Culture and lifestyle in Cambodia

Culture and lifestyle in Cambodia
CULTURE OF CAMBODIA
In these two millennia, Cambodians formed and developed unique Khmer culture under the influence of two factors: Indian culture and long history of habitation along the Mekong River. The golden time of Cambodia was between the 9th and 14th century when Khmer civilization reached its highest. Tours Indochina Cambodia
Not only owning a vast land and making great influence on neighbors, Khmer empire also comprehensively develop with glamorous achievements in art, architecture, music and dance. Thousands magnificent and palatial Angkor temples like Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Preah Vihear were built in this time, sculpture wows the world today also belonged to this period and Apsara dance was also created and completed during these centuries. The golden time of Khmer Empire has made up the flourished and glorious Khmer culture that put strong influence on Cambodian society today.
It can be said that culture of Cambodia is covered by the color of Buddhism. 95% of the population of Cambodia is Buddhist followers. Going along Cambodia, it is frequent to catch a Buddhism pagoda; a pagoda is not only the religious but also cultural and political centre of the community living around. Moreover, most festivals in Cambodia are associated with Buddhist rituals. For example, the Pchum Ben (take place in September and October) is a day for memorizing departed ancestors; Meak Bochea (in January or February) is for commemorating the last sermon of Buddha. Buddhist teachings have put enormous effect on Cambodian’s life. Cambodians prefer simple, peaceful and humble life. They do not rush for noisy and flashy life. They are satisfied and contented with what they have and aware of how much is enough for them. Travel to Cambodia

Culture of Cambodia is result of long history with glorious achievements in architecture, sculpture, literature, music and dance; together with the widespread and profound influence of Buddhism. These two above things combine to make a distinguished color for culture of Cambodia.
CAMBODIAN LIFESTYLE
Lifestyle of people living along Mekong River has both common traits of Southeast Asia countries and peculiarities of its own. These Cambodians have distinguished ways of working, living and behaving which makes the unique beauty of Cambodia.
Mekong River – the aortic of Cambodians have brought Cambodians with abundant source of water as well as marine. As a result, most of population habiting along Mekong River lives on fishing and farming. Although being endowed with favorable natural conditions, Cambodians have tradition of hard-working. Regularly, Cambodian peasants leave theirs for farm house before the sunrise and come back home after the sunset. Modern life has made little impact on Cambodians’ life; they still follow traditional ways of farming with traditional techniques. For example, instead of using agrimotor, Cambodian peasants lead their water buffalo to the fields. The main agricultural product of Cambodians living along Mekong River is wet rice which is also their main food. Rhythm of Cambodian life goes along with rhythm of season. In rainy season, Cambodians plant wet rice and fish on the river or lake. After rainy season, Cambodians often plant palm trees to make palm sugar. Cambodians community living along Mekong River love working and respect their labor outcomes.
Most of Cambodians live in the village and their lives are strong attached with the village from birth to death. All major events like birth, marriage, and death occur within the villages. As a result, they are quite shy but very warm and friendly. Families in Cambodia tend to be extended family. Sometimes, there are up to three or four generations living under a same roof. Cambodians often give birth to many children (often 3-5) because they prefer a big family. Family members in Cambodia share close connection.
Overall, Cambodian society is quite conservative; and most of activities are centered around the family and religion. Mekong River plays an important role in their life. It is not only the source of life but also their pride and satisfaction.