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Mekong

Top Attractions in Phnom Penh

Tuk-tuk

Tuk-Tuk

Phnom Penh’s distinct Asian character has been shaped by its recent history with the Khmer Rouge. The city’s religious monuments had almost crumbled into inexistence in the mid-seventies but Cambodia is slowly rising out of the ashes. The roads are being rebuilt and Phnom Penh is attracting globetrotters. People say you’ve never been to Cambodia if you’ve never ridden a tuktuk, a small yet efficient transport mode powered by a motorcycle. Have your photo taken while in a tuktuk and you’re a certified tourist in Phnom Penh.

Phnom Penh Religious Temples

Phnom-Penh-Temple

People are amazed by the similarities of temples between Thailand and Cambodia. But Phnom Penh has not yet been saturated by tourist, unlike Bangkok. So the attractions are not crowded and have not been too commercialized. This time around the entrance fees to the temples are free or very minimum. The religious monuments provide a partial glimpse of the Cambodian lifestyle and how lavish temples were before the war.  There are still a few pagodas in Phnom Penh and its nearby towns. These are the first places that travellers should visit.  Among the religious sites to check out are Wat Phnom and Wat Botum.

 Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center

Phnom-Tamao-Wildlife-Rescue-Center

Animal lovers will find a piece of heaven in the Interactive Wildlife Tours at the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center. It is here where one can be up close with Cambodia’s last tigers, witness how leopard kittens are taken cared of, walk with, ride and even bathe an elephant. The group Wildlife Alliance will give information on how the animals were rescued from the illegal trade.  The cost covers around $150 which already includes transportation, water and park entry.  All the proceeds go to the Wildlife Rescue Center.

Mekong River

Mekong

The Mekong is the 12th longest river in the world, running from the north at the Tibetan Plateau, through Yunnan Province in China, down to Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. This river was a major trade route, making it possible for Chinese traditions to reach Phnom Penh. Phnom Penh lies in the banks of the Asian river.  The people of the Cambodian capital have utilized the river for take tourists out to see the riverfront areas of the Royal Palace, the National Museum and the Phnom Penh skyline. Cruisers will also witness the floating fishing villages across the smaller Tonle Sap River.  Tourists can also join the bicycle tour which is a fantastic way to get around the city and view the SIsowath Quay.