33 interesting facts about Cambodia

Cambodia, a country with a rich and complex history, is located in Southeast Asia and is known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient temples, and vibrant culture. The Kingdom of Cambodia has weathered many hardships, from the glories of the ancient Khmer empire to the terrors of the Khmer Rouge regime. Today, it stands as a nation proud of its cultural heritage and natural beauty, drawing tourists from around the world to its historic sites and lush countryside. The resilience of its people and the growth of its economy are testament to Cambodia’s enduring spirit.

1. Cambodia’s official name is the Kingdom of Cambodia.
2. Khmer is the official language, which is derived from the Mon-Khmer language family.
3. Buddhism is the predominant religion, practiced by approximately 95% of the population.
4. The country regained peace in 1998 after decades of civil war and political turmoil.
5. Angkor Wat, a massive stone temple complex, is considered the largest religious monument in the world.
6. The capital city, Phnom Penh, was once known as the “Pearl of Asia” in the 1920s.
7. Cambodia became a protectorate of France in 1863 and gained independence in 1953.
8. The traditional Cambodian dance, Apsara, was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List.
9. Tonle Sap Lake is one of the world’s most productive freshwater ecosystems and dramatically changes size between the dry and wet seasons.
10. The population of Cambodia is predominantly rural, with many living in villages rather than large cities.
11. The Cambodian flag is the only national flag that incorporates an image of a building – Angkor Wat.
12. Cambodia is one of the most landmine-contaminated countries in the world, a legacy of three decades of war.
13. The country’s cuisine includes a popular dish called amok, which is a type of steamed curry.
14. Cambodia’s economy depends heavily on agriculture, garments, and tourism.
15. The Khmer Rouge regime, led by Pol Pot from 1975 to 1979, was responsible for one of the worst mass killings of the 20th century.
16. The Mekong River, the world’s 12th longest river, flows through Cambodia from the Tibetan Plateau.
17. The currency of Cambodia is the Riel, although US dollars are commonly used.
18. Pchum Ben, also known as Ancestors’ Day, is a 15-day Buddhist festival.
19. Rice is the staple food, and Cambodia was once a leading rice exporter in the 1950s.
20. The traditional scarf called Krama is a symbol of Cambodian clothing.
21. The 1991 Paris Peace Accords marked the beginning of the UN’s efforts to restore peace in Cambodia.
22. Nearly two-thirds of Cambodia’s population is under 30 years old.
23. The endangered Irrawaddy dolphins can be found in the Mekong River.
24. Cambodia’s Royal Ballet dates back to the ancient courts.
25. The Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh features a floor made up of over 5,000 silver tiles.
26. There are over 4,000 discovered temples across Cambodia, many of which are not restored.
27. Traditional medicine is still widely practiced alongside modern medical practices.
28. Sihanoukville is a major port city and a growing beach resort.
29. The country is known for its wild, untouched jungles that house diverse wildlife.
30. The Preah Vihear Temple was the subject of a long territorial dispute between Cambodia and Thailand.
31. Cambodia is one of the world’s leading producers of pepper.
32. The country was once part of the maritime Silk Route that connected trading nations.
33. The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh is a striking example of Khmer architecture and is still used by the King of Cambodia.

Cambodia’s journey from a glorious ancient civilization through periods of intense struggle to its current resurgence as a cultural and tourist hub is truly remarkable. Each fact about Cambodia reveals a layer of its identity, from its haunting history to its spiritual depth and natural beauty. As Cambodia continues to grow and evolve, it remains a testament to the resilience and endurance of its people. The nation not only offers a unique glimpse into the past but also shows promise for a vibrant future, making it a fascinating subject of study and travel.

Cambodia, a country with a rich and complex history, is located in Southeast Asia and is known for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient temples, and vibrant culture. The Kingdom of Cambodia has weathered many hardships, from the glories of the ancient Khmer empire to the terrors of the Khmer Rouge regime.…