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Kompong Khleang: A Glimpse into Authentic Cambodian Floating Village Life

Discover Kompong Khleang, Siem Reap's largest and most authentic floating village, for a unique cultural experience on Tonle Sap Lake.

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Venture to Kompong Khleang, the largest and most authentic floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, offering a unique window into traditional Cambodian life. Observe stilted houses, floating markets, and a vibrant community that thrives on the water, relatively untouched by mass tourism.

A brief summary to Community First: Kompong Khleang Floating Village Tours

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for easier exploration and walking tours within the village.
  • Respect local customs by dressing modestly and asking permission before taking photos of residents.
  • Bring small gifts like school supplies for the children to support the local community.
  • Consider booking a tour with a community-based organization to ensure your visit benefits the local economy.
  • Be prepared for varying water levels, which affect boat routes and accessibility within the village.
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Getting There

  • Car/Taxi

    From Siem Reap, the most common way to reach Kompong Khleang is by car or taxi. The journey is approximately 55km and takes around 1.5 hours. Head east on Road 6 from Siem Reap. Negotiate the fare beforehand, which typically costs between $35-$45 USD for a round trip. This option offers flexibility and direct transport to the Kompong Khleang boat pier.

  • Tours

    Alternatively, consider booking a guided tour from Siem Reap. Many tours include transportation, a boat tour of the village, and a knowledgeable guide. Prices generally range from $35 to $80 USD per person, depending on the tour operator and inclusions. This is a convenient option that handles all logistics and provides cultural insights.

  • Boat Tour

    Upon arrival at the Kompong Khleang boat pier, the final approach involves hiring a local boat to explore the floating village. The entrance fee, which includes a boat ride through the village and onto Tonle Sap Lake, is approximately $20-$21 USD per person. The boat tour typically lasts 1-2 hours, navigating through the waterways and providing a close-up view of the stilted houses and floating community.

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Discover more about Community First: Kompong Khleang Floating Village Tours

Kompong Khleang, located approximately 55 kilometers from Siem Reap, offers a captivating glimpse into a traditional Cambodian floating village. This unique village on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, is home to over 10,000 residents. The village's history dates back to the Khmer Empire, with the community adapting to the lake's seasonal changes over centuries. The houses are built on stilts, some as high as 10 meters, to accommodate the dramatic fluctuations in water levels between the dry and rainy seasons. Life in Kompong Khleang revolves around the water, with fishing and related activities dominating the local economy. Visitors can witness traditional boat-making and fishing techniques that have been passed down through generations. The village has a vibrant community with markets, schools, pagodas, and even a local emergency care center. Exploring the intricate waterways by boat offers a chance to see the stilt houses up close, observe daily life, and appreciate the unique ecosystem of the Tonle Sap. Unlike some of the floating villages closer to Siem Reap, Kompong Khleang has retained much of its authenticity, offering a less tourist-driven experience. Visitors can engage with locals, learn about their way of life, and gain insight into the challenges and triumphs of living in a floating community. A visit during the dry season allows for walking tours within the village, while the rainy season provides a different perspective with the houses seemingly floating on the water.

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