Kompong Chhnang

If you’re heading towards Battambang from Phnom Penh consider making a few days detour and stopping by the picturesque and photogenic town of Kompong Chhnang. It’s a charming destination where everywhere is just stunning scenery – the Tonle Sap on one side and beautiful rolling hills on the other. Accommodations are readily available, transportation fairly easy, ancient temples and a vibrant waterfront are some of the key features of this place yet it sees little tourism so a plus for those who want to see the real Cambodian countryside. Visitors to this place will find that smiles are easily given by locals as they don’t get to see a lot of outsiders which just adds more charm to this already beautiful town.

Kompong Chhnang is easily explored as it is divided into parts – the city center with all the amenities and the waterfront which is a popular gathering place during sunset. While there, it’s a great place to explore the Tonle Sap and visit the Kandal and Chong Kos ethnic villages. For natural wonders, the famous Storntuch Mountain and Krang Deymas Hill are fascinating sites to see. For a sense of history, tourists can make visits to the pre-Angkorian temples of Punnareay, Bros, Srey and Slotey. Other notable temples are Phnom Da, Phnom Krang Romeas, Phnom Neang Kang Rey, and Phnom Roap Bat.