The Phnom Penh Visitors Guide 62nd

DAY TRIPS

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T here is a lot of Cambodian history within a daytrip’s distance of Phnom Penh. Silk Island, just an hour’s boat ride away, offers a

unique opportunity to see a traditional, working silk weaving village. An hour or two south of Phnom Penh, the Angkorian ruins of Takeo province, though not as impressive as the ruins near Siem Reap, still rank amongst the most important in Cambodia. And an hour west of the city, the picturesque 17th-19th century remains of the royal city of Oudong allow you to explore the period of Cambodian history between Angkor and the colonial period that is neglected inmost tours. And just the process of getting to these sites provides a good glimpse of Cambodian rural life - scenic rice paddies, stilted villages and countryside pagodas. Most of the places listed are too far for a tuk-tuk. It is easiest to arrange a tour or transportation through a travel agent or your hotel, usually adaily tourist van. DIY options include chartering a taxi, renting a motorcycle or for the hard core do-it- your-selfer, taking a public bus to the nearby city and ask to be let off at the site or turn-off.

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