Kampong Phluk is another must-see destination when visiting Siem Reap. It makes a perfect low-pressure morning or afternoon trip and offers a relaxing break from exploring the temples. Beautiful and unique in its own right, the village is home to local families, fishermen, and school children, while also showcasing the remarkable way people have adapted to life on the water.
Life in the village centers around homes, schools, and daily activities designed to suit the changing water levels throughout the year. The houses are built on tall stilts and appear to float during the wet season when the water rises. Boats are the main form of transport, giving visitors a chance to experience local life from the river itself. During the visit, you can spend time walking through parts of the village before boarding a boat that travels through the waterways and onward to Tonlé Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.
During the wet season, which normally begins in May, visitors also have the option to take a small canoe ride through the flooded forest. This optional activity is not included in the tour price, as the standard tour includes only the main riverboat journey through the village and surrounding waterways. However, for many visitors, the canoe trip through the floating forest becomes one of the highlights of the experience.
Along the way, there is also an opportunity to walk along the village’s high street to observe local daily life and see how new stilt houses are built. The local community is welcoming and happy to see visitors, as tourism plays an important role in supporting the village economy.
At the end of the journey, guests can relax at a floating restaurant with beautiful lake views. The restaurant offers good-quality food and drinks at affordable prices, making it a wonderful place to enjoy the sunset over the lake.
The tour usually begins in 2 option schedules departure (Morning or afternoon select on your booking choices ) making it an ideal experience for travellers with flexible schedules or those arriving from or departing for flights on the same day. Increasingly popular among visitors, this tour is considered one of the most affordable yet rewarding cultural experiences in Siem Reap