14+ journey-worthy photos of daily life in Cambodia

A small country with a big history, Cambodia’s story is both magnificent and tragic. In a series of images, travel photographer Todd Weselake focuses on what life is like today in this resilient kingdom.

On paper, Cambodia’s numbers are pretty unique; at 181,035 sq km (69,898 sq mi) it’s one of the smallest countries in Asia, boasting a population of ~15m. On the ground, that’s ~83 people per square kilometre; however, owing to the Khmer Rouge’s brutal rule, more than 70 per cent of those Khmers are under the age of 30. And, although young, over 95% of the population affiliates with the Buddhist way of life. Which make sense, as their legendary temples continue to provide a touchstone of national identity — Angkor Wat being the most world-renowned.

Of course, I wanted to see what these numbers looked like –– to experience them off the page.

Throughout its long history, Cambodia has fought to maintain its identity, from French colonization, the Vietnam War, and the Khmer Rouge. Yet, its people have a welcoming reputation and wear ear-to-ear smiles. More than anything, I wanted to see how this unceasing resiliency shaped a nation.

So I travelled there, camera in hand, in an effort to tell the story of how 15m people live proudly today, folding in centuries of history while maintaining a distinct culture.

Taking a tuk tuk around is a must.

In Southeast Aisa, durian fruit is known as the “King of Fruits,” but it sure doesn’t smell like royalty. Consider yourself warned.

Visiting Angkor Wat is a must when in Cambodia. Get there early, before the heat of the day.

Although Angkor Wat is the most well-known temple in the Siem Reap area, there actually are hundreds in the region. You’ll need at least one full day to take a small sampling in.

The fishing villages on Tonle Sap Lake wait for the rainy season. With no water, there is no rice production or fishing.

The increasing dryness of the dry seasons is putting a lot of stress on these villages that rely on agriculture.

To know Cambodia’s story, its important to visit some war museums and prison camps. They reveal a dark, yet very real, past.

Phnom Penh. The capital of Cambodia is alive, and full of places to go and sights to see.

The markets in Southeast Asia never disappoint, and those in Cambodia are no different!

Oh, the traffic!

You can’t visit Cambodia without going to one kick-boxing match…

The street food. Inclusive, with your choice of insects!

Time to cross the border into Vietnam. Stay tuned for that blog post, coming soon!