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Silk Island: A Weaving Paradise on the Mekong

Discover traditional silk weaving and rural Cambodian life on this tranquil island escape just a short trip from Phnom Penh.

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Escape the bustle of Phnom Penh with a trip to Silk Island (Koh Dach), a serene island in the Mekong River. Known for its traditional silk weaving, the island offers a glimpse into rural Cambodian life and the intricate process of creating the country's famed silk fabrics.

A brief summary to Silk Island

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for the most pleasant weather.
  • Rent a bicycle to explore the island's villages, farms, and scenic countryside.
  • Visit a silk weaving workshop to witness the traditional silk-making process and purchase unique souvenirs.
  • Try local Khmer dishes at one of the island's restaurants, often featuring fresh ingredients.
  • Take a sunset stroll along the Mekong River for picturesque views.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-Tuk & Ferry

    From Phnom Penh, hire a tuk-tuk to take you to the ferry pier. The tuk-tuk ride typically takes 30-40 minutes and costs approximately $8-$10. The ferry crossing to Koh Dach costs around $1 per person and takes about 15-20 minutes. Note that the tuk-tuk will also require a separate ferry ticket costing $4. Once on the island, the same tuk-tuk can be used to get around, or bicycles can be rented.

  • Public Transport & Ferry

    Take the Line 6 bus from Phnom Penh to the Silk Island Ferry Terminal. The bus ride takes approximately 23-32 minutes and costs $1. From the ferry terminal, board the ferry to Koh Dach, which costs around $1 per person and takes about 15-20 minutes. Once on the island, bicycles or motorbikes can be rented to explore.

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Discover more about Silk Island

Silk Island, also known as Koh Dach, is a tranquil escape from the busy capital city of Phnom Penh. Located on the Mekong River, the island is a center for traditional Cambodian silk weaving, where artisans have preserved this craft for generations. Visitors can explore local workshops and witness the entire silk-making process, from silkworm farming to the intricate hand-weaving on wooden looms. The island itself is relatively small, about 12 kilometers long and 3 kilometers wide, with a peaceful atmosphere that offers a genuine holiday destination. Explore the villages, farms, and tranquil landscapes by foot or bicycle, and experience the rural Cambodian way of life. Interact with artisans, fishermen, and farmers, and perhaps even participate in traditional activities like fishing or bamboo basket making. Besides silk weaving, you can visit local markets, pagodas, and temples, and even relax on the beach at the northern end of the island. The island provides a unique opportunity to support local artisans and take home a piece of Cambodia's rich textile tradition.

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