Theravada Buddhism is the prevailing official religion in Cambodia and approximately ninety percent of the population is Buddhist. Islam, Hinduism and Christianity are also embraced in Cambodia.

Since Buddha statues and images represent the revered Buddha, visitors are asked to treat all such statues and images with respect, so as not to offend local people.

In Cambodia, regardless of religion, the country maintains a harmonised state.

At the beginning of the ninth century, the kings set up their respective capitals in the present province of Siem Reap. For nearly six centuries, the kings enriched it by building temples one after another, each being more sumptuous than the other. Two hundred of these temples are spread over the Angkorian area—some 400 square kilometers in Siem Reap Province. The temples are best known for their architecture and sculptures.

The first founder of Angkor was King Jayavarman II (802–850), who built one of his residences on the plateau of Kulen in 802. King Indravarman I (877–889), his nephew, constructed a vast irrigation system at Lolei and built the towers of Preah Ko (879) and Bakong (881). King Yasovarman I (889–900) built the Eastern Baray and founded a new capital to the northwest, which became the heart of Angkor.

Later kings such as Harshavarman I, Jayavarman IV, Rajendravarman, and Jayavarman V continued expanding Angkor with monuments like Preah Vihear, Banteay Srei, and Takeo.

King Suryavarman II (1113–1150) extended his power across the region and built the temples of Angkor Wat, Thommanon, Chau Say Tevoda, Preah Palilay, and Banteay Samré. After these achievements, the Khmer civilization began to decline due to internal conflicts and the Cham invasion.

King Jayavarman VII (1181–1220) was the most remarkable figure in Khmer history. He re-established rule over southern Indochina and built monumental works such as Ta Prohm, Preah Khan, Bayon, and Angkor Thom. After his death, the Angkor era declined rapidly due to wars, invasions, and resource exhaustion.

Cambodia later fell under Siamese and French control. After regaining independence in 1953, the country underwent several regime changes:

• The Kingdom of Cambodia (1953–1970)
• The Khmer Republic (1970–1975)
• Democratic Kampuchea (1975–1979)
• The People’s Republic of Kampuchea (1979–1989)
• The State of Cambodia (1989–1993)
• The Kingdom of Cambodia (1993–present)

PRAHOK KTIES

Prahok Kties is a delicious staple of Cambodian cuisine. Made from fermented fish and pork belly, this savory dish delivers a rich, deep flavor that highlights Cambodia’s culinary heritage.

MACHU KROUNG

Machu Kroung is a healthy, flavorful sweet-and-sour soup enhanced with fried peanuts, lemongrass, and saffron. Its bright flavors and colorful presentation make it a beloved Cambodian comfort food.

KORKO

Korko is a hearty traditional stew made with toasted rice powder, pork, and pumpkin. Rich in flavor and texture, it’s a prime example of Cambodia’s unique fusion of traditional ingredients cooked to perfection.