Tonlé Sap is the largest lake in Southeast Asia and is located in Cambodia. During the rainy season (June to October), the lake becomes larger and deeper because the Mekong River changes its direction. This flooding helps with growing crops and provides fish for food. In the past, Tonlé Sap was used for transportation and irrigation by the Khmer civilization. Nowadays, the Tonlé Sap Biosphere Reserve, located in the northwest part of the lake, is home to many different animals, including birds like the greater and lesser adjutants, black-headed ibis, and the grey-headed fish eagle. The floating villages of Siem Reap, situated next to Tonlé Sap Lake, offer an interesting glimpse into the lives of rural Cambodian communities. These lively settlements, built on water, are a popular choice for travelers who want an authentic local experience. Let’s explore the four most charming floating villages in the Siem Reap area: Kampong Khleang, Mechrey, Prek Toal, and Chong Kneas.
1. Kampong Khleang: The Largest Floating Village
Kampong Khleang is the largest floating village on Tonlé Sap Lake. Around 6,000 people live there in houses that are either on stilts or floating. This beautiful community allows visitors to see what the local fishermen and their families do every day. You can walk on wooden paths, look at the floating churches and pagodas, and learn more about how the community depends on the lake’s resources.
2. Mechrey: An Emerging Eco-Tourism Destination
Mechrey, also known as “Mey Chrey,” is a lesser-known village that floats on water. It has been becoming more popular as a place for eco-tourism. The villagers themselves run the boat services, which makes the experience more personal and genuine. You can visit the floating gardens, the special floating graveyard, and the nearby bird sanctuary, where you can see many different types of birds.
3. Prek Toal: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Situated at the entrance to the Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve, the floating village of Prek Toal is a great place for birdwatchers. You can explore the wetlands and mangrove forests to see many different types of birds that live here. The village also shows how the local community fishes and farms.
4. Chong Kneas: The Closest, but Most Touristy
Chong Khneas, located near Siem Reap, is renowned for being the closest floating village to the city, attracting many day-trippers. This village offers visitors a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness and experience the fascinating floating lifestyle firsthand.
What to Bring on a Floating Village Tour
If you plan to visit a floating village, it’s important to know what to bring. Remember to pack a collapsible water bottle, a compact waterproof jacket, and your camera or phone to take pictures. Don’t forget travel sickness tablets, sunscreen, and some local currency for shopping. With these items, you’ll be prepared for an incredible adventure through the captivating floating villages of Siem Reap.
Conclusion: The floating villages in Siem Reap offer a one-of-a-kind cultural experience for travelers. Whether you decide to visit the largest community of Kampong Khleang, the up-and-coming eco-tourism spot of Mechrey, the birdwatcher’s paradise of Prek Toal, or the more popular Chong Kneas, you will be amazed by the strength and creativity of these incredible floating communities. Include these captivating destinations in your travel plans in Cambodia and get ready to be fascinated by the unique way of life on the water.
