A Sneek Peek to Cambodia’s Rich Culture
29-Jan-2023
Cambodia offers a rich cultural experience for visitors, with a deep history and a diverse array of traditional customs and practices. But more than anything, you’ll experience authentic friendliness and positive energy from the people of Cambodia. One fun fact about Cambodia that makes it different from almost all other countries in Asia: When a couple gets married, it’s more common for the husband to move in with the wife and her family than the other way around.
Some of the cultural highlights of Cambodia include:
1. Angkor Wat: This ancient temple complex is one of the most famous landmarks in Southeast Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a must-see for any visitor to Cambodia, as it offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history and both Buddhist and Hindu religious traditions.
2. Royal Palace: The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh is an impressive complex that serves as the residence of the King of Cambodia. Visitors can explore the palace grounds and see the Silver Pagoda, which is adorned with over 5,000 silver tiles.
3. Apsara Dance: The Apsara dance is a traditional Cambodian dance that is performed by women dressed in elaborate costumes. It is usually performed as part of religious ceremonies or cultural events, and it is a beautiful way to experience Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.
4. Cambodian Traditional Music and instruments: Cambodian traditional music is an integral part of the country’s culture, and visitors can experience it by attending a traditional music performance or by taking a class to learn to play an instrument such as the xylophone or the bamboo flute.
5. Local Festivals: Cambodia is home to many festivals throughout the year, such as the Water Festival, which is celebrated in November and marks the end of the rainy season. The festival is marked by boat races, music, and fireworks. Another example is the Bon Om Touk, or the Cambodian Water Festival, which is held annually in Phnom Penh and marks the reversal of the flow of the Tonle Sap River.
6. Local Markets: Local markets in Cambodia offer a glimpse into the daily life of Cambodians and are a great place to find traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs.
7. Cambodian cuisine: Cambodian cuisine is a blend of Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese influences, and it is known for its use of herbs and spices. Visitors can sample traditional dishes such as Amok, a fish curry steamed in banana leaves, or Lok lak, a dish of marinated beef served with vegetables and rice.
These are just a few examples of the cultural experiences that Cambodia has to offer. Visitors can also find many other ways to learn about and engage with the culture, such as visiting local communities, learning about the country’s history and visiting museums.