Cambodia, a country rich in history and culture, offers travelers a unique blend of ancient temples, bustling cities, and stunning natural landscapes. Known for the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex, Cambodia attracts millions of visitors every year who wish to explore its cultural heritage. From the dynamic capital of Phnom Penh to the tranquil riverside town of Kampot, Cambodia offers a variety of experiences for everyone.

If you plan to visit Cambodia, it is important to understand several aspects related to visa types and the regulations in place. Having the right information will ensure that your trip goes smoothly without any unexpected obstacles. Here is a guide that will help you plan your trip to Cambodia and ensure you are prepared with all the necessary requirements.

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Cambodia has a fairly simple entry and exit procedure for tourists. To enter Cambodia, you need to show a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months from the date of arrival. Also make sure you have a return ticket or continue your journey to another country.

The process of leaving Cambodia is also relatively easy. You only need to show your passport and departure ticket at the airport. Make sure there are no items that violate customs regulations when leaving the country.

Indonesian tourists still need a visa that can be applied for online or upon arrival. In addition, an e-VOA is available for $30 (around Rp491 thousand) through the application with the Fast Track Visa service option to speed up the process.

In addition, foreign tourists who wish to enter Cambodia are now required to fill out the Cambodia e-Arrival Card (CeA) at least one week before arrival by air at Phnom Penh or Siem Reap Airport. This system replaces paper forms for immigration, health, and customs, and simplifies the arrival process.

How to Fill Out the CeA Card:

1. Access the arrival.gov.kh website or the e-Arrival application on 2. the App Store/Google Play.

3. Select "foreign visitor."

4. Fill in personal data, passport, arrival information, and health.

5. Upload a passport photo.

6. Get a QR code to show upon arrival.

Note: Visitors entering by land, sea, or Sihanoukville Airport will still use the paper form.

When entering Cambodia, it is important to understand the applicable customs regulations. Here are some important points to note:

Entry Process: Upon arrival in Cambodia, you will go through immigration. Prepare the necessary documents, including your passport, visa, and return ticket. The immigration officer will check your documents and stamp your passport. This process is usually quick, but it is advisable to wait patiently in line.

Exit Process: When you leave Cambodia, be sure to arrive at the airport early. You will also need to go through security and immigration. Be sure to show your departure ticket and passport to the officer. Also, double-check your belongings to make sure there are no prohibited items left.

Cambodia, a country known for its rich historical heritage, offers a unique cultural experience for travelers. If you are planning to visit Cambodia, it is important to understand the local culture and customs. Here are some aspects of Cambodian culture that you should know.

Cambodia has social norms that every visitor should respect. One of the main customs is the “salaam,” which is the act of putting your palms together in front of your chest as a sign of respect. When interacting with locals, use polite greetings such as “Lok Yeay” for women and “Lok” for men.

When visiting sacred places, such as temples and pagodas, it is important to dress modestly. Make sure to cover your shoulders and knees. Additionally, you should remove your shoes before entering a temple. Show respect by not talking loudly or making noise while in a sacred environment.

As a tourist, you need to understand the laws and regulations that apply in Cambodia. While many of the laws are similar to other countries, there are a few things to keep in mind. Drug use in Cambodia is strictly prohibited and carries severe penalties. In addition, violent or sexual harassment behavior is also strictly enforced.

Cambodia also has strict regulations regarding the use of Buddha images. Depicting or trading items that are considered derogatory to Buddhism can result in legal consequences. Therefore, always be careful when taking photos or purchasing items related to culture and religion.

Cambodia is a country with a majority Buddhist population, especially the Theravada sect. You will see many temples and pagodas that serve as places of worship. Religious practices in Cambodia involve various rituals, including puja and celebrating festivals such as Pchum Ben, which is a day of honoring ancestral spirits.

When visiting a temple, be respectful of the practices taking place, such as observing services or making donations. If you want to participate, be sure to ask the locals about the proper way to do so.

The official language of Cambodia is Khmer. Although many young people can communicate in English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in Khmer can be very helpful and is appreciated by the locals. Phrases like “suasdey” (hello) and “orb-soray” (thank you) can show your respect for their culture.

Non-verbal communication is also important in Cambodian culture. Facial expressions and body movements can convey a lot of meaning. So pay attention to non-verbal cues when interacting with locals.

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It is important for you to understand the security conditions and some travel tips to make your experience more enjoyable and safe.

Cambodia is a relatively safe country for tourists. However, like in other countries, you should remain aware of some risks that may arise. One issue to watch out for is the crime rate, although it is not as high as in some other countries in Southeast Asia. Cases of pickpocketing and fraud often occur, especially in crowded tourist areas such as markets and public transportation.

In big cities, such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, the presence of police officers is quite significant. However, it is important to remain careful, especially at night. It is best to avoid walking alone in quiet areas, and if necessary, use a taxi or trusted online transportation application.

Here are some tips to stay safe while in Cambodia:

1. Research Before You Go

Take the time to do research about the area you are going to visit. Learn more about the local culture, customs, and language. This will help you adapt more quickly and show respect for the local culture.

2. Choose the Right Accommodation

Choose a hotel or inn that has a good reputation and is safe. Read reviews from previous travelers to get information about safety and quality of service. Hotels that are located in city centers tend to be more accessible and safer.

3. Avoid Conspicuous Behavior

When in Cambodia, it is important to wear modest and discreet clothing. Cambodian society is generally conservative, so wearing appropriate clothing will show respect for their culture. To visit sacred sites such as Angkor Wat, you must wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

4. Use Safe Transportation

Cambodia has a variety of transportation options, from tuk-tuks to motorbikes. However, for comfort and safety, it is advisable to use official public transportation or trusted taxis. If you plan to rent a motorbike, make sure you have a valid license and always wear a helmet.

5. Keep Your Belongings Safe

One of the most important things when traveling is to keep an eye on your valuables. Always keep an eye on your bag and belongings, especially in public places. Use a bag that can be stored safely and avoid carrying unnecessary valuables. If possible, use a bag with a strong zipper.

6. Adapt to the Local Culture

Learn some basic phrases in Cambodian (Khmer) and understand the local etiquette and customs. Respecting local traditions and using the local language will make your interactions with the locals better and show appreciation for their culture.

7. Keep Copies of Important Documents

Before you leave, make copies of your passport, visa, and other important documents. Keep these copies in a separate place from the original documents. This will be very helpful in case of loss or theft.

8. Avoid Dangerous Areas

Know which areas are considered risky, especially at night. If you are unsure about an area, ask locals or hotel staff for advice on safe areas to visit.

9. Beware of Scams

As with any country, scams can occur in Cambodia, so be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, such as tours at ridiculously low prices. Always do your research before purchasing a tour or service.

10. Eat Wisely

Cambodia offers a variety of delicious food, but be sure to choose places to eat that are clean and safe. Avoid food that looks stale and always drink bottled water to avoid health problems.

The following will explain health access in Cambodia, mandatory vaccinations and health, emergency numbers and health contacts, and tips for maintaining health while in Cambodia.

The quality of health services in Cambodia varies. In large cities such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, you can find hospitals and clinics with better facilities compared to rural areas. Some private hospitals in these cities are equipped with modern equipment and trained medical staff, although the cost of treatment in private hospitals can be quite high.

However, in more remote areas, health facilities may be limited, and serious medical conditions may require travel to a large city to receive adequate treatment. Therefore, it is important to consider travel insurance that covers medical costs in case of emergency.

Before leaving, it is important to get vaccinated to protect yourself from diseases that are common in Cambodia. Some vaccines recommended for Indonesian tourists include:

It is best to consult your doctor or a travel health clinic at least four to six weeks before departure to get the necessary vaccinations and more complete health advice.

When traveling in Cambodia, it is important to know the emergency numbers and health contacts to contact if needed. Here are some important numbers:

Health Contacts

Save these numbers in your mobile phone and write them down in an easily accessible place. In case of an emergency, do not hesitate to call emergency services.

Here are some tips that can be done to maintain your health while in Cambodia:

1. Drink Bottled Water: To avoid digestive problems, always drink bottled water. Avoid ice made from tap water, as it can be contaminated.

2. Pay Attention to Food Hygiene: When trying local food, make sure to choose a clean and guaranteed place to eat. Food that is well-cooked and served in clean conditions is safer to consume.

3. Use Mosquito Repellent: Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using mosquito repellent containing DEET, and wear clothing that covers your skin, especially when outdoors at night.

4. Avoid Contact with Animals: Avoiding contact with animals, especially wild animals and dogs, can reduce your risk of contracting diseases such as rabies.

5. Get Enough Rest: Give yourself time to rest and don't overexert yourself in your travel schedule. Being in good physical condition will help you enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

6. Bring Personal Medication: If you have certain health conditions, be sure to bring the medications you need, as well as a copy of your doctor's prescription.

7. Recognize the Symptoms of Illness: Before leaving, learn the symptoms of common illnesses that may appear, such as fever, headache, and rash. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Like many other countries in Southeast Asia, Cambodia also faces challenges related to natural disasters and climate change. Below are the types of natural disasters that frequently occur in Cambodia, the climate that affects the country, and local responses to natural disasters.

Cambodia is located in a region that is prone to various types of natural disasters, especially floods and droughts. The rainy season, which occurs between May and October, often causes devastating floods. During this period, rivers such as the Mekong and Tonle Sap can overflow their banks, causing damage to infrastructure, agricultural land, and threatening the safety of residents.

In addition to flooding, Cambodia is also prone to landslides, especially in hilly areas. Landslides usually occur after heavy rains, which can cause loss of life and property. On the other hand, drought is also a serious problem, especially in agricultural areas that depend on irrigation. Prolonged drought can impact food security and the local economy.

Although Cambodia does not experience frequent earthquakes, there are several historical records of small earthquakes in the region. However, the risk of earthquakes is much lower compared to neighboring countries such as Indonesia.

Cambodia has a tropical climate influenced by two main seasons, namely:

Rainy Season

The rainy season lasts from May to October, with relatively high rainfall, especially in August and September. Average temperatures during this season range from 25°C to 35°C.

Dry Season

The dry season, which lasts from November to April, is characterized by drier weather and higher temperatures, reaching 40°C in some months. During the dry season, many areas experience drought, which can cause hardship for farmers and reduce water supplies.

Climate change is a serious challenge for Cambodia, with rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns impacting the country’s food security and economy. Communities, especially in rural areas, are heavily dependent on agriculture, so the impacts of climate change can be felt directly in their daily lives.

Local responses to natural disasters in Cambodia involve collaboration between government, non-governmental organizations, and local communities. The Cambodian government has made efforts to improve disaster preparedness by establishing a disaster management agency tasked with coordinating emergency response.

In addition, various education and training programs are held to raise public awareness of disaster risks and mitigation measures. Local communities are taught how to deal with disasters such as floods and landslides, as well as the importance of having an evacuation plan.

Non-governmental organizations also play a vital role in providing assistance and support to communities affected by disasters. They are often involved in post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts, providing humanitarian aid, and repairing damaged infrastructure.

While significant challenges remain, the community spirit of helping each other and rebuilding after a disaster demonstrates the resilience and strength of Cambodian society. Activities such as working together to clean up neighborhoods and rebuild damaged homes are a symbol of solidarity in the face of disaster.

As a traveler planning to visit Cambodia, it is important to understand the context of natural and climate disasters that may impact your trip. By understanding local risks and preparedness, you can enjoy Cambodia’s beauty while respecting and understanding the challenges faced by local communities.

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