Cambodia Heritage & Culture Tours

Cambodia, a Southeast Asian country, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage that dates back to the Angkor period. The country boasts magnificent temples, ancient ruins, and stunning landscapes that attract millions of visitors every year. Cambodia's cultural heritage is a blend of Indian, Chinese, and French influences, which makes it unique and distinct from other countries in the region.

Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1992, the Angkor complex in Siem Reap is one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia, featuring the magnificent remains of the Khmer Empire's capitals from the 9th to the 15th century. With impressive monuments, several different ancient urban plans, and large water reservoirs, the site reflects the Khmer civilization's grandeur and sophistication in the past. Temples such as Angkor Wat, Bayon, Preah Khan, and Ta Prohm, exemplars of Khmer architecture, are closely linked to their geographical context as well as being imbued with symbolic significance. Angkor, therefore, is a major site exemplifying cultural and religious values, as well as containing immeasurable architectural, archaeological, and artistic significance.

Cambodia has a rich and diverse culture with influences from India, China, and Southeast Asia that has developed over centuries. The Angkor period was the golden age of Cambodia, when it flourished and experienced a cultural renaissance. Indian religions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, played a significant role in shaping Cambodian traditions and customs. The temples of Angkor Wat, designed with five towers representing the peaks of Mount Meru, home of the gods in Hindu mythology, as well as the interior sculptures depicting mythical creatures from Hindu and Buddhist mythology, are a great reflection of the strong Indian influence.

The most popular form of classical Cambodian dance nowadays, Apsara, meaning ‘water nymph’ or ‘celestial spirit’, is also deeply rooted in ancient Indian mythology. Legend has it that these beautiful, divine beings would descend from the heavens to entertain gods and kings with their captivating dance and grace. Images of Apsara dancers adorned in elaborate costumes and headdresses were carved on the walls of Khmer constructions such as Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Bayon Temple as evidences of ancient legends and religious tales.