Kampong Cham, Cambodia

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Kampong Cham, Cambodia

Region: Kampong Cham

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Geographic Coordinates: 11.987000, 105.462000

Climate: Seasonal climate and weather patterns in Kampong Cham, Cambodia are characterized by a hot and dry season from November to April, followed by a rainy season from May to October.

Population: 118242

Language: Khmer

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Kampong Cham is a charming city situated on the banks of the Mekong River in eastern Cambodia. It is recognized for its rich history, Cultural significance, And stunning landscapes. One of the most notable attractions in Kampong Cham is Wat Nokor Bachey Temple, An ancient temple dating back to the 11th century. The temple showcases intricate carvings and magnificent architecture that reflects Khmer artistry at its finest. Another must-visit attraction in Kampong Cham is Phnom Srei Mountain, Which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Trekking enthusiasts can explore nature’s beauty while enjoying this mountain’s scenic routes.

The French colonial influence can also be seen throughout Kampong Cham’s architecture, Adding a unique charm to this already picturesque town. The Old Market (Psar Thmei) is another popular attraction where visitors can experience local life by shopping for fresh produce or sampling traditional Cambodian street food. Kampong Cham has several museums that offer insight into Cambodia’s rich history. Chhlong Museum showcases ancient artifacts from Cambodia’s past alongside contemporary art pieces created by local artists. For those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, Koh Paen Island offers an exciting getaway just outside Kampong Cham city limits.

This small island can be reached by ferry or boat ride from town and offers visitors a chance to experience rural life in Cambodia firsthand. Overall, Kampong Cham caters to everyone interested in exploring ancient temples or experiencing local culture through food markets and museums – making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences in Southeast Asia.

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1. Wat Nokor Bachey Temple: This unique temple complex was built in the 11th century and features a mix of Hindu and Buddhist architecture.
2. Bamboo Bridge: A 1-kilometer-long bridge made entirely of bamboo spans across the Mekong River during dry season.
3. French Colonial Buildings: Kampong Cham boasts many well-preserved French colonial buildings, including the Governor’s Residence and Kampong Cham Provincial Hall.
4. Phnom Srei Mountain: A scenic mountain with a temple on top that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside awaits visitors.
5. Koh Paen Island: An island located in the middle of Mekong River is accessible by ferry or boat ride from Kampong Cham town.
6. Han Chey Mountain: A mountain with a temple on top that offers stunning views of the Mekong River and surrounding areas is worth visiting.
7. Wat Hanchey Temple: An ancient hilltop temple located about 28 kilometers north of Kampong Cham town features Khmer architecture and stunning river views for tourists to enjoy.
8. Koh Dach Island (Silk Island): This famous island is known for its silk weaving industry, where visitors can see traditional silk weaving techniques and purchase handmade products directly from local artisans.
9. Kizuna Bridge (Cambodia-Japan Friendship Bridge): A modern bridge connecting Kampong Cham to Tboung Khmum province across the Mekong River was built with Japanese aid assistance in 2001, symbolizing friendship between Cambodia and Japan.
10. Prey Chhor District Temples: Several ancient temples located in Prey Chhor district, about 20 kilometers northeast of Kampong Cham town are known for their intricate carvings and beautiful architecture which attracts tourists attention.

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1. Agriculture (rice, cassava, rubber)
2. Fishing
3. Garment manufacturing
4. Tourism (including eco-tourism)
5. Small-scale enterprises like restaurants and shops
6. Industrial sector with factories producing textiles, construction materials, and electronics
7. Traditional handicrafts such as silk weaving and pottery

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1. During the French colonial period in Cambodia, Kampong Cham played a significant role as an administrative and economic center.
2. Kampong Cham was heavily affected by the brutal policies of the Khmer Rouge regime, including forced labor, executions, and mass killings.
3. Cambodia’s current Prime Minister Hun Sen began his political career in Kampong Cham province in the 1970s and was born there.
4. The Mekong River has been a vital transportation route for centuries and runs alongside Kampong Cham.
5. The Wat Nokor Bachey Temple is an important historical site in Kampong Cham that dates back to the 11th century.
6. Many refugees fleeing violence and persecution during Vietnam’s occupation of Cambodia sought safety in Kampong Cham during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
7. King Norodom Sihanouk had strong ties to Kampong Cham province throughout his life, including building several schools there during his reign as king of Cambodia.
8. The Angkor Borei Archaeological Site is located near Kampong Cham and contains many well-preserved artifacts from pre-Angkorian times.
9. Chhun Phan, a famous Cambodian poet who wrote extensively about Cambodian culture and history, hailed from Kampong Cham province.
10. The Prey Lang Forest Conservation Movement aims to protect one of Southeast Asia’s largest remaining lowland evergreen forests located near Kampong Cham province from deforestation caused by logging companies operating illegally in protected areas.

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1. Wat Nokor Bachey Temple – This temple complex is a stunning blend of Hindu and Buddhist architecture.
2. Bamboo Bridge – Every dry season, a unique bamboo bridge is rebuilt over the Mekong River.
3. French Colonial Buildings – Kampong Cham boasts several well-preserved French colonial buildings, such as the old Governor’s Residence and former French bank building.
4. Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei Mountains – These two mountains offer breathtaking views of Kampong Cham and its surroundings.
5. Koh Pen Island – On this small island in the Mekong River, visitors can experience traditional Khmer houses, silk weaving workshops, and a peaceful atmosphere.
6. Cheung Kok Ecotourism Village – This community-based tourism project offers visitors an opportunity to experience rural Cambodian life through farming activities, traditional crafts, and local food.
7. Kampong Cham Provincial Museum – Despite its small size, this museum showcases Khmer artifacts from various periods of history in an informative way.
8. Chruoy Rey Bamboo Bridge – Another bamboo bridge near Kampong Cham town that provides great photo opportunities across a smaller river.
9. Prey Chhor Rapids – Visitors can swim or relax by these beautiful rapids on the Mekong River.
10. Han Chey Mountain Temple Complex – Located atop a hill with panoramic views of Kampong Cham city and its surroundings is this ancient temple complex.

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1. Bonn Om Teuk (Water Festival) is a yearly celebration in Kampong Cham that occurs in November and signifies the conclusion of the rainy season. It highlights boat races, fireworks, and cultural performances.
2. Chnam Thmey (Khmer New Year) is a three-day festival held every April that includes traditional Khmer dances, games, and food.
3. Pchum Ben (Ancestors’ Day) is a 15-day festival taking place in September or October to honor ancestors through offerings of food and prayers.
4. Angkor Sangkran commemorates the Khmer New Year with an emphasis on water splashing as a symbol of washing away bad luck from the previous year.
5. The Kampong Cham River Festival happens annually in December along the Mekong River with boat races, cultural performances, food stalls, and carnival-like festivities.
6. Chinese New Year is celebrated by Kampong Cham’s Chinese community with dragon dances, lanterns, and traditional foods like dumplings.
7. Independence Day takes place on November 9th to celebrate Cambodia’s independence from France with parades and ceremonies throughout Kampong Cham province.

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• Amok – a traditional Cambodian dish made with fish or chicken cooked in coconut milk and spices.
• Kuy teav – a noodle soup dish served with pork, beef or seafood.
• Bai sach chrouk – a breakfast dish consisting of grilled pork served with rice and pickled vegetables.
• Saraman curry – a spicy curry made with beef or chicken, potatoes, peanuts and lemongrass.
• Mekong Restaurant – known for its delicious seafood dishes including prawns, squid and fish.
• L’Oasis Restaurant & Bar – offers both Cambodian and Western cuisine along with beautiful views of the Mekong River.
• The Balcony Restaurant & Bar – serves authentic Khmer cuisine as well as international dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Romdeng restaurant- serves traditional Cambodian food while supporting local NGOs that train young people from poor backgrounds in hospitality skills to help them secure employment in the industry.

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Parks and Recreation

1. Koh Pen Beach Park is a popular public park that boasts a sandy beach, picnic areas, and water activities such as swimming and boating.
2. Kampong Cham Riverside Park is a scenic park along the Mekong River with walking paths, playgrounds, and outdoor exercise equipment.
3. Phnom Srei Temple Park is an ancient temple complex surrounded by lush greenery that is perfect for hiking and exploring.
4. Wat Nokor Bachey Temple Park is another temple complex that is ideal for cultural sightseeing and photography.
5. Kampong Cham City Stadium serves as a sports facility where locals can participate in various athletic activities such as soccer, volleyball, and basketball.
6. Biking Tours are available through several tour companies in Kampong Cham that offer guided tours of the city’s countryside and surrounding villages.
7. Boat Tours are available to visitors who wish to take boat tours of the Mekong River to see local fishing villages or simply enjoy the scenic views from the water.
8. Elephant Trekking Tours are available for adventurous travelers who want to go on elephant trekking tours through nearby forests to see wildlife up close.

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Travel And Be Free.

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