Kampong Phluk

The Basics

Day trips to Kompong Phluk—which typically depart from nearby Siem Reap—save you the hassle of arranging multiple modes of transport and shed light on local fishing practices and cultural customs. Excursions generally include a tour of the stilt village, where you’re likely to encounter locals and learn about daily life in Kampong Phluk, and a row-boat ride through the mangrove forest, where partially submerged fauna emerges from the coffee-colored water.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Kampong Phluk provides a glimpse into life in the Cambodian countryside—with a slower pace than at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

• Tonle Sap Lake is home to more than 200 species of fish and around 70 different species of snake, making it a top destination for nature lovers.

• Most trips to Kampong Phluk are not wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

From Siem Reap, the drive to Kampong Phluk by car takes around one hour via the NR6 highway. If traveling independently, you need to arrange transportation by boat—required only in the rainy season—on arrival.

When to Get There

In the wet season (May through October), the area is completely submerged, and Kampong Phluk becomes a semi-floating village; in the dry season, the same stilted houses may rise up to 18 feet (about 6 meters) above the water.

Day Trips from Siem Reap

Though most famous for Angkor Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Siem Reap is surrounded by several natural and cultural wonders. Highlights include Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, where you can view hundreds of different bird species from observation decks, and Phnom Kulen National Park, where you can swim beneath a waterfall.

What is there to see at Kampong Phluk?

Kampong Phluk is famous for its floating villages built on stilts. People rely on boats for transport since it’s in the middle of Tonle Sap, Cambodia’s largest lake. The village isn’t really floating, but when the monsoon rains come, the water level rises, making it look like the houses are floating.

Is there a fee for visiting Kampong Phluk?

Yes, there is a fee to visit Kampong Phluk. The government tourism board charges around US$20 for the community boat ticket and local tourism tax. Guided tours or those with canoe rides to the flooded forest are extra, but they give you a more in-depth look at the floating village.

Is there a dress code for visiting Kampong Phluk?

As with most places in Southeast Asia, it’s important to dress respectfully when visiting Kampong Phluk. The area has a religious history, so make sure to cover shoulders and knees and wear loose-fitting clothing. Breathable clothes are also perfect for managing the sun, heat, and any lingering bugs.

Is Kompong Phluk good for kids?

Yes, Kompong Phluk is good for adventurous kids. Since you must take a boat ride to get there, that can be exciting for the whole family. The floating villages are unlike the accommodations kids are used to seeing, so it can be a fascinating experience for all ages.

What kinds of tours go to Kampong Phluk?

From Siem Reap, there are several tours that combine a visit to Kampong Phluk with stops at Kulen Elephant Forest, Angkor Wat, and more. You can also concentrate on visiting the floating village, possibly adding a lunch stop or staying for sunset. Private tours are also available and offer more flexibility.

Is Kampong Phluk worth a visit?

Yes, Kampong Phluk is worth a visit. It can be a peaceful day out, taking the boat to the village and canoeing through the flooded forest. There is much to learn about how the village makes its livelihood, how kids go to school and visit friends, and explore another culture.