Cambodia

On the whole Cambodia is a relatively welcoming destination for gay travellers. Please note: public displays of affection in Cambodia are a taboo no matter your sexual orientation.

Gay Activity: Legal
Lesbian Activity: Legal
Gay Marriage: Unrecognized – Some provinces have begun recognizing lesbian partnerships as marriage.
Right to Change Gender: Legal, surgery not required
Same-Sex Adoption: Legal
LGBT Discrimination: No Protections
Equal Age of Consent: Equal

While Cambodia isn’t a gay hotspot per se, there’s an impressive amount of nightlife in both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. From hole-in-the-wall drag bars, to cafes, to some of the best cabarets we’ve seen, you certainly won’t be at a loss for things to do after a day of temple hopping.

Gay Villages

There are no gay villages in Cambodia. However, plenty of gay bars pepper Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and some smaller cities as well.

Pride Festivals/Events

Some LGBT events are planned in Phnom Penh around May 17, The International Day Against Homophobia

Best Gay Bars

Phnom Penh: Toolbox Bar
Phnom Penh: Space Hair Salon and Bar
Siem Reap: Miss Wong Cocktail Bar
Siem Reap: Barcode
Siem Reap: Heaven & Dreamboys 

Best Lesbian Bars

Phnom Peng: The L Bar

5. Siem Reap

This chic Cambodian city is the gateway to Angkor Park. When you’re all templed out, Siem Reap offers a wealth of wining and dining options, exceptional shopping and some great gay hangouts.

4. Kratie

Take to the Mekong by river boat and discover one of the region’s most beloved endemic fresh water mammals, the Irrawaddy River Dolphin. The central market place and French Colonial architecture is also impressive.

3. The Southern Islands

For a boutique escape in Cambodia, spend a few nights luxuriating among the Southern Islands. The glorious islands are – strangely – untouched by large resorts, allowing boutique accommodations to flourish.

2. Phnom Penh

Pagodas, temples and the Royal Palace await travellers in Phnom Penh. And for a taste of the country’s more recent history, spend a few sobering hours in Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.

1. Angkor

There are few travel experiences on Earth as powerful as watching the sun rise behind Angkor Wat. But this iconic experience is only the tip of the iceberg as you navigate the ancient hallways of lesser known temples, photographing immaculate statues and parasitic vines.

Best Time to Visit: November through February are the best months to visit Cambodia as the weather is balmy without being too rainy. Unfortunately, it tends to be quite busy during this period, especially over Christmas and New Years.

Time Zone: (GMT+07:00) Bangkok, Hanoi, Jakarta

Electricity: A/C/G

Vaccinations: No vaccinations required for entry.

Visas: Most passports require a visa. Apply for a Cambodian eVisa here.