Phnom Penh is a truly remarkable urban jungle. Like all jungles in southeast Asia, there are bound to be hidden gems in the city that lead to adventures when you try to find them. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most adventurous things you can do in and around Phnom Penh.

Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center

Poaching used to be a big problem around Cambodia, until the government and a very dedicated organization stepped in to defend helpless animals such as the Asian elephants, wild tigers, gibbons and hundreds of avian species. These animals are now cared for at a wildlife sanctuary in Phnom Penh.

Going to Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center takes you slightly outside the city, roughly 1 hour 30 minutes by car. The urban jungle scene is quickly replaced by suburban farmland and rainforests as you enter the wildlife rescue center.

This rescue center is not a zoo, although any visitor is allowed to enter and observe rescued and rehabilitated leopards, bears, crocodiles and monkeys from a safe distance. It would be of great benefit if you contact Wildlife Alliance to book a Phnom Penh wildlife tour, featuring behind the scenes of the hardworking vets and rescuers of Phnom Tamao. All profits go directly to the care and release of the wildlife

Food market hunt in Phnom Penh

If you hear a rumbling, it could mean two things — the sound of an elephant or an empty stomach. If you have returned to Phnom Penh, it’s probably the latter, and it’s also the right time to hunt for some delicious Khmer cuisine.

There are so many dishes that you must try before you leave Cambodia. If you have only a week to stay in Phnom Penh, here are the 7 best dishes to look out for. This menu is found practically everywhere, from street vendors to restaurants. You only need to choose where to eat in Phnom Penh.

1. Char kroeung sach ko

A popular stir-fried beef dish that is accompanied by aromatic lemongrass.

2. Twa ko

Also known as the Cambodian sausage, which is made from pork belly marinated with Khmer spices.

3. Kuy teav

Beef or chicken stock with flat noodles, and fresh ‘salad’ vegetable side dish to be submerged into the soup.

4. Fish amok

A national dish containing the iconic Cambodian staple — rice and freshwater fish, cooked with coconut milk and curry paste.

5. Nom banh chok

Also known as Khmer noodles, this is the national favorite for a breakfast menu. Beef and noodles with delightful sourness from lime.

6. Lok lak

Stir fried marinated beef in brown sauce is as exotic to Cambodians as it is to visitors. This is a definite must-try dish.

Start your culinary adventure at Theato Restaurant

Don’t miss your chance to taste local cuisine that is masterfully made with our country’s top chefs. Book a stay at Phnom Penh’s only riverside nature retreat resort that offers spacious rooms and a backyard for each unit, giving you plenty of space and peace of mind. The Balé Phnom Penh, your relaxation house in Cambodia.