Amazing Tea in Sisophon Cambodia: 'Cha Kwam Kaew' in Sisophon City

'Cha Kwam Kaew' in Sisophon City, Cambodia: A Unique Tea Drinking Experience with mr.hotsia

When talking about Cambodia, many might think of Angkor Wat or roadside fresh markets, but for me, mr.hotsia, there is one thing that impressed me greatly on my latest trip: the “Cha Kwam Kaew” in Sisophon City.SisophonBanteay Meanchey Province, which offers not only the sweet aroma of tea but also a unique and memorable way of drinking it.

Sisophon is a small town located not far from the Cambodia-Thailand border, but the atmosphere is filled with simplicity and the vibrant life of the locals. I arrived here after an adventure in Takaew Province (read more atTraveling Takaew Province), and the journey from Phnom Penh to Sisophon took some time but was definitely worth it to experience the tea culture here.

What is 'Cha Kwam Kaew'? The Sisophon Style of Tea Drinking

The tea shop I visited is located in front of the Sisophon market. It’s a small, simple shop but always full of customers, especially in the morning and late afternoon. I noticed that the tea here is served differently from anywhere else in Cambodia because they use the “inverted glass” method to drink tea.

I have seen many tea drinking styles elsewhere, but “Cha Kwam Kaew” is quite unusual and fascinating. The tea is brewed in a small glass that is turned upside down on a saucer instead of holding the glass upright. The drinking method involves slightly lifting the edge of the glass’s bottom to let the tea slowly flow through the tea leaves inside, then lifting the glass from the saucer to drink. This requires skill and careful attention to avoid spilling the tea.

At first, I sat confused alone in the shop, watching other customers and following their steps until I understood. Luckily, a kind local patiently taught me how to drink 'Cha Kwam Kaew.' This tea drinking is not just a ritual but also a way to build connections between the community and travelers like me.

Market Atmosphere and Lifestyle in Sisophon

After finishing the 'Cha Kwam Kaew,' I explored the market in front of the tea shop. The morning market atmosphere in Sisophon is similar to the Stung market I once visited (seeStung Morning Market). It remains traditional without excessive organization. Vendors smile warmly and chat casually. There are fresh vegetables, fish, crabs, and other interesting local foods.

The warmth of this small community reminded me of the grilled beef rice porridge experience in Svay Rieng Province, Cambodia (read atGrilled Beef Rice Porridge in Svay Rieng Province), which shares the same simplicity and friendliness. Walking through Sisophon’s market is not just shopping but learning about the genuine lifestyle and culture of Cambodians.

Travel Tips and Recommendations for Interested Visitors

If you plan to visit Sisophon to experience 'Cha Kwam Kaew,' mr.hotsia recommends traveling from Phnom Penh by bus or van, with several daily services. If you enjoy the atmosphere and want to explore small towns like Takaew Province nearby, you can plan to stop along the route (read travel experience atTraveling Takaew Province)

). There are also many other foods and drinks in Sisophon to try, such as fried chicken rice and fried pork near the 'Cha Kwam Kaew' shop, simple dishes that locals and travelers like me enjoy.

Summary of the 'Cha Kwam Kaew' Experience and Sisophon City

Drinking tea in the “inverted glass” style in Sisophon is not just ordinary eating and drinking but a deep cultural and lifestyle experience of Cambodians through a seemingly simple drink that involves meticulous care at every step.

For me, mr.hotsia, this trip was one of the most impressive experiences in Cambodia. If you like something different from typical tourism, I invite you to try 'Cha Kwam Kaew' in Sisophon City yourself. You will understand that travel is not just about reaching a destination but about experiencing the stories hidden in every cup of tea.