Chong Khneas Floating Village

Discover Chong Khneas Floating Village – a unique water-based community on Tonle Sap Lake, near Siem Reap, Cambodia. Home to hundreds of families, Chong Khneas offers a vivid glimpse into life on the water, where houses, schools, and markets all float gently along the lake’s surface. It's not just a village — it's a living portrait of Cambodia’s river culture, and an unmissable stop on any journey through this captivating country.

A Glimpse into Chong Khneas Floating Village

Located just about 15km from the center of Siem Reap, Chong Khneas Floating Village is one of Cambodia’s most famous floating communities, sitting on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake – the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Visiting this village offers a fascinating insight into life on the water, where houses, schools, churches, and even restaurants float gently along the surface. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to experience the rhythm of river life and explore the authentic culture of Cambodia’s lake dwellers.

From Siem Reap, you can reach the Chong Khneas boat dock by tuk tuk or taxi in about 30–40 minutes. From there, you’ll board a traditional wooden boat to explore the floating village. The best time to visit is between September and February, when water levels are high and the village is at its most vibrant. For an extra touch of magic, visit in the late afternoon to catch the golden glow of sunset shimmering over the water — a truly peaceful and unforgettable scene.

Unmissable Experiences at Chong Khneas Floating Village

• Take a boat tour through the floating village: Hop on a small wooden boat and weave between floating homes — you’ll discover a completely different world: lively, rustic, and full of charm.

• Explore the daily life of local fishermen: Watch locals fishing, trading goods from their boats, or raising fish right beneath their floating houses — a raw and authentic glimpse into life on the water.

• Visit the floating school and church: Chong Khneas isn’t just a place to live — it also has a school and a church, all floating peacefully on the lake. A truly unique and thought-provoking sight.

• Catch the sunset over Tonle Sap Lake: At the end of the day, as the sun sets behind the floating rooftops, the village is bathed in a golden-orange glow — a magical moment you’ll never forget.

• Dine at a floating restaurant: Enjoy local Cambodian dishes at a floating restaurant in the middle of the lake — a one-of-a-kind experience that’s both delicious and memorable.

• Capture stunning local-life photos: From boats and floating homes to everyday scenes, every corner of Chong Khneas is filled with powerful, photogenic moments waiting to be framed.

Unique Festivals at Chong Khneas Floating Village

One of the most meaningful traditional festivals celebrated in Chong Khneas is Pchum Ben — a Khmer ancestral remembrance day. During this time, locals dress in traditional clothing and bring offerings to floating pagodas to pray and honor their ancestors. Surrounded by the vast waters of Tonle Sap, the sound of chanting and rhythmic drums creates a sacred and serene atmosphere. It’s a powerful opportunity for visitors to experience the spiritual side of Cambodian culture and witness heartfelt local traditions.

But it’s not all solemn — Chong Khneas also comes alive during the Water Festival (Bon Om Touk), a modern celebration that draws crowds of locals and tourists alike. Vibrant boat races, live music performances on floating stages, and shimmering lights reflected on the lake all come together to create an unforgettable festive vibe. It’s a rare chance to dive into a colorful, high-energy event unlike anything else in Southeast Asia.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip to Chong Khneas Floating Village

• Visit in the late afternoon for the perfect sunset view: Golden sunlight reflecting off the water and floating rooftops creates a breathtaking scene — perfect for stunning photos.

• Choose a small boat or local tour for an authentic experience: Smaller boats let you navigate deeper into the village, offering a closer look at daily life on the water.

• Bring a camera or fully charged phone: From boats and floating homes to the bright smiles of local children, Chong Khneas is full of vibrant, photo-worthy moments.

• Pack water, a hat, and sunscreen: Boat rides can get sunny and hot, so staying protected ensures you enjoy the trip comfortably.

• Chat with locals (with a guide to help translate): You’ll uncover touching stories behind each floating home — things you won’t find in any guidebook.

• Confirm prices before boarding boats or buying souvenirs: A little awareness goes a long way in avoiding unexpected costs.

Chong Khneas Floating Village is more than just a unique travel destination — it’s a powerful window into Cambodia’s river life and culture. If you’re visiting Siem Reap, don’t miss the chance to explore this floating village, where every corner tells a vivid and emotional story of life on Tonle Sap Lake.

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