KRATIE & THE MEKONG RIVER
Kratie is a tranquil riverside town in eastern Cambodia, celebrated as the best place to spot the critically endangered Irrawaddy river dolphins. It is a gateway to the Mekong’s raw beauty and local island life.
This region offers a unique blend of French colonial architecture, traditional Khmer living, and immersive nature experiences along the mighty river, far from the country’s major tourist hubs.
Most Popular Attractions
Kratie Town Core & History:
Kratie Market & Riverfront: The bustling central market and the scenic river promenade, famous for its daily life and evening activity.
The Governor’s Residence (Colonial Building): An impressive yellow French-colonial structure near the river, a beautiful photo opportunity.
Wat Vihear Sarsar Mouy Rouy (Pagoda of 100 Columns): A historic pagoda believed to have been founded in the 16th century, though the current structure is newer.
Old French Shop Houses: Historic, dilapidated shophouses scattered throughout the town center, showcasing the colonial past.
Kratie Provincial Museum: A small museum offering insights into the province’s history, culture, and nature.
Wat Rokakandal: A charming pagoda known for its intricate paintings and location on the riverbank.
Kratie Bus Station: A vibrant transport hub that offers a glimpse into local travel and commerce.
Mekong River Wildlife & Islands:
Kampi Dolphin Viewing Area: The most reliable spot on the Mekong to take a boat trip and observe the rare Irrawaddy River dolphins.
Koh Trong Island: A tranquil island in the middle of the Mekong, famous for its slow-paced rural life, rice paddies, and a 9 km cycling path.
Phnom Sambok: A small, sacred hill topped with a colorful pagoda and offering panoramic views of the Mekong and the surrounding countryside.
100-Pillar Pagoda (Wat Sor Sor Muoy Roy): A historically significant religious site located across the river, though parts were destroyed by the Khmer Rouge.
Sunset Cruises on the Mekong: Evening boat trips that offer spectacular views of the sunset reflecting on the river’s wide expanse.
Seasonal Mekong Sandbars: Large sand and mud islands that appear during the dry season, used by locals for farming and fishing.
Kampi Boat Landing: The main departure point for short excursions to see the Irrawaddy dolphins.
Rural Surroundings & Culture:
Chhlong Town: A nearby town featuring beautifully preserved, larger French colonial villas and administrative buildings.
Prek Kampi Bird Sanctuary: An area downstream from Kampi that is an important habitat for various migratory and resident bird species.
Rubber Plantations: Extensive plantations visible on the outskirts of Kratie, representing a key local industry.
Phnom Srey and Phnom Pros (Man and Woman Hill): A pair of twin hills near the town, featuring pagodas and a local legend.
Local Fishing Villages: Small, authentic communities along the river that demonstrate traditional Cambodian fishing methods.
Kratie Night Market (Near the Clock Tower): A lively spot in the evenings offering local street food and goods.
Mekong Turtle Conservation Center (in nearby Sambor): A project focused on breeding and releasing the critically endangered Cantor’s Giant Softshell Turtle.
Activities & Experiences
Go Dolphin Spotting at Kampi: Take a traditional longtail boat onto the Mekong River near Kampi, north of Kratie, for the best chance to see the critically endangered Irrawaddy Dolphins (at least 10 activities/experiences).
Cycle the Mekong Discovery Trail: Rent a bicycle and explore the islands and riverside villages using the well-signposted trail, offering an intimate look at local life and stunning river views.
Visit Koh Trong Island: Take a short ferry across the Mekong to this tranquil, car-free island. Hire a bike or ox-cart to explore its rice paddies, traditional homes, and wats (pagodas).
Experience a Mekong Sunset Cruise: Hire a local boat in Kratie town for an evening cruise to witness the spectacular colours of the sunset over the river, often combined with dolphin-spotting.
Stay at a Homestay on Koh Trong: Immerse yourself in the local culture by staying overnight with a Khmer family on Koh Trong island for an authentic, simple Mekong experience.
Explore Wat Rokar Kandal: Visit this beautiful, historic wooden pagoda just south of Kratie town, one of the few traditional wooden temples remaining in Cambodia.
Learn About the Mekong Turtle Conservation Center: Visit the center, located within the grounds of a pagoda, to see how they are working to protect the endangered Cantor’s Giant Softshell Turtle.
Wander the Kratie Central Market (Psar Sar): Explore the vibrant, bustling local market to sample Khmer snacks, see local produce, and observe daily commerce.
Trek to the 100 Pillars Pagoda (Wat Sor Sor Mouy Roy): Take a longer trip north to the ancient site of Wat Srey Santhor, believed to have been founded in the 6th century.
Try Local Mekong Delicacies: Sample regional specialties like Krolan (sticky rice cooked in bamboo), fresh river fish, and unique regional fruits.
Walk the Riverfront Promenade: Take a leisurely stroll along Kratie town’s riverfront, especially in the late afternoon, to join the locals exercising and enjoying the cool breeze.
Observe Traditional Silk Weaving: Visit villages near the town to see the traditional craft of silk weaving and potentially purchase high-quality local textiles.
Local Tips & Transport
Inter-city Travel (Bus/Minivan): Kratie is well-connected by air-conditioned bus and minivan services from Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and neighbouring provinces. Minivans are faster but can be cramped. Book tickets through your guesthouse or the central bus station.
Within Kratie Town: The town is small and easily walkable.
Tuk-Tuks and Motodops: For trips outside the central town (e.g., to Kampi for dolphins), tuk-tuks and motodops (motorbike taxis) are the standard. Always agree on the fare before starting the journey.
Ferries to Koh Trong: A small passenger ferry runs continuously throughout the day from the main riverfront pier in Kratie to Koh Trong island. It’s a very short (5-minute) and affordable ride.
Bicycle Rental: This is the ideal mode of transport for exploring the river banks and islands. Rentals are widely available from guesthouses and local shops. The terrain is flat and manageable.
Conserving the Dolphins: The Irrawaddy Dolphins are critically endangered. Use only licensed, local boat operators at Kampi and respect the guidelines (staying a certain distance away) to support conservation efforts.
Early Mornings are Key: Many of the best activities, such as seeing the dolphins and cycling the islands, are best done in the early morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) to avoid the intense heat of the mid-day sun.
Dress Respectfully: Cambodia is a deeply Buddhist country. When visiting wats (pagodas), ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Remove your shoes and hat before entering any temple building.
Currency and Bartering: The official currency is the Riel (KHR), but the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted for large purchases and accommodations. Small change is usually given in Riel. It is common to gently haggle for prices with tuk-tuk drivers and at markets.
“Chum Reap Sour” & “Arkun”: A friendly Chum Reap Sour (Hello/Good Day) with a slight bow (Sampeah) will be greatly appreciated. Arkun (Thank You) is also important to use.
Pace of Life: Kratie and the Mekong are incredibly laid-back. Embrace the slow, gentle rhythm of river life. Things may take longer than expected, but this is part of the charm.
Hidden Gems:
- The French Colonial Architecture: Take time to notice the beautiful, decaying French-era buildings lining the riverfront of Kratie town. They offer a great contrast to the traditional Khmer wooden homes.
- Phnom Sambok: A hill outside the town topped with a pagoda. The climb is a workout, but the view of the surrounding countryside and Mekong is stunning.
- The Sunset Viewpoint on Koh Trong: Follow the island path to the western side for a quieter, more isolated spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon over the river.
Safety: The area is generally very safe. Be cautious of mosquitos, especially at dusk, and always use bottled water for drinking.
Top Restaurants
Street Food Stalls on the Riverside (Near the Old Market) [$1.50-$3] – A nightly collection of dozens of carts offering cheap, delicious local fare like grilled meats, skewers, and regional snacks. This is the heart of local Kratie eating.
The Thea Sdav Restaurant [$3-$6] – A simple, authentic Khmer restaurant near Wat Orussey, known for its delicious soups, Khmer meat BBQ, fish, and salads, including mango/papaya/banana-blossom salads.
Mekong Restaurant [$3-$6] – A reliable little spot near the 30 December Hotel, offering a fair range of local dishes, simple Khmer fare, and an English menu.
30 December Guesthouse & Restaurant [$3-$6] – Located near the riverside, this spot offers simple, cheap, and consistently good Cambodian dishes.
Heng Heng Hotel & Restaurant [$4-$8] – Situated directly on the riverfront, it offers good Khmer food, some Western dishes, and has an English menu, with staff who speak some English.
Golden Star Restaurant [$4-$8] – A simple local place with decent Khmer food, popular with locals and known for its vibrant atmosphere, including occasional late-night dancing.
Pon Nor Reay Restaurant [$3-$6] – A spot favored by locals for its authentic Cambodian flavors, where every dish is said to tell a story of regional cuisine.
Oudom Sambath Hotel and Restaurant [$5-$10] – Known for offering an authentic Cambodian hospitality and dining experience, located along the Mekong River.
Heng Sim Restaurant [$3-$6] – A non-touristic local eatery known for simple, hearty Cambodian meals, a great spot for an everyday lunch.
Banh Chhev Krok (Cambodia Transitional Food) Stall [$2-$4] – A local stall specializing in Banh Chhev, a local version of a savory Cambodian crepe, often considered transitional or regional food.
Street Three Eatery Kratie [$4-$7] – Located on Street Three, this eatery focuses on authentic Cambodian flavors, serving traditional dishes in a simple setting.
The Local Noodle Shack (Unnamed) [$2-$4] – Seek out one of the dilapidated shacks away from the city center in the morning for the most authentic and flavorful Kuy Teav (noodle soup), cooked without artificial flavor enhancers.
Somnang Roast Duck (សំណាងបាយទាខ្វៃ) [$5-$10] – A local favorite specializing in roast duck and rice, providing a truly authentic taste of a popular Cambodian comfort meal.
Local Krolanh Stalls (Along the Roadside to Kampi) [$1-$2] – Numerous stalls selling the famous Kratie specialty: sticky rice, mung beans, and coconut milk grilled inside a bamboo tube. Perfect for an authentic snack or souvenir.
The Kampi River Rapids Stalls [$3-$6] – During the dry season (Jan-May), numerous stalls pop up around the local picnic spot, serving fresh local food and drinks, offering a genuine local weekend dining experience.
Central Market Food Stalls [$2-$5] – The market features a wide range of cheap food stalls during the day with Cambodian, Vietnamese, and Chinese dishes, great for an immersive local lunch experience.
Kratie’s Nem Vendor [$2-$4] – Look for local vendors specializing in Nem, a Mekong specialty of fermented river fish wrapped in banana leaves, served with fresh herbs and chili.
Local Prahok Vendor/Stall [$1-$3] – A stall or small eatery specializing in dishes made with Prahok (fermented fish paste), such as Prahok Ktis (cooked with coconut milk), a strong but essential taste of Cambodian cuisine.
Riverside Grill Stalls [$3-$7] – Small setups along the Mekong at night, grilling freshly caught river fish or marinated meats, often served with rice and a variety of dipping sauces.
Sorya Guesthouse Restaurant [$5-$10] – While part of a guesthouse, this spot is highly regarded by travelers and locals alike for its clean, well-run kitchen and terrace with views over the Mekong.
Mlob Duong Restaurant [$5-$10] – A garden restaurant known for Khmer specialties, often featuring a local live band, offering a relaxed and immersive atmosphere.
Le Tonle Guesthouse and Restaurant [$5-$12] – A charming social enterprise training center. The open-air restaurant serves delicious local Khmer and some Western food, offering a positive community impact.
Jasmine Boat Restaurant [$5-$12] – Centrally located on the riverfront with a great river view. It is popular with both locals and foreigners and offers a diverse menu of Khmer and Western cuisine.
Tokae Restaurant [$5-$10] – A popular corner eatery near the market offering a selection of Khmer and Western dishes, with specialties like Fish Amok and Loc Lak Beef praised for being delicious and reasonably priced.
Red Sun Restaurant Cafe & Bar [$4-$8] – A welcoming spot known for its friendly staff and delicious, affordable food, generally cheaper than other traveler-focused restaurants, with good vegetarian/vegan options.
Le Tonle Rooftop Bar & Cooking School [$6-$15] – Located at the Le Tonle Guesthouse, this spot provides a great river view and a menu of local specialties.
Tokae Rooftop Bar & Cooking School [$5-$12] – An extension of the Tokae Restaurant, offering a similar menu with a nice rooftop setting overlooking the area.
Mekong MoJo Restaurant & Bar Kratie [$5-$10] – Known for vibrant vegan cuisine, blending local flavors with plant-based options, all set against a stunning riverside view.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Privada Lodge – Rooftop Bar & Grill: Located in Krong Kracheh (Kratie town), this is one of the few places offering a rooftop bar experience. It provides guests with spectacular views, especially at sunset over the Mekong River, along with a mix of culinary delights and drinks.
Mekong MoJo Restaurant & Bar Kratie: Situated right on the riverfront in Krong Kracheh, this bar is known for its delicious vegan dishes and its bar that serves up refreshments, making it a great spot to enjoy stunning river views in a vibrant setting.
DIAMOND X PUB: A lively local pub found in the heart of Krong Kracheh. It offers a taste of local nightlife with a mix of traditional Khmer elements and modern touches, attracting both locals and travelers for a diverse selection of drinks.
Nomad bar & restaurant: A popular social hub in Krong Kracheh, often associated with a guesthouse. It provides a comfortable atmosphere where travelers can mingle over a variety of local and international drinks.
Silver Dolphin Guesthouse & Restaurant: A well-known spot in Krong Kracheh that caters to tourists, offering a restaurant and bar with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere for a relaxed evening drink.
Street Three Eatery Kratie: While primarily a dining destination in Kratie town, this spot has a bar that serves drinks, providing a central place for tourists to relax and enjoy the authentic flavors and atmosphere of Cambodia.
Le Tonle Guesthouse: A riverside retreat in Krong Kracheh, its bar and restaurant offer a charming atmosphere where you can enjoy a quiet drink, often supporting local youth training initiatives.
Garuda Fly Bar & Restaurant: Found in Krong Kracheh, this restaurant also features a bar with a vibrant atmosphere where you can discover local drinks and enjoy Cambodian hospitality.
Miss K Restaurant & Pub: Located in the heart of Krong Kracheh, this spot offers a combined dining and pub experience, making it a good choice for a casual evening with local drinks and lively entertainment.
ភក្ត្រា១៩៨ Restaurant & Bar (Phaktra 198): A local establishment in Krong Kracheh that provides a blend of authentic Cambodian cuisine and a bar atmosphere, perfect for experiencing the local scene.
ស្រែថ្មី (Srae Thmey): A local bar in Krong Kracheh known for its lively ambiance, offering a taste of Cambodia’s vibrant local nightlife and a welcoming social scene.
The King – Car Care & Coffee: A unique local spot in Krong Kracheh that combines car care services with a coffee shop and a selection of drinks, offering a relaxed and uncommon environment for a quick refreshment.
Jasmine Boat Restaurant: Situated on Preah Soramarith Quay in Krong Kracheh, this establishment is known for its authentic Cambodian dining experience and bar service with stunning views of the Mekong River.
Win cafe: Located in Kratie Province, this charming cafe/bar is known for its authentic Cambodian flavors and is a great spot for tourists seeking local culinary delights and a drink.
Oudom Sambath Hotel and Restaurant: A central location in Krong Kracheh that includes a restaurant and bar, offering a place for travelers to unwind with a drink after a day of exploring.
Sok Meng Night Club: A premier nightlife destination located in Krong Kracheh, this club offers an electrifying atmosphere with vibrant decor and energetic music, including local beats and international hits, perfect for dancing.
Diamond City KTV: A popular karaoke bar in Krong Kracheh, this is a prime spot for local nightlife, offering private rooms and a lively atmosphere for singing and socializing.
Moha Heng KTV: Another lively karaoke bar in Krong Kracheh where music, fun, and local culture blend together, providing a distinctly Cambodian night-out experience.
ពេញចិត្ត ភោជនីដ្ឋាន& KTV (Penh Chett Restaurant & KTV): Found in Krong Kracheh, this establishment combines traditional Cambodian cuisine with a lively KTV entertainment experience.
Mariyong KTV: A social hub in Krong Kracheh, focusing on the joy of singing and camaraderie in a dedicated karaoke setting.
King BënZz: This pulsating night club is located in Snuol (a district in Kratie Province) and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, dazzling lights, and eclectic mix of music, popular for its themed parties and live DJs.
Happy Night: A dedicated Night Club located on Preah Suramarit Street in Kratie City, providing a more classic clubbing experience in the town center.
96Pub: A spot that offers a vibrant nightlife experience in the Stueng Trang District of Kratie Province, known for local brews and a lively atmosphere outside of the main Krong Kracheh town.
The Mekong Riverfront Promenade Stands: While not a formal club, the riverfront boulevard in Krong Kracheh comes alive in the evenings with food and drinks stands, offering a true local, open-air socializing experience that serves as the region’s main nightly gathering spot.
River Dolphin Hotel Bar: The bar at this central Krong Kracheh hotel provides a relaxed, air-conditioned environment to enjoy a late-night cocktail or local beer, often overlooking the town’s central area.