The Top Highlights of Cambodia & Laos

From ancient temples to jaw-dropping landscapes, Cambodia and Laos offer an authentic Southeast Asia adventure, brimming with culture, steeped in history, and bursting with natural beauty.

Cambodia is home to the iconic Angkor Wat and has a dynamic mix of lively cities, pretty countryside, and pristine beaches. Laos, known as the ‘Land of a Million Elephants,’ boasts unspoiled landscapes, relaxed charm, and a fascinating cultural heritage. The mighty Mekong River flows through both countries, enhancing their beauty and providing a stunning backdrop to their temples, cities and towns.

Together, Cambodia and Laos make an incredible duo for a multi-centre holiday – or even as part of a wider Southeast Asia adventure combining other neighbouring countries such as Vietnam and Thailand.  Below, we’ve handpicked some of our top highlights to inspire your journey through this incredible part of the world.  As always, feel free to get in touch if you’d like our help in planning your perfect holiday or take a look at our favourite Cambodia & Laos multi centre itineraries for inspiration.

 

Cambodia in a nutshell:     

• Siem Reap: Gateway to the iconic UNESCO protected temples of Angkor.
• Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s capital with rich history and vibrant culture.
• Battambang: Picturesque countryside and spectacular bat displays.
• Cardamom Mountains: Lush rainforest, wildlife, and eco-tourism adventures
• Cambodia’s Coastline: Pristine beaches, quiet islands, and relaxed coastal vibes.

Laos in a nutshell:

• Vientiane: Laos’ peaceful capital, with stunning temples and a laid-back vibe.
• Luang Prabang: Historic temples, French colonial charm, and Pak Ou caves.
• Sayaboury/Elephant Conservation Centre: Endangered elephants and natural beauty.
• Vang Vieng: Tubing, kayaking, and caves in scenic surroundings.
• Xieng Khouang/Plain of Jars: Ancient stone jars in a mysterious landscape.
• The 4,000 Islands: Tranquil river views and Irrawaddy dolphins.

 

Cambodia:

Siem Reap/Angkor Wat: Majestic Temples & Lively Streets

Siem Reap is the gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park, a vast site that is home to over 1,000 temples and structures, built between the 9th and 15th centuries during the Khmer Empire. At the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site lies Angkor Wat, the central and most iconic temple, with its five towering spires and intricate bas-reliefs, including the famous ‘Churning of the Ocean of Milk’. Within the complex, other key sites include Ta Prohm, with jungle roots that weave through the ancient stone ruins, and the Bayon Temple, with its 200+ stone faces, thought to represent King Jayavarman VII, the ruler who oversaw the construction many of the park’s largest structures.  For a truly unforgettable experience, head to Phnom Bakheng at sunrise or sunset. This ancient Hindu temple, perched on top of a hill, offers fabulous views of the surrounding countryside and of Angkor Wat in the distance.

While the temples are the main attraction, Siem Reap itself offers much more. The town is a blend of lively streets, including Pub Street with its vibrant nightlife scene, traditional Apsara dance performances, and bustling night markets where you can enjoy delicious street food. For an interesting day trip, hop on a boat ride to explore the floating villages of Tonlé Sap Lake, such as Kampong Phluk and Kompong Khleang. These offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of local communities who call the water their home.

 

Phnom Penh:  Historic Landmarks & Bustling Night Markets

 Phnom Penh is the perfect place to dive headfirst into the country’s history whilst soaking up the capital city’s modern energy.   One of the top sightseeing spots is the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Cambodian royal family, where you can explore its stunning architecture and peaceful gardens. Inside, you’ll find the Silver Pagoda which is home to a golden Buddha statue decorated with jewels.

For a deeply emotional insight into Cambodia’s dark past, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school that was transformed into a brutal prison during the Khmer Rouge era in the 1970s.  A short distance away, the Choeung Ek Killing Fields offer another powerful experience. This site, where prisoners were taken to be executed, now serves as a memorial to the thousands of people who lost their lives during the genocide.

But Phnom Penh is not all about history – the city boasts colonial-style cafes and vibrant night markets where you can haggle for everything from fresh produce to local crafts and also taste the local cuisine. For the more adventurous eater, you can even try fried tarantulas – a crunchy local delicacy!

In Phnom Penh, there are two great ways to explore the city’s waterways and experience its unique charm from the water.  Take a Mekong River cruise, particularly good at sunset, which offers stunning views of the city skyline and riverbanks.  Alternatively, hop on a Tonlé Sap River boat ride, where you’ll get an up-close look at the floating homes and fishing communities along the riverbanks.

 

Battambang: Scenic Countryside & Bat Caves

In northwest Cambodia lies the charming, laid-back town of Battambang.  A unique experience here is the Bamboo Train, once an essential mode of rural transport which ceased operations but has been resurrected just outside the city as a quirky tourist attraction.  Hop aboard on one of these open bamboo platforms, powered by small motors, for a ride through lush countryside, rice paddies, and local villages – a fun way to see the surrounding landscapes.

One of the main highlights is the Battambang Bat Caves, where millions of bats emerge from the caves at sunset, creating a spectacular sight as they stretch across the horizon in a seemingly never-ending line.

Must-see temples in the region include Banon Temple, believed to have inspired Angkor Wat, with its five towers offering a mini version of the iconic masterpiece and the historic Wat Banan Temple, an 11th-century site with spectacular views at the top.  Also, Phnom Sampeau, a temple complex perched on a hill just outside the town, which offers breath-taking views. This site holds deep historical significance, with its Killing Caves, once used as execution sites during the late 1970s, now serving as a poignant memorial to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime. Art lovers will love the Human Gallery, and for a glimpse into traditional Cambodian life, head to Mrs. Bun Roeung’s Ancient House where you can step back in time and explore the beautifully preserved Khmer architecture and hear stories of the family’s history.

For something a little different, try to catch a performance at Phare Ponleu Selpak, a social enterprise and circus school, where young performers put on a colourful display of acrobatics, music, and storytelling.

 

Cardamom mountains:  Rugged Natural Beauty & Rich Wildlife

The Cardamom Mountains are a vast, remote mountain range in the southwest of Cambodia, stretching across Kampot, Koh Kong, and Sihanoukville. They offer a fantastic opportunity to try rainforest trekking, explore the winding rivers, and discover the wild, untouched beauty of the region. Some of the exciting activities include cruising or kayaking along the Tatai River and taking a dip in the refreshing waters of Tatai Waterfall.

The Cardamom Mountains are one of the last intact rainforests in Southeast Asia, and home to many rare and elusive species, including Asian elephants, clouded leopards, sun bears and marbled cats.  However, many of these species are in danger of extinction, and the Wildlife Alliance has created a large, protected area to serve as a wildlife corridor to try to save these species.  Part of this protection includes the conservation of local, traditional villages to help the communities there make a living from ecotourism, such as Chi Phat and the Cardamom tented camp.

 

Cambodia’s coastline: Pristine Beaches & Idyllic Islands

Cambodia’s coastline is a tropical dream, with powdery white-sand beaches, waters so clear they seem unreal, and lush landscapes.  Sihanoukville is the country’s liveliest and most popular coastal destination, although it has seen rapid development in recent years with large-scale construction that has changed its once laid-back charm.  Despite this, it still provides easy access to truly beautiful islands such as Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, which have remained peacefully idyllic and are perfect for snorkelling and diving with both shallow coral gardens and deeper dive sites.

Another great coastal spot is Kep, known for its beautiful beaches and the scenic Kep National Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy relaxing walks along the shore.  Another highlight in Kep is the Crab Market where a must-try is the famous Kampot pepper crab.  For an added adventure, take a short boat ride to Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay), where you’ll find pristine sandy beaches and sparkling waters.

 

Laos

Vientiane: Serene Temples & Tranquil Riverfront

Vientiane, the laid-back capital of Laos, is nestled along the Mekong River in the south of the country near the border with Thailand.  Its peaceful riverfront setting, with gentle breezes and a tranquil atmosphere, invites you to slow down and soak up the beauty of this quiet capital.

For a cultural insight into the city, head to Pha That Luang, a golden stupa, which is Laos’ most sacred religious monument that symbolises the Buddhist faith and national sovereignty. For some great views, climb to the top of the Patuxai Victory Monument, often compared to Paris’ Arc de Triomphe, where you can take in views of the city and the Mekong River.

The COPE Visitor Centre offers an insight into the country’s tragic past as the most heavily bombed country per capita in history. Between 1964 and 1973, a bomb was dropped on the country every 8 minutes, and the scars from this bombing campaign are still felt today.

A short drive outside the city, you’ll find the quirky Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan), a fascinating riverside garden filled with over 200 sculptures blending both Buddhist and Hindu influences.

In the evening, take a stroll along the riverbank next to the Mekong River, visiting the night market and enjoy a meal at a riverside restaurant while you watch the boats drift by.

 

Luang Prabang:  Pak Ou Caves & Peaceful Almsgiving

Nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage town where you’ll find beautiful temples, leafy streets, and a strong French colonial influence. One of the must-do experiences is to rise early to watch the daily almsgiving, where hundreds of saffron-robed monks silently walk the streets collecting food offerings such as fruit and sticky rice from locals. It’s a moving, meditative experience that offers a deep insight into the spiritual life of the town and its people.

A boat trip along the Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves is another must-do, where thousands of Buddha statues have been left by pilgrims over centuries. There are two caves to explore, filled with a variety of Buddha figures in different poses and sizes – a truly magical experience.

Just outside the town, the spectacular Kuang Si Falls are another highlight, where cascading waterfalls spill into pools surrounded by lush jungle.  Nearby you’ll also find a small Bear Sanctuary, which provides care for moon bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade and bear bile farms.

 

Sayaboury/Elephant Conservation Centre: Majestic Creatures & Scenic Wilderness

Laos isn’t called the ‘Land of Elephants’ by chance. Elephants have long played a central role in the country’s culture and wildlife and are deeply woven into the country’s traditions and history. The Elephant Conservation Centre in Sayaboury is the country’s first facility dedicated to elephant welfare.  Located a two-hour drive from Luang Prabang, it offers combines conservation efforts with eco-tourism. The centre only offers overnight stays and recommends two nights to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Participate in activities such as feeding, bathing, and walking with the elephants, while learning about the centre’s work to protect these endangered animals. The accommodation is basic, but it’s the perfect opportunity to get close to nature, enjoying breathtaking lake views from your bungalow and sharing meals with fellow visitors and staff.  For animal lovers, this is a truly magical experience, offering a deeper connection to the elephants and a greater appreciation of the natural beauty of the region.

 

Xieng Khouang (Plain of Jars): Mysterious Jars & Rolling Hills

The Plain of Jars is a fascinating archaeological site in the Xieng Khouang region of northern Laos, dating back to the Iron Age. Despite its age and significance, it is one of Southeast Asia’s greatest mysteries.  Scattered across rolling hills, the site consists of thousands of huge stone jars, some weighing up to several tons. No one truly knows why the Plain of Jars exists, with theories ranging from burial urns to ritual vessels, and it remains a place of intrigue for both archaeologists and visitors.

The site is spread across multiple locations, with the most accessible being Site 1, where you can explore the jars while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Most visitors stay in nearby Phonsavan when visiting the Plain of Jars, which is a small, picturesque town with plenty of great places to enjoy a traditional Lao meal after a day of sightseeing.

 

The 4000 islands: Riverside Relaxation and Irrawaddy Dolphins

The 4000 Islands (also called Si Phan Don) is a beautiful archipelago in southern Laos, located on the Mekong River near the Cambodian border.  While the number of islands is probably an exaggeration, the name captures the vastness and natural beauty of the area.

The islands vary in size, some large and inhabited, with the two of the most popular islands being Don Det and Don Khon.  Here you can enjoy the river views, go for a scenic cycle or explore local villages. The islands boast several impressive waterfalls such as Li Phi Waterfalls, Khon Pa Soy and Khone Phapeng, the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia by volume and often called ‘Little Niagara.’  You’ll find a rich variety of wildlife here, including the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins, which can be spotted in the river, particularly near the southern tip of Don Khon.  To increase your chances of sighting these elusive creatures, we recommend taking a boat trip with an experienced tour guide.

 

Cambodia and Laos are the perfect pairing for a multi-centre holiday incorporating the charm, spirit, and natural beauty of Southeast Asia. If you’d like to plan your own unforgettable journey, simply get in touch with our team of travel experts today. We’ll help you craft a tailored itinerary that includes the best experiences, ensuring you make the most of your time in these incredible destinations.