Kamping Puoy Lake: A Guide to Battambang's Resilient Reservoir
Approx. 35 km west of Battambang town.
45 - 60 minutes by car or motorbike.
Free entry. A small fee is usually charged for parking.
The rainy season (June-Nov) for the most beautiful lotus blooms.
Kamping Puoy is more than just a beautiful lake; it is a site of profound historical significance for Cambodia. While it now serves as a popular recreational spot for local families and a vital water source for the region, its origins are rooted in one of the nation's darkest chapters.
A Site of Tragedy and Resilience
The massive Kamping Puoy reservoir was not a natural creation. It was dug by hand by thousands of Cambodian people under the brutal forced labor conditions of the Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979). It is estimated that over 10,000 people died from overwork, starvation, and disease during its construction. Today, the serene beauty of the lake stands in stark contrast to its tragic past, serving as an unofficial memorial and a testament to the resilience of the Cambodian people.
What to Do at Kamping Puoy Today
Today, the lake has been reclaimed as a place of leisure and life. It's a favorite weekend destination for locals from Battambang and Banteay Meanchey to relax and enjoy the natural scenery.
Dine in a Hut
The most popular activity is renting one of the many bamboo huts built along the dam. Here you can order classic Khmer dishes, especially delicious grilled fish caught fresh from the lake, and enjoy a meal with a view.
Enjoy a Boat Ride
Hire a small boat to take you out onto the vast lake. It's the best way to see the stunning fields of lotus and waterlilies up close and appreciate the scale of the reservoir.
Swim and Play
Locals love to cool off by swimming and playing in the water, especially at the spillway where the water flows. It's a lively and fun atmosphere, particularly on weekends and public holidays.
Planning Your Visit
Kamping Puoy is easily accessible by any on-road vehicle, with a well-maintained road leading from Battambang town. While there is no entry fee, you will likely pay a small amount for parking your car or motorbike. The main costs are for renting a hut and buying food and drinks from the local vendors who line the main dam. It's a great opportunity to support small community businesses while enjoying a relaxing day out.
