Visit Kampong Cham: The Ultimate Guide

Kampong Cham is a picturesque and historically significant province in Cambodia, located in the eastern part of the country. It’s known for its charming rural landscapes, the mighty Mekong river, and a rich cultural heritage.

It’s a destination for travelers seeking a peaceful atmosphere, cultural immersion and natural beauty along the banks of the Mekong river.

There are numerous things and activities that visitors can explore when they visit Kampong Cham.

Let’s find out more useful information about Kampong Cham with Hanoi Voyages to have the most perfect trip!

Things to do in Kampong Cham

If you’re planning to visit Kampong Cham, you’ll discover a charming riverside town that beautifully blends culture, history, and local life. Located along the Mekong River, Kampong Cham is less crowded than Cambodia’s major cities, making it an ideal stop for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Here are top things to do in Kampong Tham you can't miss!

Ko Paen bamboo bridge

One of the most unique experiences when you visit Kampong Cham is crossing the famous Ko Paen Bamboo Bridge. Once a year, locals come together to slice and assemble thousands of bamboo pieces, creating a long bridge that stretches across the Mekong’s dry lands during the rainy season. This handmade structure is strong enough for villagers and curious travelers to use daily.

Today, during high season, a smaller bamboo bridge is built for tourists to walk or cycle across, keeping the tradition alive. A small fee is collected at the end of the bridge to support the community.

Nokor bachey temple

Nokor Bachey temple is a cultural and historical site. It is 2.2 kilometers from Kampong Cham province town along National Road 7. Visitors arriving from Phnom Penh will notice the gate to the pagoda on the right. The temple was dedicated to Brahmanism and was established in the middle of the 11th century under the reigns of Suryavarman II and King Ouphey. This is one of the best things to do when you visit Kampong Cham.

The Nokor Bachey temple, Kampong Cham can be divided into four distinct buildings that have been named as long buildings. Nokor Bachey temple in Kampong Cham is a popular tourist destination in Cambodia.

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Koh Paen island

Rent a bicycle on the island and explore at your own pace. Koh Paen has a network of dirt roads that lead through picturesque villages, rice paddies and orchards. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to experience rural Cambodia.

The island is green and overgrown at the end of the monsoon and its shady pathways are ideal for an afternoon ride.

Furthermore, Koh Paen is a place to relax and enjoy life at a slower pace. Taking in the natural surroundings, or simply sitting by the river is also a memorable experience there. This is one of the best things to do when you visit Kampong Cham.

Phnom Srey and Phnom Pros

The Phnom Srey and Phnom Pros is located at Kro La Commune, which is at a distance of seven kilometers from the provincial town of Kampong Cham. The Phnom Srey and Phnom Pros in Kampong Cham is the name of a mountain peaks that is part of a 500-meter-high mountain range to the left. The northern part of Phnom Srey and Phnom Pros is surrounded by the spectacular mountains of Dang Rek, Ba Ley and Chhuk.

The origins of the twin mountains and their shrines are shrouded in legend. The whole area is a Buddhist pilgrimage site, and if you go on a weekend or around a religious holiday, you’ll find lots of families paying their respects.

Another thing is keeping an eye out for the monkeys that live in the trees above the temples; they can become aggressive if there is food involved. One thing you should do when you visit Kampong Cham.

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The French watchtower

When you visit Kampong Cham, one of the most iconic landmarks you shouldn’t miss is the French Watchtower standing proudly on the banks of the Mekong River. Built in the early 1900s to guard this vital trading port for the French, the tall auburn-colored tower still overlooks the water and evokes memories of a bygone era.

To reach it, simply cross the Japanese Bridge by bike, motorbike, or on foot, then take a sharp left. Open 24/7 and free to climb, the tower rewards visitors with sweeping views over Kampong Cham city, the Kazuna Bridge, and the Mekong’s tranquil flow

Wat Hanchey

When you visit Kampong Cham, a must-see destination is Wat Hanchey, an ancient temple perched on a remote hillside overlooking the Mekong. After climbing 300 steps, guests are greeted by the sights and sounds of chanting monks. With origins at least as far back as the 8th century, this hilltop temple also offers fantastic views of the Mekong river and the surrounding area.

Visitors may be interested to know that Wat Hanchey is home to many young Cambodians who were previously homeless or orphaned now being looked after by the monks. Young Cambodian monks are frequently seen doing their daily activities such as praying, studying, and playing together.

So how to get to Wat Hanchey? Visitors can reach Wat Hanchey by tuk tuk or motorbike from the nearby town of Kampong Cham, which is about 20 km to the South.

Wat Moha Leap

If you visit Kampong Cham and want to see something truly unique, make your way to Wat Moha Leap — one of the last surviving wooden pagodas in Cambodia. Built in 1894 and consecrated in 1906, this temple was raised on a platform to guard against seasonal floods.

Its half-moon steps, sema stones, and golden paintings on the wooden pillars and ceiling create a serene atmosphere that reflects the timeless beauty of traditional Cambodian craftsmanship

Chup rubber plantation

Rubber plantations can be found throughout South East Asia, including one in Kampong Cham. Take your bicycle or motorcycle out to the plantation, which is about 20 kilometers outside of town.

The tall rubber tree forest is a breathtaking sight. These grandiose, leafy pillars with incredibly thick trunks are perfectly arranged row after row, leaving little alleys of dirt and light running between them like a scene from Alice in Wonderland.

For 1 USD, you can wander into the actual rubber factory and watch the rubber being processed by loud machines.

Cheung Kok village

When you visit Kampong Cham, make time for Cheung Kok Village — a small farming and artisan community just a few minutes from town. This is an eco-tourism village where residents welcome visitors to their homes to learn about their daily lives.

Eco-tourism and crafts have generated income for the village of Cheung Kok in recent years, and the village now organizes tours to every house in the village.

You can start participating in village activities as soon as the sun rises, such as rice planting and silk scarf making. There are panels dotted throughout the village that direct you to the silk maker, palm sugar producer, palm leaf weaver, krama maker, or perhaps someone who can teach you how to cultivate rice.

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Kampong cham market

One of the prominent markets in Kampong Cham is the Kampong Cham Central market, also known as Phsar Kampong Cham or Kampong Cham market.

The Kampong Cham market has a gaudy look similar to the Central market in Phnom Penh, and it has a complete supply of just about anything you might need. In the evening, a night market emerges on the western side. On the perimeter roads, there are numerous photo shops and pharmacies.

Like many traditional markets in Cambodia, visit Kampong Cham market offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. You can find seasonal produce sourced from the surrounding countryside.

Furthermore, there are stalls selling local products such as handmade crafts, textiles, clothing and traditional Khmer items. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs or unique gifts.

The best weather to visit Kampong Cham

Kampong Cham has a tropical climate. The weather is getting more and more erratic and it’s difficult to predict when the rains will come, but avoid visiting during the peak rainy period.

• The cool season occurs between November and March when January is the driest month.

• March and April are the hottest months and should be avoided at that time. if you don’t want to have a face full of dust every time you go outside.

• By contrast, the time from May to October is the rainy season in which the wettest month is October.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Kampong Cham, we recommend going between November and March to enjoy the pleasant weather and avoid the rains.

Where to eat in Kampong Cham: Best restaurants

Exploring local food is one of the highlights when you visit Kampong Cham. From cozy riverside eateries to community-driven restaurants, the city offers a mix of authentic Khmer dishes and international flavors. Here are some of the best places to eat during your stay:

• Smile Restaurant – An NGO-run eatery by Buddhism for Social Development Action (BSDA), serving generous portions of Khmer and Western dishes, with profits supporting local social programs.

• Hao An Restaurant – Located in the city center, offering a diverse menu of Khmer, Chinese, and European cuisine in a family-friendly setting.

• Moon River Restaurant: A relaxed riverside spot in Kampong Cham, Moon River Restaurant offers a mix of Khmer and Western dishes with beautiful Mekong views — perfect for a casual meal or sunset drinks.

• Sourn Som: A local favorite in Kampong Cham, Sourn Som serves authentic Khmer cuisine in a simple yet welcoming setting, ideal for travelers wanting to taste traditional flavors.

👉 Must-try food in Kampong Cham: Lok Lak, Amok Trey, Nom Banh Chok, Grilled Mekong Fish, Bai Sach Chrouk, tropical fruits (mango, rambutan, longan).

Where to stay in Kampong Cham?

Kampong Cham offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable hotel, a guesthouse, or a more unique stay, you’ll find choices in the town. Here are some accommodation options to stay in Kampong Cham:

Mekong hotel

💸 Prices: from 10 USD per night

Located right by the riverside, Mekong Hotel is one of the most popular mid-range choices in Kampong Cham. Rooms are simple yet comfortable, with AC doubles starting from just 10 USD. While a little dated, the hotel is generally clean and offers a convenient base for exploring the city.

Reasmey Cheanich hotel

💸 Prices: 30–50 USD per night

A relaxing stay with comfortable rooms and a peaceful garden. Ideal for exploring Kampong Cham or simply unwinding by the river. Guests can relax in the hotel’s garden or  enjoy the riverside setting, making it a great spot to both unwind and visit Kampong Cham.

LBN Asian hotel

💸 Prices: from 45 USD per night

A modern option in Kampong Cham, LBN Asian hotel offers spacious rooms and upscale amenities. Guests can enjoy two bars, an indoor pool, and a steam room, making it a well-rounded choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Hanchey Bamboo resort

💸 Prices: from 50 USD per night

Set 20 km outside the city, overlooking the Mekong River, The Hanchey Bamboo resort is an eco-retreat run by the local NGO BSDA. This tranquil getaway features elegant bamboo architecture, palatial rooms, and even yoga retreats, making it ideal for travelers seeking peace, nature, and community-based tourism.

How to get to Kampong Cham?

Getting to Kampong Cham is quite convenient, especially from Cambodia’s two major hubs - Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Whether you’re starting your journey from the bustling capital or the gateway to Angkor, there are several transport options available to reach this riverside town comfortably

Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham

Traveling from Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham is one of the most common routes, as the capital city lies just about 120 km away. The journey is straightforward, with several convenient options to choose from

By Bus

Phnom Penh is the nearest major city to Kampong Cham, and there are frequent bus services between the two cities. Virak Buntham and Sorya are two local bus companies that service this route.

The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Several bus companies operate this route, and you can purchase tickets at the bus stations or through travel agencies in Phnom Penh.

By Taxi

You can take a taxi, which is the fastest but also the most expensive. It takes around 1-2 hours to get Kampong Cham. A private taxi from Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham costs around 40 USD one-way or 50 USD for same-day return.

Siem Reap to Kampong Cham

Getting from Siem Reap to Kampong Cham is a longer but worthwhile journey, linking the temples of Angkor with this riverside town. The distance is around 250 km, and travel time ranges from 6–7 hours depending on the mode of transport.

• Bus & Minivan: There are no direct buses from Siem Reap to Kampong Cham, so you’ll need to get to Phnom Penh first, and then change buses.

• Private car / taxi: For more comfort and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi is a good option. Prices range from 90–120 USD per vehicle, and you can stop along the way for sightseeing or breaks.

• Motorbike: Adventurous travelers can rent a motorbike in Siem Reap and ride to Kampong Cham. It’s a scenic but challenging journey, so it’s recommended only for experienced riders.

Quiet yet full of charm, Kampong Cham is the perfect place to experience authentic Cambodian life along the Mekong. From ancient temples and eco-villages to riverfront strolls and local cuisine, this riverside town has plenty to offer beyond the tourist crowds. If you’re looking to explore Cambodia at a slower pace, be sure to visit Kampong Cham and discover its hidden gems.

Start planning your trip today and make this unique destination part of your journey through Cambodia