Things to do in Mekong River Valley
Discover the best attractions and experiences Mekong River Valley has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Cambodia’s ancient civilizations along the Mekong valley, from imperial capitals to temple complexes set across the region.
Angkor Archaeological Park
A UNESCO-listed vast temple complex featuring Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm, best explored over several days.
Wat Phnom
An iconic hilltop temple in Phnom Penh offering a glimpse into the city’s spiritual heart.
Royal Palace, Phnom Penh
A gleaming royal complex with the Silver Pagoda, rich in architecture and Cambodian history.
Museums
Discover Cambodia’s history, art and culture through curated collections across the Mekong basin.
National Museum of Cambodia
Houses a premier collection of Khmer sculpture and artifacts in Phnom Penh.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
A sobering former security prison documenting Cambodia’s recent history.
Angkor National Museum
Exhibits that illuminate Angkor’s storied past and intricate temple art in Siem Reap.
Religious Monuments
From grand temple complexes to city pagodas, sacred sites frame the Mekong’s spiritual landscape.
Bayon Temple
One of Angkor’s most celebrated temples, renowned for its enigmatic smiling faces.
Ta Prohm
The cinematic temple overrun by roots, merging nature with monumental ruins.
Preah Khan
A vast temple complex within Angkor’s forested ruins, rich in history and mystery.
National & Theme Parks
Natural adventures unfold along the Mekong through protected forests, waterfalls and scenic landscapes.
Phnom Kulen National Park
A limestone plateau with waterfalls, ancient pagodas and river views near Siem Reap.
Tonle Sap National Park
Riverine forest and floodplain habitat near the Tonle Sap, rich in birds and wildlife.
Kirirom National Park
Mountainous park known for cool climate, trails and forested scenery south of Phnom Penh.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant districts along the Mekong reveal local life, markets, and riverside atmosphere.
Daun Penh & Riverside (Phnom Penh)
Historic center along the Tonle Bassac and Mekong, buzzing with markets and river views.
BKK1 (Boeng Keng Kang 1) district, Phnom Penh
Residential-arts hub with cafes, galleries and a cosmopolitan vibe.
Pub Street & Old Market area, Siem Reap
Lively neighborhood around Psar Chaa and Pub Street, perfect for evening strolls.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the Mekong valley on foot or by bike with countless free experiences and viewpoints.
Sunset on the Mekong River (Phnom Penh)
Relax along the riverside as the sky changes colors over the water.
Stroll Phnom Penh’s Riverside and markets
Walk the waterfront and browse lively stalls without needing an entry fee.
Walk the markets in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
Explore Phsar Chaa and other local markets to observe daily life.
Gastronomy
Cambodian flavors shine along the Mekong with river fish, fragrant herbs, and street-food staples.
Fish Amok
Creamy, coconut-curry steamed in banana leaves with tender fish.
Lok Lak
Peppered beef served with a tangy lime-pepper dipping sauce.
Num Banh Chok
Khmer rice noodles with a fragrant fish gravy, a beloved breakfast staple.
Khmer Red Curry
Milder curry with coconut milk, vegetables and meat, rich in color and aroma.
Nightlife
Evenings along the Mekong glow with riverside bars, markets, and lively street scenes.
Pub Street (Siem Reap)
A hub of bars, live music and vibrant night vibes near the Angkor temples.
Riverside Bars, Phnom Penh
Casual spots along the riverfront with sunset views and easygoing atmosphere.
Bassac Lane, Phnom Penh
A quirky alleyway lined with independent bars and eateries for a relaxed night out.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and contemporary theatre illuminate Cambodian arts along the Mekong.
Apsara dance performances
Traditional Khmer dance shows offered at various venues in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
Phare, The Cambodian Circus
A dynamic contemporary circus blending theatre, music and acrobatics in Siem Reap.
Sports
Active ways to experience the Mekong include water adventures and riverfront cycling.
Dolphin spotting on the Mekong near Kratie
Take a boat trip to glimpse the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in a protected stretch.
Cycling along river trails (Phnom Penh, Kratie)
Enjoy flat, scenic rides with local villages and marketplaces along the water.
Kayaking on the Mekong or Tonle Sap
Paddle through calm channels and mangroves for peaceful wildlife viewing.
Off the Track
Go beyond the well-trodden paths to discover Mondulkiri’s wild forests and hill-town charm.
Bou Sra Waterfall, Mondulkiri
A dramatic multi-tiered waterfall set in lush forest scenery.
Sen Monorom town & nearby coffee plantations
A cool hill town experience with scenic coffee farms and rural vistas.
Indigenous villages in Mondulkiri
Learn about the local Pnong communities, crafts, and traditional ways of life.