Kratie Province: A Mekong Gem in Cambodia
Discover the serene beauty of Kratie Province in Cambodia, where rare river dolphins, colonial charm, and rich cultural heritage await along the Mekong River.
Kratie Province, located along the Mekong River in Cambodia, offers an unspoiled glimpse into the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage. This serene province is best known for its stunning riverine landscapes and the rare Irrawaddy dolphins that inhabit its waters. A boat trip along the river provides a unique opportunity to witness these gentle creatures in their natural habitat, making it an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. The provincial capital, Kratie town, is a charming riverside town with colonial-era architecture and a relaxed atmosphere. The bustling central market is a great place to sample local delicacies and buy handmade crafts. The town is also a gateway to exploring nearby islands such as Koh Trong, where you can cycle through traditional villages, lush fruit orchards, and scenic rice paddies. Beyond its natural attractions, Kratie Province is rich in history and culture. Visit the Phnom Sambok Pagoda for panoramic views of the countryside, or explore the Wat Rokar Kandal, a beautifully preserved 19th-century Buddhist temple. The province's rural landscapes and warm, welcoming communities offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of more tourist-heavy destinations in Cambodia.
Local tips in Kratie Province
- Best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April for clearer skies and better dolphin sightings.
- Rent a bicycle to explore Koh Trong Island for an authentic experience of rural Cambodian life.
- Try the local food at Kratie's central market; the fish amok and bamboo sticky rice are must-tries.
- Carry cash, as ATMs are limited and many places do not accept cards.
- Learn a few basic Khmer phrases to better connect with the locals and enhance your travel experience.
Kratie Province: A Mekong Gem in Cambodia
Kratie Province, located along the Mekong River in Cambodia, offers an unspoiled glimpse into the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage. This serene province is best known for its stunning riverine landscapes and the rare Irrawaddy dolphins that inhabit its waters. A boat trip along the river provides a unique opportunity to witness these gentle creatures in their natural habitat, making it an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. The provincial capital, Kratie town, is a charming riverside town with colonial-era architecture and a relaxed atmosphere. The bustling central market is a great place to sample local delicacies and buy handmade crafts. The town is also a gateway to exploring nearby islands such as Koh Trong, where you can cycle through traditional villages, lush fruit orchards, and scenic rice paddies. Beyond its natural attractions, Kratie Province is rich in history and culture. Visit the Phnom Sambok Pagoda for panoramic views of the countryside, or explore the Wat Rokar Kandal, a beautifully preserved 19th-century Buddhist temple. The province's rural landscapes and warm, welcoming communities offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of more tourist-heavy destinations in Cambodia.
When is the best time to go to Kratie Province?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dolphin Kayaking Adventures
Kayak through the serene waters of Kratie and encounter the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in an unforgettable natural adventure.
Sorya Kayaking Adventures & Cafe
Experience the thrill of kayaking and savor delicious meals at Sorya Kayaking Adventures & Cafe in Krong Kracheh, Cambodia.
Kampi Mega Rapid
Experience the thrill of white-water rafting at Kampi Mega Rapid, a breathtaking natural attraction on the Mekong River, where adventure meets stunning landscapes.
Sorya Guesthouse
Experience the tranquility of riverside living at Sorya Guesthouse, your perfect retreat in the heart of Krong Kracheh, Cambodia.
Phnom Sambok Pagoda
Discover the serene beauty of Phnom Sambok Pagoda, a cultural jewel in Krong Kracheh, where tranquility meets rich heritage and stunning views.
Kaoh Trong
Explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kaoh Trong Island in Cambodia, a serene escape along the Mekong River.
Krong Kracheh Pagoda
Explore the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Krong Kracheh Pagoda, a stunning Buddhist temple in the heart of Krong Kracheh, Cambodia.
Kratie Ferry-Boat Port
Explore the scenic Kratie Ferry-Boat Port, your gateway to rare Irrawaddy dolphins and the enchanting beauty of the Mekong River in Cambodia.
Koh Pdao Community Based Ecotourism
Discover the serene beauty of Koh Pdao, a community-based ecotourism destination in Kratie, where nature and culture await your exploration.
PoKong
Explore PoKong, a hidden treasure in Cambodia, where natural beauty meets cultural richness for an unforgettable travel experience.
ស្ពានព្រែកតេ ខ្លាស្ទុះមេគង្គ
Discover the charm of Krong Kracheh, a hidden Cambodian gem with rich culture, delightful cuisine, and stunning landscapes waiting to be explored.
តំបន់រមណីយខេមរិន្ទ
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia at Kompong Phnou's stunning historical landmark, a must-visit destination for all travelers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mekong Dolphin Pleasance
Discover the enchanting Mekong Dolphin Pleasance, where rare Irrawaddy dolphins and stunning river views await your exploration.
Chhlong Historical Building Area
Explore the captivating Chhlong Historical Building Area, a hidden gem showcasing Cambodia's colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Koh Pdao Community Based Ecotourism
Experience the beauty of rural Cambodia at Koh Pdao Community Based Ecotourism, where nature meets culture in a sustainable environment.
រកាធំក្បាលកោះ
Explore the tranquil charm of Krong Kracheh, Cambodia's hidden gem with breathtaking Mekong views, rich culture, and delightful local cuisine.
Beach of Keepsake
Discover the serene beauty of the Beach of Keepsake in Krong Kracheh, a hidden gem perfect for relaxation and breathtaking sunsets.
Natural Castle
Explore the breathtaking Natural Castle in Kampi, Cambodia, a unique tourist attraction showcasing stunning rock formations and natural beauty.
ស្ពានព្រែកតេ ខ្លាស្ទុះមេគង្គ
Explore the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Krong Kracheh, a hidden gem in Cambodia perfect for an unforgettable travel experience.
Centre of the Nature
Experience the serene beauty of Cambodia at the Centre of the Nature, a hidden gem perfect for nature lovers and tranquil escapes.
Kratie Jungle
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kratie Jungle, Cambodia's hidden gem for hiking and nature exploration, teeming with vibrant wildlife and serene landscapes.
កោះ១០០
Explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Sandan, a hidden gem in Cambodia that offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
I Love Dolphins
Experience the joy of dolphins in Krong Kracheh at 'I Love Dolphins', a unique attraction that brings visitors closer to these playful marine mammals.
Natural Forest
Explore the Natural Forest in Phumi Koul, a stunning destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering lush landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Thma Bang Resort
Experience the tranquility of Thma Bang Resort in Krong Kracheh, Cambodia, where nature meets relaxation for a perfect getaway.
វិមានទេពកណ្តាលព្រឹក្សា
Discover the cultural richness and natural beauty of Phumi Svay Chrum, a unique tourist attraction in Cambodia perfect for immersive experiences.
Essential places to dine
Street Three Eatery Kratie
Experience authentic Cambodian flavors at Street Three Eatery in Krong Kracheh - where every bite tells a story.
Jasmine Boat Restaurant
Savor authentic Cambodian cuisine amidst stunning riverside views at Jasmine Boat Restaurant in Krong Kracheh.
Pon Nor Reay Restaurant
Experience authentic Cambodian flavors at Pon Nor Reay Restaurant in Krong Kracheh - where every dish tells a story.
Oudom Sambath Hotel and Restaurant
Experience authentic Cambodian hospitality at Oudom Sambath Hotel and Restaurant along the beautiful Mekong River in Krong Kracheh.
Sorya Guesthouse
Discover comfort and charm at Sorya Guesthouse on Riverside Road in Krong Kracheh - your gateway to exploring Cambodia's hidden gems.
Mekong MoJo Restaurant & Bar Kratie
Discover vibrant vegan cuisine at Mekong MoJo Restaurant & Bar in Kratie, where local flavors meet stunning riverside views.
Le Tonle Guesthouse and Restaurant
Experience authentic Cambodian hospitality at Le Tonle Guesthouse and Restaurant - your riverside retreat in Krong Kracheh.
Le Tonle Guesthouse
Experience tranquility at Le Tonle Guesthouse along the scenic riverside in Krong Kracheh – your perfect getaway in Cambodia.
Privada Lodge - Rooftop Bar & Grill
Experience exquisite dining at Privada Lodge - Rooftop Bar & Grill in Krong Kracheh with stunning views and delightful cuisine.
Heng Sim Restaurant
Experience authentic Cambodian flavors at Heng Sim Restaurant in Krong Kracheh – a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Street Food Market
Discover the vibrant flavors and rich culinary heritage at Krong Kracheh's Street Food Market – a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
បាញ់ឆែវក្រគរ (Cambodia Transitional food)
Discover authentic Cambodian transitional cuisine at បាញ់ឆែវក្រគរ in Krong Kracheh - A culinary journey through flavors.
សំណាងបាយទាខ្វៃsomnang roast duck
Experience the authentic taste of Cambodia at Somnang Roast Duck in Krong Kracheh – where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.
Halal Restaurant Kratie
Savor authentic Cambodian flavors at Halal Restaurant Kratie—where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Experience the heart of Krong Kracheh through its delightful coffee store, where rich flavors and local culture blend perfectly.
Sa Norin Shop
Experience the vibrant tastes of Asia at Sa Norin Shop, the premier Asian grocery store in Krong Kracheh, perfect for food lovers and culinary explorers.
ដេប៉ូ និន សោភ័ណ្ឌ លក់គ្រឿងសំណង់
Discover the local craftsmanship at Ninh Sophorn Hardware Store in Krong Kracheh, offering a unique selection of construction materials and tools.
Noun Panha Clothes Store
Explore Noun Panha Clothes Store in Krong Kracheh for unique local fashion and memorable souvenirs, including the popular 'I ❤️ Kratie' shirts.
ចាន់ណា ឃីម សិប្បកម្មកិនភ្លីស័ង្កសី និងលក់ដែក
Explore authentic Cambodian craftsmanship at ចាន់ណា ឃីម, offering unique handmade home goods and a glimpse into local artistry.
តូបពូផល្លី អ៊ីលីគាង
Discover authentic Cambodian craftsmanship at Tob Pou Phally Elicang, a vibrant store in Krong Kracheh offering unique handicrafts and local goods.
ជាង មុត លក់មាស ( Roonde )
Discover exquisite gold jewelry at Roonde Jewelry Store in Krong Kracheh, a perfect blend of tradition and modern design.
Printing House & Computer
Discover the creative spirit of Krong Kratie at the Printing House & Computer, where local craftsmanship meets vibrant culture.
Dab Sport Kratie
Explore the essence of Cambodian fashion at Dab Sport Kratie, where style meets affordability in the heart of Krong Kracheh.
Grocery Shop
Discover the authentic tastes of Asia at Krong Kracheh's local grocery store, a hub for unique ingredients and culinary inspiration.
ស៊ូម៉េង~ជូ លក់អាគុយ
Discover local treasures at ស៊ូម៉េង~ជូ លក់អាគុយ in Krong Kracheh, where shopping meets cultural immersion.
Brand INT Collection Kratie
Discover the latest in fashion at Brand INT Collection Kratie, where style meets local culture in a vibrant shopping experience.
Zhulian Kratie ហ៊្សូលានក្រចេះ
Experience the essence of health and wellness at Zhulian Kratie, your go-to health food store in Krong Kracheh, Cambodia.
អាណែត ក្រចេះ
Discover unique Cambodian crafts at អាណែត ក្រចេះ, a home goods store offering authentic souvenirs and local artistry in ឃុំ សោប.
EU Store
Explore a diverse range of cosmetics and skincare products at EU Store in Krong Kracheh, your go-to destination for beauty in Cambodia.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Street Three Eatery Kratie
Experience the authentic flavors of Cambodia at Street Three Eatery in Kratie, where every dish tells a story.
Jasmine Boat Restaurant
Experience the best of Cambodian cuisine at Jasmine Boat Restaurant, a scenic riverside dining gem in Krong Kracheh offering unforgettable flavors.
Pon Nor Reay Restaurant
Experience the flavors of Cambodia in a cozy atmosphere at Pon Nor Reay Restaurant, a must-visit culinary gem in Krong Kracheh.
Mekong MoJo Restaurant & Bar Kratie
Discover the vibrant flavors of vegan cuisine at Mekong MoJo Restaurant & Bar, where local ingredients meet stunning views of the Mekong River.
Heng Heng Restaurant
Discover the heart of Cambodian cuisine at Heng Heng Restaurant in Krong Kracheh, where authentic flavors and warm hospitality await.
Privada Lodge - Rooftop Bar & Grill
Experience the perfect blend of art, cuisine, and breathtaking views at Privada Lodge - Rooftop Bar & Grill in Krong Kracheh, Cambodia.
Diamond City KTV
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Krong Kracheh at Diamond City KTV, a lively karaoke bar perfect for unforgettable evenings of music and fun.
Moha Heng KTV
Discover the lively karaoke experience at Moha Heng KTV in Krong Kracheh, where singing, fun, and local culture blend together for an unforgettable night.
Nomad bar & restaurant
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Nomad Bar & Restaurant in Krong Kracheh, offering a mix of local and international flavors in a lively atmosphere.
ពេញចិត្ត ភោជនីដ្ឋាន& KTV
Experience the vibrant mix of traditional Cambodian cuisine and lively KTV entertainment at ពេញចិត្ត ភោជនីដ្ឋាន& KTV in Krong Kracheh.
ព្រែកកាំពី
Explore the authentic tastes of Cambodia at ព្រែកកាំពី, where every dish tells a story of rich culinary traditions.
DIAMOND X PUB
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Krong Kracheh at Diamond X Pub, where local culture meets a lively bar atmosphere and delicious drinks await.
Mariyong KTV
Discover the lively karaoke culture at Mariyong KTV in Krong Kracheh, where music and fun come together for an unforgettable night out.
Win cafe
Discover authentic Cambodian flavors at Win Cafe in Kratie Province, a charming restaurant perfect for tourists seeking local culinary delights.
Garuda Fly Bar & Restaurant
Discover a vibrant dining experience at Garuda Fly Bar & Restaurant in Krong Kracheh, where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere.
Local Phrases about Kratie Province
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- Helloសួស្តី
[suostei] - Goodbyeលាស
[leah] - Yesបាទ/រស់
[baat/ros] - Noទេ
[te] - Please/You're welcomeសូមស្វាគមន៍
[som svakum] - Thank youសូមអរគុណ
[som arkun] - Excuse me/Sorryសូមអភ័យទោ
[som ahpoy toh] - How are you?អ្នកសុខសប្តិ៍ងវែរ?
[nak sok sabdaung vea?] - Fine. And you?ល្អបាន និងអ្នក?
[laa ban ning nak?] - Do you speak English?តើអ្នកនិយាយភាសាអង់គ្លេសទេ?
[teng nak niyeay phasa anglais te?] - I don't understandខ្ញុំមិនយល់ទេ
[knhom min yol te]
- Helloសួស្តី
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់មើលម៉ឺនុយតាមនៅសូម
[knhom chong moul menu tae nak som] - I don't eat meatខ្ញុំមិនបរិច្ឆេទសាច
[knhom min prach tsaach] - Cheers!ជិត
[chit] - I would like to pay, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់បង់ប្រាក់នៅសូម
[knhom chong bang braak neak som]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់មើលម៉ឺនុយតាមនៅសូម
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- Help!ជម្រាបជំងឺ!
[jomrap chom ngoy] - Go away!ចាកចេញ!
[chak chea] - Call the Police!ហៅទៅការបាងប្រជ!
[haw toe kar bang prach] - Call a doctor!ហៅទៅគ្រូ!
[haw toe kro] - I'm lostខ្ញុំខិតជាមួយ!
[knhom khtay chay muoy] - I'm illខ្ញុំឈឺ!
[knhom chheh]
- Help!ជម្រាបជំងឺ!
-
- I'd like to buy...ខ្ញុំចង់ទិញ
[knhom chong toon] - I'm just lookingខ្ញុំតែមើល
[knhom tae moul] - How much is it?តើវាតិរមិនបានបង់ប្រាក់ប៉ុន្មាន?
[tay vatear min ban bang braak ponman?] - That's too expensiveនេះគឺមានលុយធំកន្លែ
[ney ke mean loo thum kanleah] - Can you lower the price?តើអ្នកត្រូវបង់តម្លៃខាតកន្លែទេ?
[tay nak trov bang tamleah kaanleah te?]
- I'd like to buy...ខ្ញុំចង់ទិញ
-
- What time is it?ម៉ោងណា?
[moung nea?] - It's one o'clockវិចិត្រិៈមួយ
[vechit mouy] - Half past (10)កន្លែពីរត្រួយ
[kanleah pir troi] - Morningព្រឹក
[preuk] - Afternoonល្ងាច
[lngach] - Eveningយប់
[yop] - Yesterdayម្សិលមិញ
[msil min] - Todayថ្ងៃនេះ
[thngai ney] - Tomorrowថ្ងៃស្អែក
[thngai saek] - 1មួយ
[mouy] - 2ពីរ
[pii] - 3បី
[bei] - 4បួន
[buon] - 5ប្រាំ
[bram] - 6ប្រាំមួយ
[bram mouy] - 7ប្រាំពីរ
[bram pii] - 8ប្រាំបី
[bram bei] - 9ប្រាំបួន
[bram buon] - 10ដប់
[dop]
- What time is it?ម៉ោងណា?
-
- Where's a/the...?កណ្តាលនគិរស្រស់ជាង?
[kandal nekirsors chay?] - What's the address?អាសយដ្ឋខ្ញុំមានសេចក្តីអាសយដ្ឋណា?
[asayott knhom mean sekdei asayott nea?] - Can you show me (on the map)?តើអ្នកអាចបង្ហាញទីតាំងពីរដែរមែនទេ?
[tay nak achna bangheang thitmang pii daeh mean te?] - When's the next (bus)?នៅពេលណាដើមរបស់របស់?
[neav pel nea daom rabsor rabsor?] - A ticket (to ....)សំបុត្រនគិរស្រស់ជាងទៅ...
[sombotr nekirsors chay to...]
- Where's a/the...?កណ្តាលនគិរស្រស់ជាង?
History of Kratie Province
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Kratie Province, located in northeastern Cambodia along the Mekong River, boasts a rich and ancient history. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited as early as the Funan period (1st to 6th century CE). This pre-Angkorian civilization was known for its extensive trade networks and advanced urban planning. Remnants of ancient settlements and artifacts from this era provide a glimpse into the early development of the region.
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During the Angkorian period (9th to 15th century CE), Kratie Province became an integral part of the Khmer Empire. The province's strategic location along the Mekong River facilitated trade and communication within the empire. Numerous temples and religious structures were built, showcasing the architectural prowess and religious fervor of the time. One notable site is the Phnom Sombok temple, which offers panoramic views of the Mekong River and surrounding landscapes.
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In the late 19th century, Kratie Province came under French colonial rule as part of French Indochina. The French influence is still evident in the colonial architecture that dots the provincial capital, Kratie town. The French constructed administrative buildings, schools, and churches, some of which still stand today. This period also saw the introduction of rubber plantations and other agricultural developments that transformed the local economy.
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The latter half of the 20th century was a tumultuous period for Kratie Province, as it was for much of Cambodia. During the Cambodian Civil War and the subsequent Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979), the province experienced significant upheaval. Many historical sites were damaged or neglected during this time. The population faced severe hardships, and the scars of this era are still visible in the collective memory of the local people.
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Following the end of the Khmer Rouge regime, Kratie Province began a slow process of recovery and rebuilding. Efforts to restore historical sites and promote local culture have been ongoing. The province has also embraced eco-tourism, leveraging its natural beauty and rich biodiversity. The Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong River have become a symbol of the region's natural heritage. Modern Kratie town, with its blend of historical influences and contemporary development, serves as a gateway for tourists exploring the province.
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Kratie Province is home to a diverse array of cultural traditions and practices. The local population, primarily Khmer, also includes ethnic minorities such as the Phnong and the Kuy. Traditional festivals, such as the Cambodian New Year and the Water Festival, are celebrated with much enthusiasm. Handicrafts, including weaving and pottery, are important cultural expressions passed down through generations. The province's cultural heritage is a testament to the resilience and creativity of its people.
Kratie Province Essentials
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Kratie Province is located in northeastern Cambodia. The nearest international airport is Phnom Penh International Airport, approximately 250 kilometers away. From Phnom Penh, you can take a bus or a taxi to Kratie town, the provincial capital. The bus journey typically takes around 6 to 7 hours. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight to Stung Treng Airport and then travel by road for about 3 hours to reach Kratie.
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Kratie town is relatively small, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local motos (motorbike taxis) and tuk-tuks are readily available and inexpensive. Buses and minibuses connect Kratie town with nearby villages and other provinces. Renting a motorbike or bicycle is also a popular option for exploring the scenic countryside at your own pace.
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The official currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Kratie town, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Kratie town, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to remote areas.
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Kratie is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Kratie does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
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In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance or 119 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Kratie town. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Kratie where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your shoulders when entering temples and pagodas. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly nod or a slight bow. The traditional Cambodian greeting, the 'sampeah,' involves placing your palms together in a prayer-like gesture. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Kratie Province like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Cambodian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area’s history and culture. Don’t miss taking a boat trip to see the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong River. For a unique experience, visit Koh Trong Island, which offers a glimpse into traditional Cambodian village life.
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