Day trip from Siem Reap, Siem Reap
Kampong Phluk Floating Village & Tonle Sap Boat Tour
Kampong Phluk is a cluster of three villages on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake where the entire community of around 3,000 people lives in wooden houses raised on 6-meter stilts. During the wet season, the houses appear to float directly on the lake. During the dry season, visitors can take small boats through a hauntingly beautiful flooded forest of submerged trees. Far more authentic than the more touristy Chong Kneas, this is one of the most unique village experiences in Southeast Asia.
How to get there
- Tuk-tuk to dock ($12-15) + boat hire ($12-18)
- Guided half-day tour ($25-40 per person including transport and boat)
Highlights
- Community of houses on 6-meter stilts
- Flooded forest of submerged trees (dry season)
- Life on Tonle Sap Lake
- Sunset over the vast lake
- Local fishing community
- Elementary school on the water
Tips
- Visit in the late afternoon for the best golden-hour light on the houses
- Ask to be taken through the flooded forest (dry season Jan-Apr) - magical
- Arrange a reputable guide who visits actual village areas, not just tourist floating shops
- Bring sun protection - there is no shade on the boat
- Wear a hat and carry water
- Photography tip: telephoto lens is useful for candid village life shots from the boat