Oddar Meanchey - Discovering Cambodia

Travelling to Oddar Meanchey

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Oddar Meanchey, a pretty good destination in Cambodia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Oddar Meanchey and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Oddar Meanchey, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cambodia, here's everything to know about Oddar Meanchey for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Oddar Meanchey

Oddar Meanchey is a northwestern province of Cambodia, bordering Thailand to the north and Siem Reap province to the south. It is a rural province known for its natural beauty, particularly its forests and wetlands. The province is home to a number of ethnic minorities and is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as silk weaving and wood carving. The main activities for tourists in the province are visiting local villages to experience rural life, exploring the natural surroundings, and visiting the historic Khmer temples of Banteay Chhmar and Beng Mealea.

What to visit in Oddar Meanchey

1. Banteay Chhmar Temple: This temple complex is one of the largest and most impressive structures of the Angkorian period. Its sprawling layout includes multiple temples and towers, intricate carvings and bas-reliefs, and a moat system that once helped to supply water to the city.
2. Preah Vihear Temple: This ancient temple is perched atop a cliff in the Dangrek Mountains, providing stunning views of the surrounding forests and valleys. Visitors can explore the various chambers and halls of the complex, as well as learn about the temple's history and significance.
3. Anlong Veng Historical Site: Anlong Veng was the last stronghold of the Khmer Rouge regime, and served as a base for Pol Pot and his followers during the late 1990s. Today the site has been turned into a memorial and museum, with exhibits about the regime and its atrocities.
4. Kulen Mountain National Park: This large park encompasses a variety of landscapes, including dense forests, waterfalls, and rivers. It's also home to a number of important cultural sites, such as the River of a Thousand Lingas and the giant reclining Buddha statue.
5. Prasat Preah Neang Kmao Sanctuary: This sanctuary contains a series of small, ancient temples that were built during the Angkor period. Visitors can explore the intricate carvings and architecture, as well as learn about the religious significance of the site.
6. Ang Teuk Kchhay Waterfall: This picturesque waterfall is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and swimming. Visitors can enjoy the cool waters and stunning natural scenery, as well as take part in various outdoor activities such as ziplining and trekking.
7. Samrong Sen Bamboo Train: This unique transportation system consists of a flatbed cart that runs on a single railway track. Visitors can ride the train through the countryside, taking in the sights and sounds of rural Cambodia.
8. Phnom Kulen Waterfall: This impressive waterfall plunges nearly 90 meters into a natural pool below. Visitors can take a dip in the cool waters, explore the surrounding jungle, and learn about the site's religious importance as a sacred mountain.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cambodia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Oddar Meanchey

Oddar Meanchey is a province located in the northwestern part of Cambodia. The best time to visit Oddar Meanchey is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant and dry with little to no rainfall. The temperatures are also cooler during this time of the year, making it more comfortable for travelers to explore the temples and other attractions in the province. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, which means that there may be more crowds and higher prices. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, it is recommended to visit Oddar Meanchey during the shoulder season, which runs from May to October. However, it is worth noting that this is the rainy season, which means that there may be occasional downpours and some attractions may be closed due to weather conditions.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Oddar Meanchey

Oddar Meanchey is a province located in the northwest of Cambodia. Here are a few ways to get there: 1. By Air: The nearest airport is the Siem Reap International Airport. From there, you can hire a taxi, take a bus or a shared minivan to reach Oddar Meanchey.
2. By Bus: Buses are available from Siem Reap and Battambang province to Oddar Meanchey.
3. By Taxi: Taxis can be hired from Siem Reap and Battambang province to Oddar Meanchey.
4. By Motorbike: A long, but popular option is to rent a motorbike in Siem Reap and drive to Oddar Meanchey.
It is worth noting that the roads leading to Oddar Meanchey can be bumpy and unpredictable, especially during monsoon season. It is recommended that you research road conditions before planning your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Oddar Meanchey, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Oddar Meanchey

1. Bai Sach Chrouk: It is a popular dish made with thinly sliced pork marinated in garlic and coconut milk, grilled, and served over rice with a side of pickled vegetables.
2. Khmer Red Curry: This curry is made with a spice paste of lemongrass, ginger, garlic, shallots, and dried chilies with meat or fish, coconut milk, and vegetables.
3. Lap Khmer: It is a salad made with thinly sliced beef or pork, fresh herbs, lime juice, fish sauce, and toasted ground rice.
4. Bai Sach Chrouk Pow: It is a version of Bai Sach Chrouk, but instead of grilled pork, it is braised in a sweet sauce made from soy sauce and palm sugar.
5. Fish Amok: This dish is made with fish, coconut milk, curry, and steam in banana leaves until set. It is typically served with rice.
6. Kdam Chaa: It is a dish made with fried crab or prawn and a spicy garlic and Kampot pepper sauce.
7. Green Mango Salad: A refreshing salad made with green mangoes, fresh herbs, chili, and lime juice.
8. Num Banh Chok: It is a breakfast dish made with rice noodles and a flavorful, mild coconut-based broth served with fresh vegetables and herbs.
9. Samlor Machu Kreung: It is a spicy and sour soup with fish, vegetables, and mixed herbs.
10. Trey Ch'ien Chou 'Ayme': This dish is made with fried fish, green mangoes, cucumbers, and peanuts with a sweet and sour sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cambodia here.

Is Oddar Meanchey an expensive destination for tourists?

Oddar Meanchey is generally considered to be an affordable destination for tourists. However, the cost of a trip will depend on several factors such as the season, type of accommodation, mode of transportation, and activities. It's worth noting that tourism infrastructure in Oddar Meanchey is still developing, so there may be limited options for lodging and dining compared to more established tourist destinations in Cambodia. That being said, you can find affordable accommodations and food from the local markets or street food stalls. The cost of transportation will depend on how you choose to get around, with options such as tuk-tuks, private cars or motorbikes rental.
Overall, the prices for attractions and activities such as visiting archaeological sites and nature reserves are usually less expensive compared to similarly popular destinations in Cambodia.

Where to find accomodation in Oddar Meanchey

If you're planning to visit Oddar Meanchey, the best areas to stay would be in or near the capital city, Samraong. Some popular accommodation options in Samraong include Sovansokty Guesthouse, Royal Angkor Resort, and Savvy Hotel. You could also consider staying in nearby cities or towns like Sisophon or Siem Reap, which offer a wider range of accommodation choices and are within driving distance of Oddar Meanchey. However, bear in mind that transportation in the region can be limited and may require some planning in advance.
You can check hotel prices at Oddar Meanchey here:
Booking.com

Is Oddar Meanchey a safe destination for tourists?

Oddar Meanchey is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, visitors should always exercise caution and common sense when traveling in any foreign country. It is also advisable to consult with local authorities, your tour guide or your hotel for any potential safety concerns or travel advisories. Please note that landmines may still be present in certain areas of rural Cambodia, especially near the border with Thailand. Therefore, it is important to stay on well-traveled roads and paths, and avoid venturing off into undeveloped areas on your own.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cambodia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Oddar Meanchey.

What type of travelers will enjoy Oddar Meanchey the most?

Oddar Meanchey is a primarily rural province of Cambodia, situated in the northwest part of the country. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush rainforests, pristine lakes, and rolling hills. This region is ideal for adventure seekers who are interested in exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Oddar Meanchey is great for couples and families who want to experience nature, culture, and adventure. The region offers many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, camping, and wildlife watching. The Kulen Prom Tep Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the premier destinations for spotting rare wildlife species such as elephants, gibbons, and sambar deer.
Additionally, Oddar Meanchey is also an excellent destination for history buffs. The province is home to many ancient temples and ruins that date back to the Angkor period. The Banteay Chhmar temple complex is one of the most popular, which features intricate carvings and impressive architecture.
Therefore, it is a perfect destination for all types of travelers, including couples, young people looking for an adventure, and families who seek to discover new cultures and enjoy nature.

How to get around Oddar Meanchey

To move around Oddar Meanchey, you can use different types of transportation based on your comfort, budget, and purpose of travel. Tuk-tuks, motorbikes, and taxis are the most common forms of transportation. If you want to explore the countryside, you can also hire a bicycle or a motorbike. However, if you are traveling in a larger group, hiring a private car or minivan is more convenient.

What to see around Oddar Meanchey

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Oddar Meanchey, Cambodia: 1. The Preah Vihear Temple: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous archaeological sites in Cambodia. It’s a stunning temple complex that’s perched on top of a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Anlong Veng: This is a small town that played a significant role in the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Today, it’s a fascinating place to explore and learn about Cambodia’s recent history.
3. Beng Mealea Temple: This is another ancient temple complex that’s well worth a visit. Located about 50 kilometers from Siem Reap, it’s a bit off the beaten path but offers an incredible atmosphere and fewer crowds.
4. Kulen Mountain National Park: This mountain range is located about 50 kilometers from Siem Reap and offers a stunning natural environment, including waterfalls and forests.
5. Banteay Chhmar: This is another ancient temple complex that’s located in the Banteay Meanchey province of Cambodia. It’s a bit remote but offers a unique and fascinating look into Cambodia’s past.
For every travel information about Cambodia you can click here.

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