Big Fish of the Mekong River in Kampong Cham

Big Fish of the Mekong River in Kampong Cham – Experience Riverside Life in Cambodia

When talking about Kampong Cham province in Cambodia, many people might think of the tranquility of the Mekong River flowing through the city center, along with the simple and uniquely charming lifestyle of the locals. For me, Mr.Hotsia, visiting Kampong Cham this time was a profound experience filled with stories of the Mekong River, especially the “Big Fish of the Mekong River” which is both a local delicacy and a symbol of this riverside community.

Kampong Cham is located on the northern route of Tonle Sap Lake. I traveled here from Siem Reap through Kampong Thom before arriving at this colorful riverside city along the Mekong River. It is about 130 kilometers from Phnom Penh. The journey is easy, and I recommend using Soraya Bus Company, which offers safety and comfort for traveling between cities in Cambodia.Read more about traveling in Kampong Cham

Riverside Life and Big Fish in Kampong Cham

The Mekong Riverbank in Kampong Cham is vast and naturally beautiful. I strolled along the newly built embankment, watching locals rowing boats to fish. Some caught the big fish unique to this river. These are not small fish but large species locals call special Mekong River fish, including giant catfish, snakehead fish, and large Mekong barb, whose size amazed me and showed the grandeur of nature here.

What impressed me most was the lifestyle of the locals who truly depend on the Mekong River. They fish in the morning and sell their catch at the fresh market in town or the night market by the river. Here, you will see big fish neatly arranged, waiting for tourists and locals to buy for cooking. Walking through the fresh market, you can smell fresh fish and herbs. Sometimes, vendors call out in Khmer mixed with Thai words, which made me feel warmly welcomed because many people in Kampong Cham speak Thai, making communication and travel much easier.

Must-Try Khmer Food by the Mekong River

After exploring the big fish at the market, I didn’t miss the chance to try local riverside food. There are many restaurants here, from small stalls by the market selling rice curry and grilled chicken to international restaurants along the Mekong River. Most dishes cost about 3 US dollars, which is very good value for the quality and atmosphere.

I highly recommend the dish “Kampong Cham Fried Mama Noodles,” known locally as “Kompong Cham.” The fried mama noodles have a rich flavor and use fresh ingredients from the local community, making me want to eat it again and again. There are also Khmer-style papaya salad, fried chicken, and stir-fried noodles sold at the night market in the evening. The riverside atmosphere at night creates an incredibly relaxing feeling.Read about Khmer food in Kampong Cham

Riverside Accommodation Near Night Market and Bus Station

For travelers who want to fully experience the Mekong riverside atmosphere, I recommend staying in the riverside area of Kampong Cham. There are 3-4 hotels to choose from, starting at just 13 US dollars. The hotel I stayed at is Mariya Hotel, located right by the Mekong River and close to the night market and bus station, making it convenient for travel and finding food in the evening.

Although some accommodations may have issues with mosquitoes or plumbing that need checking, overall, the evening riverside atmosphere is well worth the price. There is also a newly opened Khmer massage shop catering to the increasing number of tourists. So, if you want to relax after a day of sightseeing, this area is very suitable.See hotel details in Kampong Cham

Market Walking Experience and Community Culture

My favorite times are morning and evening at the Kampong Cham market. The morning fresh market is bustling with the scent of fresh fish from the Mekong River. A must-have is the Portuguese-style bread sold at the market, which I have described inPortuguese Bread at Kampong Cham Market articleThe baking method uses charcoal heat from above and below to produce hot, fragrant bread. It is another cultural highlight that tells the story of Kampong Cham’s eating traditions well.

Additionally, I enjoy strolling by the river in the evening where there are many restaurants and juice bars, including durian smoothies that I tried and loved.Read about durian smoothiesThere are also small dried fish laid out on bamboo trays along the walkway, a snack locals like to taste and buy to take home.

Summary of Impressions of Kampong Cham and the Mekong River

For me, Mr.Hotsia, visiting Kampong Cham was not just passing through a province but immersing in riverside life that still maintains traditional ways. Locals still rely on nature and large freshwater fish considered community treasures. The vast Mekong River offers both food and endless beauty to this city.

If you want to experience fresh markets, authentic Khmer food, relax by the Mekong River, and see large fish in one of Southeast Asia’s important rivers, Kampong Cham is the answer Mr.Hotsia wants you to try for yourself.Read more about Kampong Cham provinceThen you will know how charming the simple riverside life along the Mekong River really is.

For a video of the experience eating big Mekong River fish and local food in Kampong Cham, watch on my YouTube channel here:Big Fish of the Mekong River in Kampong Cham