If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, chances are that Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh are already on your list. But beyond the temples and bustling cities, Cambodia offers an incredible experience that few other countries can match—the floating villages.
These unique communities, nestled along Cambodia’s waterways, offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life for thousands of Cambodians who have adapted to live in harmony with the waters.
Visiting a floating village is not just a sightseeing experience; it’s a cultural immersion that allows you to witness a side of Cambodia many don’t get to see.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit!
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3 Reasons You Should Visit Cambodia’s Floating Villages
1. See Their Unique Way of Life
The floating villages are exactly as they sound—communities that live entirely on the water. Houses, schools, markets, and even temples float on top of the water, tethered to the riverbed but moving with the seasonal tides.
This way of life has persisted for centuries, with people relying heavily on fishing and agriculture. Visiting a floating village allows you to witness this unique lifestyle that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
2. Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture
When you visit these villages, you get a firsthand experience of Cambodian culture and daily life. It’s a very humbling contrast to the developed world and offers an authentic perspective of life on the Tonlé Sap Lake or Mekong River.
It’s also a great opportunity to interact with the locals, hear their stories, and understand the significance of life on the water.
3. Admire the Stunning Scenery
The floating villages are surrounded by vibrant river life and stunning sunsets that reflect on the serene water.
The combination of traditional stilted homes with the vast open water provides a landscape that feels magical and otherworldly.
When we visited, it felt like we were almost floating. It didn’t feel real at all. The water connects with the sky and it was difficult to tell the difference between the two.
How Floating Villages Work
Cambodia’s floating villages are built primarily along two major waterways: Tonlé Sap Lake and the Mekong River.
During the rainy season (May–October), the lake and river expand, and entire villages will rise with the water. In the dry season, the waters recede, and the houses adjust accordingly.
The houses are typically built on floating platforms made of bamboo or other strong materials. Some houses are built on stilts for added stability during flooding. As the water rises and falls, the houses shift along with the changes in water levels. It’s quite a sight to see!
Since there are no roads during the rainy season, locals rely entirely on boats. Canoes, motorboats, and longboats are essential for moving between homes, markets, and schools.
Most villagers rely on fishing for their livelihood, and some with farming where possible. Tonlé Sap Lake, in particular, is one of the most productive freshwater fishing areas in the world.
4 Popular Floating Villages to Visit
Depending on your travel route and how many days you are visiting each location in Cambodia, you might find a floating village that suits best.
We visited a floating village during our time in Siem Reap, so chose to see Kampong Phluk.
1. Kampong Phluk
Located on Tonlé Sap Lake, Kampong Phluk is one of the most accessible floating villages and is known for its stilted houses and mangrove forests. It’s about 16 kilometres from Siem Reap, making it a convenient day trip.
2. Chong Kneas
Also near Siem Reap, Chong Kneas is the most visited village by tourists due to its proximity. However, it is more commercialised and less authentic than other villages.
3. Kampong Khleang
For a more authentic experience, Kampong Khleang is less visited but larger and more traditional. The stilted homes here rise dramatically out of the water, and it feels more remote than Kampong Phluk.
4. Mekong Floating Villages
For travellers venturing into the Mekong Delta region, floating villages around Phnom Penh or the border with Vietnam also offer stunning examples of life on the water.
How to Organize Your Tour
The easiest way to visit the floating villages is to arrange a guided tour from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh.
Most tours include transportation by minivan to the village, followed by a boat tour to explore the area. Tour guides are knowledgeable and will explain the history, culture, and challenges faced by these communities.
You can book tours through your hotel, or online in advance. If you’re in Siem Reap, many tours also include a visit to the nearby mangrove forests.
If you prefer to explore on your own, it’s possible to hire a tuk tuk or taxi to the village, but you’ll need to arrange for a boat once you arrive. Be sure to negotiate the price beforehand to avoid any surprises.
Best Time of Year to Visit
The best time to visit the floating villages is during the rainy season from May to October. During this time, the water levels are high, and the villages are at their most picturesque. The houses appear to float, and the scenery is lush and green.
During the dry season (November to April), water levels recede significantly, and while the villages are still accessible, the landscape can appear less impressive as homes are sometimes perched high above dry land on their stilts. However, this can also offer a different perspective on how these communities adapt to the changing seasons.
We visited the floating village during the month of May, at the end of the dry season. We were able to drive through the community area and see the houses standing on stilts which was incredibly impressive.
Afterwards, we were taken out on a boat to the lake and able to visit a cafe isolated on the water and the locals that live and work there. An incredible experience to see both sides of the floating village.
Important Tips for Your Visit
Bring Cash: Most villagers earn a living through fishing, but many also sell local crafts or offer services such as boat rides. Bringing cash allows you to support the local economy directly.
Respect Local Customs: While the floating villages welcome visitors, they are still working communities. Be mindful of the privacy of residents, and ask before taking photographs, especially of people.
Prepare for the Heat: Cambodia is hot year-round, so be sure to bring sunscreen, hats, and water. Humidity can be intense, especially near the water, so dress accordingly.
Enjoy Your Visit to Cambodia’s Floating Villages!
A visit to Cambodia’s floating villages offers an eye-opening experience that combines natural beauty, cultural insight, and historical perspective.
It’s a chance to step away from the tourist path and engage with the heartbeat of rural Cambodian life. Whether you visit Tonlé Sap or venture into the Mekong, the floating villages will provide memories that last long after you leave this enchanting country.
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