Kampong Cham, Cambodia

A tranquil Mekong River town with French flair.

A close-up side view of a row of traditional Cambodian terracotta statues, depicting serene faces with intricate headdresses, a common sight in the art and culture of Kampong Cham.

Overview

Kampong Cham, Cambodia Cruise Port

Kampong Cham is a tranquil provincial capital located on the banks of the Mekong River in eastern Cambodia, approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) northeast of Phnom Penh. Once a significant trading post and a former French colonial center, it offers a refreshing escape from the bustling tourist trails, presenting an authentic glimpse into Cambodian rural life. The town is characterized by its relaxed pace, charming riverside promenade, and a blend of colonial-era architecture and traditional Cambodian homes.

The surrounding province of Kampong Cham is rich in agricultural landscapes, particularly rubber plantations, and boasts a number of intriguing ancient temples that predate the Angkorian era. The town serves as a crucial transit point for travelers exploring eastern Cambodia and offers a more laid-back experience of the mighty Mekong River and the country's rich cultural tapestry.

Top Things to Do in Kampong Cham, Cambodia

Walk or Cycle Across the Koh Pen Bridge (Bamboo Bridge)

Experience the unique Koh Pen Bridge (Spean Koh Pen), a remarkable bamboo bridge built and rebuilt every dry season to connect Kampong Cham town to Koh Pen island in the Mekong. Walking or cycling across this impressive, temporary structure offers a fascinating insight into local ingenuity and daily life.

Tip: The bridge is typically built from December to May. During the wet season, a ferry operates to the island. Renting a bicycle on Koh Pen is a great way to explore the rural island life.

Explore Wat Nokor Bachey Temple

Visit Wat Nokor Bachey, an ancient Angkorian-era temple located just outside of Kampong Cham town. This unique temple features a modern pagoda built within the ruins of an older, much larger laterite and sandstone temple, offering a captivating blend of ancient and contemporary Buddhist practices.

Tip: The intricate carvings and the blend of architectural styles are fascinating. Dress respectfully as it's an active place of worship.

Stroll Along the Mekong Riverfront

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Kampong Cham's scenic Mekong Riverfront. The promenade is a popular spot for locals in the evenings, offering fresh air, street food vendors, and views of the river traffic. It's a great place to soak in the town's relaxed atmosphere.

Tip: Try some local street snacks or enjoy a refreshing coconut water from a vendor.

Visit Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei (Man and Woman Hills)

Take a short trip to Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei, two small hills located near each other. Phnom Pros (Man Hill) features a pagoda and a large reclining Buddha statue, while Phnom Srei (Woman Hill) offers a higher viewpoint with a stupa. These sites are popular pilgrimage spots with local legends attached to them.

Tip: The views from Phnom Srei are quite good, offering a panorama of the surrounding countryside and distant river.

Explore the Rubber Plantations

Discover the vast rubber plantations that dominate the landscape around Kampong Cham. These plantations, a legacy of the French colonial era, offer a glimpse into an important aspect of Cambodia's agricultural economy. You can often see locals tapping rubber trees.

Tip: Hire a tuk-tuk or motorcycle taxi to drive through the plantations. Be respectful of the workers if you wish to observe their activities.

Visit Wat Hanchey

Embark on a scenic boat trip upriver (or a combination of road and boat) to Wat Hanchey, a hilltop pagoda offering panoramic views of the Mekong River. This site also features a pre-Angkorian brick temple from the 7th century, providing a sense of deep historical continuity.

Tip: The boat trip to Wat Hanchey can be very pleasant and offers unique river views. The climb to the top of the hill is relatively easy.

Overview