Prey Veng, Cambodia Travel Guide

Discover Prey Veng, Cambodia's hidden gem, where ancient temples, sacred mountains, and serene river landscapes promise an unforgettable journey.

Prey Veng is a province in southeastern Cambodia that offers an authentic and untouched experience of the country’s rural charm. This lesser-known destination is a haven for those looking to escape the tourist crowds and immerse themselves in local culture. Traditional stilt houses, endless rice fields, and friendly locals are just a few of the highlights that await you in this serene locale. One of the main attractions in Prey Veng is the stunning Ba Phnom Mountain, which holds historical and spiritual significance. The mountain is a sacred site for the Khmer people and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Hiking up Ba Phnom provides not only a physical challenge but also a chance to connect with the natural beauty and history of the region. For those interested in history, the province is home to several ancient temples and pagodas, such as the Wat Vihear Suor. These religious sites offer a glimpse into the past and are perfect for those who love exploring ancient architecture. Prey Veng's markets are also a must-visit, where you can find fresh produce, handmade goods, and sample local delicacies. The Mekong River meanders through Prey Veng, providing opportunities for boat trips and fishing. The riverbanks are dotted with small villages where you can observe traditional ways of life and perhaps even participate in local customs. The natural beauty of the river and its surroundings makes for a peaceful and picturesque retreat.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Prey Veng.

Visit Ba Phnom Mountain early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Bring cash, as credit card facilities are limited in the rural areas of Prey Veng.
Learn a few basic Khmer phrases to enhance your interaction with the local people.
Pack light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the tropical climate.
Don't miss the local markets for fresh produce and unique handmade crafts.

Top City Travel Guides in Prey Veng

The cities of Prey Veng, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Phnom Penh

Explore Prey Veng: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Prey Veng

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Best Attractions

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National Library

Discover the heart of Cambodian culture at the National Library in Phnom Penh, a haven for literature and history enthusiasts.

4.4

Chong Porm

Discover tranquility at Chong Porm, a beautiful park in Krong Prey Veng, perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

4.0

Toul Baray Andet

Discover tranquility at Toul Baray Andet: A sacred lake and temple offering a serene escape near Prey Veng with rich Khmer culture.

4.4

Love

Explore the serene beauty of Love in Krong Prey Veng, a captivating tourist attraction that showcases local culture and stunning landscapes.

Best landmarks in Prey Veng

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Bayon Temple

Explore Bayon Temple, a stunning Khmer masterpiece in Siem Reap, adorned with iconic smiling faces and rich historical narratives.

4.8

Wat Phnom Daun Penh

Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Wat Phnom Daun Penh, a stunning Buddhist temple and cultural landmark in Phnom Penh.

4.4

Statue of Samdech Choun Nath

Explore the Statue of Samdech Choun Nath in Phnom Penh, a historic landmark celebrating Cambodian heritage and culture amidst a tranquil memorial park.

4.5

Anloung Chen Island

Discover the tranquility of Anloung Chen Island, a pristine escape in Cambodia with stunning beaches, rich biodiversity, and serene landscapes.

4.0

Best restaurants in Prey Veng

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Prey Pros Restaurant

Experience the rich flavors of Cambodia at Prey Pros Restaurant, where every meal is a journey through local culinary traditions.

3.8

La Croisette Phnom Penh

Discover La Croisette Phnom Penh: A riverside bistro offering exquisite cuisine amidst lush gardens, perfect for travelers seeking culinary delights.

4.4

Oskar Bistro Phnom Penh

Discover exquisite dining at Oskar Bistro in Phnom Penh – where local flavors meet international cuisine by the riverside.

4.4

VEHAA | Restaurant & Bar

Discover delicious food and live music at VEHAA | Restaurant & Bar in Phnom Penh – a culinary gem blending local flavors with vibrant nightlife.

4.3

Best bars in Prey Veng

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Eclipse Sky Bar

Experience breathtaking views and delightful cuisine at Eclipse Sky Bar, Phnom Penh's premier destination for nightlife and dining.

4.3

Bouchon Wine Bar

Discover Bouchon Wine Bar: A fusion of French cuisine, exquisite wines, and live music in the heart of Phnom Penh.

4.5

BATTBONG Speakeasy Bar . Bistro

Experience the charm of BATTBONG Speakeasy Bar & Bistro, a hidden gem in Phnom Penh offering craft cocktails and a cozy atmosphere for every occasion.

4.5

Reoung Loeung Restaurant Preyveng

Discover authentic Cambodian flavors at Reoung Loeung Restaurant in Krong Prey Veng, where every dish is a delightful culinary journey.

3.9

Best nightclubs in Prey Veng

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Pontoon Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Phnom Penh at Pontoon Club, the ultimate destination for live music and dancing.

3.7

LOVE - Phnom Penh

Discover the electrifying nightlife at LOVE - Phnom Penh, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night.

4.0

Naga World Night Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Naga World Night Club in Phnom Penh, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments come alive in style.

4.4

Vito Club

Experience the electrifying nightlife of Phnom Penh at Vito Club, where vibrant music and trendy vibes create unforgettable nights.

3.8

Best shops in Prey Veng

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ISI - Prey Veng Branch

Explore ISI - Prey Veng Branch, a premier home goods store in Prey Veng, Cambodia, offering a variety of quality products for all your home needs.

4.0

SONG SARAT TRADING Co., Ltd.

Explore Song Sarat Trading Co., Ltd. for exquisite Amish furniture that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern elegance in the heart of Cambodia.

2.8

KY Mart

Discover KY Mart in Prey Veng, Cambodia - your friendly local general store for authentic snacks and everyday essentials.

5.0

បណ្ណាគារក្រុងព្រៃវែង | PREY VENG TOWN STATIONERY & BOOK SHOP

Explore the unique Prey Veng Town Stationery & Book Shop in Krong Prey Veng, where local culture meets creativity in a cozy setting.

5.0

Explore Prey Veng on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Prey Veng, mapped for you.

Prey Veng Essentials

Prey Veng is located in southeastern Cambodia. The nearest international airport is Phnom Penh International Airport, approximately 90 kilometers away. From Phnom Penh, you can take a taxi or a bus to Prey Veng. Buses from Phnom Penh to Prey Veng are frequent and affordable, and the journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours by road.
Prey Veng is a small province, and many of its attractions can be explored by renting a bicycle or motorbike. Local taxis and tuk-tuks are also available for shorter distances. For intercity travel, buses and shared taxis are common and relatively inexpensive. Renting a car can be a convenient option for more extensive exploration.
The official currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian Riel (KHR), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Credit cards are not commonly used in Prey Veng, so it is advisable to carry cash. ATMs are available, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Phnom Penh before traveling to Prey Veng to ensure you have enough funds.
Prey Veng is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and being mindful of your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 119 for medical emergencies and 117 for police assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Prey Veng. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
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 head when entering pagodas and temples. 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 slight bow or a traditional 'Sampeah' gesture (placing your palms together in a prayer-like position). Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Prey Veng 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 visiting the local pagodas and temples for a glimpse into the spiritual life of the community. For a unique experience, consider taking a boat ride on the Mekong River, which offers beautiful views and the chance to see local wildlife.

When is the best time to visit Prey Veng?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Prey Veng

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Prey Veng. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloសួស្តី
  [Soursdei]
- Goodbyeលាហើយ
  [Leahaey]
- Yesបាទ/ចាស
  [Bat/Chas]
- Noទេ
  [Te]
- Please/You’re welcomeសូម/សូមស្វាគមន៍
  [Som/Som Svakum]
- Thank youអរគុណ
  [Orkun]
- Excuse me/Sorryសូមអភ័យទោស
  [Som Aphaytos]
- How are you?សុខសប្បាយទេ?
  [Sok Sabay Te?]
- Fine. And you?សុខសប្បាយ។ អ្នក呢?
  [Sok Sabay. Anak Ne?]
- Do you speak English?អ្នកនិយាយភាសាអង់គ្លេសទេ?
  [Anak Niyay Pheasa Angkles Te?]
- I don't understandខ្ញុំមិនយល់ទេ
  [Khnhom Min Yol Te]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់មើលម៉ឺនុយ, សូម
  [Khnhom Jong Merl Menu, Som]
- I don't eat meatខ្ញុំមិនញ៉ាំសាច់
  [Khnhom Min Nyam Sach]
- Cheers!ជូនពរ!
  [Choun Por!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់បង់ប្រាក់, សូម
  [Khnhom Jong Bong Brak, Som]
- Help!ជួយ!
  [Chouy!]
- Go away!ចូរទៅហើយ!
  [Chor Tov Haey!]
- Call the Police!ហៅប៉ូលីស!
  [Hav Polis!]
- Call a doctor!ហៅពេទ្យ!
  [Hav Pet!]
- I'm lostខ្ញុំខកចិត្ត
  [Khnhom Khak Jet]
- I'm illខ្ញុំឈឺ
  [Khnhom Chheu]
- I'd like to buy...ខ្ញុំចង់ទិញ...
  [Khnhom Jong Tinh...]
- I'm just lookingខ្ញុំតែស្វែងរក
  [Khnhom Tae Svaeng Rok]
- How much is it?តម្លៃប៉ុន្មាន?
  [Damlay Bonman?]
- That's too expensiveវា pricey ច្រើនពេក
  [Va Pricey Chraen Peak]
- Can you lower the price?អ្នកអាចកាត់តម្លៃទេ?
  [Anak Ach Kat Damlay Te?]
- What time is it?ម៉ោងប៉ុន្មាន?
  [Maong Bonman?]
- It's one o'clockម៉ោងមួយ
  [Maong Mouy]
- Half past (10)ប៉ុន្មាននាទី (១០)
  [Bonman Neati (10)]
- Morningព្រឹក
  [Pruk]
- Afternoonរសៀល
  [Rosiel]
- Eveningល្ងាច
  [Lngach]
- Yesterdayម្សិលមិញ
  [Mserl Minh]
- Todayថ្ងៃនេះ
  [Thngai Nih]
- Tomorrowថ្ងៃស្អែក
  [Thngai Saek]
- 1១
  [Mouy]
- 2២
  [Pey]
- 3៣
  [Bey]
- 4៤
  [Buon]
- 5៥
  [Pram]
- 6៦
  [Pram Muoy]
- 7៧
  [Pram Pey]
- 8៨
  [Pram Bey]
- 9៩
  [Pram Buon]
- 10១០
  [Pram Muoy]
- Where's a/the...?នៅឯណា...?
  [Nov Aey Na...?]
- What's the address?អាស័យដ្ឋានអ្វី?
  [Asey Dthan Avey?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?អ្នកអាចបង្ហាញខ្ញុំ (លើផែនទី)?
  [Anak Ach Bonghean Khnhom (Leu Phen Ti)?]
- When's the next (bus)?ម៉ោងក្រោយ (យានយន្ត)?
  [Maong Kroy (Yan Yont)?]
- A ticket (to ....)សំបុត្រ (ទៅ...)
  [Sambot (Tov...)]

History of Prey Veng

Prey Veng, which means ‘Long Forest,’ has a history that dates back to the early Khmer Empire. Evidence of ancient human settlements and artifacts discovered in the region suggest that it was an important area for prehistoric communities. The fertile plains and proximity to the Mekong River provided ideal conditions for agriculture and trade, laying the groundwork for the establishment of more complex societies.
During the 9th to 15th centuries, Prey Veng was under the influence of the Khmer Empire, one of Southeast Asia's most powerful empires. The region played a significant role in the empire’s agricultural backbone, contributing to the rice surplus that supported the grandeur of Angkor. Relics and temple ruins from this period can still be found scattered across the province, reflecting its historical significance.
In the late 19th century, Prey Veng came under French colonial rule as part of French Indochina. The French administration introduced new infrastructure, including roads and administrative buildings, many of which still stand today as architectural reminders of this period. This era also saw the introduction of rubber plantations and other economic ventures that altered the socio-economic landscape of the province.
After gaining independence from France in 1953, Cambodia, including Prey Veng, began to navigate its path as a sovereign nation. The 1960s were marked by political turmoil and the rise of the Khmer Republic under General Lon Nol. Prey Veng, like much of Cambodia, witnessed significant changes as the new government attempted to modernize the country while facing internal and external conflicts.
The period from 1975 to 1979 was one of the darkest chapters in Prey Veng’s history, as it was for the entire country, under the brutal regime of the Khmer Rouge. The province, predominantly rural, was subjected to forced collectivization, mass evacuations, and widespread atrocities. The impact of this era is still felt today, with numerous memorials and a collective memory that serves as a reminder of the resilience of its people.
Following the fall of the Khmer Rouge, Prey Veng has been on a path of recovery and development. The 1990s and early 2000s saw efforts to rebuild infrastructure, improve education, and revive the local economy. Today, Prey Veng is known for its scenic landscapes, traditional crafts, and cultural heritage, attracting visitors who are keen to explore its rich history and vibrant community life.
Prey Veng is home to a vibrant array of cultural traditions and festivals that reflect its historical tapestry. The Bonn Chaul Chhnam (Khmer New Year) and Pchum Ben (Ancestor’s Day) are particularly significant, showcasing traditional dances, music, and rituals. Handicrafts such as silk weaving and pottery remain integral to the local culture, preserving skills passed down through generations.