The Floating Village of Kampong Pluk

The Tonle Sap Lake is home to a rich and diverse array of flora and fauna. But Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake doesn’t belong solely to storks, pelicans, crocodiles, and mangroves—it also sustains five floating villages in the Siem Reap province. Among them is Kampong Pluk, located about twenty kilometers from the city. Here, authenticity takes precedence. It is far from being the most visited of the five, which lends a sense of raw charm and coherence to the entire experience.

The Floating Village

Your excursion begins aboard a traditional wooden boat that cruises across Tonle Sap Lake toward Kampong Pluk. This village quite literally floats on the water. The stilted houses, raised six to seven meters above the ground, are built to remain safely above the waterline during the rainy season. In the dry season, the full length of the stilts is revealed, offering an impressive sight.

You will navigate through the heart of the village, passing the school, the pagoda, homes, fishing workshops, the national gendarmerie, and even a church—right in the middle of Kampong Pluk. During the rainy season, the only way to get around is by boat. You’ll often see young children rowing small canoes on their way to school, among other destinations. This visit is a truly enchanting experience, a complete departure from the conventional idea of a village rooted on land.

The Mangrove Jungle

After your visit to the village center, you’ll have the option to drift a short distance away to explore a breathtaking mangrove forest. This unique biome resembles a flooded jungle—similar to alluvial forests but more marsh-like in nature. The trees here form dense canopies and have intricate, tangled root systems that are visible only during periods of drought. You’ll explore this mysterious environment by small boat, gliding among the thriving mangroves. The area is home to many species of monkeys and birds that swing and soar through the treetops. A deep sense of calm pervades this otherworldly setting, and you’ll find yourself fully immersed—both in the moment and in the larger spirit of the journey.