KH
Cambodia
Cambodia, officially the Kingdom of Cambodia, is a country in Mainland Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Thailand to the northwest, Laos to the north, and Vietnam to the east, and has a coastline along the Gulf of Thailand in the southwest. It spans an area of about 181,035 km2 (69,898 sq mi), dominated by a low-lying plain and the confluence of the Mekong river and Tonlé Sap, Southeast Asia's largest lake. It is dominated by a tropical climate. Cambodia has a population of about 17 million people, the majority of whom are ethnically Khmer.
- Capital
- Phnom Penh
- Currency
- KHR
- Population
- 17,423,880
- Coordinates
- 12.5000, 105.0000
Traveler Guide
Travel & Tourism Guide for Cambodia
Cambodia (KH) is a distinctive destination home to approximately 17,423,880 residents, with its capital city of Phnom Penh serving as the principal gateway for international arrivals, cultural institutions, and commerce at coordinates (12.50°, 105.00°), operating with KHR as the national currency.
Best Time to Visit & Climate
December to April (Northern Tropical Dry Season)
Situated in the equatorial belt (latitude 12.50°), Cambodia experiences lower rainfall and more comfortable humidity levels during these months, making overland transit and coastal or nature excursions much easier.
Key Traveler Essentials
- Currency: KHR
- Language: Official national language of Cambodia; English spoken in major hotels and airports
- Emergency: 117 (Police), 119 (Ambulance), 118 (Fire)
- Power Plugs: Standard national power sockets (typically 220–240V; universal adapter recommended)
Top Attractions & Highlights
Historic Core & National Museums of Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh anchors Cambodia's cultural landscape with national museums, civic monuments, and historic quarters.
Natural Reserves & Scenic Landscapes of Cambodia
Beyond Phnom Penh, regional parks and natural corridors showcase Cambodia's topography, biodiversity, and outdoor trails.
Traditional Markets & Cultural Districts in Phnom Penh
Experience everyday culinary traditions, regional produce, and local craftsmanship across Phnom Penh's bustling markets.
Getting Around & Transport
International access to Cambodia centers on gateway terminals serving Phnom Penh, supported by intercity highway coaches, municipal public transport, metered taxis, and private car hire for regional travel.
- Phnom Penh serves as the primary multimodal hub linking international flights with overland routes across Cambodia.
- Licensed municipal taxis and regional ride-hailing services provide reliable door-to-door urban transit in Phnom Penh.
- Renting a car or booking a private transfer offers the best flexibility for exploring countryside sights outside Phnom Penh.
Essential Tips & Local Etiquette
Managing Expenses in KHR
The national currency is KHR. Carry sufficient local cash for markets and short transit rides alongside credit cards accepted at major hotels in Phnom Penh.
Emergency Contacts & Safety
The official emergency dispatch in Cambodia is 117 (Police), 119 (Ambulance), 118 (Fire). Save these numbers before arrival and keep identification accessible.
Local Etiquette & Time Zone
Observe respectful dress and photography etiquette at heritage sites, and align transit schedules with the local time zone (UTC).
Budget, Logistics & Entry Planning for Cambodia
Daily Budget & KHR Currency Strategy
Official transactions across Cambodia are conducted in KHR. Balance your travel budget between international bank cards for hotels and intercity transport and local KHR cash for municipal transit, markets, and daily dining in Phnom Penh.
Gateway Arrival & Urban Infrastructure
Cambodia has a population of approximately 17,423,880, with Phnom Penh serving as the primary administrative and international aviation hub operating on the UTC time zone.
Safety Preparedness & Official Emergency Contacts
Store Cambodia's verified emergency dispatch numbers (117 (Police), 119 (Ambulance), 118 (Fire)) in your phone prior to departure, and keep digital copies of your passport, entry documentation, and accommodation address in Phnom Penh.
Seasonal Scheduling & Peak Booking Windows
Optimal weather conditions align with December to April (Northern Tropical Dry Season). When visiting Cambodia during national holidays or peak seasonal windows, confirm accommodation and intercity transit reservations several weeks in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Cambodia
What is the official currency in Cambodia and how should I plan payments?
The official currency of Cambodia is KHR. Use the interactive currency converter on this page to benchmark daily costs against USD, EUR, GBP, and regional currencies, and carry local cash alongside bank cards.
What are the official emergency numbers in Cambodia?
Verified emergency dispatch numbers in Cambodia are: 117 (Police), 119 (Ambulance), 118 (Fire). These lines connect travelers to local police, medical ambulance, and fire rescue services.
When is the best time of year to visit Cambodia and Phnom Penh?
The most favorable travel window for Cambodia is December to April (Northern Tropical Dry Season), when ambient temperatures and daylight hours best support sightseeing in Phnom Penh and regional nature reserves.
How do travelers get between Phnom Penh and regional cities in Cambodia?
Phnom Penh functions as the primary transport hub connecting regional cities via intercity highway coaches, rail corridors where available, private transfers, or domestic flights. Select any city guide below for specific airport and ground transit details.
Travel Essentials & Currency
Currency & Travel Essentials for Cambodia
Quick currency calculator and emergency hotline guide for a hassle-free trip to Cambodia.
Quick Currency Calculator
Official national currency is KHR. Calculate exchange conversions below:
* Exchange rates are indicative and subject to market rates and banking fees.
Emergency & Payment Tips
117 (Police), 119 (Ambulance), 118 (Fire)
(Police, Ambulance & Fire Rescue — toll-free 24/7 service)Payment & Banking Guidelines:
- 💳 Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, and digital wallets (Apple Pay) are widely accepted across hotels and retailers.
- 💵 Cash: Keep small cash bills handy for local souqs, small taxis, and casual tipping.
- 🏧 ATMs: ATMs are readily available throughout international airports, metro stations, and shopping malls.
