Travel to Kampong Chhnang, the Ancient Lavak City

Travel to Kampong Chhnang, the Ancient Lavak City with mr.hotsia

When talking about Kampong Chhnang Province in Cambodia, many people may not be very familiar with the name, but for mr.hotsia, visiting here is an unmissable experience. This province has a fascinating charm with its historical stories, local lifestyle, and the beautiful nature along Tonle Sap Lake blending perfectly.

Kampong Chhnang is located in the central part of Cambodia. It is one of nine provinces bordering the large Tonle Sap Lake. Kampong Chhnang city is the capital of this province. The name “Kampong Chhnang” literally means “City of Pottery,” which reflects the area's uniqueness where locals skillfully craft pots, jars, vases, and various distinctive pottery items. The bright red color and unique shapes differ from other places. These pottery tools are still in use and hold cultural value to this day.

Strolling through the Floating Village by Tonle Sap Lake

When mr.hotsia arrived in Kampong Chhnang city, the first place to visit was the Floating Village located along the Tonle Sap River, just 2 kilometers from the city center. Just stepping off the vehicle, you can feel a different atmosphere from the big city. Here, hundreds of floating houses peacefully rest on the water surface, with beautiful riverside viewpoints and local restaurants to chill by the lake.

mr.hotsia recommends taking a motorcycle taxi from the city to the Floating Village. The fare is about 20 baht, which is affordable and very convenient. Many motorcycle drivers here can speak Thai, making communication easy. Walking along the Tonle Sap riverside in this atmosphere allowed me to see the villagers' lifestyle that still preserves traditional ways, including fishing, living on floating houses, and local Khmer trade.

The Popular Ceramic Crafting Village Not to Miss

Another popular tourist spot in Kampong Chhnang is the ceramic crafting village, located about 7 kilometers from the city. Although mr.hotsia did not have the chance to visit this time, locals and other travelers say this village is not only a center for colorful and uniquely shaped pottery but also a rural area with beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for a motorcycle ride to explore local life and take relaxed photos.

Enjoy Local Sweets and Explore Kampong Chhnang Culture

One thing mr.hotsia really enjoyed in Kampong Chhnang was trying local sweets like “Kruak,” a Khmer-style coconut-rice pancake with a sweet and creamy flavor, different from Thai coconut pancakes. I also tried traditional Bok desserts and other sweets found in the city markets. All of these reflect authentic Khmer food culture, which is very interesting.

Additionally, mr.hotsia walked along the floating houses by the river and saw the largest eggplant I have ever encountered. It was an impressive sight that showed the diversity of local vegetables. Life here is simple but full of warmth and friendliness.

Lavak City, an Ancient City Still Alive

There is an interesting story about Kampong Chhnang Province: it was once the site of “Lavak City” (also spelled Lavang), the ancient Khmer capital before moving to Oudong and later Phnom Penh. This history made mr.hotsia feel like traveling back in time through Kampong Market in Kampong Chhnang, which is the original Lavak city area.

If you are interested in history and want to experience the atmosphere of an old town that still retains its authentic local character, Kampong Chhnang is truly a destination you should not miss.

Travel and Accommodation in Kampong Chhnang

mr.hotsia traveled to Kampong Chhnang by bus from Phnom Penh, which takes about 2 hours. The bus route goes through Preah Sihanouk Province and stops at Kampong Chhnang. The journey is convenient and affordable. Upon arrival, you will find many accommodations along the route from the market to the Tonle Sap riverside. Most hotels offer WIFI and air-conditioned rooms at about 300 baht per night, suitable for travelers who want a budget stay with a nice atmosphere.

Khmer Desserts in Kampong Chhnang — Lotus Dumplings and Sticky Rice Dumplings

During stops or walks in Kampong Chhnang, I had the chance to try Khmer desserts such as giant lotus dumplings filled with red bean paste, sweet and fragrant, served with shaved ice and palm sugar jelly. It’s a very refreshing dessert. I also tried Khmer sticky rice dumplings, which differ from Thai versions as they don’t use coconut milk or sugar, resulting in a mild taste with a fragrant soybean filling. I recommend trying these if you have the chance to visit Kampong Chhnang.

If you want to see reviews and more details about the Khmer desserts I tried, you can check outthe lotus dumplings video from Ta Koew Provincethat I recorded or read the details in the articleKhmer Dessertsthat I have compiled.

Summary of Impressions from mr.hotsia

Kampong Chhnang is not just an ordinary travel destination but a city full of stories and authentic Khmer lifestyles combined with stunning nature and history. Walking along the Tonle Sap riverside, tasting local sweets, and hearing stories of the ancient Lavak city made this trip meaningful and full of great memories for mr.hotsia. If you enjoy cultural and local lifestyle travel, Kampong Chhnang is a destination you should keep on your travel list.