Reasons Cambodia Should Be Top of Your List in 2025
Cambodia is projected to attract up to 7.5 million international tourists in 2025, and there are many reasons why you should go.
Recently, the Khmer Times reported Cambodia received 6.7 million foreign visitors in 2024, a year-on-year increase of 23 percent, adding that the country earned a gross revenue of $3.63 billion from the tourism industry last year, a year-on-year rise of 18 percent.
“For 2025, we hope the number of international tourists to Cambodia will increase to between 7.2 million and 7.5 million,” Tourism Minister Huot Hak said in a speech during the opening ceremony of the Ministry of Tourism’s annual conference.
Tourism is one of four pillars supporting Cambodia’s economy, in addition to garment export, agriculture, real estate, and construction. The tourism sector contributed about 9.4 percent to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2024, up from 7.5 percent in the year before, said a Ministry of Tourism report, adding that the sector has created 510,000 direct jobs.
Cambodia is a sought-after destination from five top markets: Thailand, Vietnam, China, Laos, and the United States.
The country has four UNESCO-listed world heritage sites: the Angkor Archaeological Park in the northwest Siem Reap province, the Temple Zone of Sambor Prei Kuk in the central Kampong Thom province, and the Temple of Preah Vihear and the Koh Ker archaeological site in the northwest Preah Vihear province.
Additionally, it has a pristine coastline stretching about 450 km in four southwest provinces. This is a lesser-known fact about the nation as its iconic ancient temples like Angkor Wat, a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, affordable prices, and friendly locals in a less crowded Southeast Asian destination have made it increasingly popular with travelers in the know.
Top reasons to visit Cambodia in 2025:
- Angkor Wat complex: The world-renowned Angkor Wat temple complex near Siem Reap is a major draw for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Photo opportunities abound, in addition to the serene and haunting atmosphere of one of the world’s architectural wonders.
- Diverse experiences: Beyond Angkor Wat, Cambodia offers options for exploring Phnom Penh’s historical sites, relaxing on pristine beaches in Sihanoukville, visiting floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, and discovering the natural beauty of Kampot.
- Cultural immersion: Cambodian culture is rich and welcoming, with vibrant markets, delicious cuisine, and opportunities to learn about the country’s complex history, including the horrific and sometimes overlooked Khmer Rouge era. As with the oppression of any people, this is a history not to shy away from but to learn and awaken from.
- Affordable travel: Compared to other popular Southeast Asian destinations, Cambodia generally offers good value for money with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation. as a quick guide, a beer in Cambodia will cost you about $1 US.
Are there any gay bars in Cambodia?
Yes, there are several that are recommended by TripAdvisor.
The Rendezvous Bar This LGBTQ-friendly bar is located in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Space Hair Salon and Bar
Barcode in Siem Reap is described as a chic and cozy lounge and is highly recommended. Miss Wong, Blue Chilli Bar, The L Bar, POPP (Pride of Phnom Penh), and QG Nightclub are others we have seen mentioned as good places to meet LGBTQ+ people.
Is there a gayborhood?
Cambodia has LGBTQIA+ communities in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, with bars, clubs, and other venues. These cities are considered queer-friendly, and many LGBTQ+ visitors feel welcome. However, many LGBTQ+ Cambodians experience discrimination. Overall, Phnom Penh, the capital city has a large queer scene, while Siem Reap has a well-established LGBTQIA+ scene, including bars, cafes, hotels, and saunas. Battambang, a lesser-known city, has a tolerant reputation and is worth visiting.
What are the rights of LGBTQ people in Cambodia?
Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Cambodia, but the country does not actively protect LGBTQ rights. LGBTQ people in Cambodia can face discrimination, stigma, and exclusion, and public displays of affection are generally frowned upon as it is a socially conservative Asian country. Many Cambodians are accepting of sexualities and identities outside of the hetero-cis binary. However, they often view these identities as something that can be changed or that develop due to trauma and, therefore, are unfortunate.
LGBTQ+ rights at a glance:
- Same-sex marriage is not legal
- There is no anti-discrimination legislation
- There are no sanctions for violating the rights of LGBTQ people
- LGBTQ people often experience social pressure to enter heterosexual marriages
- Gender expression is expected to align with sex that was assigned at birth
- In at least 15 provinces, same-sex couples can enter into a civil contract. The “Declaration of Family Relationship” is a civil contract that documents a relationship between two people
Are there LGBTQ+ tour organizers, organizations and events in Cambodia?
Some LGBTQ+-friendly tour operators include Out Adventures, Zoom Vacations, and HE Travel have 2025 itineraries.
LGBTQ organizations and activists are able to operate freely in the country. The LGBT+ community is becoming more visible through gay clubs, club nights, and the work of some human rights organizations. The Rainbow Community Kampuchea (RoCK) has created a formal relationship registry program.
Does Cambodia have Pride?
Pride parades have been held in Cambodia since 2003, and have been gaining traction every year. Cambodia celebrates Pride in May and June. In 2024, the Pride Fest was held on Saturday, June 29 at Factory Phnom Penh. Pride Week was also held in Siem Reap and Battambang and included events like community runs, bike rides, film festivals, education, workshops, parties, concerts, and Pride brunches. Follow Pride Cambodia on Facebook.
