Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia

Kampong Chhnang is an easygoing provincial town of the eponymous province in Cambodia, situated in the west bank of the Tonle Sap Lake. Thanks to its proximity to the capital Phnom Penh and its favorable location on the side of the famous waterbody, this small sleepy town is a mesmerizing destination for an easy day trip on land or by boat to several floating villages.
Nestled along rivers with abundant water resources and alluvial soil reservoirs, Kampong Chhnang develops mainly fishery and agriculture, but not only its spectacular rice paddy fields or plantations make the city an attractive place to tourists. Kampong Chhnang is better known as the “Port of Pottery” in Khmer since back to the old days, this riverside port was frequented by merchants who came for its distinctive clay pots made by the locals and the tradition of pottery is still preserved today. If you’re keen on some authentic local experiences, an excursion to the quiet village of Ondong Rossey in the west to town is surely a delight. Here, you can see how local people make handmade clay pots with a foot-spun wheel or a heavy wooden spatula, from the golden-hued mud to the red pottery with etched or appliqué designs. You can also create your own item with the artisans’ help or purchase some pretty pieces from the potters and the Pottery Development Center in the heart of the community.
While the city center of Kampong Chhnang is a little quiet and meek, its water front is a popular jumping-off point for serene boat rides to the Tonle Sap River’s floating villages. Among the most notable are the hamlets of Chong Kos and Kandal, both packed with brightly painted wooden houses, floating gardens and markets. Navigating within the maze of watery streets, you can behold the restful, typical scenery of the Tonle Sap Lake, as well as catch a glimpse of the local life on the water so vividly and lively. For the adventurous, a biking tour to the highest Cambodia’s mountain of Phnom Aoral and Krang Deymas hill will feast your eyes on the stunning panoramic views of the Great Lake and Cambodian countryside.
There is a lot more to offer when you’re in Kampong Chhnang, such as visiting several stunning pre-dated Angkor temples or tasting wonderful Cambodian dishes. In the end, your Kampong Chhnang exploration is a great journey that lets you delve into the Khmer people's simple life and noted culture for some memorable experiences of a lifetime.