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Tonlé Sap Biosphere Reserve: A Floating World of Wonder

Discover Cambodia's natural heart: Explore floating villages, rare birds, and the unique ecosystem of Tonlé Sap Biosphere Reserve.

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The Tonlé Sap Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated site, is Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake and a unique ecological treasure. Explore floating villages, diverse wildlife, and experience the traditional life of the local communities who depend on the lake's resources.

A brief summary to Tonlé Sap Biosphere Reserve

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (November to May) for the best birdwatching opportunities at Prek Toal.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the area's ecology and the culture of the floating villages.
  • Bring binoculars and a camera to fully appreciate the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
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Getting There

  • Tuk-Tuk

    From Siem Reap, hire a tuk-tuk for a direct route to the Tonlé Sap Lake. Negotiate the fare, typically around $15-$25 for a round trip. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes. Ensure you agree on a pick-up time for your return to Siem Reap.

  • Public Transport

    From Siem Reap's central bus station, take a bus heading towards Battambang. The fare is about $5-$10, and the journey takes around 1 hour. Inform the driver to stop near the reserve, from where you may need a tuk-tuk or walk the final 3 kilometers.

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Discover more about Tonlé Sap Biosphere Reserve

The Tonlé Sap Biosphere Reserve is a remarkable ecological area surrounding the Tonlé Sap Lake in Cambodia. Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1997, it is known for its unique and dynamic ecosystem. The Tonlé Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and expands dramatically during the wet season, inundating the surrounding floodplains and creating a rich wetland habitat. The reserve is home to diverse flora and fauna, including numerous fish species, reptiles, mammals, and over 225 species of birds, some of which are rare and endangered. The Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, one of the core areas of the reserve, is a significant breeding ground for waterbirds in Southeast Asia. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Tonlé Sap Biosphere Reserve is the presence of floating villages. These communities have adapted to the lake's seasonal fluctuations, building homes, schools, and markets on stilts or floating platforms. Visitors can explore these villages by boat, witnessing the daily lives of the local people and learning about their traditional fishing practices. The reserve also plays a crucial role in research and conservation efforts, with various organizations working to preserve its delicate ecosystems. The Tonle Sap Lake was formed around 5500 BC due to the collision of the Indian subcontinent with Asia. The lake's average area is about 2,600 km², but during the flood season, it can expand to 14,000 km².

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