Kampong Khleang: The Authentic Floating Village

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Location

50 km southeast of Siem Reap (1.5 hours).

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Population

~10,000 residents (Largest on the lake).

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Why Here?

Authentic, fewer tourists, and no scams.

Far from the crowds of the more touristy floating villages, Kampong Khleang offers a powerful and authentic glimpse into life on the Tonle Sap lake. It is a place of incredible sights, from towering stilted homes (some over 10 meters high!) to floating schools, all centered around the rhythm of the rising and falling water.

A Tale of Two Seasons

Important: The village looks completely different depending on when you visit.

WET SEASON

(June - November)

The water rises up to 10 meters, submerging the land. The village becomes a "floating world" where boats navigate right up to the doorsteps of the houses. It is lush, green, and feels like an aquatic city.

DRY SEASON

(December - May)

The water recedes, revealing the massive wooden stilts that hold the houses up. They look like "wooden skyscrapers." You can walk or drive on the dusty ground between these towering structures—a surreal sight.

My Authentic Experience

Sunset & Local Dinner

We joined a community-focused tour with Buffalo Trails Cambodia. Unlike the "tourist trap" boats, this tour took us deep into the community.

Our journey began with a boat trip through the stilted village and out onto the vast, open waters of the Tonle Sap lake for sunset. Afterward, we returned to the village to visit a local pagoda and then walked to a family home for dinner. Sharing a simple, delicious Khmer meal cooked by the locals was the highlight of the trip. It felt like a genuine connection, not a show.

Travel Responsibly

Because Kampong Khleang is far (50km), we recommend booking a dedicated tour rather than taking a tuk-tuk and trying to rent a boat yourself (which can be expensive and confusing). Community-based tours ensure your money stays with the villagers.