Kampong Cham
Name: Kampong Cham
Khmer Name: ក្រុងកំពង់ចាម
Status: City
Province: Kampong Cham
Area: 4,549 km²
Population: 118,242 inhabitants (2008)
The city of Kampong Cham is a beautiful destination in Cambodia, located on the right bank of the Mekong River, 123 km from Phnom Penh. It is a city that reflects the authenticity of Cambodia and its serenity. If you are making a stop in Cambodia, take a break in Kampong Cham and discover its beautiful landscapes with its colonial-era houses.
Today
Description of the City of Kampong Cham
Kampong Cham is considered the third-largest city in Cambodia and one of the most populous provinces in the country. The city is divided into four districts and 31 communes (villages). These four districts are Kompong Cham, Veal Vong, Boeung Kok, and Sambour Meas.
Kampong Cham is also an important transportation and trade center. Tobacco, soybeans, rubber, and other tropical products are cultivated and exported from Kampong Cham. In fact, the land in the city is particularly fertile. Kampong Cham is also known as the "white gold" of Cambodia due to its rubber crops and large rubber processing factories that have been operating for nearly a century.
The Charm of the City
The inhabitants of the city are very welcoming, and the landscape is both picturesque and charming. Kampong Cham reflects both the old and new Cambodia with its temples built in the 12th century. Notable examples include Wat Nokor and Wat Hanchey. The city is also famous for its bamboo bridge, the Kizona, which connects the northeastern regions of the country to the city.
The atmosphere in Kampong Cham
Kampong Cham will welcome you with a unique and authentic atmosphere. The city’s market also offers beautiful displays of various products. In the streets of the market, moto-taxis, street vendors, and a warm climate create an exciting mix.
The city also has large hotels, cafes, and other establishments that warmly welcome tourists. However, it is worth noting that the city is generally quite calm, and its streets are not as crowded with tourists as other cities in Cambodia.
In terms of nature, you won’t leave Kampong Cham without seeing Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei hills. From the top of these hills, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Mekong. Additionally, you can visit monuments, historical sites, unique places, and villages that contribute to the popularity of Kampong Cham.
Nearby attractions
Koh Pen Beach
A visit to Koh Pen Beach is also a great experience. The beach is located 2 km from the city.
Visit the old Mekong Lighthouse
The first thing you should do when arriving in Kampong Cham is to climb to the top of the Old French Lighthouse, which offers a panoramic view of the entire city.
Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei Hills (The Hills of Men and Women)
The hills are located 114 km from Phnom Penh and 7 km from Kampong Cham. In ancient times, it was customary for women to propose marriage to men. However, the less attractive women, who were always rejected, wanted to change this tradition. They challenged the men to build the tallest mountain between sunset and sunrise. The one who succeeded could decide who should propose marriage to whom.
Phnom Pros Pagoda
Also known as Sovan Kiri Rotanak, this pagoda is 30 meters high. Beneath this temple is a large 15-meter statue named Keo So. From the summit of Phnom Pros, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the entire Kampong Cham province.
Kizona, the Bamboo Bridge
The bamboo bridge is reconstructed every year by hand after the monsoon season and connects Kampong Cham to Koh Paen, an island on the Mekong River. The bridge is at least 400 meters long and is intended for crossing during the dry season. During the rainy season, it is completely destroyed. Unfortunately, the future of the bamboo bridge is uncertain, as a concrete bridge is set to replace it, and it is unclear whether the annual reconstruction will continue.
Wat Nokor Temple
Wat Nokor is a pre-Angkorian Buddhist temple dating from the 11th century. Inside, there is a pagoda that was recently constructed using the ancient sculptures from the temple. Wat Nokor is surrounded by many small sanctuaries. This temple is particularly colorful and is a pleasant place to stroll and encounter monks.
Wat Hanchey
Wat Hanchey is a temple located within a stunning contemporary pagoda. Dating from the 7th century, it is one of the few Cambodian temples overlooking the Mekong River. Some of Wat Hanchey’s foundations were destroyed due to American bombings. After crossing the Mekong River, you will arrive at the temple. It is a famous place of worship and a beautiful site to visit.
Skun Village
To complete your visit, don’t miss a trip to Skun Village. It is famous for its culinary specialty: fried tarantulas, particularly appreciated in the region. You will enjoy this unusual dish with a tender inside and a crispy exterior.
How to get there?
To reach the city of Kampong Cham from Banlung, you can take the Sorya bus company. The journey takes about 7 hours, and the ticket price is $10 per person. The bus will drop you off in the city center. Additionally, taxis and mini-buses connect the cities of Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Kampong Cham.
Getting around
Kampong Cham is a small city and can be explored on foot, by renting a tuk-tuk, or by using moto-taxis. You can rent motorcycles for $4 to $5 per day.
Things to do in Kampong Cham
- Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the city but also take a trip to the Mekong Market for a little excitement.
- Visit the old colonial homes of Kampong Cham, such as the Old Mekong Lighthouse.
- Tour Angkorian temples like Wat Nokor or Wat Hanchey.
- Go for a bike ride or take bike rides through the countryside.
- Take a boat tour on the Mekong River and discover the beautiful villages surrounding it.
Best times to visit the city of Kampong Cham
The best season to visit Kampong Cham is from November to May.
