Kratie

Kratie is situated 250 km north of Phnom Penh, this authentic region offers stunning landscapes between the banks of the Mekong River and rice fields. Some freshwater dolphins live here and can be observed at sunset.

Kratie is one of the four provinces in northeastern Cambodia, and although it is relatively remote and not heavily touristed, travelling here won’t earn you points if your priority is to be a pioneer. There’s no large scale tourism, but plenty of backpackers pass through here during the high season. The town has developed to meet this demand, and now provides good budget accommodation.

Phnom Sombok, (10 km north of Kratie on a prominent hill). A rather nifty temple north of town and situated on the only hill anywhere near Kratie. A long set of steps lead to a pavilion, the interior of which is painted with more torture scenes, depictions of what happens to those not virtuous enough to lead a holy and clean lifestyle. Makes a good stop on the way back to or from the dolphins. As a little bonus you might catch a glimpse of the family of monkeys that lives around the temple. Approximately one hour by bicycle at a leisurely pace.

Sambor, (about 40 km from Kratie). This is a pre-Angkorian era settlement. The temples, among which is Wat Sorsor Muoy Roi (temple of 100 columns) contain several colourful murals that tell legends of nature, and other traditional Buddhist stories. The original structure is no longer standing, in its place is a reconstructed temple. Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours by bicycle at a leisurely pace.

Basket weaver villages, (15 km south of Kratie). There are 3 basket weaver villages near Kratie. The biggest is the Cham village Chheu Teil Ploch with 4,000 villagers.

Villages of the Mekong. There are very interesting places along the Mekong river. You enjoy your day at the villages along both sides of the Mekong river. You can go by tuk tuk or motorbike.