Discover Kampong Phluk During Green Seasons

A Village That Dances with the Seasons

Discover Kampong Phluk, nestled 32 km southeast of Siem Reap, where over 900 families have mastered the art of living in harmony with water. Their ingeniously crafted stilted homes rise and fall with nature's rhythm—floating gracefully when the rains arrive and standing proudly on exposed posts during drier months. Step into the wet season and find yourself in a dreamscape of mirror-like waters and endless reflections that stretch beyond the horizon.

Your Gateway to Adventure: The New Green Trail

Begin your journey on the newly constructed access road that welcomes you into this floating paradise. Thoughtfully designed to embrace the surrounding natural beauty, this smooth pathway replaces dusty, challenging routes with a comfortable walkway that invites explorers of all ages. No more dust clouds or muddy obstacles—just an easy, enjoyable path to the village, pagoda, and vibrant market.

Walk through this secret forest corridor, lined with lush foliage and crafted from eco-friendly materials that honor Kampong Phluk's pristine charm while ensuring safe, practical access to lakeside wonders.

Experience Life on the Water

Wake up to the gentle rhythms of village life: fishermen casting nets in the golden morning light, children paddling to school, and monks crossing bamboo bridges to reach the floating pagoda. Watch as soft light filters through leaves and mist, painting the slowly moving waters in gentle hues—your authentic window into daily life on Tonlé Sap.

Navigate the Magical Flooded Forest

Venture beyond the village into the flooded mangrove forest—a peaceful labyrinth of tangled roots and shimmering reflections. Glide silently through this natural maze in a traditional canoe, guided by skilled local rowers who support their community through your visit. Listen for bird songs drifting through the still air, and keep your eyes open for playful monkeys leaping through the canopy above. This tranquil corridor of water and green offers one of Cambodia's most meditative and unforgettable experiences.

Two Seasons, Two Magical Experiences

Green Season (June–October): Experience the full floating village, canoe through lush forest waterways, and witness perfect reflections on still waters.

Dry Season (November–May): Explore exposed stilts, walk directly to village homes, and discover vibrant on-foot village life.

During the green season, Kampong Phluk becomes a living painting where forest and water merge in perfect harmony. In the dry months, uncover the hidden architecture of stilts and earthen paths, revealing an equally captivating but different side of village life.

Golden Hour Magic on Tonlé Sap

Complete your adventure with a sunset boat ride as the sky transforms from brilliant orange to soft pink. Watch stilt houses create stunning silhouettes against shimmering waters while you enjoy light refreshments and soak in the golden hour's warm embrace.

Tip for the Mindful Visit the Floating Village

• Respect Local Life: Remember that Kampong Phluk is not a tourist attraction—it’s a living community. Keep voices low, avoid pointing cameras directly at people without permission, and treat daily life with sensitivity.
• Support the Community Directly: Choose local guides, buy refreshments from small family shops, or eat at local stilt-house restaurants. Your spending makes a real difference to the villagers’ livelihoods.
• Travel Light on Impact: Bring a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics. Dispose of waste responsibly—Tonle Sap Lake is fragile and depends on clean water for both people and wildlife.
• Learn Before You Go: Read about the Tonle Sap ecosystem and Khmer traditions tied to the water. Understanding their challenges—like seasonal flooding and fishing restrictions—adds depth and respect to your visit.
• Be Mindful with Photography: It’s tempting to capture everything, but always ask before taking photos of people, especially children. A smile and a gesture of respect go a long way.
• Embrace the Pace: Life in Kampong Phluk follows the rhythm of the river and lake. Slow down, observe, and let yourself soak in the calm atmosphere instead of rushing through.
• Give Back Thoughtfully: Avoid handing out sweets or money directly to children—it can encourage dependency. Instead, support community-led projects or schools that provide long-term benefits.

Plan Your Adventure

Exploring the stunning Tonlé Sap Lake and its unique floating villages is an experience like no other. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your visit:

• Distance from Siem Reap: Located about 32 km away, you can reach the lake by tuk-tuk, car, or even bicycle for a scenic ride. It’s an easy and accessible trip perfect for a half-day excursion.
• Entrance & Boat Fees: Expect to pay around $18–$35, depending on the boat size, which includes the main boat tour through the floating village. This fee helps support the local community and ensures a safe, guided experience.
• Optional Canoe Experience: For an even closer look at the magical flooded forest, add a canoe journey for just $5–$7. Glide through the serene, tree-filled waters for a truly immersive adventure.
• Perfect Timing: Visit between July and January to experience the lake at its peak during the green season, when water levels are high and the scenery is lush and vibrant.
  Don’t forget your camera—this is a photographer’s dream destination! And consider bringing sunscreen, water, and cash for small tips or local purchases along the way. Whether you're looking for cultural discovery or natural beauty, Tonlé Sap is an unforgettable stop on your journey.

A Place That Inspires

Kampong Phluk offers far more than a typical destination—it's a masterclass in living harmoniously with nature. The villagers' way of life, shaped by floodwaters and forests, demonstrates remarkable resilience and adaptation. Thanks to the welcoming new green trail, your journey begins effortlessly and unfolds into rich discoveries that will stay with you long after you leave.