If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, you can experience its rich culture without breaking the bank. With stunning temples, lush landscapes, and mouth-watering street food, budget travelers can easily explore this beautiful country. Here’s your essential budget breakdown for an unforgettable Cambodian adventure.
To get to Cambodia, the most cost-effective method is to fly into Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), where budget airlines like AirAsia and Jetstar often have round-trip fares starting at around $100-150 USD from nearby Asian cities. Once in the capital, you can use the local bus network or tuk-tuks to navigate around. The Number 03 or 05 bus lines connect the airport to central locations for a mere 2,000 KHR (about $0.50 USD).
For intercity travel, take the Giant Ibis bus service from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap for about 30,000 KHR ($7.50 USD). The scenic six-hour ride includes a complimentary snack and Wi-Fi. In cities, tuk-tuks are a popular option; negotiate your fare before getting in, typically costing around 3,000-15,000 KHR ($0.75-3.75 USD) depending on distance.
Cambodia offers a range of budget accommodations that won’t strain your wallet. In Phnom Penh, check out the Mad Monkey Hostel on Street 136, where dorm beds start at 10,000 KHR ($2.50 USD) per night. It’s a sociable spot popular with backpackers, featuring a rooftop bar and organized activities.
In Siem Reap, consider staying at The Siem Reap Hostel on Wat Bo Street with dorms around 8,500 KHR ($2.15 USD). It’s centrally located and has a pool, a perfect place to unwind after a long day exploring Angkor Wat. For more privacy, guesthouses like Golden Temple Villa offer budget rooms starting at 25,000 KHR ($6.25 USD) and include breakfast.
Food in Cambodia is both delicious and affordable. Street food stalls are ubiquitous and a meal can be as cheap as 3,000 KHR ($0.75 USD). Try the iconic fish amok, a coconut fish curry typically found in local markets; you can get a generous serving for about 10,000 KHR ($2.50 USD) at places like the Old Market in Siem Reap. For breakfast, look for a bowl of kuy teav (noodle soup) for around 5,000 KHR ($1.25 USD) from street vendors.
Don’t miss dining at local restaurants such as Khmer Family Restaurant in Siem Reap, where you can enjoy traditional dishes for 10,000-15,000 KHR ($2.50-3.75 USD). In Phnom Penh, head to the Riverside area for affordable eateries that serve grilled meats and rice, which cost only about 7,000 KHR ($1.75 USD). For those looking for a cold drink, grab a fresh coconut for about 5,000 KHR ($1.25 USD) at any roadside stall.
No trip to Cambodia is complete without visiting the Angkor Wat temple complex in Siem Reap. The entrance fee is 37,000 KHR ($9.25 USD) for a one-day pass, but consider getting a three-day pass for 112,500 KHR ($28 USD) to fully appreciate the sprawling site. Rent a bicycle for around 3,000 KHR ($0.75 USD) per day to explore at your own pace or join a sunrise tour for an unforgettable experience.
In Phnom Penh, visit the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, where entry costs 5,000 KHR ($1.25 USD). Take a tuk-tuk to the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, which is about 15,000 KHR ($3.75 USD) for the ride and the entrance fee is 3,000 KHR ($0.75 USD). Both sites provide deep insight into Cambodia's tragic history.
Budget travel in Cambodia is feasible with careful planning. Here are a few essential tips:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bicycle rental | 3,000 KHR | Per day in Siem Reap |
| Angkor Wat one-day pass | 37,000 KHR | Explore the temple complex |
| Fish amok at local market | 10,000 KHR | Traditional Cambodian curry |
| Tuk-tuk ride in Phnom Penh | 15,000 KHR | Average fare for short distances |
| Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum | 5,000 KHR | Entry fee |
| Fresh coconut | 5,000 KHR | Refreshing drink widely available |
| Guesthouse room in Siem Reap | 25,000 KHR | Private room with breakfast |
The best time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season, from November to February, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for exploring. Prices for accommodation and activities may also be slightly higher during peak tourist season, but it’s a great time to get the best experiences. For lower prices, consider visiting in the shoulder months of October or March, where discounts may be more readily available.
For a week-long stay, budget travelers might consider bringing around $200-300 USD in cash. This amount will cover accommodation, food, transportation, and some entrance fees. However, ATMs and currency exchanges are widely available in cities, allowing you to withdraw or exchange money as needed, but always check for withdrawal fees associated with your bank.
Traveler comments
Add a route note, correction, timing tip or question for this guide.