The Smart Traveller website has updated its advisory, urging Australians to exercise considerable caution when visiting the South-East Asian nation. It further advises against travel to several provinces, including the popular tourist destination, Siem Reap.

Cambodia has been entangled in an armed dispute with a neighboring country since late July, stemming from border disagreements dating back to the early 20th century.

The latest update on Smart Traveller states, “We now recommend exercising a high degree of caution overall due to the ongoing conflict and associated security risks.”

The advisory underscores that the security situation remains volatile and unpredictable.

Travelers are strongly advised to avoid areas within 50 kilometers of the Cambodia-Thailand border, particularly in the provinces of Banteay Meanchey, Oddar Meanchey, Preah Vihear, Battambang, Pailin, Pursat, and Koh Kong.

Additionally, Australians should reconsider traveling within 50 to 80 kilometers of the border, including larger urban areas like Battambang and the province of Siem Reap, home to the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex.

Siem Reap is also the second-largest city in the country.

“Military strikes and violence, and the presence of landmines and unexploded ordinance,” are threats facing travellers in these locations, according to Smart Traveller.