Life on the Water: Cambodia's Floating Villages

The Tonle Sap is the beating heart of Cambodia. It is a unique hydrological wonder that swells by 500% during the monsoon season. To survive this rhythm, communities have built entire villages that float on bamboo rafts or stand on 10-meter high stilts. But not all villages are the same.

Which Village Should You Visit?

There are three main options near Siem Reap. Choose wisely!

1. Kampong Phluk

The "Stilted" Village. Famous for its towering wooden houses built on 10-meter stilts. It is surrounded by a beautiful flooded mangrove forest.

✅ Best For: Photography & Mangrove boat rides.
❌ Note: In dry season, it's a dirt road, not water.

2. Kampong Khleang

The "Authentic" Village. Located furthest from town (1.5 hours), this is the largest community. It sees very few tourists and feels like a real, working town.

✅ Best For: Authentic culture & escaping crowds.
❌ Note: Requires a longer drive to get there.

3. Chong Khneas

The "Tourist" Village. Located very close to Siem Reap. It is famous for floating schools and basketball courts, but also for tourist traps.

✅ Best For: Quick trips if short on time.
❌ Note: Beware of "Rice Scams" (pressure to buy overpriced rice).

🗓️ When to Go (Critical!)

The experience changes completely depending on the water level:

• High Water (Aug - Jan): The BEST time. The lake is full, the forests are flooded, and the scenery is stunning.
• Low Water (Feb - July): The water recedes. Floating houses get stuck in the mud, and stilted houses tower over dry ground. Boats may get stuck.

💡 The "Forest Boat" Secret

If you visit Kampong Phluk, don't just take the big motorboat. Ask to switch to a small, hand-paddled canoe ($5 extra). Local women will paddle you silently through the Flooded Forest. It is magical, quiet, and supports local families directly.

Plan Your Trip

We highly recommend Kampong Khleang for the most genuine experience.

Find a Kampong Khleang Tour