1. Where is Cambodia located?
Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia and is bordered by Thailand to the west and northwest, Laos to the north, Vietnam to the east, and the Gulf of Thailand to the southwest.
2. What ancient civilization built the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex?
The Khmer Empire constructed Angkor Wat. They ruled a powerful empire in Southeast Asia from roughly the 9th to the 15th centuries. Angkor Wat itself was constructed in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II and served as both a state temple and a political center for the empire.
3. What is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia located in Cambodia?
Tonlé Sap is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. It is also known as the Great Lake and is a vital part of the Cambodian ecosystem. The Tonle Sap is famous for its unique hydrological cycle, where the flow of the Tonle Sap River reverses direction twice a year. During the wet season, the Mekong River floods, causing the Tonle Sap to expand dramatically in size. Conversely, during the dry season, the water recedes from the lake back into the Mekong River. This cycle makes the Tonle Sap one of the most productive inland fisheries in the world, supporting millions of people in Cambodia.
4. What percentage of Cambodia's population practices Theravada Buddhism?
Over 90% of Cambodia's population adheres to Theravada Buddhism.
5. What endangered primate species is indigenous to Cambodia's forests?
The critically endangered eastern hoolock gibbon is native to Cambodia.
6. What traditional Khmer dish features green curry, coconut milk, and fish?
Amok is a popular Khmer dish with green curry, coconut milk, and fish. This dish, considered by many to be Cambodia's national dish, features fish steamed in a fragrant green curry paste ("kroeung") made with lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, kaffir lime leaves, and other spices. The kroeung paste is mixed with coconut milk and eggs, creating a rich and creamy sauce that surrounds the delicate fish. Fish Amok is often steamed in banana leaves, adding a subtle earthy flavor to the dish.
7. What martial art form originated in Cambodia and involves kicking techniques?
Bokator is a traditional Cambodian martial art known for its emphasis on kicking. It is considered the oldest surviving martial art of Cambodia, dating back to the 1st century AD. Bokator utilizes a diverse range of strikes, including elbows, knees, shins, and kicks, along with grappling and weapon-based techniques. While kicks are present, Bokator emphasizes overall combat rather than focusing solely on kicking.
8. What is the currency of Cambodia?
The Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the official currency.
9. What city is the current capital of Cambodia?
Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia. It has been the capital since 1865 and is also the most populous city in the country. It is located at the confluence of the Mekong and Bassac rivers, making it a major port city. It was once known as the "Pearl of Asia" due to its French colonial architecture, although many of these buildings have been lost over time. The city is home to the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum, all of which are popular tourist destinations. Phnom Penh is a popular destination for foodies, offering a wide variety of Cambodian and international cuisine.
10. Which is the most significant mountain range of Cambodia?
The most significant mountain range in Cambodia is the Cardamom Mountains (also known as the Krâvanh Mountains), which stretch along the southwestern border with Thailand. They contain Cambodia's highest point, Phnom Aural, which reaches 1,813 meters (5,948 feet) above sea level. The Cardamoms are home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including evergreen forests, mangroves, and grasslands. They are a crucial habitat for many endangered species, such as the Asian elephant, the sun bear, and the gibbon. The Cardamom Mountains have long played a role in Cambodian culture and are considered sacred by some indigenous groups. They are also home to several archaeological sites, including ancient temples and Khmer ruins.
11. What iconic Cambodian landmark graces the national flag?
The silhouette of Angkor Wat temple is depicted on the Cambodian flag. It's depicted in a simplified silhouette, usually in red against a blue background.
12. What traditional Cambodian silk weaving technique produces intricate designs?
Cambodian ikat, a vibrant tapestry woven in silk, boasts a rich history and intricate beauty. This resist-dyeing technique, utilizing a multi-shaft loom, creates stunning geometric patterns and soft, blurred effects as the threads shift during the weaving process. Once considered among the finest textiles in the world, Cambodian ikat adorned traditional clothing like the sampot hol and adorned pagodas and homes with pidan wall hangings. However, the mid-20th century saw a tragic decline as war and political unrest threatened to erase this art form entirely. Thankfully, dedicated individuals like Kikuo Morimoto embarked on a mission to revive Cambodian ikat, ensuring its intricate patterns and cultural significance continue to grace future generations.
13. What annual festival in Cambodia celebrates the flooding and receding of Tonlé Sap lake?
The annual festival in Cambodia that celebrates the flooding and receding of Tonlé Sap lake is called Bon Om Touk (meaning "Water Festival"). It is a three-day festival typically held in November, coinciding with the full moon of the Buddhist calendar month Pchum Ben. During Bon Om Touk, Cambodians celebrate the natural wonder of the Tonlé Sap's unique hydrological cycle. The festival features vibrant boat races, with teams competing across the Tonlé Sap in colorful and elaborately decorated longtail boats. The races symbolize the struggle against the strong currents and represent the importance of cooperation and community spirit.
Beyond the races, Bon Om Touk is a time for cultural performances, traditional music, and religious ceremonies. It is a joyous occasion for Cambodians to come together, celebrate their heritage, and give thanks for the abundance provided by the Tonlé Sap.
14. What type of ancient water management system is still used in Cambodian agriculture?
Angkorian barays, large reservoirs, are still crucial for irrigation in rural areas. Cambodian agriculture heavily relies on an ancient water management system that continues to be relevant today. This system, based on reservoirs, canals, and baray, has served the region for centuries. Reservoirs collect and store rainwater, offering crucial irrigation during dry seasons. Canals act as arteries, transporting water from these reservoirs and rivers to distant fields. The unique baray, large rectangular reservoirs from the Khmer Empire, were used for irrigation, domestic water supply, and flood control. While modern technology plays an increasing role, this traditional system remains vital, providing a sustainable and cost-effective way to manage water resources, especially in rural areas. Moreover, its continued use preserves cultural heritage and traditional knowledge passed down through generations.
15. What Cambodian dance performance tells stories through graceful hand and body movements?
Apsara dance, originating in the Khmer Empire, features elaborate costumes and storytelling. These performances, traditionally performed by women, feature elaborate costumes, intricate hand gestures known as mudras, and slow, elegant movements. The mudras, with over 1,500 variations, act as a silent language, conveying emotions, actions, and narratives from ancient myths, historical events, and even daily life. Apsara dance is a captivating art form that embodies Cambodian cultural heritage and continues to be an important part of the country's artistic landscape.
16. What indigenous musical instrument is made from bamboo and produces a haunting sound?
The Roneat ek, a xylophone-like instrument, is a key component of Cambodian music. This instrument, primarily found in Cambodia, is a xylophone made from tuned bamboo bars laid across a wooden frame. Players use small mallets to strike the bars, producing a rich, clear sound that can range from mellow and gentle to sharp and percussive. The Roneat Ek is often used in traditional Cambodian music ensembles, particularly in court music and religious ceremonies. Its distinctive and evocative sound is said to evoke a sense of mystery and spirituality, contributing to its association with haunting melodies.
17. What Khmer Rouge leader was responsible for the Cambodian genocide in the 1970s?
Pol Pot led the Khmer Rouge regime during the genocidal period. Pol Pot, whose real name was Saloth Sar, was the leader of the Khmer Rouge and served as Prime Minister of Democratic Kampuchea, the name Cambodia was given under Khmer Rouge rule. He was a radical communist who implemented brutal policies that resulted in the deaths of an estimated 2-3 million Cambodians, roughly a quarter of the country's population at the time.
18. What UNESCO World Heritage Site, besides Angkor Wat, features ancient temples in Preah Vihear?
The Temple of Preah Vihear, overlooking the Dangrek Mountains, is another UNESCO site. While Angkor Wat is the most famous temple complex in Cambodia, the Temple of Preah Vihear holds its own unique significance. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a remarkably well-preserved Hindu temple complex perched atop a cliff on the Dangrek Mountains bordering Thailand. The temple complex, built between the 9th and 11th centuries, is known for its stunning architecture, intricate stone carvings, and breathtaking views. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008 and continues to be a significant cultural and historical landmark in Cambodia.
19. What Cambodian sport involves kicking a rattan ball through a goal at opposite ends of a field?
Sepak Takraw, a high-energy kicking sport, is popular in Cambodia and Southeast Asia. This exciting team sport, often referred to as "kick volleyball" or "foot volleyball", is played on a court similar to badminton with two teams of two to four players using their feet, knees, shoulders, chest, and head to control the ball. The goal is to maneuver the ball over the net and into the opposing team's goal. Sepak takraw requires agility, strength, and precise kicking techniques, making it a captivating and visually stunning sport.
20. What traditional Cambodian puppetry art form uses intricate leather puppets manipulated by rods?
Sbek Thom, shadow puppetry with large leather puppets, is a unique Cambodian art form. Sbek Thom translates to "big leather" and these puppets are known for their large size, ranging from one to two meters tall. The puppets are crafted from water buffalo hide, meticulously carved and painted with vibrant colors and intricate details.
During performances, puppeteers manipulate the puppets from behind a screen using rods attached to the head, arms, and legs. The puppets enact stories from mythology, folklore, and historical narratives, often accompanied by live music from traditional instruments and singing. Sbek Thom is more than just entertainment; it serves as a powerful tool for preserving cultural heritage, passing down stories and traditions through generations.
21. What Cambodian national park is home to wild elephants, gibbons, and diverse birdlife?
Kirirom National Park, in the Cardamom Mountains and Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary are wildlife sanctuaries and popular ecotourism destinations.
22. What Khmer Rouge slogan referred to their vision of a self-sufficient agrarian society?
"Angkar Leu" or "Red Khmer" was the Khmer Rouge's slogan for their radical social experiment.
23. What traditional Cambodian dessert is made with sticky rice, coconut milk, and palm sugar?
Nom Chak Ansom, sweet sticky rice with toppings, is a popular Cambodian dessert.
24. What modern tourist attraction showcases the nightlife and entertainment scene of Phnom Penh?
Sisowath Quay, along the Mekong River, is known for its restaurants, bars, and bustling atmosphere.
25. What historical event in 1998 marked the official end of the Khmer Rouge regime?
The Paris Peace Agreements were instrumental in the Khmer Rouge's demise in 1998. The agreements were signed by the governments of North Vietnam, South Vietnam, the United States, and the Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Republic of South Vietnam.