Vihear Suor: The Home of the Buffalo Race

Nestled in the countryside of Kandal province, about 35km from Phnom Penh, lies Vihear Suor. For most of the year, it is a quiet, spiritual sanctuary known for its ancient magic. But once a year, the grounds explode with dust, cheering crowds, and the thundering hooves of water buffaloes.

📍 LOCATION

Khsach Kandal, Kandal Province

🗓️ EVENT DATE

Final Day of Pchum Ben (Usually Oct)

✨ FAMOUS FOR

Buffalo & Horse Racing

The Spiritual Heart of Kandal

Locals believe Vihear Suor is a "magic" place. Couples struggling to conceive often come here to pray for children, and the site is home to a sacred branch of the Bodhi tree. The pagoda itself sits on pre-Angkorian foundations, linking it to the ancient history of the region.

🏆 The Festival of Speed

Every year, on the last day of the Pchum Ben festival, the village transforms. It’s not just about buffaloes!

• Buffalo Racing: Riders race huge water buffaloes bareback down a dirt track.
• Horse Racing: Local ponies, decorated with colorful ribbons, race at breakneck speeds.
• Khmer Wrestling: Known as Bok Cham Bab, traditional wrestlers compete in the mud to the sound of drums.

This tradition has been held for nearly 100 years to ensure a happy harvest and healthy livestock.

💡 How to Get There (The Fun Way)

Don't just drive! Take the Ferry across the Mekong River from Phnom Penh (Arey Ksat or Svay Chrum terminals). It saves time and offers a beautiful view of the city skyline from the water. From the ferry landing, it's a straight, paved drive to the pagoda.

Location on Map

Planning for Pchum Ben? Mark your calendar for the final day of the festival and arrive early (around 7:00 AM) to get a good viewing spot!