Phnom Penh is not a city for those who are hoping for a modern cosmopolitan vacation, but an ideal place if you want to gain an authentic and charmingly-gritty experience. The Cambodian capital possesses a special charm with wide leafy boulevards, ancient Buddhist temples and a beautiful riverside promenade. If your starting point is in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, you can book direct flights from Ho Chi Minh to Cambodia to visit this fascinating city.

Getting from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh

Among the three major means of transportation including plane, bus and boat, the fastest and most convenient way to reach Phnom Penh is by air. The average price for flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh is $165 with a flight time of approximately 57 minutes. Cheap flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh can most be found in November.

Cambodia Angkor Air is one of the top tier airlines that frequently offers cheap flights from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh.

Best dishes to try in Phnom Penh

Fish amok

Fish amok is a fish mousse with coconut curry in banana leaves. Kroeung, a type of Khmer spice and herb paste made from lemongrass, kaffir lime, garlic, shallots, ginger and turmeric root are added to create the flavor. Besides, the Cambodian dish uses local herb slok ngor, which makes a distinct and bitter flavor.

Lok lak

Lok lak is a Cambodian beef stir-fried in a thick brown beef sauce and topped with a salad of sweet tomato, crispy lettuce, raw cucumber and fresh onion, all served seasoned with lime juice and black pepper.

Bai Sach Chrouk

Bai Sach Chrouk, or pork and rice, is a popular street food and a famous breakfast dishes not only in Phnom Penh but also in Cambodia. In this dish, sliced pork is slowly grilled over charcoal and served with broken rice. Fried scallion, green tomatoes and fresh cucumbers are usually served on top.

Num Kachay

Num Kachay, also known as chive cake, is a popular Cambodian street food originating from China. They are pan-fried dumpling made from glutinous rice flour stuffed with chopped chives. When dipped into the sweet and spicy fish sauce, the flavors blend perfectly in your mouth.