Into the Twists & Turns of Cambodia: Ekta’s Solo Journey with Thrillophilia
I’ve always believed that some dreams take time to materialize, but when they do, the experience is beyond anything you could ever imagine. For me, that dream was to visit Cambodia, the land of my birth. I was born in Cambodia while my father worked as a research scholar at a university there, but we moved back to Kolkata soon after I was born. Though I grew up in India, Cambodia was always a part of me, quietly calling me back.
As New Year’s Eve of 2024 approached, my friends made plans for the usual trips- Goa, Thailand, Dubai. But I wanted something different. I longed for quiet streets, serene landscapes, and a deeper connection with a place that felt like home even though I had no memories of it. I wanted to escape the tourist traps and take a 10-day long, leisurely vacation, exploring the less-explored corners of Cambodia.
That’s when I found out about Thrillophilia. From the moment I approached them, I felt like they understood exactly what I wanted. I explained my desire to avoid crowded places and instead seek out hidden gems. After a month-long discussion, where they carefully curated options based on my interests, my dream itinerary was ready.
My journey began in Kampong Cham, a quiet riverside town that felt worlds away from the bustle of major tourist spots. On my first morning, I started the day with Kuy Teav, a traditional noodle soup. The locals at the breakfast stall were curious about me, and when I told them about my father’s connection to Cambodia, they welcomed me like family.
With a rented bicycle, I spent the day exploring riverside shophouses, watching the world go by. I crossed the new bridge leading to Bamboo Island, a place that felt untouched by time. There, I hiked up to the old French lighthouse. The view from the top was breathtaking, with the Mekong River stretching endlessly in the distance.
From Kampong Cham, I traveled to Banteay Chhmar. Thrillophilia had suggested this as a quieter alternative to Angkor Wat, and they couldn’t have been more right. The ancient temple complex was almost empty, and walking through the moss-covered ruins felt like stepping back in time. I sat under the shade of ancient stone carvings, letting the silence wash over me. There was a profound beauty in the solitude. A local guide shared stories of the temple’s history, and I felt grateful for the personal connection I felt amidst the lack of crowds.
Next, I made my way to Kirirom National Park, nestled along the Cardamom Mountains. Thrillophilia had arranged a homestay for me in Chambok commune, run by a local family. The simple wooden house was surrounded by lush greenery, and the family’s warmth made me feel like I belonged there. One of the most memorable meals I had was at a women-run restaurant nearby.
The food was delicious – fresh, home-cooked, and filled with flavors I had never experienced before. Over two days, I trekked through the national park, exploring waterfalls and listening to the soothing sounds of nature. At night, the sky was a blanket of stars, and I sat by the fire with other travelers, sharing stories and laughter.
My journey continued to Kratie, a town famous for its sunsets and home to the rare Irrawaddy dolphins. Thrillophilia had arranged a sunset boat trip, and as the sun dipped below the horizon, the river turned to gold. I spotted a pod of dolphins swimming gracefully alongside the boat, and in that moment, I felt overwhelming peace.
From Kratie, I traveled to Koh Kong, an ecologically rich area that is rapidly developing. I had read that Koh Kong was on the verge of urbanization, and I wanted to experience its natural beauty before it changed forever. I explored dense mangrove forests, taking long walks along the shore.
My next stop was Tatai Leu, where I discovered mudflats and hidden waterfalls. A local fisherman guided me through the area, and we spent the day trekking and wading through shallow streams. There was something magical about finding waterfalls tucked away from the world. The mist, the sound of rushing water, and the sheer beauty of it all felt like nature’s best-kept secret.
I ended my trip in Battambang, known as the artistic capital of Cambodia. The town was a canvas of colonial French architecture and a vibrant art scene. As I wandered through the streets, I met a local artist who offered to show me around. We explored the town on bicycles, stopping at small galleries and tiny cafes. The artist’s passion for his town was infectious, and by the end of the day, I felt like I had uncovered Battambang’s soul.
Everywhere I went, I encountered kindness, curiosity, and a sense of belonging. The locals treated me like one of their own, eager to share their stories and listen to mine. The trip was not just about visiting places; it was about connecting with people and rediscovering a part of myself that had always been waiting.
As I boarded my flight back to India, I felt an immense sense of gratitude to Thrillophilia. They had taken my vision and crafted it into a journey that was everything I had dreamt of until then. I returned with memories, stories, and a deeper connection to Cambodia- the place I had always called home in my heart.
Read more: Thrillophilia Cambodia Reviews