Kampong Khleang: A Guide to the Most Authentic Village on the Tonle Sap
Approx. 50 km southeast of Siem Reap.
1 - 1.5 hours by road to the boat dock.
Travelers seeking an authentic, less-touristy cultural experience.
Far from the crowds of the more famous floating villages, Kampong Khleang offers a powerful and authentic glimpse into life on the Tonle Sap lake. As one of the largest settlements on the lake, it's a place of incredible sights, from towering stilted homes to a true floating village, all centered around the rhythm of the water.
A Village of Two Worlds: The Crucial Role of the Seasons
Understanding this is the single most important tip for visiting Kampong Khleang. The village completely transforms depending on the time of year.
WET SEASON
(Approx. June - November)The water level rises dramatically, submerging the land and reaching the doorsteps of the houses. This is the "flooded forest" season. Boats are the only way to get around, and you will navigate through the towering stilted homes in what feels like an aquatic city. The entire landscape is a vibrant, watery world.
DRY SEASON
(Approx. December - May)The water recedes far into the distance. The village is high and dry, revealing the incredible 10-meter-high stilts that the houses stand on. You can walk or drive on the dusty roads beneath the homes, an equally impressive but completely different sight. The "floating village" section will be much further out on the lake.
An Authentic Sunset Excursion
We joined a community-focused tour with Buffalo Trails Cambodia, which gave us a fantastic and authentic experience. Our journey began with a boat trip, driving us through the main stilted village and out onto the vast, open waters of the Tonle Sap lake to watch a beautiful sunset.
After sunset, we returned to the village and stopped by a local pagoda before walking to a family home. The highlight was sharing a wonderful dinner cooked by the community. While we don't have food pictures, the experience of sharing a meal in a local home was truly special and something we highly recommend.
This kind of tour allows you to not just see the village, but to connect with its people and contribute directly to the local community.
Plan Your Visit
To get the most authentic experience like we did, we highly recommend booking a community-based tour. These tours often include transport from Siem Reap, a private boat, a knowledgeable local guide, and often a meal in a family home, ensuring your visit is both memorable and responsible.
