Kampong Cham
Things to see and do
In Kampong Cham, Cambodia, visitors can explore a variety of attractions and engage in numerous activities that showcase the city's rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Kampong Cham:
Wat Nokor Bachey: Visit this ancient temple complex, dating back to the 11th century, featuring intricate carvings, statues, and Buddhist shrines. Explore the peaceful grounds and learn about the temple's history and significance.
Bamboo Bridge: During the dry season, walk or cycle across the iconic Bamboo Bridge, a seasonal structure made entirely of bamboo that spans the Mekong River. Enjoy scenic views of the river and surrounding countryside as you make your way to Koh Paen, a nearby island known for its traditional stilted houses and artisan workshops.
Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei: Climb the twin hills of Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei to visit pagodas perched atop each hill and enjoy panoramic views of Kampong Cham and the Mekong River below. These hills are popular spots for picnics and sunset viewing.
Central Market (Phsar Kampong Cham): Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kampong Cham's Central Market, where you can shop for fresh produce, local handicrafts, textiles, and street food. Experience the hustle and bustle of Cambodian daily life while exploring the market's colorful stalls.
Koh Thmei Market: Visit this traditional market located on Koh Thmei Island, just a short ferry ride from Kampong Cham. Browse through stalls selling handmade goods, pottery, textiles, and local snacks, and observe the daily activities of rural Cambodian life.
Boat Tours on the Mekong River: Take a boat tour along the Mekong River to explore the scenic beauty of Kampong Cham's waterways. Cruise past picturesque landscapes, floating villages, and lush riverbanks while learning about local life along the river.
Chhup Waterfall: Venture outside of Kampong Cham to visit Chhup Waterfall, a natural waterfall located in a serene forest setting. Swim in the cool waters, relax on the riverbanks, and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.
Cycling Tours: Rent a bicycle and explore the countryside surrounding Kampong Cham at your own pace. Cycle through rural villages, rice paddies, and scenic landscapes, stopping to interact with locals, take photographs, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of rural Cambodia.
Good to Know
When to visit?
The best time to visit Kampong Cham, Cambodia, is during the dry season, which typically extends from November to April. During this period, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
December to February is considered the peak tourist season in Kampong Cham, so expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time. However, the weather is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity compared to the rest of the year.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don't mind slightly warmer temperatures, visiting during the shoulder months of November and March can be a good option. During these months, you can still enjoy dry weather while encountering fewer tourists.
The wet season, from May to October, brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity to Kampong Cham. While the region may experience fewer tourists during this time, outdoor activities can be limited due to the rain. However, the lush landscapes and lower prices can make it an attractive option for budget travelers.
Access
Kampong Cham, Cambodia, is accessible by various means of transportation:
By Road: The most common way to reach Kampong Cham is by road. The city is well-connected to other parts of Cambodia via a network of highways. From Phnom Penh, the capital city, Kampong Cham is approximately a 3 to 4-hour drive northeast. Visitors can hire taxis, take a bus, or arrange for private transportation to reach Kampong Cham.
By Bus: Several bus companies operate daily services between Phnom Penh and Kampong Cham. The journey takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Buses depart from the Phnom Penh Sorya Transport Bus Station or the Giant Ibis Transport Terminal in Phnom Penh and arrive at the Kampong Cham Central Bus Station.
By Boat: Travelers also have the option to access Kampong Cham by boat, particularly from Kratie or Stung Treng further north along the Mekong River. Boat services may be limited and subject to seasonal variations in water levels, so it's advisable to check schedules in advance.
By Private Transportation: For a more convenient and flexible option, visitors can arrange for private transportation, such as a taxi or minivan, to travel to Kampong Cham from nearby cities or towns. Many hotels and guesthouses in Phnom Penh offer transportation services for guests.
By Air: Although there is no airport in Kampong Cham itself, travelers can fly into Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) and then travel by road to Kampong Cham. Phnom Penh Airport serves domestic and international flights from various destinations.
Where to eat and taste
In Kampong Cham, Cambodia, visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options offering authentic Khmer cuisine, as well as international dishes. Here are some places to eat and taste in Kampong Cham:
Local Markets: Experience the vibrant flavors of Cambodian street food at the local markets in Kampong Cham. Head to the Central Market (Phsar Kampong Cham) to sample freshly prepared dishes like noodle soups, grilled meats, and Khmer desserts. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like num banh chok (Khmer noodles) and fish amok (steamed fish curry).
Riverside Restaurants: Dine at one of the riverside restaurants along the banks of the Mekong River for scenic views and fresh seafood. Enjoy grilled fish, prawns, and crab caught locally by fishermen, served with flavorful sauces and accompaniments. Savor traditional Cambodian dishes while watching the sunset over the river.
Bamboo Bridge Cafes: During the dry season, visit the Bamboo Bridge that spans the Mekong River and explore the cafes and eateries located along its length. Relax with a refreshing drink or snack while taking in the picturesque views of the river and surrounding countryside.
Local Eateries and Food Stalls: Wander through the streets of Kampong Cham and discover local eateries and food stalls serving a variety of dishes. Look out for small, family-run restaurants offering home-cooked meals and traditional Khmer specialties. Try dishes like lok lak (stir-fried beef), kuy teav (rice noodle soup), and bai sach chrouk (pork and rice).
Cafes and Bakeries: Visit one of the cafes or bakeries in Kampong Cham for a taste of international cuisine and freshly baked goods. Enjoy a cup of Cambodian-grown coffee or tea paired with pastries, sandwiches, or salads. Some cafes also offer Western-style breakfasts and desserts.
Night Market: Experience the lively atmosphere of Kampong Cham's night market, where you can sample a variety of street food, snacks, and beverages. Browse through the stalls selling grilled meats, seafood skewers, fruit smoothies, and sweet treats like fried bananas and coconut pancakes.
Cooking Classes: Take a cooking class in Kampong Cham to learn how to prepare traditional Khmer dishes from local chefs. Visit a market to shop for fresh ingredients, then learn to cook and taste authentic Cambodian recipes in a hands-on cooking session.
