DK Travel - Cambodia and Laos

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t Man crossing the Nam Song river

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t Boats moored on the river at sunset in Vang Vieng.

Cambodia and Laos have it all: mist-wreathed mountains, white-sand beaches, ancient temples, and lively urban nightspots. Whatever your dream trip to these countries entails, this DK Eyewitness Travel Guide will prove the perfect companion.

Stretching from the rugged borders of China to the scorched shores of the Gulf of Thailand, Cambodia and Laos form the heart of old Indochina. The vibrant capital cities, Phnom Penh and Vientiane, surge with cash and connectivity, but in the smaller towns like Luang Prabang and Kampot an old-world charm endures, with crumbling shophouses, gold-bedecked Buddhist temples, and quiet cafs. The streets abound with rich flavors, from the spicy sizzle of a Khmer barbecue to the steam rising from a hearty bowl of noodle soup.

Out in the countryside, meanwhile, the natural beauty of the region reigns supreme. The roiling Mekong River sweeps past atmospheric settlements and surges through thunderous rapids. Skylines are dominated by fantastical karst outcrops. Deep jungles echo with the calls of birds and gibbons. And towers of weathered stone rise from forest and farmland the magnificent temple relics that bear testament to ancient civilizations, from little-known Wat Phu Champasak to legendary Angkor Wat.

The sheer diversity of Cambodia and Laos can be overwhelming, but this guidebook breaks the region down into easily navigable chapters, full of expert knowledge and insider tips. Weve created detailed itineraries and colorful maps to help you plan the perfect trip, whether youre on a flying visit or an extended adventure, and our Need to Know guides list all the essentials to be aware of before and during your visit. Enjoy the book, and enjoy Cambodia and Laos.

French Colonial-era buildings in Kampot.

Picturesque white-sand beach in Koh Rong.

Rice noodles with herbs and spices in Laos.

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This guide is divided into two sections covering . These sections have been divided into eight color-coded sightseeing regions, as shown on the map below.

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Lush, intoxicating, and suffused with a certain wild romance Cambodia and Laos have an irresistible allure for travelers. There are many reasons to love these beautiful countries. Here we pick some of our favorites.

From the jungle-strangled ruins of Ta Prohm to the majestic towers of , this vast temple complex in Cambodia ranks high among the must-see wonders of the world.

Discover Reasons to Love Cambodia and Laos

The Mekong River is the connecting thread between Cambodia and Laos. Glowing in a or traversed on a cruise from Phnom Penh, it is a constant companion to travelers in the area.

Discover Reasons to Love Cambodia and Laos

kayaking in vang vieng

Paddling along the Nam Song is the best way to take in the towering karsts, cool limestone caves and ethereal landscapes around .

Discover Reasons to Love Cambodia and Laos

cambodias coastal national parks

Get back to nature in the national parks strung along Cambodias southern coastline. Explore tangled mangrove forests, snorkel amid teeming coral reefs or stroll along .

Discover Reasons to Love Cambodia and Laos

Luang prabang