15 Facts About Cambodia Most People Get Wrong
Cambodia is home to 17.2M people across 181,035 km², making it a country whose population is spread fairly evenly across its territory. It ranks 1st in the world for Temple Complex.
Below are 15 facts about Cambodia, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Cambodia
A complete overview of Cambodia's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, 400 km² of temples.
Cambodia has the highest proportion of Buddhist monks per capita in the world.
The Khmer Rouge killed an estimated 2 million people between 1975 and 1979.
Cambodia's flag is the only one in the world featuring a building.
Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia, Asia, with its capital city in Phnom Penh.
The population of Cambodia is approximately 17.2M, spread across 181,035 km² of territory.
Cambodia has a population density of 95/km²: a moderate density for its region.
Cambodia has a coastline of 443 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Cambodia shares land borders with 3 countries: Thailand, Laos, Vietnam.
The official language of Cambodia is Khmer.
Cambodia uses the Riel (KHR) as its official currency.
Cambodia gained independence in 1953, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Southeast Asia.
The total GDP of Cambodia is $29.9B, with a GDP per capita of $1,737, classifying it as a developing economy.
Cambodia has a tropical monsoon, hot year-round climate, with the best time to visit being November–April.
Cambodia is considered a Budget destination for travellers, with meals averaging $2–5.
Angkor Wat is the world's largest religious monument and the largest pre-industrial city in history, at its peak it housed over one million people, while London had only 50,000. The temple appears on Cambodia's national flag.
🏆 Cambodia World Rankings
Cambodia holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Cambodia
Cambodia is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🛕 Angkor Wat
The world's largest religious monument, a 12th-century Hindu temple complex covering 400 acres
🗿 Bayon Temple
A UNESCO temple with 216 enigmatic giant stone faces peering from its towers
🌊 Tonle Sap Lake
Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, it reverses its flow direction twice a year
👑 Royal Palace, Phnom Penh
A spectacular complex of buildings serving as the royal residence since 1866
Frequently Asked Questions About Cambodia
What is Cambodia famous for?
Angkor Wat is the world's largest religious monument and the largest pre-industrial city in history, at its peak it housed over one million people, while London had only 50,000. The temple appears on Cambodia's national flag.
What is the capital of Cambodia?
The capital of Cambodia is Phnom Penh.
What is the population of Cambodia?
Cambodia has a population of approximately 17.2M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Cambodia?
The official language of Cambodia is Khmer.
When did Cambodia become an independent country?
Cambodia gained independence in 1953.
What currency does Cambodia use?
Cambodia uses the Riel (KHR).
What is the GDP of Cambodia?
Cambodia has a GDP of $29.9B, with a GDP per capita of $1,737.
Where is Cambodia located?
Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia, Asia.
Is Cambodia safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Cambodia vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Cambodia?
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, 400 km² of temples. Cambodia has the highest proportion of Buddhist monks per capita in the world. The Khmer Rouge killed an estimated 2 million people between 1975 and 1979.
What are some interesting facts about Cambodia?
Cambodia has the highest proportion of Buddhist monks per capita in the world. The Khmer Rouge killed an estimated 2 million people between 1975 and 1979. Cambodia's flag is the only one in the world featuring a building.
Cambodia facts: what should I know?
Cambodia is a country in Southeast Asia with a population of 17.2M. Its capital is Phnom Penh and its official language is Khmer. Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, 400 km² of temples.
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