Tourism of Kampong Cham
Kampong Cham is the capital of a province of the same name on the banks of the Mekong River in southeastern Cambodia. It’s the third-largest city of the united states known for a few Angkorian temples and gorgeous countryside life on the riverbanks in villages.
It is among the least visited destinations among travelers since it is not as famous as other river towns like Kampot or Kep. It is suggested for tourists to go to Kampong Cham to take pleasure from the peace and quiet along the river enjoying biking, boat tours and exploring ancient temples.
History of Kampong Cham
Kampong Cham was a significant trading centre through the French period because of its ideal location along the Mekong near to the capital Phnom Penh. It really is still an essential connecting town for traders and shipping merchants. The town is known for the colonial architecture reflected in the heritage buildings that once functioned as administrative offices of the French. Kampong Cham in Khmer means Port of the Chams, discussing Chams, the principal ethnic group surviving in this province.
Things to Do
Kizuna Bridge – Opened in 2001, Kizuna may be the initial bridge built over the Mekong River in Cambodia, which linked the eastern and western Cambodia by road for the very first time. It includes beautiful views of the river plain home to picturesque villages, farms and green fields. Bamboo Bridge – An extended stretch of Bamboo bridge is made over the Mekong in Kampong Cham through the dry season. Created yourself out of sharp long bamboo sticks, it becomes the connecting road to the nearby Koh Pen island. Riding upon this bridge can be fun and can be a favorite attraction for tourists who go for a ride backward and forwards for approximately 2 USD. The rickety bamboo bridge can be removed as the monsoon begins, and folks use boats for commuting during this time period. Phnom Srei – Phnom Srei can be a lovely hill temple and can be among the top attractions in Kampong Cham because of its location offering splendid views of the Mekong. It resembles the Angkorian Banteay Srei temple in architecture and houses many small shrines along with a 15-meter tall statue of Buddha known as Keo So. Phnom Pros – Located close to Phnom Srei is another slightly smaller hill Phnom Pros, which has a temple at the top with many pagodas. Phnom Srei and Phnom Pros are together called Women and Men Hill by the locals. Nokor Bachey Pagoda – An ancient temple located about 2km from Kampong Cham centre. It was built during the reign of Suryavarman II and is known for its simple yet elegant architecture.
Food in Kampong Cham
Suffice to say that the last thing we expected to be done within minutes of arriving in Kompong Cham was ordering a walnut and feta salad, but that’s exactly what happened. In fact, we were taken aback in general with the quality of the food available here.
Destiny Coffee House: #12 Rue Pasteur; T: (092) 998 937; open Mon-Sat 07:00-17:00.
Hao An: #70 Preah Monivong; T: (042) 941 234; hao_an_restaurant@yahoo.com; open daily 05:00-21:00.
Mekong Crossing: Junction Rue Pasteur and Sihanouk Rd; T: (017) 801 788; open daily 06:15-22:00.
Moon River: Sihanouk Rd (river road); T: (016) 788 973; moonrivermekong@gmail.com;
Riverside beers: Sihanouk Rd (river road).
Smile Restaurant: #6 Sihanouk Rd (river road); T: (042) 941 333; smile@bsda-cambodia.org; open daily 06:30-22:00.
Srey Chen: Sihanouk Rd (river road); T: (092) 505 996; open Mon-Sat 08:00-21:00, Sun 12:00-21:00.
What is the best time to visit Kampong Cham?
The best time to visit Kampong Cham is between October to February, when the weather is not hot, and the humidity is manageable. It is an excellent time to be outdoors. Go in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hot sun and for pleasant sunrise and sunset views of the surrounding landscape from the temples. It is also a great time for boat tours.
How to Reach Kampong Cham
You can reach Kampong Cham from cities like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kratie, Sihanoukville and Kampot by buses and minivans. It takes about 5 to 6 hours and maybe more sometimes depending on road conditions. The price is between six to eight 8 USD per person. From Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, there are frequent buses each day but it is preferred to take the first buses. From Kratie and Sihanoukville, buses leave at 7:30 Am and 10:30 AM each day.
Tips When Arriving in Kampong Cham
There are a few ATMs and cash is necessary for all transactions. It’s advocated to transport enough money.
Carry essential stuff like umbrellas, mosquito repellants, sunscreen and sandals for boat tours and visiting temples. Book accommodations beforehand if you intend to stay in the city overnight, as there are limited options. You don’t have to book any boat tours beforehand.
The weather can be hard to predict, and the costs are better if booked directly through the boat operators in Kampong Cham.