Shiva Temples to Visit During Karthika Masam in Cambodia: Complete Guide for Hindu Pilgrims (2025)
Introduction: Celebrating Karthika Masam in the Land of Ancient Khmer Hinduism
Karthika Masam (16 November – 15 December 2025) takes on extraordinary significance in Cambodia, home to the magnificent Angkor Wat and countless Hindu temple ruins from the ancient Khmer Empire. While Cambodia is now predominantly Buddhist (97%), its Hindu heritage spanning the 9th-15th centuries CE has left an indelible spiritual legacy, with Lord Shiva worship forming the cornerstone of Khmer Hindu civilization.
Cambodia’s ancient Hindu temples, particularly dedicated to Shiva, offer a unique opportunity to celebrate Karthika Masam amidst architectural marvels that once hosted grand Hindu ceremonies. From the UNESCO World Heritage Angkor Archaeological Park to remote jungle temples, devotees can experience the echoes of Southeast Asia’s greatest Hindu kingdom.
Understanding Cambodian Hindu Heritage
Historical Context
Khmer Hindu Empire (802-1431 CE):
- Peak Period: 9th-13th centuries under Angkor kings
- State Religion: Shaivism (Shiva worship) predominantly
- Devaraja Cult: God-king concept (king as incarnation of Shiva)
- Temple Mountains: Pyramidal temples representing Mount Meru
- Lingam Worship: Central to Khmer Hinduism
- Sanskrit: Sacred and court language
- Brahmin Priests: From India, conducted elaborate rituals
- Transition: Gradual shift to Buddhism from 12th century onwards
Modern Context
Contemporary Cambodia:
- Population: 16.7 million (97% Theravada Buddhist)
- Hindu Population: Tiny minority (~0.2%, mostly ethnic Indians and Chams)
- Ancient Temples: Preserved as archaeological/tourist sites, not active worship
- Cultural Heritage: Hindu mythology deeply embedded in Khmer culture
- Religious Tolerance: Buddhist reverence for Hindu sites
- Tourism: Major economic driver centered on Angkor temples
Karthika Masam in Cambodia
Current Reality:
- No large Hindu community for traditional celebrations
- Small Indian expat community in Phnom Penh/Siem Reap
- Some temples allow Hindu worship with permission
- Primarily spiritual tourism and personal pilgrimage
- Atmospheric ancient setting for meditation and devotion
- Combine historical exploration with spiritual practice
Why Visit Cambodia for Karthika Masam?
Unique Cambodian Experience:
- Angkor Wat: World’s largest religious monument (originally Hindu)
- UNESCO Heritage: Multiple World Heritage Hindu temple sites
- Architectural Wonders: Most magnificent Hindu temples outside India
- Spiritual Energy: Centuries of devotion embedded in stones
- Shiva Linga Temples: Ancient lingam worship sites
- Quiet Contemplation: Fewer pilgrims, more personal experience
- Photographic Paradise: Sunrise/sunset at ancient temples
- Historical Learning: Understand Southeast Asian Hinduism
- Jungle Temples: Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider temple) and others
- Cultural Immersion: Khmer culture rooted in Hindu mythology
- Affordable Travel: Budget-friendly destination
- Warm Climate: Pleasant November-December weather
Top Ancient Shiva Temples in Cambodia for Karthika Masam 2025
ANGKOR ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK (SIEM REAP)
1. Angkor Wat
Why Visit: The world’s largest religious monument, originally a Vishnu temple that became Buddhist, but with significant Shiva elements. Iconic sunrise views make it perfect for dawn Karthika Masam meditations.
Temple Details:
- Location: Angkor Archaeological Park, 6 km north of Siem Reap
- Built: Early 12th century (1113-1150 CE) by King Suryavarman II
- Original Deity: Vishnu (later converted to Buddhist use)
- Architecture: Temple mountain representing Mount Meru
- Size: 162.6 hectares; central tower 65m high
- UNESCO: World Heritage Site (1992)
- Significance: Largest religious monument in the world
- Moat: 190m wide, symbolizing cosmic ocean
- Bas-reliefs: 1,200 square meters depicting Hindu epics
- Status: Functioning Buddhist temple, but Hindu visitors welcome
- Entry: Angkor Pass required (see below)
- Best Time: Sunrise (5:30 AM) or sunset
Karthika Masam Experience 2025: Since Angkor Wat is no longer an active Hindu temple, traditional Karthika Masam pujas aren’t conducted. However:
Personal Spiritual Practice:
- Sunrise Meditation (5:30-6:30 AM):
- Karthika month dawns at Angkor Wat reflecting pool
- Bring small oil lamps for personal devotion (check with authorities)
- Meditate on Vishnu-Shiva unity
- Chant mantras quietly (respectful of Buddhist use)
- Karthika Deepam Day (12 December 2025):
- Personal prayers at sunset (5:30-6:00 PM)
- Offer flowers at Buddhist shrines (Hindu deities also represented)
- Circumambulate temple clockwise (pradakshina)
- Photograph lamps in Siem Reap temples evening
- Daily Practice Throughout Month:
- Morning visits before crowds (5:00 AM temple opening)
- Study bas-reliefs depicting Ramayana, Mahabharata, Churning of Ocean of Milk
- Understand Khmer Hindu theology through architecture
What to Expect:
- Architecture: Stunning three-level pyramid with five towers (quincunx)
- Bas-Reliefs:
- Gallery of Churning Ocean of Milk (Shiva-Vishnu cooperation)
- Battle of Kurukshetra (Mahabharata)
- Ramayana epic scenes
- 32 hells and 37 heavens
- Crowds: Very busy, especially sunrise/sunset
- Walking: Extensive (bring water, sun protection)
- Stairs: Steep to upper levels (closed sometimes)
- Dress Code: Shoulders and knees covered (Buddhist respect)
- Photography: Allowed (no flash inside)
- Sunrise: Arrive 5:00 AM for good spots (very crowded)
Participation Options:
- Entry via Angkor Pass only (see section below)
- Personal devotional practice allowed
- Hire guide to explain Hindu iconography: USD 25-40
- Photography at sunrise/sunset
- No official pujas conducted
How to Reach:
- From Siem Reap town: 6 km (15 minutes)
- Tuk-tuk: USD 15-20/day including driver wait time
- Bicycle: Rent for USD 2-5/day (1 hour ride)
- Organized tour: USD 30-60 including guide
2. Angkor Thom (Bayon Temple)
Why Visit: Former capital with the enigmatic Bayon Temple featuring 216 giant smiling faces. Strong Shiva-Buddhist syncretism perfect for understanding religious transition.
Temple Details:
- Location: Angkor Thom complex, 1.5 km north of Angkor Wat
- Built: Late 12th-early 13th century by King Jayavarman VII
- Original Deity: Buddhist (but Hindu elements throughout)
- Famous For: 216 serene stone faces on towers
- Architecture: 54 towers with four faces each (representing Avalokiteshvara)
- Size: Angkor Thom city: 9 square km; Bayon temple center
- Significance: Represents transition from Hinduism to Buddhism
Karthika Masam Spiritual Experience:
- Face Meditation: 216 faces create powerful meditative atmosphere
- Churning of Ocean Bas-relief: Hindu mythology in Buddhist temple
- Terrace of Elephants: Royal viewing platform with Hindu motifs
- Terrace of Leper King: Hindu god of death (Yama) representations
- Baphuon Temple: Shiva temple within Angkor Thom
What to Expect:
- Massive stone faces gazing in all directions
- Narrow passages between towers
- Intricate bas-reliefs of Khmer life and Hindu myths
- Central location in ancient city
- Less crowded than Angkor Wat
- Atmospheric ruins
Karthika Deepam Activity:
- Sunset meditation amidst faces (5:30 PM)
- Personal lamp lighting if permitted
- Quiet contemplation
3. Phnom Bakheng
Why Visit: Pre-Angkor Wat temple-mountain, first temple built in Angkor area, offering spectacular sunset views perfect for Karthika Deepam celebrations.
Temple Details:
- Location: Hill near Angkor Wat
- Built: Late 9th-early 10th century (889-910 CE) by King Yasovarman I
- Original Deity: Shiva (Shiva lingam at summit)
- Architecture: Temple mountain with 109 towers (most collapsed)
- Significance: First major temple at Angkor; represents Mount Meru
- Climb: 20-minute uphill walk or elephant ride
- Famous For: Sunset views over Angkor Wat and jungle
- Capacity: Limited to 300 people at summit (arrive early)
Karthika Masam Significance:
- Original Shiva Temple: Pure Shaivite worship site
- Karthika Deepam (12 Dec 2025):
- Perfect sunset location (5:30-6:00 PM)
- Personal lamp lighting on ancient Shiva temple
- 360-degree views of Angkor forests
- Spiritual energy of first Angkor temple
- Meditation: Quieter than main temples, powerful vibration
What to Expect:
- Steep climb (20 mins) – wear good shoes
- Elephant rides available (ethical concerns)
- Sunset crowds (arrive by 4:30 PM for space)
- Limited capacity enforced
- Ruins more weathered than Angkor Wat
- Panoramic views worth the climb
Tips:
- Visit early morning instead (6:00 AM) – empty, peaceful, sunrise
- Bring flashlight for descent if staying till dark
- Water essential (no vendors on hill)
4. Preah Khan Temple
Why Visit: Massive monastic complex built by Buddhist king but containing significant Shiva shrines. Perfect for understanding Hindu-Buddhist coexistence.
Temple Details:
- Location: 2 km northeast of Angkor Thom
- Built: 12th century (1191) by King Jayavarman VII
- Original Purpose: Buddhist monastery, but Hindu shrines included
- Size: 56 hectares (huge complex)
- Dedication: To king’s father (as Lokeshvara) but Shiva shrines present
- Significance: Housed 1,000 teachers, 97,840 attendants
- Status: Partially restored, atmospheric ruins
Karthika Masam Exploration:
- Shiva Linga Shrines: Multiple within complex
- Hall of Dancers: Apsaras (celestial dancers) – Hindu concept
- Two-story Pavilion: Unique circular structure
- Tree Growth: Massive trees growing through ruins
- Quiet Atmosphere: Fewer tourists than main temples
What to Expect:
- Labyrinthine passages
- Trees intertwined with stones
- Multiple gates and towers
- Sanskrit inscriptions
- Relatively quiet for meditation
- 2-3 hours to explore thoroughly
Karthika Deepam:
- Meditate in quiet courtyards
- Offer flowers at lingam shrines
- Peaceful evening walk through ruins
5. Ta Prohm Temple (“Tomb Raider Temple”)
Why Visit: Famous for massive trees growing through ruins, creating mystical atmosphere. Originally a Buddhist monastery but with Hindu elements.
Temple Details:
- Location: 1 km east of Angkor Thom
- Built: 1186 CE by King Jayavarman VII
- Original Deity: Prajnaparamita (Buddha’s mother), but Hindu deities included
- Famous For: Giant spung trees (Tetrameles nudiflora) and fig trees engulfing structures
- Pop Culture: Featured in “Tomb Raider” movie (2001)
- Conservation: Deliberately left partially unrestored to show nature’s power
- Size: 1 square kilometer complex
Karthika Masam Mystique:
- Nature-Temple Fusion: Trees and stones create spiritual atmosphere
- Hindu Reliefs: Apsaras, devas, Hindu mythology throughout
- Quiet Corners: Find secluded spots for meditation
- Photographic: Most atmospheric temple for photography
- Evening Magic: Late afternoon light through trees (4:00-5:30 PM)
What to Expect:
- Very popular (Tomb Raider fame) – arrive early
- Narrow passages with massive tree roots
- “Strangler fig” trees iconic photo spots
- Hot and humid inside ruins
- 1-2 hours to explore
- Wheelchair/stroller difficult (uneven stones)
Karthika Deepam Activity:
- Personal meditation in tree-filled courtyards
- Appreciate nature as manifestation of Shiva
- Quiet evening photography
6. Banteay Srei (“Citadel of Women”)
Why Visit: Exquisite pink sandstone temple dedicated to Shiva, considered finest example of Khmer art. Small but perfectly preserved with intricate carvings.
Temple Details:
- Location: 25 km northeast of Siem Reap (45 min drive)
- Built: 967 CE (10th century) – predates Angkor Wat
- Deity: Dedicated to Shiva (Tribhuvanamahesvara)
- Architecture: Pink/red sandstone (unique color)
- Size: Smaller than main Angkor temples
- Significance: Finest Khmer carvings, remarkably preserved
- Name: “Citadel of Women” (delicate carvings thought done by women)
- Status: Well-preserved, UNESCO protection
Karthika Masam Significance:
- Pure Shiva Temple: One of best-preserved Shaivite shrines
- Shiva Linga: Central sanctum (restricted access)
- Bas-Reliefs: Hindu mythology perfectly carved
- Shiva dancing (Nataraja)
- Ravana shaking Mount Kailash
- Stories from Mahabharata and Ramayana
- Pink Sandstone: Glows beautifully at sunrise/sunset
What to Expect:
- Most intricate carvings in all Angkor
- Pink sandstone creates warm glow
- Smaller scale (walk through in 1 hour)
- Ropes prevent close approach to reliefs (preservation)
- Less crowded than main temples
- Morning light best for photography (7:00-9:00 AM)
Karthika Masam Activities:
- Sunrise visit (6:00 AM) for best light and solitude
- Study Shiva mythology in carvings
- Meditate on Shiva’s cosmic dance
- Personal prayers at barrier (can’t enter sanctum)
How to Reach:
- 45 minutes from Siem Reap
- Usually combined with other distant temples
- Tuk-tuk: USD 25-30 including Kbal Spean
- Organized tour: USD 40-60
7. Beng Mealea
Why Visit: Massive, atmospheric ruin largely unrestored, surrounded by jungle. One of most mysterious and least touristy major temples.
Temple Details:
- Location: 40 km east of Siem Reap (1.5 hour drive)
- Built: Early-mid 12th century (same era as Angkor Wat)
- Original Deity: Vishnu, but Shiva shrines present
- Size: Same layout as Angkor Wat (smaller scale)
- Status: Largely unrestored, overgrown
- Access: Wooden walkways over collapsed stones
- Atmosphere: Indiana Jones adventure feel
Karthika Masam Adventure:
- Remote Meditation: Far fewer tourists
- Jungle Temple: Nature reclaiming human creation
- Collapsed Galleries: Walk over and through ruins
- Spiritual Solitude: Find quiet corners for contemplation
- Photography: Atmospheric ruins and tree growth
What to Expect:
- Requires good physical fitness (climbing over ruins)
- Very atmospheric and adventurous
- 2-3 hours to explore
- Bring water and snacks (no facilities)
- Wear sturdy shoes
- Best in dry season (rainy season muddy)
Karthika Deepam:
- Personal meditation in remote sanctum
- Connect with ancient Hindu devotion
- Peaceful jungle sounds
How to Reach:
- 1.5 hours from Siem Reap
- Often combined with Banteay Srei
- Private car best: USD 35-50
- Tuk-tuk possible but long ride
8. Phnom Kulen (Kulen Mountain)
Why Visit: Sacred mountain with ancient Shiva lingas carved in riverbed, waterfalls, and reclining Buddha. Considered birthplace of Khmer Empire.
Temple Details:
- Location: 50 km north of Siem Reap (1.5-2 hours)
- Significance: Birthplace of Angkor Empire (802 CE)
- Features:
- 1,000 Lingas carved in Siem Reap River bed (Kbal Spean)
- Preah Ang Thom (16m reclining Buddha)
- Waterfalls (Phnom Kulen waterfall)
- Ancient quarries (sandstone for Angkor temples)
- Entry Fee: USD 20 (separate from Angkor Pass)
- Sacred: Pilgrimage site for Cambodians
Karthika Masam Spirituality:
- 1,000 Lingas: Shiva lingas and yonis carved in riverbed
- Water flows over lingas before feeding Angkor temples
- Sacred water blessed by Shiva symbols
- Unique underwater carving art
- Mountain Pilgrimage: Ascend sacred mountain
- Waterfall Blessings: Natural beauty enhances spirituality
- Original Devaraja: Where god-king cult began
What to Expect:
- Full day trip from Siem Reap
- Swimming at waterfall (bring swimsuit)
- Walk to river carvings (30 mins through forest)
- Reclining Buddha visit
- Picnic areas (bring lunch)
- Popular with Cambodian pilgrims (especially weekends)
- November-December: Good water flow, pleasant weather
Karthika Masam Special:
- Kbal Spean (“River of 1,000 Lingas”):
- Walk 1.5 km uphill through forest
- View Shiva lingas carved in riverbed
- Water flows over sacred symbols
- Perfect for Karthika Masam meditation
- Offer flowers in sacred river
How to Reach:
- 2 hours from Siem Reap
- Private car: USD 50-70 (full day)
- Motorbike/scooter rental: USD 10-15/day (adventurous option)
- Organized tour: USD 60-80
KAMPONG THOM PROVINCE
9. Sambor Prei Kuk
Why Visit: Pre-Angkor temples (7th century), oldest in Cambodia, dedicated to Shiva. UNESCO World Heritage Site with pristine forest setting.
Temple Details:
- Location: Kampong Thom Province (140 km from Siem Reap)
- Built: Early 7th century (600-650 CE) – predates Angkor by 200+ years
- Dynasty: Chenla Kingdom capital (Ishanapura)
- Deity: Shiva (one of earliest Cambodian Shiva temples)
- UNESCO: World Heritage Site (2017)
- Size: 100+ temples spread across forest
- Architecture: Brick temples (older than Angkor’s sandstone)
- Significance: Shows transition to Khmer Hindu architecture
Karthika Masam Significance:
- Pure Shaivite Temples: Dedicated entirely to Shiva
- Ancient Energy: Oldest surviving Hindu temples in Cambodia
- Shiva Linga: Original lingam shrines (some intact)
- Quiet Pilgrimage: Very few tourists
- Forest Setting: Peaceful meditation environment
- Historical Depth: Connect with earliest Cambodian Hinduism
What to Expect:
- Three main temple groups (North, South, Central)
- Flying palace carvings (unique octagonal temples)
- Dense forest setting
- Landmine-cleared paths (stay on marked trails!)
- Very few tourists (off beaten path)
- 3-4 hours to see all groups
- Basic facilities only
Karthika Deepam:
- Authentic Shiva temple meditation
- Quiet forest environment
- Personal devotion without crowds
- Connect with ancient roots of Khmer Hinduism
How to Reach:
- From Siem Reap: 3 hours drive (140 km)
- From Phnom Penh: 3 hours (150 km)
- Option 1: Day trip from either city
- Option 2: Overnight in Kampong Thom town
- Transport: Private car USD 70-90; bus to Kampong Thom + tuk-tuk
PHNOM PENH
10. Phnom Da and Angkor Borei
Why Visit: Very ancient pre-Angkor sites (6th century), considered earliest Hindu temples in Cambodia. For serious archaeological and spiritual enthusiasts.
Temple Details:
- Location: Takeo Province (110 km south of Phnom Penh)
- Built: 6th century CE (Funan Kingdom period)
- Significance: Oldest Hindu remains in Cambodia
- Phnom Da: Hilltop Shiva temple (sandstone)
- Angkor Borei: Ancient Funan capital archaeological site
- Status: Remote, rarely visited, minimal restoration
Karthika Masam for Devoted Pilgrims:
- Earliest roots of Cambodian Hinduism
- Off-the-beaten-path spiritual journey
- Connect with very ancient Shiva worship
- Archaeological interest combined with devotion
Challenge:
- Difficult access (boat required for some)
- Very remote (local guide essential)
- Minimal facilities
- For adventurous pilgrims only
- Consider only if extended Cambodia stay
Modern Hindu Worship in Cambodia
Small Hindu Community
Phnom Penh Hindu Mandir:
- Location: Phnom Penh city
- Community: Small Indian expat community
- Services: Regular pujas, festivals
- Karthika Masam: Small celebration possible
- Contact: Through Indian Embassy or expat groups
Siem Reap:
- Small Indian restaurant/hotel owner community
- No formal temple
- Private worship only
Important Note: Don’t expect large Karthika Masam celebrations like India. Cambodia offers historical/spiritual tourism more than active religious festivals.
Planning Your Karthika Masam Cambodia Pilgrimage
Suggested Itineraries
Angkor-Focused Spiritual Tour (5-7 Days):
- Day 1: Arrive Siem Reap, rest, orientation
- Day 2: Angkor Wat sunrise, Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm
- Day 3: Banteay Srei, Banteay Samre, local temples
- Day 4: Phnom Kulen (Kbal Spean linga river)
- Day 5: Beng Mealea, Preah Khan
- Day 6: Phnom Bakheng sunset, personal meditation
- Day 7: Karthika Deepam personal ceremony, depart
Complete Cambodia Hindu Heritage (10-14 Days):
- Days 1-6: Angkor temples (Siem Reap)
- Days 7-8: Sambor Prei Kuk (Kampong Thom)
- Days 9-11: Phnom Penh (city, museums, optional Phnom Da)
- Days 12-14: Relax/beach (Sihanoukville) or depart
Hardcore Ancient Pilgrimage (14-21 Days):
- All above plus:
- Remote temples (Preah Vihear, Koh Ker)
- Extended meditation time at each site
- Deeper archaeological study
Practical Information for Cambodia
Visa Requirements
Visa on Arrival:
- Tourist Visa: USD 30 (30 days)
- E-Visa: USD 36 (apply online, faster)
- Requirements: Passport (6 months validity), passport photo
- Airports: Siem Reap (Angkor) or Phnom Penh
- Land borders: Most crossings issue visas
Extension:
- Possible in Phnom Penh
- USD 45-75 depending on type
Angkor Pass (Essential)
Temple Pass Options:
- 1-Day Pass: USD 37
- 3-Day Pass: USD 62 (valid within 10 days)
- 7-Day Pass: USD 72 (valid within 1 month)
- Purchase: Angkor Enterprise ticket offices (multiple locations)
- Hours: 5:00 AM – 5:30 PM (box office), temples open 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Photo: Taken at ticket office (part of pass)
- Checking: Guards check at each temple entrance
What’s Included:
- All Angkor Archaeological Park temples
- Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, etc.
- Does NOT include: Phnom Kulen, Beng Mealea, Kbal Spean (separate fees)
Recommendation for Karthika Masam:
- 7-Day Pass: Best value if staying week for devotional practices
- Allows multiple sunrise/sunset visits to same temples
Currency and Money
Cambodian Riel (KHR) and US Dollar (USD):
- Dual currency: USD widely accepted (preferred)
- Exchange: USD 1 = 4,000-4,100 KHR (approximate)
- Small Change: Given in riel
- ATMs: Dispense USD, widely available in Siem Reap/Phnom Penh
- Credit Cards: Major hotels/restaurants only
- Cash: Essential for temples, tuk-tuks, street vendors
Typical Costs:
- Tuk-tuk day: USD 15-25
- Meal: USD 2-10 (street food to restaurant)
- Water: USD 0.50-1
- Temple entrance (outside Angkor): USD 2-20
- Accommodation: USD 5-200+ (hostel to luxury)
Accommodation
Siem Reap (Near Angkor):
Budget:
- Hostels: USD 3-10/night (dorm)
- Guesthouses: USD 10-25/night (private room)
- Pub Street area: Cheap but noisy
Mid-Range:
- Hotels: USD 30-80/night
- Near Old Market/Pub Street
- Swimming pool, A/C, breakfast included
Luxury:
- Resorts: USD 100-500+/night
- Sofitel, Raffles, Amansara, etc.
- Near temples or riverside
Best Area for Spiritual Stay:
- Away from Pub Street (party zone)
- Near Old Market (quiet but accessible)
- Riverside (peaceful)
Phnom Penh:
- Similar price range
- Stay near Royal Palace or riverside
Food
Khmer Cuisine:
- Amok: Coconut curry (fish or vegetarian)
- Lok Lak: Stir-fried dish (beef typically, ask for tofu)
- Spring Rolls: Fresh rice paper rolls
- Fried Rice/Noodles: Widely available
- Tropical Fruits: Abundant and cheap
Vegetarian Challenges:
- Khmer food often contains fish sauce/paste
- Say: “Ot sach, ot trei” (No meat, no fish)
- Better: “Som jay” (vegetarian/vegan in Khmer)
- Indian restaurants in Siem Reap (safe option)
- Happy Cow app: Find veg restaurants
Vegetarian Restaurants (Siem Reap):
- Vibe Cafe (organic vegetarian)
- Chamkar Restaurant (organic Khmer)
- India restaurants (multiple)
- Many cafes offer veg options
Transportation
In Siem Reap:
- Tuk-Tuk: Most common (USD 15-25/day including waiting)
- Bicycle: Rent USD 2-5/day (temples close, hot riding)
- E-bike/Scooter: USD 8-15/day (easier than bicycle)
- Car with Driver: USD 35-60/day (comfortable, A/C)
- Organized Tours: USD 30-80 (group or private)
Sunrise Tuk-Tuk:
- Arrange night before
- Pick up 4:30-5:00 AM
- Driver waits, returns you to hotel
- USD 15-20 (same as day rate)
Between Cities:
- Bus: Comfortable, cheap (Siem Reap-Phnom Penh USD 8-15, 6 hours)
- Private Car: USD 80-120 (flexible, comfortable)
- Domestic Flight: Siem Reap-Phnom Penh (USD 60-100, 1 hour)
Climate and What to Pack
November-December Weather:
- Best Season: Cool and dry
- Temperature: 22-30°C (72-86°F)
- Humidity: Lower than rainy season
- Rain: Minimal (dry season beginning)
- Sunrise: ~5:45 AM
- Sunset: ~5:30 PM
What to Pack:
- Lightweight clothes: Cotton, breathable
- Temple-appropriate:
- Covering shoulders and knees
- Loose pants/skirt
- Shawl/scarf (for covering up)
- Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses
- Comfortable shoes: Much walking on uneven stones
- Flashlight: Early morning/late evening temples
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated (refill stations at temples)
- Small backpack: Day trips
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes (dengue risk)
- First aid kit: Basic medicines
For Spiritual Practice:
- Small oil lamps (if allowed – check)
- Flowers for offerings
- Incense (check regulations)
- Meditation shawl
- Prayer beads (mala)
- Travel puja kit (compact)
Health and Safety
Vaccinations Recommended:
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Japanese Encephalitis (if extended rural stay)
- Routine vaccines up-to-date
Health Precautions:
- Water: Never drink tap water (bottled widely available)
- Food: Eat hot, freshly cooked food
- Mosquitoes: Dengue and malaria risk (repellent, long sleeves evening)
- Sun: Heat exhaustion risk (hydrate, rest midday)
- Pharmacies: Available in Siem Reap (basic medicines)
- Hospitals: International clinics in Siem Reap/Phnom Penh
Safety:
- Cambodia generally safe for tourists
- Petty theft possible (watch bags, phones)
- Scams exist (overcharging foreign
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