Cambodia

The province of Kampong Chhnang offers plenty of bucolic and refreshing activities to enjoy during your stay in Cambodia. You can visit floating villages, meet the pottery artisans of Andong Russey, learn more about rice cultivation and other local farming practices, or explore the riverside market of the provincial capital, Kampong Chhnang. These experiences can easily be enjoyed in a single day. So, why not dedicate another full day to an equally pastoral and pleasant activity?

Just under ten kilometers from Kampong Chhnang lies the Phnom Neang Kangrey Nature Reserve. To get there, simply cross the Tonle Sap River from the city to reach the village of Trabek on the eastern bank. From the Kampong Chhnang pier, you’ll already see the forested mountain in the distance, surrounded by a few hectares of woodland. It rises majestically above the river, as if pointing the way to its hidden wonders. Take the ferry across the Tonle Sap to reach Trabek on the other side. From there, you can hop on a local transport to approach the mountain—or even continue on foot, as it's no longer far from where you are.

A walk amid Aabundant nature

Phnom Neang Kangrey Reserve is known as one of the most attractive natural sites in the region. To avoid the crowds of both international and Cambodian tourists, it’s best to plan your hike in the mid-season—either mid-December or mid-May.

The scenery is already stunning from the moment you board the ferry and becomes increasingly captivating as you draw closer to the reserve and the mountain. At this point, you have two choices: you can remain near the river and explore the forest at the foot of the mountain, or—with the guidance of a local expert (recommended)—you can attempt the climb. The ascent isn’t particularly difficult, as the slope is gentle, but nature reigns supreme here, and even well-trodden dirt paths are scarce.

A knowledgeable guide can take you high enough to admire breathtaking views: the provincial capital Kampong Chhnang to the west, the mouth of Tonle Sap Lake just a few kilometers to the north, Kampong Thom province to the east, and the winding curves of the river to the south. This lookout point is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch before relaxing a while and heading back down toward Kampong Chhnang—with your head full of unforgettable images.