More a quiet town than a bustling city, Kompong Cham is a peaceful provincial capital spread along the banks of the Mekong. Kampong means “the side of a river or any other water body” with Cham meaning Cham ethnicity of Champa. A similar Malay word “Kampung” means “village.” The province derives its name from the ethnic Cham, or Chinese Muslims, who inhabit many of its villages.
It carries with it plenty of colonial French charm, and has a genuine “wild west” feel to it. While remnants of French colonial rule remain, modern developments have done quite a bit to give the city a more contemporary look. However, the real charm of Kampong Cham lies with its people: hospitable, happy-go-lucky folks who are welcoming to tourists. Travel Indochina
The town itself is quaint and charming with its bustling morning river scene and wide boulevard streets beside the river. Kampong Cham is a mix of the old and the new, with a new temple being built in and around old ruins and the big ferry boats taking people and goods to the other side of the Mekong, right next to the construction of the first bridge ever built here. Though there are a few temples including one of the country’s mass graves, the best things to do in Kampong Cham and the surrounding area (Kampong Cham Province) is just to hang out or cruise the countryside . The people of Kampong Cham are very friendly and open to engaging with tourists.
Despite not having as many tourist attractions as Phnom Penh or Angkor Wat, this charming city is the best place to get a feel of the “real” Cambodia. Attractions are several temples on Phnom Pros hill and the Bamboo bridge, which is build every year new after it’s washed away during wet season. Cambodia holidays
Most travellers who do find themselves in Kampong Cham are in transit to elsewhere in the country, but those that choose to spend at least a couple of days in the provincial capital will enjoy the laid back atmosphere and quaint charm. Kampong Cham isn’t a city chock full of tourist attractions, but its colonial charm and atmosphere will endear itself to you. Kampong Cham is a sleepy provincial capital, and as such there isn’t a whole lot to actually do, and those seeking plenty of activities to keep themselves occupied will become bored within a day.
Kampong Cham is a peaceful paradise in Cambodia.
Asia Travel.
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