What Currency Does Cambodia Use?
Cambodia uses two currencies at the same time:
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USD (U.S. Dollar): Accepted everywhere — from coffee shops and tuktuks to shopping malls.
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Riel (KHR): The local currency, mostly used for small change.
👉 Example: If something costs $1.50, you’ll get $1 back in cash and 2,000 riel in change.
(1 USD ≈ 4,000 KHR)
Where to Exchange Money?
You can exchange currency in Phnom Penh at:
– Money changers (usually gold shops, phone stores, or booths near Russian Market or Orussey Market).
– The rate is usually better than at the airport.
Exchange Rate (approximate):
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1 USD ≈ 4,000 Riel
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1,000 Riel ≈ 5,000 VND
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1 USD ≈ 24,500–25,000 VND
You don’t need to remember the details — just keep this in mind:
👉 1 USD = 4,000 Riel
👉 1,000 Riel ≈ 5,000 VND
Money Tips for Living in Cambodia:
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Always carry small USD bills ($1, $5, $10) — easier to spend and always accepted.
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Avoid torn, folded, or marked $100 bills — vendors and even banks may reject them.
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If you have an ABA Bank account, you can transfer or pay locally via QR code — super convenient, no need to count cash, exchange small bills, or worry about losing your wallet.
