Broke Backpacking In Cambodia: The Ultimate Guide

For some, Cambodia is the call of ancient temples, indigenous vibrant markets, and infectious energy that guarantees an unforgettable adventure for the crazy, broke backpackers. This charmingly magical kingdom invites affordable explorations of its history, culture, and natural beauty.
To the fearless traveler, Cambodia is a budgetary landscape that unfolds like a treasure map, replete with hidden gems to be found, delicious street food to be indulged in, and warm hospitality-all on a broke budget.
Get ready to explore uncensored Cambodia-the spontaneity and adventure go hand in hand. From the pulsating action of vibrant Phnom Penh to subdued Siem Reap, Angkor region’s jump-off point, plunge into grassroots Southeast Asia’s best-kept secret.
Prepare yourself to explore, discover, and soak in the essence that is Cambodia on a broke budget.

How to get there:

From Thailand

  • Bus: Take a bus from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal to the Aranyaprathet border ($5-$10, 4-5 hours). Cross the border and continue to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh ($5-$10, 3-4 hours).
  • Train/Bus: Ride the train from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet ($10-$20, 5-6 hours), then transfer to a bus or taxi to the border.

From Vietnam

  • Bus: Catch a bus from Ho Chi Minh City’s Mien Tay Bus Station to Phnom Penh ($10-$20, 6-7 hours).
  • Motorbike/Bus: Ride a motorbike from Ho Chi Minh City to the Moc Bai border, then transfer to a bus or taxi to Phnom Penh.

From Laos

  • Bus: Take a bus from Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands) or Pakse to Stung Treng ($5-$10, 2-3 hours), then transfer to another bus to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.

From Malaysia

  • Bus/Ferry: Travel by bus from Kuala Lumpur to Hat Yai, Thailand ($20-$30, 10 hours), then transfer to a bus to the Thai-Cambodian border. Alternatively, take a ferry from Malaysia to Thailand.

Border Crossings

  • Aranyaprathet-Poipet (Thailand-Cambodia)
  • Moc Bai-Bavet (Vietnam-Cambodia)
  • Stung Treng-Don Kralor (Laos-Cambodia)

When to go:

Best Time (November-February)

  • Cooler temperatures (20-25°C/68-77°F)
  • Dry season, ideal for temple explorations
  • Festivals like Bonn Om Touk (Water Festival) and New Year

Shoulder Season (March-May)

  • Warm weather (25-30°C/77-86°F)
  • Fewer tourists, lower prices
  • Khmer New Year celebrations

Low Season (June-October)

  • Rainy season, potential flooding
  • Higher humidity, temperatures (25-35°C/77-95°F)
  • Lower prices, fewer tourists

Events and Festivals

  • Khmer New Year (April): Vibrant celebrations, traditional games
  • Bon Om Touk (November): Water Festival, boat races
  • Pchum Ben Festival (September): Ancestor worship, temple visits

Region-Specific Weather

  • Siem Reap: Cooler winters, hotter summers
  • Phnom Penh: Warmer temperatures year-round
  • Coastal areas: Cooler winters, breezy summers

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Phnom Penh
  2. Royal Palace
  3. National Museum
  4. Street food and nightlife
  5. Day 2: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
  6. Bus
  7. Explore Pub Street and Night Market
  8. Day 3: Siem Reap
  9. Angkor Wat sunrise
  10. Tonle Sap Lake and floating villages

1-Week Itinerary

  1. Day 1-2: Phnom Penh
  2. Royal Palace
  3. National Museum
  4. Killing Fields
  5. Street food and nightlife
  6. Day 3-4: Siem Reap
  7. Angkor Wat
  8. Tonle Sap Lake
  9. Pub Street and Night Market
  10. Day 5-6: Battambang
  11. Bus
  12. Explore colonial architecture
  13. Bamboo Train
  14. Day 7: Return to Phnom Penh or depart

2-Week Itinerary

  1. Day 1-3: Phnom Penh
  2. Royal Palace
  3. National Museum
  4. Killing Fields
  5. Street food and nightlife
  6. Explore markets and riverside
  7. Day 4-6: Siem Reap
  8. Angkor Wat
  9. Tonle Sap Lake
  10. Pub Street and Night Market
  11. Cooking classes
  12. Day 7-8: Battambang
  13. Colonial architecture
  14. Bamboo Train
  15. Explore countryside
  16. Day 9-10: Kampot
  17. Bus
  18. Explore caves and rivers
  19. Relaxation
  20. Day 11-12: Sihanoukville
  21. Beach relaxation
  22. Island-hopping

1-Month Itinerary

Snorkeling and diving

Week 1: Phnom Penh and surrounding areas

  • Explore markets, museums and historical sites
  • Take a cooking class
  • Visit nearby towns

Week 2: Siem Reap and Angkor Wat

  • Temple passes
  • Tonle Sap Lake and floating villages
  • Explore Pub Street and Night Market

Week 3: Battambang and Kampot

  • Colonial architecture
  • Caves and rivers
  • Relaxation

Week 4: Sihanoukville and islands

  • Beach relaxation
  • Island-hopping

Transportation:

Cambodia’s public transportation system offers an affordable and immersive way to explore the country.

Types of Public Transportation

  1. Buses: Connect major cities, towns and rural areas.
  2. Minivans: Faster, more frequent services between cities.
  3. Tuk-Tuks: Three-wheeled vehicles for short distances.
  4. Motorbike Taxis: Affordable, convenient option.
  5. Ferries: Connect coastal towns and islands.
  6. Trains: Limited services between major cities.

Bus Network

  1. Major Routes: Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, Battambang, Sihanoukville.
  2. Operators: Mekong Express, Virak Buntham, Phnom Penh Sorya.
  3. Fares: $1-$15.

Minivan Services

  1. Operators: PassApp, Grab, Cambodia Post.
  2. Fares: $5-$10.

Tuk-Tuk and Motorbike Taxi

  1. Fares: $1-$10.
  2. Negotiate prices.

Ferry Services

  1. Routes: Sihanoukville to Koh Rong, Koh Tonsay.
  2. Operators: Speed Ferry, Island Speed Boat.
  3. Fares: $10-$30.

Train Services

  1. Routes: Phnom Penh to Battambang, Sihanoukville.
  2. Operator: Royal Railway.
  3. Fares: $5-$20.

Popular Transportation Hubs

  1. Phnom Penh: Central Market, Riverside.
  2. Siem Reap: Pub Street, Bus Station.
  3. Sihanoukville: Serendipity Beach.

Mobile Apps

  1. PassApp: Book minivans, taxis.
  2. Grab: Ride-hailing service.

Top things to do:

Siem Reap

  1. Angkor Wat ($37/1-day pass)
  2. Pub Street (nightlife)
  3. Tonle Sap Lake (boat tour, $10-$20)
  4. Angkor National Museum ($10)
  5. Siem Reap Night Market
  6. Wat Thmei (temple)
  7. Phnom Kulen (waterfall, $20)
  8. Ta Prohm (temple)
  9. Preah Khan (temple)
  10. Siem Reap Cooking Class

Phnom Penh

  1. Killing Fields ($3)
  2. S21 Museum ($5)
  3. Royal Palace ($10)
  4. National Museum ($10)
  5. Street 136 (nightlife)
  6. Wat Phnom (temple)
  7. Central Market
  8. Russian Market
  9. Phnom Penh Night Market
  10. Wat Ounalom

Battambang

  1. Bamboo Train ($5)
  2. Phnom Sampeau (sunset)
  3. Battambang Night Market
  4. Wat Banan (temple, $3)
  5. Ek Phnom (temple)
  6. Sangker River (boat tour)
  7. Battambang Museum
  8. Wat Baydamram
  9. Phnom Ek
  10. Kampong Cham

Sihanoukville

  1. Serendipity Beach
  2. Party Zone
  3. Koh Rong Island (ferry, $10-$30)
  4. Ream National Park ($3)
  5. Otres Beach
  6. Kbal Chhay Waterfall
  7. Sihanoukville Night Market
  8. Wat Krom
  9. Independence Beach
  10. Koh Pos

Kampot

  1. Bokor Hill Station
  2. Kampot Night Market
  3. Kampot River (sunset cruise, $5-$10)
  4. Wat Sampov Pram
  5. Phnom Chisor (temple)
  6. Kep Beach
  7. Rabbit Island
  8. Tek Chhouu River
  9. Kampot Museum
  10. Wat Arey Ksat

Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island)

  1. Beach relaxation
  2. Snorkeling
  3. Fishing
  4. Island hiking

Kratie

  1. Irrawaddy dolphin watching
  2. Kratie Night Market
  3. Wat Phnom Sambok
  4. Kratie Museum
  5. Mekong River boat tour

Kampong Cham

  1. Wat Nokor
  2. Kampong Cham Museum
  3. Wat Maha Leap
  4. Phnom Pros
  5. Phnom Srei

Ratanakiri

  1. Virachey National Park
  2. Yeak Laom Lake
  3. Ratanakiri Night Market
  4. Wat Rahtanarangsey

Mondulkiri

  • Elephant Valley Project
  • Mondulkiri Waterfall
  • Mondulkiri Night Market
  • Wat Phnom Mondulkiri

Food:

Cambodian cuisine is alive and colorful, a melting pot of cultural heritage with influences from Khmer, Chinese, Vietnamese, and French cuisine. From the busy markets to food-lined streets and cozy restaurants, the aroma of fresh herbs, spices, and grilled meats would taunt your nostrils as you continued your way.
Rice is a staple food in Cambodia and is served along with almost every meal, typically accompanied by a wide variety of dishes that reflect the country’s love for strong flavors and textures. Fish from the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake provides an abundance of freshwater seafood, while coconut milk, palm sugar, and fish sauce enrich many dishes. The Cambodians are also great lovers of their street food, which ranges from grilled pork skewers to fried noodles, to crispy rice cakes topped with sweet chili sauce and fresh herbs.
Fish Amok is one of those dishes that define Cambodian food: delicately steamed fish curry cooked in coconut milk and served wrapped in banana leaves. Another hawker favorite is Nom Banh Chok: a plate of rice noodles served with fish gravy, greens, and sweet and spicy sauce. For the more adventurous palate, both fried tarantulas and crickets make crunchy, savory snacks. Rounding out this flavor profile is a dish called Bai Mon, flavorful rice cooked with pork or fish and topped with a fried egg.
As expected, the French colonial influence lives on through Cambodian cuisine, like in a crispy baguette filled with grilled pork, pickled veggies, and chili sauce called Baguette Num Pang. You can find some delicacies in the night markets to include squid, pork ribs, and quail eggs-all cooked perfectly on charred coals. Fresh fruit smoothies and sugarcane juice add refreshing coolness to tropical heat.
Simple yet bold meals are prepared over open fires; families gather around, sharing meals and stories alike. Meals prepared this way underscore the ingenuity and hospitality of the Khmer. Whether by way of bustling cities or tranquil countryside, Cambodia welcomes one into its flavors, aromas, and traditions.
Along the way, be sure to indulge in street foods, visit local markets, and chat with vendors and chefs excited to share their passion for Khmer cuisine. Every morsel acts as a window to the turbulent history and culture of the nation and its resilience against all odds.
From the spicy kick of prahok to the sweetness of palm sugar, Cambodian flavors are truly a reflection of the vibrant culture of the country. Rice noodle soup made with beef or pork broth, rice noodles, and various toppings-the people generally like to have for their breakfast. Meanwhile, Nom Banh Chok is refreshing, with rice noodles, grilled fish, and herbs-a perfect dish for hot summer days.
For dessert, try Num Plae Ai, which is crispy rice cakes with sweet coconut and bean paste fillings, or Khao Neow Mam, sticky rice cooked in coconut milk and served with slices of fresh mango. And by all means, do not miss the opportunity to try some traditional Khmer sweets: Nom Tray Downg or coconut rice cakes flavored with palm sugar and sesame seeds.
Equally thrilling are the region’s specialties that one could try on a Cambodian tour. In Siem Reap, try the famous grilled pork and rice at Wat Thmei. Battambang does Nom Banh Chok the best, while Street 136 in Phnom Penh will carry all sorts of grilled meats and seafood. Sihanoukville has the sea’s freshest catches in their markets, and Kampot grows some of the world’s finest peppercorns in its plantations.
More than the food itself, Cambodian cuisine is closely linked with the cultural activities of the nation. Food is at the very core of the festivals: Pchum Ben, the ‘Ancestor’s Day’, when food is offered to the ancestors, or Khmer New Year, when traditional dishes are shared among family and friends. In fact, even everyday meals are often regarded as opportunities to bond with loved ones.
Deep inside Cambodian food, there’s respect for freshness, seasonality, and communal cooking. It’s all about frenetic markets or family gatherings, and the food is where it’s at in Khmer culture. Come and let the warmth of Cambodia’s flavors, traditions, and hospitality leave you with unforgettable memories of its incredible food.

Culture:

The culture in Cambodia is unbelievably vibrant and resilient, symbolically reflecting the great history which the country was able to form through the amalgamation of Khmer, Hindu, Buddhist, and even French influences. It is in nature that the Khmer are warm people who have a profound regard for their heritage, as indicated by the very hospitable nature, the vibrant festivals, and traditions that are so intricately woven into their culture.
From the grand temples to the vibrant colors on every pagoda, down to the daily rituals, the threads of Buddhism run deeply within Cambodia’s cultural fabric. Starting with the Khmer New Year-which goes by the name Choul Chnam Thmey-and being highly highlighted during the harvest season, there are also quite vibrant festivities. Moreover, there is Pchum Ben in relation to ancestors, which encompasses offerings and prayers for them. These events really bring forth the depth of spiritual heritage among Khmer people.
Traditional Khmer arts include the likes of the alluring movements of apsara dancing and shadow puppetry, continuing to enthrall audiences with their movements and mythological tales, while Cambodian music with haunting melodies and rhythmic drums echoes through the temples and villages.
Family and community ties are very important for the Khmer people. Most Khmer families are closely-knit, and live together in intricately carved wooden houses. Respect for elders in the culture is strong; from an early age, children learn about the culture and traditions of their ancestors.
Saving face and harmony are two major concepts of the Cambodian way of life. Social harmony is a witness to the use of polite language, gentle gestures, and respect in demeanor.
The “karma” thus permits life to be governed by the principle of only good actions and mercy. The Buddhist precept then shapes Khmer way of life and belief about existence, death, and reincarnation.
Food is a big part of this Cambodian culture. People unite and share whatever occasion it may be with food, and even the ordinary everyday meals are shared together. Dishes are Fish Amok and Nom Banh Chok. Food symbolizes the combined flavors and tastes.
There is a great regard for education, especially in Buddhist scriptures, Khmer literature, and traditional arts; Cambodians consider education a very valuable commodity due to the turmoils of the past. In rural areas, farming is based on the usual traditional mode, while handicrafts also abound to show the resourcefulness and self-sufficiency of the people. Some of these handicrafts reveal Khmer ingenuity: silk weaving, woodcarving, and pottery.
Cambodia is resilient against adversity, as evidenced by the strength of its people. From a great Angkor Wat to the most vibrant street markets, Khmer culture reflects in every level of Cambodian life.
Throughout history, French colonialism has made its definite presence felt within Cambodia’s architecture, languages, and food. The aftereffect smoothly merges with Khmer traditions.
The Khmers are very close to nature; from sacred rivers to forests and mountains, spiritual events are combined. At the same time, Cambodia is full of breathtaking natural wonders-from Tonle Sap Lake to the Cardamom Mountains.
Changes in modern urbanization and modern globalization have changed the cultural horizon of modern Cambodia. Young Khmers blend traditional values with modern aspirations to drive innovation and progress.
Lively, resilient, and deeply rooted despite these challenges is Cambodian culture. As one plunges into this captivating culture, one encounters resilience, warmth, and hospitality personified through the Khmer. From grand temples to bustling markets, Cambodia’s cultural entity has been woven out of intricate threads of traditions, spirituality, and community. Each single experience provides a view of the country’s lavish heritage, which presses for exploration and discovery at the least.
Festivals in Cambodia are kaleidoscopic displays of color, music, and merriment. Water Festival, or Bonn Om Touk, celebrates a change in the seasons with boat races and fireworks. The Khmer New Year ushers in renewal and rejuvenation.
Traditional Khmer medicine makes use of herbal remedies and spiritual balance, playing a very vital role in healthcare. Rich biodiversity in Cambodia offers a great deal of natural remedies.
Khmer architecture also reflects the nation’s rich history, which dates back from the Angkorian temples up to the structures of the French colonial period. Most temples and pagodas are ornately carved with ornaments.
Cambodian literature consists of epic poems, folk tales, and Buddhist scriptures. The Reamker is Cambodia’s national epic, referring to the story of the triumph of Rama over evil.
Respect for elders in Cambodian society is paramount. Elders serve as guardians of tradition, hence wisdom and guidance in society.
Performing arts in Cambodia are marked by grace and poise. Apsara dancing narrates stories of myth and legend through intricate hand gestures and fluid movements. Khmer people love celebrating festivals with so much vigor-colorful, explosive affairs. Boun Visak Bochea honors Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing. Its turbulent past has molded Cambodia’s resilient people. From the fateful regime of the Khmer Rouge to modern-day challenges, Cambodians continue to adapt to life’s vagaries.
As modernization continues in Cambodia, culture remains the web that holds people together in national identity. Young Khmers are proud to continue traditions.
Cambodian cuisine shows regional diversity, and for example, Nom Banh Chok and Fish Amok are two dishes native to Cambodian taste. Street food outlets also offer mouth-watering eats at pretty low prices.
It is tourism that has revived Cambodia’s cultural scene, and in return, artisans, musicians, and dancers benefit from this industry. This is responsible tourism that should help preserve the Khmer heritage.
From rural villages to the central cities, the culture of Cambodia is one that is resilient and ingenious. Feel welcomed by its friendly hospitality and colorful traditions.

Accommodations:

The hostel scene in Cambodia is a hotbed of cultural immersion, adventure, and cameraderie tailored for broke backpackers looking for something unforgettable. Ditch the luxury and book the cheapest-one’s guaranteed to have the most unique, crazy, and amazing encounters. Wander through the bustling streets of Cambodia and come across humble abodes with a makeshift sign that says “Guesthouse” or “Hostel.” These really unassuming establishments are actually the gateway to authentic experiences. This means that by being low-budget, you find them in alleys, above street food stalls, and inside the houses of families.
The cheapest hostels are often the most alive and serving as communal hubs, filled with budding friendships from people of all walks of life. Shared rooms morph into impromptu lounges where tales of adventure and misadventure are swapped. You might be jamming with fellow travelers on makeshift guitars or sharing meals you are cooking in the communal kitchens. Locals and travelers seamlessly blend together, sharing tales and bouts of laughter over dining tables or rooftop terraces. Owners of hostels double as tour guides, cooks, and even confidants who impart insider knowledge on secret waterfalls, hidden temples, and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Their tips and advice will get you into the most untourist landscapes of Cambodia: diving into the countryside, rice fields steaming in the morning, and ancient ruins cloaked deep inside the jungle.
Spontaneity is encouraged in the hostel culture of Cambodia, and every day brings new ways to connect and explore. Join spontaneous pub crawls, find hidden markets, or take in dawn yoga classes on rooftop terraces overlooking the Mekong River. It is a creative and lively atmosphere, fueling travelers to share their talents-from musicians breaking out guitars in common rooms to artists spending their days sketching Cambodia’s breathtaking scenery. Embrace the weird and wonderful and plunge full-on into Cambodia’s dynamic backpacker community, with buddies and banter around every corner. In the budget hostel centers of towns, you’ll find a cast of characters that is quite unlike anywhere else: entrepreneurs, artists, musicians, and travelers making a yarn with anyone who’ll listen.
The communal areas breed great friendships from strangers. Spontaneous outings to hidden gems and local hotspots become common, driven by insider info from the hostel owners themselves. Home-like atmospheres with makeshift meals and shared laughter create this much-needed warmth, making you part of a bigger family. Cultural experiences play out in interactions with hostel owners, locals sharing stories of the resilience of Cambodia and its traditions. From Khmer New Year festivals to Buddhist holidays, the people come together in harmony, celebrating the diverse culture of Cambodia.
Seriously, ditch your apprehensions and book the most affordable ones if you want to experience Cambodia’s hostel scene. Come with low expectations, as this will be a journey of discovery. In these budget-friendly hostels in Cambodia, one finds much more than just shelter; they present ways to real connections, spontaneous adventures, and lifetime memories. Being hidden away in the corner of Cambodia’s bustling cities or quaint towns, these hidden treasures promise that their travels change your life.
As you walk through the cities into the countryside, remember that behind each hostel door lies a new encounter, an unforeseen escapade, and lifelong friendships. The hostels of Cambodia personify the nation’s hospitality, resilience, and creativity. By embracing affordable accommodations, doors will swing wide to immersive experiences, creating unforgettable memories amidst vibrant culture.

Nightlife:

Nightlife in Cambodia is dynamic-through it, every traditionally graceful rhythm dances to the beat of modernity. When the sun sets, the streets are replaced by pulsating centers of activity, inviting travelers to immerse themselves into the infectious energy of the nation. The promenade along the river flows through the city of Phnom Penh and down into the vibrant streets of Siem Reap, unfolding like the rich tapestry that Cambodia’s nightlife landscape is.
Each seems to call out to the eclectic tastes of anyone with clubs offering thumping bass, bars cozied up, and street parties set up in a makeshift manner. In larger urban centers, stylish lounges and rooftop bars let loose with chic, urban atmosphere, while in the rural towns, markets were alive with a sense of throbbing activity and impromptu gatherings. Tales and laughter bind fellow travelers and locals together while Khmer music mingles with hip-hop and electronic dance tracks in the air at night.
Spontaneity is a big part of the Cambodian nightlife culture: random jam sessions, dances, and even fire shows break into unlikely spots. Every night is an adventure waiting to be had. Night markets pop out, offering street food, souvenirs, and handicrafts under neon lights. Food stalls selling delectable Khmer fare-from grilled skewers to spicy noodle dishes-fuel nocturnal explorations.
The exhausted party people seek refuge in 24-hour cafes for coffee and tales of the morning light creeping in. Outside city centers, rural Cambodia is equally magical at night. boating on Tonle Sap Lake, stargazing in the countryside, or joining village ceremonies-the experiences all create tales.
Nightlife in Cambodia means more than just entertainment; it’s about connection, community, and cultural immersion. The nightlife in Cambodia speaks to the nation’s history, resilience, and warmth across the nation. Everything from a backpacker haven to an upscale lounge speaks to the story of Khmer heritage, a French colonial legacy, and modern innovation.
As you journey deeper into the world of night-time Cambodia, be sure to balance spontaneity with talking to locals and letting the catchy rhythm infect you. This is a night life tour in Cambodia that’s sure to leave you with lifelong memories: dancing under starry skies, sharing companionship with fellow travelers, and making discoveries. With each passing night, little by little, vibrant Cambodia begins to seep deeper into your soul, leaving its indelible mark.
Cambodian nightlife spills onto every street: hip hop and electronic beats thumping out of clubs and bars, cozy pubs inviting travelers in for cold beers and warm conversation, rooftop lounges with views over Angkor Wat or Phnom Penh’s City Skies, impromptu dance parties under starry rural town skies.
The festivals and celebrations of Cambodia further portray the quality of its culture. Khmer New Year festivals burst in colored parades and night processions, while Pchum Ben honors ancestors with candlelit ceremonies. These events show how attached Cambodia is to tradition and community.
Nighttime exploration reveals a world of Cambodian delights through food. Street food vendors sell savory dishes that range from fried insects, crispy and hot, to spicy noodle soups. Fresh fruits, juices, and traditional desserts abound in the local markets. The nightlife of Cambodia is all about aromas mingling with sounds and flavors.
From bustling Siem Reap to tranquil Kampot, Cambodia’s nightlife stands for diversity, suiting different tastes. The urban centers are breathing with energy, while towns in the countryside exude tranquility. Whatever one is looking for in adventure or relaxation, Cambodia’s noxial landscape has it.
Cambodia’s nightlife is resilient-a true echo of the violent past and the boisterous present. From the inheritance of the Khmer Rouge to the modern revival, nightlife signifies the unbreakable spirit that resides within the nation. In your dive deeper into Cambodia’s nocturnal world, be respectful of the locals, engage with the communities, and support small businesses.
Cambodia’s night-time tour of discovery changes travelers, forging friendships and moments etched in memory. Allow yourself the experience of Cambodia’s potent nightlife weave, where the energy of the nation eternally changes your outlook.

Backpacking Cambodia costs:

Daily Expenses
  • Accommodation: $3-$6 per night for hostels and basic guesthouses ¹. You can find private fan rooms for $8 for two people.
  • Food: $3-$5 per day for local meals, with dishes starting from $1 ¹. Street food is delicious and affordable.
  • Transport: $2-$5 per day for public transport and bike rentals ¹.
  • Nightlife: $1-$5 per day for happy hour beers and bottled water ¹.
  • Activities: $0-$9 per day for temples, museums, and other attractions [2).

Total daily budget: $9-$30

Weekly Expenses
  • Accommodation: $21-$42 for a week in hostels or basic guesthouses
  • Food: $21-$35 for a week of local meals
  • Transport: $14-$35 for a week of public transport and bike rentals
  • Nightlife: $7-$35 for a week of happy hour beers and bottled water
  • Activities: $0-$63 for a week of temples, museums, and other attractions

Total weekly budget: $63-$210

Conclusion:

Your Cambodian adventure has come to an end, but the smell of bustling markets, majestic temples, and warm hospitality will stay with you. Though your budget was really stretched to the limit, Cambodia proved to be an affordable country with such a rich culture that every moment truly counted.
Broke backpacking in Cambodia does more than change your wallet; it changes your perspective. Being part of local customs, sharing meals with other travelers, and embracing the unknown become things you wouldn’t pay to miss.
Resilience and warmness are what make Cambodia unforgettable, from busy streets of Phnom Penh to serene Tonle Sap Lake; every destination holds a story of resilience and beauty.
As you leave, the spirit of Cambodia lingers on with you-consummation of a travel experience and cultural plunge. Your travels might have been economically viable, but the experience and memories collected are simply priceless.
Back-breaking adventure in Cambodia calls for a person’s guts, flexibility, and openness. As a return gift, one gets an insight into the hidden treasures, lifetime friendships, and the vibrant spirit of the country, which follows them always.