Whether you’ve been to Vietnam and Cambodia before, or you just like to make a habit of getting away from the crowds, you’ll know that some of the best travel experiences are to be found ‘off the beaten track’. If Angkor Wat or Halong Bay are too mainstream for you, add these lesser-known places to your Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary.
Bai Tu Long, Vietnam
Want to experience Halong Bay without the tourists? Then head northeast to Bai Tu Long Bay, which is part of the famous Halong Bay but far quieter. While most commercial junk cruises take a well-established route around famous islands such as Cat Ba, Bai Tu Long feels more like a well-kept secret despite the presence of the same limestone karsts that draw so many visitors to its celebrity neighbour. The area is a National Park, and in addition to a quieter cruise around the bay, you can also explore places such as the quiet fishing village of Vung Vieng.
The Phong Nha Caves, Vietnam
The world’s biggest cave – Son Doong – was discovered as recently as 2009 in Phong Nha National Park, and it’s just a small part of a vast network of caves and underground rivers that have to be seen to be believed. Public access to some of the caves means you can head underground to see the caves and their astonishing rock formations for yourself; try Paradise Cave for starters.
Ha Giang Province, Vietnam
Right in the north of Vietnam and often referred to as its “final frontier”, Ha Giang Province isn’t on the agenda of most travellers – but it should be. Its gorgeous mountain terrain is unspoilt by the trappings of tourism, making it the ideal destination for those wanting an authentic taste of Vietnam. The overwhelming majority of Ha Giang’s population is ethnic minority, and meeting the local people is a real treat. Ha Giang is also home to the Dong Van Karst Geopark, Vietnam’s first geological park, which protects the awe-inspiring karst landscape for which the area is famous.
Phnom Kulen, Cambodia
This National Park is home to Cambodia’s most sacred mountain, Mount Kulen, and while it’s only 50km north of Siem Reap, it’s more popular with locals than tourists. The Khmer Empire originated here in the 9th century, when Jayavarman II was declared ‘chakravartin’ or King of Kings. Visitors come to see the huge 16th century reclining Buddha carved out of an enormous rock, as well as the array of fertility carvings. The area is also known for its natural beauty, its beautiful waterfalls being the most popular sight.
Kratie, Cambodia
The small and isolated town of Kratie enjoys a riverside setting on the Mekong, which helps make it a relaxed place to get away from the crowds. Alongside its attractive French colonial architecture and wonderful sunsets, the area’s most notable attraction is the presence of the rare Irrawaddy dolphin; Kratie and nearby Kampi are some of the best places in Cambodia to see this elusive creature. Kratie is also the gateway to the area’s fascinating basket-weaver villages, the biggest being Chheu Teil Ploch – a great place to learn about local crafts and eat some great Vietnamese food.
Photo credits – Photo 1 provided by Cambodia & Vietnam travel experts Insider Journeys, Photo 2 provided by Flickr & Photo 3 provided by Flickr.
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