Sambor Prei Kuk

Not all of Cambodia’s history is full of hardship. Scattered throughout the country is evidence that a healthy and advanced culture once thrived here.

Older than Angkor Wat, the temples of Sambor Prei Kuk are a hidden gem. If you want to feel like Indiana Jones, this is the place to visit. Getting there early, you can avoid the crowds and spend the morning climbing over ruins that are barely resisting being taken over by the jungle.

Some minimal conservation efforts are under way, but for the most part, you’re on your own. Be careful not to wander off the (unmarked) trails because there are landmines buried in the area (left over from border disputes with Vietnam).