Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is the vibrant bustling capital of Cambodia. Situated at the confluence of three rivers, the mighty Mekong, the Bassac and the great Tonle Sap, it has been an important trade hup for centuries.
Dubbed the Pearl of South East Asia during the 1960's, the city saw distruction during the Khmer Rough regime and the long civil war that followed. However, modern day Phnom Penh maintains considerable charm with plenty to see, with French colonial mansions and tree-lined boulevards amidst monumental architecture. A mixture of Asian exotica, modern life and the famous Cambodian hospitality awaits the visitors to the capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia, and the city has a thriving nightlife scene.
The Water Festival, held in late October or early November draws hundreds of thousands of people from all over the country and neighbouring nations to the city to watch the Dragon Boat races. Some of the boats have a crew of up to 80 rowers, and teams from all over the region join the races. Another huge celebration takes place in the capital during Khmer New Year in April.

There are several nice day trips available from Phnom Penh, including a visit to the former capital of Oudong to the north or the Angkorian era temple of Phnom Chisor and Phnom Tamao Wildlife Centre to the south.