Travel to Kandal Province (Kandal)

Experience Kandal, the heart province of Cambodia, with mr.hotsia

Kandal Province, or as the Khmer call itKhet Takkandal(pronounced Kaetkondal) is a province that I, mr.hotsia, had the opportunity to visit and was impressed by in many ways. This province is truly unlike any other in Cambodia. It is like a donut ring that seamlessly surrounds Phnom Penh, so anyone traveling anywhere from Phnom Penh must always pass through Kandal Province first, whether going north, south, east, or any direction.

The capital of Kandal is Ta Khmao, or as locals simply call it “Ta Khmao,” which means 'Grandpa Khmao' or 'Black-eyed Grandpa,' named after a local elder. If you reach the central roundabout in Ta Khmao, you will see a statue of this elder standing proudly, giving the feeling that this city has the heart and spirit of the local people still deeply connected to the community. Ta Khmao is only about ten kilometers from Phnom Penh, making travel between the two cities convenient and quick. I, mr.hotsia, once took a tuk-tuk from Phnom Penh to here for just over a hundred baht.

Kandal – A Province That Is Not Just the “Center” but Full of Life and Nature

The name Kandal itself does not mean distant but truly means “center” because this province is located in the heart of Cambodia, surrounding Phnom Penh like a protective shield. It is also a province with fertile lowland areas. Most locals here work in rice farming and other agricultural gardens, which I, mr.hotsia, have seen and experienced closely. The important rivers of Kandal Province are the Tonle Basac River and the Mekong River, which flow through various areas, making this region very rich in natural resources.

I especially remember well when I took a boat from Chea Dok to Phnom Penh, passing the Tonle Basac River, which flows close to Ta Khmao. The riverbanks are full of the livelihoods of people, from small fishermen to riverside markets where I stopped to stroll and experience the simple lifestyle, yet fully stocked with fresh produce and local food.

Udong City – An Old Capital and Fascinating History

For travelers who enjoy immersing themselves in history and culture, Udong is a destination I, mr.hotsia, highly recommend. Udong was once the old capital of Cambodia and is located within Kandal Province. If you take a car from Phnom Penh toward Kampong Chhnang, about 40 kilometers away, you will see mountains and a temple on the hill on the left side—that is Udong.

The atmosphere of this city is quite peaceful and quiet, completely different from the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh. I walked around the ancient temples still standing proudly on the hill and enjoyed the view of the lush green rice fields around. Visiting Udong feels like stepping back in time and learning the history hidden in every corner of this city.

Walking Ta Khmao Market – The True Way of Life and Food

If you want to experience the lifestyle of Kandal people up close, you must not miss walking aroundTa Khmao MarketThe market where I, mr.hotsia, had the chance to explore and feel the liveliness of the locals in Kandal Province. This market is not as large as those in Phnom Penh but is full of fresh produce and a variety of local foods, from fresh vegetables and fruits to seafood and meats freshly caught and sold by the locals.

I remember walking through this market, the scent of herbs, spices, and the warm community atmosphere made me feel like I was truly inside the real life of Cambodian people. I also secretly tried dry Khmer noodles at a small shop in the market, which had a rich flavor and was fully loaded with ingredients, making it definitely worth stopping for a meal.

Traveling to Kandal – Easy and Convenient

For traveling to Kandal Province, I, mr.hotsia, recommend several options depending on your convenience and route. Especially if you come from Phnom Penh, there are many daily bus trips by Sorya Bus company departing from the bus station behind Sorya Mall, or you can also take buses from the central bus station behind the Central Market. The prices are very affordable, about US$1-2, which is very suitable for budget travelers.

Another option is shared taxis, which run in rounds from the central bus station to Ta Khmao city. There is also the choice of taking a motorcycle along National Highway 2 that connects to Ta Khmao. For me, mr.hotsia, my latest trip from Ta Keo city by Sorya bus took less than two hours to reach Ta Khmao quickly and comfortably.

Weather and Best Time to Visit Kandal

Kandal Province is located in a tropical humid zone with warm weather all year round, having a monsoon season that makes the area lush and fertile. Personally, I, mr.hotsia, recommend visiting between December and January because it is the coolest time of the year, with temperatures around 22-28 degrees Celsius—not too cold and not too hot.

If you come in April, which is the hottest season in Cambodia and coincides with our Songkran festival, you will feel the intense heat of the sun and temperatures rising up to 36 degrees Celsius. The rainy season from May to October has frequent rains but is also the time when the rice fields are bright green and the nature is beautifully moist.

Summary of Kandal Experience with mr.hotsia

Kandal Province is not just the province surrounding Phnom Penh but an area full of agricultural lifestyles, rich nature, and interesting history like Udong city. There is also Ta Khmao Market, a community hub with exciting local food. If you are planning to travel to Cambodia, I, mr.hotsia, recommend adding Kandal to your list because it will offer a unique travel experience for sure.