Cambodia

 Cambodia, a country in Southeast Asia in the southern part of Indochina, covers an area of 181,035 square kilometers and has a population of 13.124764 million (2003 est.). The country's shape is an almost-square polygon, with Kampong Thom Province as its central point. The country extends 440 kilometers from north to south and 560 kilometers from west to east. This shape makes Cambodia easy for tourists to navigate and poses no difficulties for the development of tourism.

 Among the 10 member countries of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN), Cambodia ranks eighth in land size and seventh in population. Its geographical location makes Cambodia an easily accessible ecotourism destination for travelers in neighboring countries and other parts of the world.

The country is situated geographically between the 10th and 15th parallels north latitude and the 102nd and 108th parallels east latitude. The country has a tropical climate—warm and humid. In the monsoon season, abundant rain allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops. This year-round tropical climate makes Cambodia ideal for developing tourism. Travelers need not fear natural disasters such as erupting volcanoes or earthquakes, and the country is not directly affected by tropical storms.

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The Kingdom of Cambodia, a nation in Southeast Asia, boasts a rich and tumultuous history. Its cultural tapestry is woven with ancient traditions and the threads of various influences. This overview explores the geography, history, culture, and economy of this fascinating country.

 A Land of Plains and Rivers

 Cambodia's landscape is dominated by a large central plain, home to the majority of its population. This plain encompasses the Tonlé Sap basin, which holds the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, and the fertile lowlands of the Mekong River. Mountain ranges frame the country to the southwest, north, and east.

 The climate is tropical, with a distinct wet and dry season governed by monsoons. The southwest monsoon brings heavy rains from May to October, while the northeast monsoon ushers in a cooler, drier period from November to March.

 A History of Empires and Turmoil

 Cambodia's story begins with the mighty Khmer Empire, which flourished from the 9th to the 15th centuries. This empire, with its capital at Angkor, was a dominant force in Southeast Asia, leaving behind a legacy of magnificent temples, most notably Angkor Wat.

 In 1863, Cambodia became a French protectorate to shield itself from its neighbors. It gained independence from France in 1953. The mid-20th century was a period of immense hardship, culminating in the brutal rule of the Khmer Rouge from 1975 to 1979. This regime's radical policies led to the deaths of an estimated 1.5 to 2 million people through execution, starvation, and overwork.

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 A Vibrant and Resilient Culture

 Despite its tragic past, Cambodia's culture remains vibrant and deeply rooted in tradition. The majority of Cambodians are of Khmer descent and practice Theravada Buddhism. The official language is Khmer.

 Cambodian cuisine is known for its use of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. Rice is the staple food, often served with a variety of dishes. Fermented fish paste, known as prahok, is a key ingredient that gives many dishes their distinctive flavor.

 A Developing Economy

 Cambodia's economy has experienced rapid growth in recent decades. The main pillars of the economy are the garment industry, which accounts for a significant portion of its exports, and tourism. Agriculture remains a vital sector, providing a livelihood for a large part of the rural population. The country continues to attract foreign investment due to its low wages and favorable tax policies.