Koh Chen
Koh Chen, a quaint island situation in the Tonle Sap lake...
A cruise along the mystical Mekong is the perfect way to explore some of Cambodia’s rich history, from the time of the Khmer Empire through to the country’s French colonial period, with a chance to soak up a little of the traditional lifestyle along the way. On a Cambodia river cruise, you’ll be able to explore the country’s rich capital Phnom Penh for yourself and have the opportunity to see its greatest architectural and historic treasure , the incredible Angkor Wat temple complex. Stops at smaller river ports along your journey will give you a taste of traditional Cambodian life, from seeing local artisans at work to taking a scenic boat ride.
Suggested Read: Cruising the Mekong for the First Time
Though Siem Reap isn’t situated on the banks of the Mekong, it does lie on the shores of Tonie Sap Lake which meets the river and serves as a popular starting point for many Cambodian river cruises. It’s not uncommon to spend a number of days in the city because as well as having its own appeal, it’s a convenient base from which to explore further afield. The biggest attraction for river cruisers staying in Siem Reap is the Angkor Archaeological Park, which is home to the magnificent Angkor Wat. This utterly enthralling UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world’s largest religious monuments, shares both Hindu and Buddhist history and dates back to the time of the Khmer Empire.
Relatively unassuming compared to Cambodia’s larger cities, Kampong Cham is the destination from which many Cambodia river cruises actually set sail. It’s quite the hub for the regional agricultural and fishing trade and during your time in the city, it’s possible you’ll have the option to visit one of the outlying villages to see locals at work. In Kampong Cham, the serene hilltop temple of Wat Hanchey is a key tourist attraction and predates even Angkor. The French Tower meanwhile, is a landmark which acts as the perfect introduction to the city’s colonial heritage.
Cambodia’s capital is a fantastic city to experience and it’s indeed fortunate that it sits on the banks of the Mekong. All Cambodia river cruises stop here and there’s certainly plenty to see. One of the most popular attractions is the 19th century Royal Palace, which combines the country’s cultural legacies perfectly, having been built in the Khmer style by the French. Another key excursion in the city is a sobering yet educational visit to the Killing Fields – the execution grounds of the Khmer Rouge and Tuol Sleng, their former detention centre which is now an informative and moving museum.
Whether travelling along the Mekong or taking a day trip out from one of Cambodia’s larger cities, your river cruise line will offer a number of excursions on which you’ll be able to immerse yourself in Cambodian culture. It could be a trip to a local English language school, a Rickshaw ride or an outing to a traditional silk-weaving village. Whichever itinerary you choose, your Cambodian river voyage will offer you the opportunity to get a taste of local life.
You’ll need a valid visa to visit Cambodia.
The currency is the Riel.
The Khmer language is widely spoken, though if you have some French you may find it useful, as many older citizens and some state institutions still use it.
The growth of tourism means English is now also increasingly used.
Prek Toal is a floating village on the Tonle Sap lake, an...
Kampong Tralach is located in the province of Kampong Chh...
Kampong Chhnang, the "Port of Pottery", is a tranquil riv...
The rural commune of Kampong Prasat, with its very modest...
Oknha Tey Village is a captivating island situated on the...
Chong Koh Village, nestled along the banks of the Mekong...
Prek Toal is a floating village on the Tonle Sap lake, an...
Kampong Tralach is located in the province of Kampong Chh...
Kampong Chhnang, the "Port of Pottery", is a tranquil riv...
The rural commune of Kampong Prasat, with its very modest...
Oknha Tey Village is a captivating island situated on the...
Chong Koh Village, nestled along the banks of the Mekong...
Prek Toal is a floating village on the Tonle Sap lake, an...
Kampong Tralach is located in the province of Kampong Chh...
Kampong Chhnang, the "Port of Pottery", is a tranquil riv...
The rural commune of Kampong Prasat, with its very modest...
Oknha Tey Village is a captivating island situated on the...
Chong Koh Village, nestled along the banks of the Mekong...
Koh Chen, a quaint island situation in the Tonle Sap lake, is one of Cambodia's hidden gems. Famed for its local craftsmen and skilled artisans, intricately handcrafted silver and copperware showcase a tradition passed down through generations and offer insight into the island's rich history.
Prek Toal is a floating village on the Tonle Sap lake, and is home to Cambodia's biggest bird sanctuary. This captivating destination not only attracts nature enthusiasts, but also offers an invaluable opportunity for visitors to foster a deeper connection with Cambodia's rich biodiversity and local community.
Kâmpóng Saôm is Cambodia's primary seaport, founded in the 1950s as the country's only deep–water port in order to communicate the city with international trade. It is situated in Sihanoukville, which is famed as Cambodia's most sought after seaside resort destination.
Kampot, Cambodia, is situated by the mouth of the Koh Sla River and offers a unique blend of small-town charm and natural beauty. Renowned for its historic architecture, vibrant markets and pepper plantations, the picturesque town of Kampot offers an ideal opportunity for visitors to unwind along the riverfront and immerse themselves into the laid-back atmosphere.
Chnok Tru is a lakeside village located on the Tonle Sap Lake. As a completely self-sufficient floating village situated on the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, and one of the most diverse and productive ecosystems in the world, it presents a dream destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Kampong Tralach is located in the province of Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia, and is renowned for its range of contemporary and traditional attractions and vibrant culture. The small city, situated amidst the Mekong river and Tonle Sap River, is an ideal destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike.
Kampong Chhnang, the "Port of Pottery", is a tranquil river port town located at the heart of Cambodia. The province is famous for producing traditional Khmer pottery, an art passed down through generations for over a millennium.
The rural commune of Kampong Prasat, with its very modest population, is situated in Cambodia in the province of Kâmpóng Cham. The historical significance of the area is enhanced by its association with the site of an ancient temple, adding an element of cultural richness to the tranquil destination.
Koh Rong, located off the coast of Sihanoukville, Cambodia, is often described by visitors as an "island paradise" thanks to its serene beauty, white, sandy beaches, warm, crystal-clear waters and hot tropical climate.
Prek Kdam is a rural village in the Kandal Province of Cambodia, home to the Prek Kdam temple and Prek Kdam Bridge, also known as the 2nd Cambodia-China Friendship Bridge.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital, sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. It was a hub for both the Khmer Empire and French colonialists. On its walkable riverfront, lined with parks, restaurants and bars, are the ornate Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, displaying artifacts from around the country. At the city’s heart is the massive, art deco Central Market.
Angkor Ban is a beautiful city known best for its vibrant culture and enchanting temple complexes. Situated in Cambodia, in the north-western region of the Siem Reap Province, Angkor Ban has a population of approximately 48 thousand, many of whom are ethnic Khmer.
Preaek Prasab is a district located in Kratié province, Cambodia, and is situated close to the Sopor Kaley mountain. The mountain boasts stunning views of the Mekong River, the longest river in Southeast Asia.
Siem Reap, in the northwest Cambodia, is a major tourist hub in the country. Once the seat of power for the Khmer Empire, the name of the city translates to Siamese defeated - a reference to the victory of the Khmer Empire over the army of the Thai kingdom in the 17th century. Siem Reap is the closest city to the world famous temples of Angkor, and its provincial capital sits on the shores of the Tonle Sap lake, making it the most popular tourist destination for those exploring Cambodia.
Oudong, once the royal capital of Cambodia, is a historical gem nestled about 40 kilometres north of Phnom Penh. This serene town is known for its impressive temples and stupa-covered hills, offering a glimpse into the country’s royal heritage. Visitors can explore the ancient capital’s stunning pagodas, including the prominent Wat Udong, which boasts beautiful architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The area is rich in history, with many archaeological sites that reflect the legacy of the Khmer Empire. With its tranquil atmosphere and cultural significance, Oudong is a captivating destination for those looking to delve deeper into Cambodia’s past.
Sihanoukville is the premier beach destination in Cambodia for tourists and Cambodians alike, with golden white sands, tropical islands and mangrove jungles. A relatively new city, it sprang to life in 1955 with the construction of the only deep-sea port of a newly independent Cambodia. With the bay of Thailand surrounding it on three sides, Sihanoukville was named in honour of the former King Norodom Sihanouk in 1964. As Cambodia descended into civil war the town fell on hard times with the Khmer Rouge using the famous Independence Hotel for target practice. In 1993 peace returned to Cambodia and since then Sihanoukville has been slowly rebuilding itself. Today it attracts Asian Individual travellers, young students and back-packers but after decades of war and upheaval the town’s infrastructure is still very much in its infancy. A visit to Ream National Park offers pristine mangrove forests rich in wildlife with miles of beaches unmarked by footprints.
Kampong Cham, the capital city of Cambodia's Kampong Cham Province, is a vibrant cultural destination with a rich history and serene landscapes. Situated along the banks of the Mekong river, visitors to Kampong Cham can explore the nearby Wat Nokor temple and immerse themselves into local life and culture.
Tonlé Sap, located in the north west of Cambodia, is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and is renowned for its floating villages and diverse ecosystem. As the lake undergoes the fascinating phenomenon of changing with the seasons, it has a profound influence on the livelihoods of those populating the local communities, and offers a fascinating look into the symbiotic relationship between nature and human life in this culturally rich region.
Angkor, in the northwest of Cambodia, hosts the impressive Angkor Archaeological Park - a UNESCO World Heritage site. Best known for its magnificent temples, Angkor was once the capital of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to 15th centuries, and stands today as a testament to the country's enduring rich cultural and architectural legacy.
Oknha Tey Village is a captivating island situated on the Mekong River. It is most known for its famous silk weaving village, weaving a cultural allure into the tapestry of the picturesque island destination.
Chong Koh Village, nestled along the banks of the Mekong River, is a picturesque village renowned for its traditional stilt houses, serene ambiance and rich cultural heritage. Its blend of cultural charm and natural beauty make Chong Koh Village a premier destination for those seeking an authentic Cambodian experience.