Discovery of Kratie Cambodia: Place of the Mekong River Dolphins

Kratie, a peaceful riverside town on the legendary Mekong River, is home to the world's last freshwater dolphins. Come and discover authentic Cambodia, full of beauty and tranquility. Elected a flagship destination in Asia for the year 2024 by the prestigious Travel+Leisure magazine, this little-known land deserves a special place on your itinerary. Join us to explore this region and enrich your list of must-see discoveries in Cambodia!

Written by Nhu PHAM (local expert)Updated on 27-05-2024

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1. Is Kratie Cambodia worth visiting?

Kratie is a province located in the northeast of Cambodia, downstream of the Mekong River. The small town of the same name, in the heart of this charming region, is approximately 250 km from the capital Phnom Penh. It constitutes an interesting choice in Cambodia, far from well-known sites like Siem Reap (the temples of Angkor) or the capital Phnom Penh.

There are good reasons to consider Kratie an ideal destination:

• The province offers bucolic landscapes, dotted with green islands and islets, as well as a peaceful setting along the Mekong River, creating a tranquil atmosphere and magnificent landscapes.
• It is full of historical and cultural remains dating from the colonial and pre-Angkorian eras.
• Surprisingly, Kratie is home to a population of endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in the fresh waters of the Mekong.

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The history of the beautiful town of Kratie dates back to its ancient name, Sambupura, where King Bhavavarman I ruled. In the 7th and 8th centuries, it was an important center for the kingdoms of Chenla and Fu Nan. With its great value, the city aroused covetousness and was invaded by the Chams, the Siamese, and later by the French, suffering damage. In 1886, the French renamed Sambupura to Kratié, the name of its vast province.

2. When to go to Kratie?

During the dry season, from November to March, the weather is generally sunny with little precipitation. It is recommended to go there at this time.

From April to June, it is hot and the rains begin to appear. From July to October, it is the rainy season.

3. How to get there?

To get to Kratie from Phnom Penh, you have the option of taking the local bus or a minivan.

Four local bus companies offer routes between Phnom Penh and Kratie: Virak Buntham, Thang Vang, Sorya, and Heng Sokkhoeun Express. Heng Sokkhoeun Express and Thang Vang services will allow you to reach Kratie faster (within 5-6 hours) by minibus.

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4. What to see and do in Kratie?

• Walk in the town of Kratie

The town of Kratie is a town on a human scale. You can explore everything on foot. It was once known to be the ancient city of the Chenla kingdom. The city stands out among other Cambodian cities for its beauty. You will discover the remains testifying to the heyday of the ancient city as well as colonial remains. Several historic buildings, originally deteriorated, have been restored.

Kratie stands out as being a more peaceful town than other Cambodian towns. Its “zen” atmosphere attracts visitors from all over the world. It is also very pleasant to walk along the road which goes around the river at dusk because you will see beautiful traditional Khmer houses there. Ideal for taking beautiful artistic photos!

• Watching Irrawaddy dolphins

The Irrawaddy dolphins live in Kampi, a natural site located 15 km north of Kratie, Kampi is made up of dozens of small islands and a multitude of aquatic plants. These dolphins generally measure 2 meters in length and have a rounded head, bluish-gray skin, and a short dorsal fin. They are different from their cousins, the dolphins that live in the ocean.

Irrawaddy freshwater dolphins do not make spectacular jumps but like to have fun together as a family or in a small group. It’s fun to see them bickering as a family in the water. Let’s protect them because they are part of one of the threatened and protected species in Cambodia.

Fun Fact: Irrawaddy dolphins were discovered in 1866 and have since been listed as an endangered and protected species. Currently, they can be observed in three countries in Southeast Asia: Cambodia (around 92 dolphins), Indonesia, and Myanmar (around 60 dolphins). In Cambodia, many animal protection campaigns are carried out to save these animals. In 2019, there was an increase of 18 dolphins over the last twenty years

• Discovery of Koh Trong Island during a homestay

The island of Koh Trong is a destination often popular with travelers looking for authenticity and tranquility. A bike ride is highly recommended to discover the various green landscapes: fertile rice fields, fishing villages, and old houses on stilts with traditional Khmer architecture…

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To live authentic experiences, nothing better than spending a night with a local on the island, in a traditional house of the Cham ethnic group. Despite the rudimentary comfort, it will be an opportunity to live “out of time” and to meet people… Unforgettable moments!

• Visit the basket maker village

Visiting 3 villages of basket makers and weavers is an activity not to be missed in Kratie! Here all the products are carefully made by hand! Don't forget to visit Cham Chheu Teil, a village populated by 4000 people, all of whom are basket weavers or weavers. Discover their exceptional know-how!

• Discovery of Phnom Sombok

Located on a hill in the middle of a lush forest in the north of Kratie, this temple is remarkable for its 300 steps, bordered by a hedge of colorful statues, representing monks in brown robes carrying their alms bowls. This hedge of sumptuously sculpted statues leads to a pavilion.

In addition to admiring these splendid sculptures, you will be able to come across wild animals, such as monkeys and beautiful birds. Near the temple, if you look closely, you will see episodes from the life of Buddha, illustrated by more modern statues. This place is very peaceful and offers a magnificent panoramic view of the region.

• Visits to the village of Sambor and its temple with 100 columns

The village of Sambor is one of the first capitals of the Chen La kingdom and is located about 40 km north of Kratie. It is in this village, on the banks of the Mekong, where the Wat Sor Muy Roi temple with its 100 columns abounds.

The little anecdote is that an ancient temple, dating from the Chen La mail kingdom, was built in this village. Unfortunately, it was destroyed by the Khmer Rouge. The Cambodians built another, more modern and colorful temple instead. The latter has also become an important place of pilgrimage for Cambodians.

• Walk to Wat Roka Kandal

It is a pagoda located on the banks of the Mekong River which was erected in the 19th century. It is one of the oldest in Cambodia. The central part of the pagoda has retained its framework and its 30 wooden pillars, while the walls are decorated with magnificent lacquered stencil paintings. We recommend taking a bike to get there to better enjoy the photogenic landscapes located on both banks.

5. Authentic flavors of Kratie specialties

Kratie province is best known for its Kralan, a snack of sticky rice cooked in coconut milk, accompanied by stuffed black-eyed peas or beans cooked in a bamboo tube. This dish is easily accessible throughout the city.

Additionally, being located along the Mekong River, Kratie offers an abundance of fresh river fish species. Come discover and taste fish dishes prepared with fresh catches from the Mekong River. Don't miss the opportunity to taste grilled fish!

>>> Find out more about: Cambodian Cuisine: Top 15 Unmissable Dishes!!

6. Combo Tour Suggestions for a Complete Trip

If your stay is limited to Cambodia, consider visiting Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Kratie. Each of these places offers a unique atmosphere, allowing you to put together a varied trip across the country.

For a more complete experience, consider a combined trip to Cambodia and Vietnam. Given the common border between these two countries, crossing by land is easy (if you want to save money and take the time, otherwise the air option remains preferred). Here is an example of an itinerary: Siem Reap - Phnom Penh - Kratie - southern Vietnam (notably via the border at Ha Tien), because it is in this region that the most accessible land border is located.

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Our last words,

Kratie is the ideal option for explorers eager for new lands, and eager to discover Cambodia from a different perspective. It is a place where tranquility reigns, less frequented by tourists, offering an authentic immersion in life along the Mekong, a true reflection of the values of Southeast Asia. Consider adding Kratie to your 2024 destination list if you're looking for a new horizon in Cambodia.

>>> Read more essential information at:

• Capital of Cambodia: Top 10 activities not to be missed
• Visit Tonlé Sap Lake 2024: Discover the most beautiful floating villages
• Tourist map of Cambodia: Top Tips to Explore like a Pro!