Kampong Chhnang

The province Kampong Chhnang is located at the heart of Cambodia. Its bordering Kampong Thom to the North, Kampong Cham to the East, Kampong Speu to the South and Pursat to the West. This province is not only at the fertile and almost ever-wet heart of Cambodia, but also just a 91km ride from Phnom Penh, so it’s a quick jaunt up.

Due to its location next to the Tonle Sap Lake Kampong Chhnang’s population is predominantly in fishery and rice plantation involved. Especially the provincial capital Kampong Chhnang, which is an easygoing river port town that is worth a visit, focuses on fishery and therefore features a big fishery port. It is, easy to get to from Phnom Penh via national road number 5, passing by the former capital of Udong.  Kampong Chhnang also gives you the option to take an air-con bus to get there (as it wasn’t possible in near past). There are also some nice sights to check out and the town has a fair selection of places to spend the night and a couple of decent spots to have a feed.

The bullet boats to and from Siem Reap and Phnom Penh are taking you through a breathtaking countryside along the Tonle Sap to the provincial town. If you are interested you also may rent a motorized boat to explore the Tonle Sap River area around the town. They are between US$ 8 per hour, or you can get one of the small non-motorized boats to take you on a more quiet tour for 4,000 riel per hour. The new river walkway is the place for a stroll and is where the locals head to for the early evening social hour. It’s the evening and weekend spot to be seen.

Geography

The province Kampong Chhnang is located at the heart of Cambodia. Its bordering Kampong Thom to the North, Kampong Cham to the East, Kampong Speu to the South and Pursat to the West. This province is not only at the fertile and almost ever-wet heart of Cambodia, but also just a 91km ride from Phnom Penh, so it’s a quick jaunt up.

Most parts of this province are fertile alluvial soil reservoirs with plenty of fishes and endless rice plantations. There are no more forests remaining except in the Southwest of the country where the biggest coherent forest area of Southeast Asia begins, the massive and unexplored Cardamom Mountains. The provincial borderline in the Southwest resides on the hillside of the highest Mountain of Cambodia  its name is Phnom Aoral with an altitude of 1813m.

Key AttractionsRegional CuisineCultural FestivalsGallery

Key Attractions

Kampong Chhnang, located in central Cambodia, is a charming province known for its beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and traditional pottery. Here are some key attractions and activities that make Kampong Chhnang a worthwhile destination for tourists:

Floating Villages

Kompong Luong Floating Village: This village on the Tonle Sap Lake offers a unique glimpse into the life of a community living on the water. Visitors can take boat tours to see houses, schools, and markets that float on the lake.

Regional Cuisine

Kampong Chhnang, a province in central Cambodia, offers a rich array of regional cuisine that highlights the area’s agricultural bounty and fishing traditions from the nearby Tonle Sap Lake. Here’s a look at some of the standout dishes and food experiences you can enjoy in Kampong Chhnang:

Num Banh Chok (Khmer Noodles)

Description: Often eaten for breakfast, this dish features fermented rice noodles topped with a green curry made from fish, coconut milk, and a blend of herbs and spices. It’s typically garnished with fresh vegetables such as banana blossom, bean sprouts, and cucumbers.

Where to Try: Street vendors and local markets, particularly in the morning.

Cultural Festivals

Kampong Chhnang, a province rich in cultural heritage and traditional practices, hosts several vibrant festivals that showcase its unique cultural identity. These festivals are integral to the community and provide visitors with a deep insight into local traditions, religious beliefs, and communal spirit. Here are some of the most significant cultural festivals celebrated in Kampong Chhnang:

Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey)

When: Mid-April

Description: Khmer New Year is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in Cambodia, marking the end of the harvest season. The celebration spans three days and includes various traditional activities such as building sand mounds at pagodas, water blessings, and traditional games.

Activities: Traditional dancing, music performances, food feasts, and offerings at temples. It’s a time for families to come together and for the community to engage in joyous celebrations.

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