Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour with Sunset in Siem Reap

Visiting the mighty Angkor Wat temple in Siem Reap is probably Laos’ number one tourist destination. But the long drive to get there and the intimidating heat might be too much for a day spent exploring the temples. The best way to recharge and refresh your energy is to visit Kampong Phluk, a floating village about 30km from the city.

A visit to Kampong Phluk Floating Village’s offers an fascinating insight into a completely different way of life and an opportunity to admire Siem Reap from a unique vantage point. The floating village offers nature at its very finest, with stunning views of the Tonle Sap lake and a wonderful array of activities such as swimming, boating, fishing and sunset watching.

So what makes Kampong Phluk Floating Village so special? Situated in the middle of a shallow lake surrounded by palm trees and mangroves, the stilted houses of the village cast a reflection on their stunning watery horizon. The village is home to three main settlements – Kompot, Chong Khneas and Prek Toal – each offering its own unique setting and sights.

Getting to the village takes roughly 45 minutes by boat, with locals offering boat hire and rowing services, ensuring that visitors have a great time whilst on the waters of Tonle Sap. On the journey, visitors can also enjoy watching the locals fishing and taking part in other daily activities out on the lake.

Once in the village, Kampong Phluk offers a great array of activities. There are plenty of boat rides around the area to take advantage of, from traditional wooden rowing boats to more modern watersports vessels, making the most of the picturesque surroundings of this unique floating village. A great way to be introduced to the unique way of life in Kampong Phluk is by taking a guided tour led by a local guide who will be more than happy to explain more about the fascinating and unique way of life here.

The most popular activity for visitors is sunset-watching; as the sun goes down, visitors can expect to be greeted with stunningly beautiful colours and views over the lake. Most visitors agree that it’s an unforgettable experience; one which is perfect for couples and families alike. There’s no better way to end a day at Kampong Phluk than with a trip to see the incredible sunset over Tonle Sap.

In addition to its gorgeous sunsets, Kampong Phluk also has plenty to offer during the day, too. Visitors can wander around the village, meeting some of its very friendly inhabitants, who are more than happy to welcome visitors and show them around.This small settlement often gives visitors an opportunity to learn more about traditional Khmer life and culture, as well as some of their most iconic eats, such as Fish Amok – a popular fish curry dish – that you can sample from one of the eateries at the village. Sample local beers at friends’ houses and all kinds of food that these friendly folks are more than willing to share with guests.

No matter what time of day you choose to make your visit, Kampong Phluk is always a welcome reminder that life in Cambodia doesn’t have to be stressful; it can be laid-back and relaxing. There’s something so beautiful about being out on the lake, surrounded by some of Cambodia’s most stunning scenery, mingling with the locals and admiring some incredible sunsets – a truly rewarding experience for anyone looking for an alternative activity during their trip to Siem Reap!

For anyone wishing to take part in this memorable experience, they should book ahead via GetYourGuide – one of Cambodia’s most popular travel websites – which offers Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour with Sunset as well as other various Siem Reap tours. Book your Kampong Phluk tour today for an unforgettable experience that you won’t forget for years!

An Insider’s Guide to Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a city in northwestern Cambodia, best known for the Angkor Wat temple complex, but this city has so much more to offer than just the well-known tourist spots. Here’s an insider’s guide to Siem Reap, featuring some hidden gems, cultural experiences, local history, off-the-beaten-path suggestions, and of course, some dining spots that will tantalize your taste buds.

Local Attractions

Beyond Angkor Wat lies the hidden gem of the Roluos Temples. This cluster of three temples, Bakong, Lolei, and Preah Ko, is the birthplace of classical Khmer architecture, dating back to the 9th century. A unique way to explore the countryside is by bicycle, and a ride through the lush foliage to see the temple structures is simply awe-inspiring.

Another hidden gem worth checking out is the Angkor National Museum. An air-conditioned sanctuary from the heat, this museum is a treasure trove of knowledge about Khmer culture and history, with multimedia exhibits and a collection of ancient artifacts.

Dining Spots

Cambodian cuisine is often overshadowed by Thai and Vietnamese cuisine but deserves its unique space amongst the foodie’s bucket list. Start with a delicious bowl of Khmer noodles, a kind of soup made with rice noodles, morning glory, hard-boiled egg, herbs, and ground pork.

For those open to the idea of trying insects, the Bugs Café on Pub Street delivers unusual yet flavorsome dishes like tarantula donuts, ant spring rolls, and chapulines.

Cultural Experiences

A unique cultural experience lies in Cambodia’s history and its road to the Khmer Rouge era. The Landmine Museum and School offers a profound look into Cambodia’s past and its explosive present. Ten years in the making, the museum is run by an ex-child soldier and amputee, Aki Ra, who is demining Cambodia one landmine at a time.

A living, breathing testament to the Khmer Rouge era is the Phare, the Cambodian Circus. Conceived by a Frenchman and run by Cambodians, the talented performers’ stories exude hope and vulnerability.

Local History

Sitting inconspicuously on the side of the road, the Wat Thmei Pagoda and Memorial Stupa is a respectful, solemn, and thought-provoking visit. It serves both as a memorial for the Cambodian genocide and a fascinating glimpse into the country’s traditional architecture, with its beautiful gardens and impressive carvings.

Another spot worth visiting is the Pre Rup temple, built-in 961 AD, it is a royal crematorium that was once used for royal funerals. It is a quiet and peaceful place to feel Siem Reap’s deep history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to catch the town’s pulse, the Old Market and Psar Night Market, both on Pub Street, are worth checking out. There’s always something new to discover like beautifully crafted wood carvings, art pieces, or try the local street food made of freshwater fish.

A short drive out of Siem Reap is the Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour, nestled in the Tonlé Sap Lake floodplains. Meet with the villagers who have adapted to life on the water and experience the daily lives of fishermen, floating markets, and schools. As the sun sets, a tranquil boat ride awaits you to capture the moment of a lifetime.

Conclusion

Siem Reap is more than just a city of Angkor Wat, and these exciting insider tips give a glimpse of what awaits locals and global tourists. From hidden cultural treasures to off-the-beaten-path suggestions, Siem Reap has something unique to offer. Revisit, refresh, and take this insider guide to discover anew, with a touch of exploration and a sprinkle of adventure.