FAQ: Questions about Cambodia
If you have no knowledge of Cambodia and/or if you wish to prepare for your trip to Cambodia in the best possible conditions, find below our FAQ with a plethora of frequently asked questions about the Kingdom of Wonder!
How long is the flight from Paris to Phnom Penh?
The flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle to the Cambodian capital usually lasts between 18 and 25 hours, depending primarily on the layover duration. While many airlines offer flights from CDG to PHN, it is advisable to opt for one of the following three routes to optimize your travel time:
- Thai Airways, with a layover in Bangkok
- Singapore Airlines, with a layover in Singapore
- Cathay Pacific/Dragon Air, with a layover in Hong Kong.
However, if you have more flexibility and wish to enjoy a short stay in Thailand, three airlines operate regular flights from Bangkok:
- Thai AirAsia
- Bangkok Airways
- Thai Airways
It is recommended to book your tickets well in advance, as flights fill up quickly during the high season, particularly in November and December.
How long is the flight from Thailand to Cambodia?
Flights mostly depart from Bangkok, with an approximate duration of one hour.
What is the climate like in Cambodia?
Cambodia has a tropical climate with a mild and dry winter from November to March, and a hot and humid summer from May to October. In winter, temperatures range between 25 and 30°C with very little rain, whereas during the summer monsoon, temperatures can exceed 35°C, accompanied by brief and intense rainfall with significant flooding. The end of the rainy season is symbolically marked by the Water Festival, around mid-November, with a gradual return of milder temperatures from November to March, which is undoubtedly the best time to visit the country.
When was Cambodia founded and who is the founder?
Cambodia's history dates back to the Khmer Empire, which dominated the entire Indochinese Peninsula at its peak in the 12th century. Jayavarman II is recognized as the founder of the empire, being the first sovereign of the Angkorian period. He introduced the cult of the god-king by elevating his status as the representative of Shiva, the supreme deity of the Brahmanic trinity (Brahma, Shiva, Vishnu). He laid the foundations of the first Angkorian city, present-day Roluos, and established it as the empire's capital. His successors continued to develop other royal cities on the Angkor site, including the construction of Angkor Wat by Suryavarman II and the creation of Angkor Thom by Jayavarman VII. From the 14th century onward, the Khmer Empire began a long decline, weakening progressively against its neighbors, which eventually led to the French protectorate beginning in 1863. Cambodia declared its independence in 1953, and after a bloody civil war, the 1993 constitution established the country’s borders as we know them today.
Where is Cambodia located?
Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia, between Thailand to the west, Laos to the north, and Vietnam to the east.
What is the capital of Cambodia?
Phnom Penh is named after the Wat Phnom (Temple Hill), a religious building constructed on a hill to house five statues of Buddha, and Daun Penh (Grandmother Penh), who is said to have commissioned it. Today, the city has over 1.5 million inhabitants, representing 10% of the country’s total population.
Can I use my phone?
The phone network has expanded significantly throughout the country. You will be surprised to find that 3G or 4G is available in many cities and provinces. However, remote areas and some rural roads may only offer very limited reception. The two main providers are Cellcard and Smart. There are no formal subscriptions; a SIM card will cost less than $5, and you can top it up with the amount you desire. “Top-up” amounts range from $1 to $20 and are available at every street corner. Communications and mobile data are very affordable. You can consult the websites of Cellcard or Smart for more details on available offers:
[https://www.cellcard.com.kh/en/] (https://www.cellcard.com.kh/en/)
[Https://www.smart.com.kh] (https://www.smart.com.kh)
What is the most practiced religion in Cambodia?
Buddhism is the most widely practiced religion at 97%, coexisting peacefully with a Muslim minority (Cham ethnicity – 2%) and Christian and animist minorities.
What is the typical dress of Cambodians?
In everyday life, Cambodians wear similar clothing to Westerners. However, during wedding ceremonies or official events, wearing traditional costumes is customary. These are often very elegant, handmade garments, usually made of silk, often in bright colors, and may be adorned with golden embellishments depending on the occasion.
Who is the Head of State in Cambodia?
The Head of State is officially King Norodom Sihamoni, but his role is mostly symbolic and representative. The real power lies with Prime Minister Hun Sen, who has been in power since 1984.
How many people live in Cambodia?
In 2015, Cambodia had a population of nearly 16 million people.
What is the largest lake in Cambodia?
The largest lake in Cambodia is Tonlé Sap, formed by the flooding of a vast plain during the rainy season (approximately 300 km² during the dry season, and up to 10,000 km² during the high-water season).
What type of government does Cambodia have?
Cambodia is a constitutional monarchy with an elective monarchy.
What is the agriculture of Cambodia?
Rice, corn, and tobacco cultivation, as well as the production of meat, fish, dairy products, sugar, and flour. Coffee is also produced in the provinces of Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri. The agricultural sector represented 33.5% of GDP in 2005 and employed 58% of the population.
What made Cambodia famous?
The power and expanse of the Khmer Empire in the 12th century during the Angkorian period.
What is the currency of Cambodia?
The Riel is used exclusively in paper bills, with denominations ranging from 100 to 100,000 Riels. For 1€, expect approximately 4500 Riels. The usual exchange rate is about 4000 Riels for 1 USD.
How do you say "Hello" in Khmer?
"Suor Sdei" (the most common form) សួស្តី
Which language is closest to Khmer?
Khmer belongs to the Mon-Khmer language family, within the larger Austroasiatic language family. The other major Mon-Khmer language is Vietnamese. However, Thai and Lao, which belong to the Tai-Kadai language family, may also have similarities with Khmer as all three languages are heavily influenced by Sanskrit and Pali.
What is the unemployment rate in Cambodia?
According to World Bank data, the unemployment rate was around 0.3% in 2014. However, it is important to note that the average monthly salary was $107 in 2016.
What is the national anthem of Cambodia?
The Cambodian national anthem "Nokor Reach" (in Khmer: នគររាជ) was adopted in 1941 and was abolished during the Khmer Rouge period. The anthem was restored by the 1993 Constitution when Cambodia became a constitutional monarchy. The lyrics were written by the monk Chuon Nat, and the music was composed by F. Perruchot and J. Jekyll.