Introduction

Kampong Chhnang is a province from central Cambodia located on the banks of the Tonle Sap Lake. This is a very quiet countryside, which is ideal for rest and observation of daily activities. The most interesting sights include floating village life on the Tonle Sap Lake and handicrafts, which still maintain and develop until nowadays.

Kampong Chhnang is a province in central Cambodia

Kampong Chhnang is a province in central Cambodia (Cre: Voyage au Cambodge)

History of Kampong Chhnang province

The name "Kampong Chhnang" means "harbor of coconut trees," evoking the image of a rich and prosperous land. Like many other provinces in Cambodia, Kampong Chhnang was once part of the powerful Khmer Empire and was especially known for its agriculture and handicrafts.

After Cambodia gained independence, Kampong Chhnang experienced many historical upheavals. This place is famous for its pottery; the ceramic products are highly regarded for their quality and design, and they are exported to many places in the region. 

Kampong Chhnang experienced many historical upheavals

The name "Kampong Chhnang" means “harbor of coconut trees” (Cre: Phillipe Body)

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Location of Kampong Chhnang province

The province is bordered by Kampong Thom to the north, Kampong Cham to the east, Kampong Speu to the south, and Pursat to the west. The provincial capital, Kampong Chhnang, shares its name with the province and is a pleasant river port town that welcomes many visitors. 

Due to its unique location, it is famous for its fishing industry and its impressive floating village life. Today, it is a tourist destination that attracts thousands of visitors each year.

It is famous for its fishing industry and impressive floating village life

It is famous for its fishing industry and impressive floating village life (Cre: djoyobisono)

How to get there

In getting to Kampong Chhnang, buses, taxis, cars, or motorbikes will be available for your best option in transport means. The roads are rural, thus maybe a little problematic in some areas.  You will also need a boat to explore the floating village.

Additionally, transportation options are limited because there are no direct flights to Kampong Chhnang. You can fly to the airport in Phnom Penh and then use other means of transport to reach the province, which is about 91 kilometers away.

You will also need a boat to explore the floating village

You will also need a boat to explore the floating village (Cre: Mekong River Cruises)

Some famous destinations of Kampong Chhnang province

Kampong Chhnang floating village

The floating village in Kampong Chhnang is a must-see when visiting the area. There are many houses on stilts floating on the water, creating a unique scene. 

Visitors can rent a boat to explore the daily life of the locals, enjoy local specialties and shop for handicrafts. The floating village is full of restaurants, grocery stores, schools, medical facilities and of course, all floating on the water. Do not be surprised that this is not only home to Cambodians but also home to the majority of Vietnamese. 

The floating village in Kampong Chhnang is a must-see destination when visiting the area

The floating village in Kampong Chhnang is a must-see destination (Cre: Wikimedia commons)

Andong Russey Pottery Village

Andong Russey is famous for its traditional red clay pottery. Here, you can witness the process of making pots, vases and bowls by the skillful hands of artisans. You can also buy unique ceramic products as gifts. 

This village showcases the art of Cambodian pottery through many generations. Andong Russey Pottery Village attracts many tourists to Kampong Chhnang, especially those who love the art of pottery.

You can join pottery classes to create unique ceramic products and learn about the work of ceramic artisans, including preparation, product making, firing, glazing, decoration, and holding the finished product in your hands.

This village showcases Cambodia's ceramic art through many generations

This village showcases Cambodia's ceramic art through many generations (Cre: Phnom Penh Post)

Phnom Neang Kong Rei

Phnom Neang Kong Rei, also known as the Mountain of the Sleeping Lady, is a mysterious and poetic destination in Kampong Chhnang Province, Cambodia. 

Although it is just a small hill, it has a tragic love story and exciting legends. From the top, you can enjoy a stunning view of the lush green countryside, the vast Tonle Sap River and the peaceful small villages.

Phnom Neang Kong Rei is not only a tourist destination but also a cultural symbol of the Kampong Chhnang people.Coming here, you will be immersed in a peaceful space, discover legendary stories and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Phnom Neang Kong Rei, also known as the Mountain of the Sleeping Lady

Phnom Neang Kong Rei, also known as the Mountain of the Sleeping Lady (Cre: wikipedia)

The best time to visit Kampong Chhnang province

Kampong Chhnang also represents the typical tropical climate of the whole country: for most of the year, the sun is shining, with an average temperature of about 27°C. The cool season in Kampong Chhnang starts from November and lasts till March, while the hot one is from March to May; temperature peaked at 36°C in April. It is best to avoid the rainy season from May to October, when humidity reaches 90%, making exploration and boat travel difficult.

The cool season lasts from November to March

The cool season lasts from November to March (Cre: Taxi in Cambodia)

Explore local villages of Kampong Chhnang province

Due to the geographical characteristics of the province, the people here mainly live on fish farming and rice cultivation. In particular, Kampong Chhnang town has a large fishing port that is worth visiting and exploring the fishermen's life. 

In addition, handicrafts are still maintained and developed according to the model of attracting tourists. This is also a source of income for the people here. 

The people here mainly live on fish farming and rice cultivation

The people here mainly live on fish farming and rice cultivation (Cre: Southeast Asia Globe)

Explore cuisine and festivals in Kampong Chhnang 

Kampong Chhnang's cuisine is diverse and flavorful, reflecting Cambodia's rich culinary heritage. Here, you can enjoy a variety of fresh seafood, including grilled fish and prawns, as well as traditional Khmer delicacies such as fish amok and samlor kako.

Exploring Kampong Chhnang’s delicious cuisine is an essential part of experiencing the vibrant culture of this floating village. For the locals, one of the biggest festive events is the Khmer New Year, which usually takes place in April. Visiting the province during this time offers a deeper insight into the culture of the people.

Visiting the province during this time offers a deeper insight into the culture of the people

Visiting the province during this time offers a deeper insight into the culture of the people (Cre: Angkor Chef)

Conclusion

Kampong Chhnang is an ideal destination for those who love to explore culture and nature. With unique floating villages, traditional pottery making and ancient temples, Kampong Chhnang will surely leave unforgettable impressions on visitors. With the above information, we hope you will have an interesting and meaningful trip to this land. 

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