Explore The Kampong Pluk Floating Village: How to Plan Your Tour in Siem Reap

Are you planning a trip to Siem Reap and want to explore one of the most unique destinations in Southeast Asia? Look no further than the Kampong Pluk Floating Village, a fascinating community built entirely on stilts in the Tonle Sap Lake. Here’s how to plan your tour and make the most out of your visit.

Overview

The tour lasts for about seven hours, taking you through a scenic journey to the village, where you can experience the way of life of the local residents. The excursion includes a boat ride, giving you a closer look at the village and its inhabitants. You can see their daily activities that range from fishing to harvesting lotus fields, all within a truly unique environment.

What’s Included

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and all fees and taxes. Additionally, you’ll enjoy the expertise of the English-speaking guide who’ll accompany you throughout the tour.

Meeting and Pick-up

There are multiple pick-up points, and you can choose the most convenient for you. The tour starts at 8:00 AM, and you’ll need to provide adequate accommodation details so that the company can arrange pick-up.

What To Expect

During the tour, you’ll get to experience the unique way of life of the Kampong Pluk villagers. You’ll witness the traditional means of supporting their livelihoods, learn about their cultural heritage and interests, and see how they continue to thrive despite their unique environment. The experience is not only entertaining but also educative and thought-provoking.

The Village

The village is inhabited by ethnic Khmer and Vietnamese communities, with the latter often settling in the more remote areas. You’ll have a chance to explore the village, witness the houses built on high stilts to accommodate for the rise and fall of the water levels, and learn how the community has adapted to the conditions. You’ll see children paddling to school by boat and villagers casting nets to catch fish for dinner.

The Mangroves

The trip will also allow you to explore the sprawling mangrove forest in the area. The dense vegetation provides habitat for countless bird species and aquatic animals, making it an oasis of life in the otherwise sparse landscape.

The Lotus Fields

Besides the village and the mangroves, a key feature of the tour is the lotus fields that surround the village on all sides. These vibrant fields are a source of income for the community, and you’ll see them harvesting the flowers, which are used for cooking and making teas.

Additional Information

Here are a few extra details that you’ll need to know to plan your tour:

Confirmation and Accessibility

Confirmation of booking will be received at the time of booking, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible. It is also not recommended for pregnant travelers or people with heart problems or serious medical conditions. Most other travelers can participate.

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel 24 hours before the start of the tour, you’ll be eligible for a full refund. However, any changes made less than 24 hours before the start of the tour will not be accepted. The cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.

Weather

The experience requires good weather, and you may need to reschedule or cancel the tour if the weather isn’t excellent.

Book the Tour Here

If you’re looking for a fascinating and insightful experience during your visit to Siem Reap, be sure to book your Kampong Pluk Floating Village tour today. You can book your tour here.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Siem Reap

Siem Reap, located in the northwest of Cambodia, is a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat. While many people visit Siem Reap each year, there are still many questions that people have about this city. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Siem Reap.

1. How Do I Get to Siem Reap?

One of the most common ways to get to Siem Reap is by taking a flight to Siem Reap International Airport. There are direct flights available from major cities in the Southeast Asian region, such as Bangkok and Singapore. Alternatively, you can opt to take a bus or private car from the capital city of Phnom Penh, which is around a 5-hour journey.

2. What Is the Best Time to Visit Siem Reap?

The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this season, you can expect sunny weather with cooler temperatures. The wet season (May to October) can be challenging for tourists due to frequent rains and high humidity levels. However, the temples and surrounding countryside are lush and green during this time.

3. What Is there to Do in Siem Reap?

There are plenty of things to see and do in Siem Reap, apart from visiting Angkor Wat. Pub Street is a popular area in the city center, where you can find restaurants, bars, and shops. The Angkor National Museum is an excellent place to learn more about the history and culture of Cambodia. Additionally, you can take a boat ride on Tonle Sap lake to see the floating villages and meet the locals.

4. How Much Does It Cost to Visit Angkor Wat?

The cost of visiting Angkor Wat varies depending on several factors. For a one-day ticket, you will have to pay USD 37, while a three-day ticket costs USD 62. A seven-day ticket, which allows you to explore more temples and sites, costs USD 72. It’s worth noting that these fees are subject to change, so it’s best to check with the official ticket office before you visit.

5. How Should I Dress When Visiting Angkor Wat?

As Angkor Wat is a religious site, it’s important to dress appropriately. Men and women should cover their shoulders and knees, and avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing. It’s also essential to wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking around the temple complex.

6. Can I Hire a Guide to Explore Angkor Wat?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to hire a guide to explore Angkor Wat. A knowledgeable guide will provide you with valuable information about the temples’ history and the Khmer Empire. You can book a guide through a reputable tour agency or hire one outside the ticket office.

7. Where Is the Best Place to Stay in Siem Reap?

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Siem Reap, ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts. If you’re planning to visit Angkor Wat, it’s best to stay in the city center, as it’s only a short distance to the temples. Pub Street is a popular area for nightlife and entertainment, while the Old French Quarter offers a more relaxed atmosphere.

8. Is It Safe to Travel to Siem Reap?

Cambodia has been considered a safe destination for tourists in recent years. However, it’s always important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Be mindful of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and be cautious when using ATMs or carrying valuables. Additionally, it’s recommended to carry a photocopy of your passport and travel insurance in case of an emergency.

9. What Is the Local Currency in Siem Reap?

The local currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR). However, US dollars are widely accepted in the city, and most prices for goods and services are listed in USD. ATMs are available throughout the city, and you can exchange money at currency exchange booths.

10. What Should I Eat in Siem Reap?

Cambodian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with influences from neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam. Some local dishes to try in Siem Reap include:

• Amok – a creamy coconut milk-based curry with fish or chicken
• Lok Lak – stir-fried beef with onions and peppers, served with rice and a fried egg
• Khmer noodles – a street food specialty made with rice noodles, pork, and fresh herbs
• Banana flower salad – a refreshing salad made with thinly sliced banana flower, chicken, and peanuts
• Num Pang – a Cambodian-style baguette sandwich filled with meat, vegetables, and spicy sauce

Conclusion

We hope that this blog post has provided you with valuable information about Siem Reap and answered some of the most frequently asked questions. Siem Reap is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. By following the tips and recommendations in this post, you can make the most out of your trip to Siem Reap.