaller towns. Great for a blog — includes what it is, how it’s eaten, and what makes it special.

1. Nom Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)

• What it is: Rice noodles served typically at breakfast; topped with a green fish-based gravy, fresh herbs, banana blossom, raw vegetables. Indochina Tour+2Ultimate Travel Guide+2

• Why try: It’s light but full of flavor; a very traditional Khmer beginning to the day. Great to see locals eating it.

• Where you’ll find it: Early morning markets, roadside vendors. Cozymeal+2Ultimate Travel Guide+2

2. Bai Sach Chrouk (Grilled Pork and Rice)

• What it is: Thin slices of pork marinated (often with garlic or coconut), grilled over coals, served with steamed rice, pickled veggies, cucumber. Sometimes a little broth on the side. Asia Highlights+2Ultimate Travel Guide+2

• Why try: It’s simple, tasty, affordable; perfect for breakfast or a casual meal. The pork gets a nice smoky flavor.

• Best time / where: Breakfast stalls in Phnom Penh, but you’ll see variations elsewhere. Asia Highlights+2Ultimate Travel Guide+2

3. Lort Cha

• What it is: Stir‑fried short rice noodles (lort), with vegetables (bean sprouts, chives etc.), meat or seafood, with sauces like fish sauce, dark soy, sometimes topped with a fried egg. Wikipedia+2Asia Highlights+2

• Why try: It’s hearty, filling, with lots of texture contrasts. Also shows Chinese influence mixing with local Khmer flavors.

• Where: Street vendors all over — especially in evening food markets. Asia Highlights+2Lub d Experience+2

4. Grilled Skewers (Meat / Seafood)

• What it is: Everything from chicken, pork, to seafood or organ meats, skewered and grilled, often with tangy, spicy, or sweet marinades or dips. Cozymeal+2waca.or.jp+2

• Why try: Street food classic — easy to eat, very flavorful, and usually cheap. Good for trying different kinds of meats or seafood.

• Where: Night markets, street stalls after sunset, busy roadsides. Cozymeal+1

5. Kralan (Bamboo Sticky Rice)

• What it is: Sticky rice mixed with coconut milk, sugar, black beans (sometimes grated coconut) packed inside bamboo tubes and roasted. veenaworld.com+2waca.or.jp+2

• Why try: Smoky flavour, sweet and rich, neat snack/dessert while walking around. Shows the use of banana leaves / bamboo in cooking.

• Where: Snack stalls, especially in rural roads or near markets. waca.or.jp+1

6. Num Krok

• What it is: Small coconut‑infused rice flour cakes, crisp outside, soft inside; can be sweet or savory. vietnameseprivatetours.com+1

• Why try: They are fast, cheap, satisfying little bites. Great contrast of textures and flavors.

• Where: Food carts or small stalls; you might see them in morning or early evening. vietnameseprivatetours.com

7. Cha Huoy Teuk (Cambodian Dessert Soup / Mixed Sweets)

• What it is: A chilled dessert of mixed jellies, agar, tapioca, sometimes taro/pumpkin etc, coconut milk or cream, often served with shaved ice. Wikipedia

• Why try: Sweet relief in hot weather; very refreshing; lots of variety in what goes into it depending on vendor.

• Where: Dessert stands / street‑dessert vendors, markets, especially afternoons. Wikipedia

8. Insects & Exotic Snacks

• What it is: Fried or grilled insects like crickets, worms, sometimes spiders; sometimes also unusual things like grilled honeycomb with larvae. waca.or.jp+2Asia Highlights+2

• Why try: Definitely adventurous; they offer texture and flavors you won’t get elsewhere. Also a part of local culture and history.

• Where: Night markets, tourist‑friendly stalls, places like Skun (for spiders) etc. waca.or.jp+1

9. Samlor Korko

• What it is: A hearty stir‑soup, mixed vegetable dish; very Cambodian, using local greens, eggplant, herbs, sometimes meat or fish. Lub d Experience

• Why try: A good contrast to the fried and grilled things; warming, nourishing, more “home‑cooked” feeling.

• Where: Siem Reap street food stalls, especially vendors who do soups. Lub d Experience

10. Coconut Ice Cream & Fresh Fruit Snacks

• What it is: Ice cream made with coconut or served in coconut shells; fresh fruits (mango, pineapple etc.), served with chili or sweet sauces, coconut cream etc. veenaworld.com+2sianghuatinspirations.wordpress.com+2

• Why try: Great to cool down on a hot walk, lovely flavors; often very fresh.

• Where: Vendors in markets, popsicle / ice cream carts, fruit stalls along busy pedestrian paths.

Festivals in Cambodia

 Pithi Chrat Preah Neanng Korl or Royal Ploughing Ceremony

As an agriculture-based economy, rice growing is an essential aspect of Cambodia. Back to the XIII century, it was the same. Royal family members at that time had used a Hindu ritual in the ancient time to hold a ceremony to wish for a good harvest. It’s also believed to have fortune-telling ability, which allows people to forecast the weather and determine the best way to harvest.

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony occurs on the fourth day of the sixth month in the lunar calendar. It is organized outside the Royal Palace in the capital state of Phnom Penh. During the ceremony, the King or a picked representative will till a plot of land with a plow driven by two oxen.

People give many kinds of treats, including ice, corn, green beans, sesame seeds, freshly-cut grass, water, and rice whiskey to the animals after three rounds. The oxen’s choice of food will predict the condition of the upcoming harvesting season. Rice wine represents a crime. Water forecasts flooding. Grass suggests animal diseases.

 Pchum Ben or Ancestors’ Day

While other festivals share some standard features with other traditions in other countries, Pchum Ben or Ancestors’ Day is a unique feature of Cambodia.

The word Pchum Ben means “to gather together a ball of food.” It’s the day for the Cambodian to show respect and gratefulness to the ancestors of seven generations. It happens on the 15th day of the 10th Khmer month, which is equal to October according to the Gregorian calendar. The exact date varies every year, so remember to double-check if you want to join in this mysterious festival.

Pchum Ben can be compared to Halloween in Western countries, but this former is more formal and serious. The Cambodian believe that the doorway to the hell will be opened on the first day of Pchum Ben, so the spirit of the deceased relatives can reenter the human world. That’s why they prepare a lot of offerings hoping their ancestor can find the merits. Many rituals aims to reduce the sins of the ancestors.

 Bonn Om Touk or Water Festival

Despite the similar name with Songkran, Thailand Water Festival, Bonn Om Touk takes place on a completely different day and in a completely different way.

Cambodian Water Festival is usually in November when the water flow from Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater in Southeast Asia begins to divert to the Mekong river. It marks the end of the rainy season, which brings about the prosperity to the biodiversity of Cambodia. The reversal of the flow from the Tonle Sap River to Mekong river is another aim of the festival.

During Bonn Om Touk, there is a wide range of festive activities in Phnom Penh. It is roughly estimated that upon a million Cambodians attend the celebrations in the capital city. Longboats are racing on the Mekong River. Parades with the water theme light up the streets. Fireworks displays make the nightlife more vibrant.

 Vesak Bochea or Buddha’s Birthday

Vesak Bochea is an as important day as Meak Bochea to Buddhists. It is a three-in-one event in which there are three milestones of the Buddha’s life happened. Vesak Bochea is not only the date of birth but also the day Gautama Buddha, the ultimate God got enlightened, and even the time when he passed over to nirvana, the ultimate heaven.

Cambodian celebrate Vesak Bochea on the full moon night of the sixth lunar month, about ten days after the Royal Ploughing Day.

To pay homage to the Buddha, the Cambodians will donate foods and clothes to the monks. Some people also go on a fastening day or week to display respect. Temples and pagodas in Cambodia welcome a huge number of visitors from all over the countries on this occassion.

 Meak Bochea

As mentioned above, most festivals in Cambodia have something to do with their religion and the first festival of the year, Meak Bochea is the second largest in Buddhism.

Meak Bochea is also known as Māgha Pūjā or Macha Bucha Day. It is celebrated on the fifth of March in the lunar calendar and in most of the Buddhist nations, for example: Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka.

According to the legend, on this day the Buddha and 1,250 of the first disciples had gathered and created an ideal and exemplary community.

The Cambodian celebrate Meak Bochea in a very traditional way. On the early morning, local people will give offerings, including foods and other necessities to the monks. This practice is nothing different from what they usually do on the other days.

The Cambodian celebrate Meak Bochea in a very traditional way

However, the offerings on Meak Bochea tend to be more generous, but no money or precious things are given to the monks. Only foods and some necessary items such as clothes, towers.

After the sun sets, the native resident will flock to the nearby temple, listening to Buddhist preachings. Then they join a candlelit procession. People hold flowers, candle, and incense, walking around the temple for three times in a circle, which represent 3 Buddhist ideas: Buddha (the Holy God), Dharma (the community) and Sangha (the monks).

  Khmer New Year

Choul Chnam Thmey, which can be literally translated into “Enter New Year,” is the time for the Cambodian to celebrates the Lunar New Year. Lunar New Year is a shared concept in many Asian nations like Vietnam, South Korea, China.

The thing is, Cambodian Lunar New Year doesn’t apply the lunar calendar to count the date. In fact, Choul Chnam Thmey is the only traditional festival in Cambodia to use Gregorian date and month. The holiday will last for three days with the first one falling either on April 13th or April 14th.

It coincides with the end of the harvest, and all people will return to their hometown for a family get-together. Peole clean up the house and prepare many traditional dishes. Native people also visit their ancestors’ shrines to light up candles and incense as an offering for the pass away.

More events of Cambodia

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a Hindu-Buddhist temple complex in Cambodia. Located on a site measuring 162.6 hectares (1,626,000 m²; 402 acres) within the ancient Khmer capital city of Angkor, it was originally constructed in 1150 CE as a Hindu temple dedicated to the deity Vishnu. It was later gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the century.

Angkor Wat was built at the behest of the Khmer king Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yaśodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Angkor Wat combines two basic plans of Khmer temple architecture: the temple-mountain and the later galleried temple. It is designed to represent Mount Meru, home of the devas in Hindu mythology and is surrounded by a moat more than 5 km (3.1 mi). Enclosed within an outer wall 3.6 kilometres (2.2 mi) long are three rectangular galleries, each raised above the next. At the centre of the temple stands a quincunx of towers. Unlike most Angkorian temples, Angkor Wat is oriented to the west with scholars divided as to the significance of this.

The temple complex fell into disuse before being restored in the 20th century with various international agencies involved in the project. The temple is admired for the grandeur and harmony of the architecture, its extensive bas-reliefs and devatas adorning its walls. The Angkor area was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992. Considered by some experts to be the largest religious structure in the world, it is regarded as one of the best examples of Khmer architecture and a symbol of Cambodia, depicted as a part of the Cambodian national flag. The Angkor Wat is a major tourist attraction and attracts more than 2.5 million visitors every year.

Most Popular Foods from Cambodia

 Char kroeung sach ko (stir-fried lemongrass beef)

Char Kroeung Sach Ko is a traditional Cambodian dish made by stir-frying beef with an aromatic spice paste called” “kroeung,” which includes lemongrass, galangal, garlic, turmeric, and kaffir lime leaves.

This delicious dish often includes additional vegetables such as green beans, capsicum, or onions, and is typically served with steamed rice.

 

Char Kroeung Sach Ko highlights the fragrant and vibrant flavours of popular foods from Cambodia.

 Bai sach chrouk (grilled pork and broken rice)

Bai Sach Chrouk is a traditional Cambodian dish consisting of thinly sliced pork marinated in garlic, coconut milk, or soy sauce, then grilled to perfection.

It is usually served with broken or steamed rice, pickled vegetables, and a steaming bowl of fragrant clear chicken broth.

 Nom banh chok (Khmer noodles)

Khmer noodles, known as “Nom Banh Chok” in Cambodia, are a traditional dish made from fermented rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry gravy flavoured with lemongrass, turmeric, and kaffir lime.

This dish is garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, cucumber, and banana blossom. Often enjoyed as a breakfast or light meal, these noodles are a beloved staple in Cambodian cuisine.

 Fish amok (steamed coconut fish in banana leaves)

Fish amok is a traditional dish that many consider Cambodia’s national dish. It is a fragrant and creamy fish curry made with a base of coconut milk, eggs, and kroeung (fragrant spice paste).

The mixture is often steamed in banana leaves, giving it a memorable presentation and an added layer of flavour imparted from the leaves.

The result is a delicate, custard-like texture with a rich, aromatic taste.

Amok is one of my go-to dishes when travelling in Cambodia, and it’s very comforting

 Chruok svay (Green Mango Salad)

Cambodians make some of the most creative and delicious salads, and this is one of them!

Chruok svay is a variation of the Asian green papaya salad that swaps papaya for green mango. The salad is made with crunchy, raw green mango strips coated with a sweet and sour dressing of makrut lime juice, palm sugar, and fish sauce.

 Lok Lak (Stir Fry)

Lok Lak is a dish featuring marinated beef stir-fried with a tasty blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and lime juice. The tender meat is typically served atop a bed of fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions and accompanied by a side of rice and a tangy dipping sauce made from lime juice, salt, and black pepper.

This dish perfectly balances savoury, tangy, and sweet flavours.

 Kuy teav (noodle soup)

Kuy Teav is a noodle soup made with rice noodles and a savoury broth, often flavoured with pork or beef.

It is garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and fried shallots, and various meats or seafood are typically added.

This dish is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a light meal throughout the day.

 Nataing

This satisfying Cambodian dish is made with ground pork, coconut milk, garlic, shallots, and ground roasted peanuts. Chilli powder gives the dish its distinctive red colour and mild spiciness, while sugar imparts a hint of sweetness.

This sweet, savoury, and spicy dish is often enhanced with fish sauce, lime juice, or tamarind juice, making it a mouthwatering introduction to foods from Cambodia.

Nataing is commonly served with crispy rice cakes, rice crusts, steamed white rice, or bread, adding to its versatility and appeal as a Khmer specialty.

 Bok l’hong (Green papaya salad)

Bok L’hong, meaning “pounded papaya” in Khmer, is Cambodia’s version of the green papaya salad found throughout Southeast Asian countries.

Unlike the Vietnamese version, the Cambodian salad involves pounding shredded green papaya with tamarind, galangal, and prohok (Cambodian fish paste).

It may also include smoked fish or salted crabs and is typically served with steamed rice and grilled meat, such as chicken.

Yaohon (Hot pot)

Yaohon is a Cambodian hot pot featuring a mix of vegetables, meat, and seafood in a rich broth made from coconut milk, chicken broth, and coconut soda.

It is flavoured with barbecue sauce, fish sauce, soybean curd sauce, makrut lime leaves, lemongrass, and palm sugar. It includes vegetables like watercress, spinach, and bok choy and meats such as beef, chicken, prawns, squid, and oysters.

Crushed peanuts, quail eggs, and mushrooms add extra flavour to this diverse and delicious food in Cambodia.

 Kralan or Khao lam

Kralan is a scrumptious traditional cake in Khmer cuisine. It is influenced by Thailand, Vietnam, India, and China and is especially popular in the Siem Reap region in Cambodia.

It is made of steamed rice mixed with black beans or peas, grated coconut, and coconut milk. The mixture is packed inside a bamboo stick and covered to cook.

Then, it is roasted over a fire until cooked – the flavour is fantastic! Take advantage of this yummy cake when you visit Cambodia.

 Samlor machu Trey (sweet and sour fish soup)

In Cambodian cuisine, soup is a staple, appearing at most meals. A popular choice is Samlor Machu Trey, a soup featuring fish as its main ingredient.

The fish is seasoned with sugar, fish sauce, and salt and combined with celery, garlic, lemongrass, tamarind, bean sprouts, and pineapple.

Served with local herbs like Asian basil and saw leaf coriander and topped with chilies, this soup delivers a balanced blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours.

 Trey Chien chuon (Fried Fish w ginger & garlic sauce)

Trey Chien Chuon, a traditional Cambodian dish, features crispy fried fish enhanced with ginger and fermented soybeans.

The fermented soybeans impart an aromatic, salty flavour, while the ginger adds a spicy kick.

This tasty food in Cambodia tastes excellent with a glass of cold beer.

An authentic and memorable dish, this sweet and savoury pork belly is braised in a rich, dark broth with caramelised Thnot sugar, star anise, garlic, and Kampot pepper.

It is served with hard-boiled eggs, roasted tofu, and tender bamboo shoots.

 Samlar kari (Khmer curry)

Cambodian Red Curry is a rich and delicious dish made with meat or seafood, coconut milk, eggplant, beans, potatoes, and sweet potatoes.

While it has similarities to Thai red curry (my favourite), it’s not quite as spicy.

 Sankhya lapov

Sankhya Lapov is a traditional Cambodian dessert from pumpkin or squash in a sweet coconut milk mixture. It looks a little strange, but it works!

This dish features a creamy, sweet flavour with a silky texture, and it is a must-try when visiting Cambodia.

 Char kroeung sach ko (stir-fried lemongrass beef)

Char Kroeung Sach Ko is a traditional Cambodian dish made by stir-frying beef with an aromatic spice paste called” “kroeung,” which includes lemongrass, galangal, garlic, turmeric, and kaffir lime leaves.

This delicious dish often includes additional vegetables such as green beans, capsicum, or onions, and is typically served with steamed rice.

Central Market

Location: Calmette St. 53, Daun Penh, Phnom Penh

One of the best markets you need to go to is the Central Market in Phnom Penh. It’s known as Phsar Thmei since it was established in 1937 and has since been popular to locals and tourists. Going to buy whatever you need in Central Market is guaranteed to be a vibrant and different experience since it closely follows an art deco interpretation of a traditional market. Additionally, there’s a beautifully designed dome in the middle of the market, expanding the area and stores available..

Whether you’re looking for traditional to unique souvenirs that represent aspects of a rich culture, they’re all available in the Central Market! You can also find fresh or cooked delicious food, jewelries, gadgets, and other handmade crafts! If you want to visit it, it’s open every day from 7 AM to 6 PM at ផ្សារធំថ្មី, Calmette St. in Phnom Penh.

Toul Tom Poung  ( Russian Market )

Location: St. 163 Corner of St. 440, Toul Tompung, Phnom Penh, Cambodia Phnom Penh, 12310

The Toul Tom Poung Market is one of the most popular ones in Phnom Penh for both tourists and locals alike. It’s commonly known as the Russian Market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood here! Not only that but buying a variety of souvenirs that proudly represents Cambodia’s rich culture like handmade statues of Buddha, instruments, and fabric is available here.

Additionally, you can find clothes, accessories, knockoffs, and even name brands at a discounted price here in the Russian Market! Not only that but finding legitimate antiques and high quality fake ones are here. If you want to visit the market now, it’s located at 163 Corner of Street 440, Phnom Penh. It opens every day from 6 AM and closes at 4:30 PM.

The Old Market

Location: Preah Ang Duong St. 110 Corner, Daun Penh, Phnom Penh

If you want the full and authentic experience of a Cambodian market, then you need to go to the Old Market! This place is catered to those who want to choose from a large assortment of fresh vegetables, food, meat, seafood, and more. It’s locally known as Phsar Chas and usually caters to locals since you can’t find souvenirs here. If you want to visit it, it’s located at Oknha Plong in Phnom Penh and it’s open every day from 6 AM to 7 PM.

Phnom Penh’s Night Market

Location: Preah Sisowath Quay, Daun Penh, Phnom Penh

One of the tourist attractions in the heart of Cambodia is the lively Phnom Penh Night Market. It’s commonly known as Phsar Reatrey and it offers a unique experience since it’s an open air market located by the river. Tourists and locals flock to this market because not only can you buy fresh food but numerous delicious cooked foods are available here, allowing you to enjoy the evening with great food.

Additionally, stalls selling accessories and different styles of clothes can be found here. To top it all off, you can enjoy wonderful entertainment since there is a stage in the market where music artists, bands, dancers and more perform! If you want to visit it, the Night Market is open every day from 5 to 11 PM at Preah Sisowath Quay in Phnom Penh.

Orussey Market

Location: Oknha Tep Phan St. (182), 7 Makara, Phnom Penh

The biggest market in the city where you can find anything your heart desires and needs is Orussey Market. Considering the market is spread across three large floors packed with stalls selling fresh and cooked food, clothes, fabric, and more, it’s popular for locals and tourists are rare. If you want to visit it, it’s open every day from 8 AM to 5 PM at Oknha Tep Phan St. 182 in Phnom Penh.

Boueng Keng Kang Market

Location: St. 380, BKK1, Chamkarmon, Phnom Penh

If you’re looking for a smaller market that sells a variety of goods like electronics, fresh produce and other food, and even clothes, then go to Boueng Keng Market. This modest market contains numerous stalls where you can find most of anything you’d need to purchase with a terrific dash of Khmer culture! If you want to visit it, it’s located at 9 Street 380 in Phnom Penh and it’s open from 6 AM to 7 PM.

Doeurm Kor Market

Location: Samdech Monireth Boulevard (217), Toul Kork, Phnom Penh

If you love shopping in early mornings and you’re looking for the best and most fresh produce, seafood, and meat, the Doeurm Kor Market is for you! Compared to others, this market opens at 5:30 AM every Monday and closes at 5 PM. Then, from Tuesday to Sunday, it’s open from 6 AM to 5 PM. If you want to purchase your necessities, then you can find it in Samdech Monireth Boulevard (217) in Phnom Penh. Make sure to enter the market from Street 245.