Places to Visit in Kratie, Kratie Tour Packages

1. LOCATION

In the northeast of Cambodia, where bordering Vietnam, the great Mekong gently curves over 140 km length, Kratie is located there and is one of the Cambodian biggest provinces. Most of the area is covered with dense forests and owns numerous small islands, and channels.

Welcome tourists to Kratie

Thanks to the wonderful natural habitat, many species of animals have nestled down, including some rare kinds that you can hard to find anywhere else. From Kratie little town, you will start your journey to tourist attractions and rest when it is the end of the day.

2. BEST TIME TO VISIT KRATIE

Kratie influenced the tropical climates, it has two main seasons around the year:

From May to October: monsoon takes place. From June to July, it rains the most. Thanks to its flat land, the rain won’t turn too severe and cause flood damage.

Unveiling Top Destinations of Kratie Province

From November to April: it is the dry season. The temperature is about 300C on average. April is the warmest month, in contrast, January is the coolest month of the year.

From November to February: best time to visit Kratie, with cool weather and gentle sunny shine, it would make you pleased.

3. THINGS TO DO IN KRATIE

Be Respectful at Temples

One of the undeniable Cambodian cultural treasures is the unique structure of Temples. Right here in Kratie province, many gorgeous stupas surely impress you at first glimpse:

• 100 Columns Pagoda: the amazing structure with 100 posts.

100 Columns Pagoda in Kratie

• Phnom Sambok Temple: laid on the hill, provides a catchy view when taking the concrete long stairs.
• Phnom Soporkaley Pagoda: located on top of the hill.
• Wat Vihear Lao: one of the region's oldest temples, this temple owns the beauty of ancient times.

Wat Vihear Lao in Kratie

• Wat Sray Sahn-tah-rah-boh: which is in the northeastern of Kratie town, its magnificence has attracted global tourists and on one of the top temples to visit in Kratie.

See the Rare Irrawaddy Dolphins

Irrawaddy Dolphin is a species that is conserved by the government as it is one really rare kind. This Dolphin can be hard to find anywhere else but at several spots of the Mekong River. To see those lovely creatures, set a trip to Kampee Village in Sambok Commune, which is 15 km away from the provincial town. Since the plashing dolphins in the water become a special image of this area, this spot has become a tourist attraction that must be visited, and also be a nice place for kids.

Spot the Rare Irrawaddy Dolphins

Admire the Beauty of Phnom Sopor Kaley

Mentioning the historical buildings and idyllic view of the countryside, people in Kratie think about Phnom Sopor Kaley. Through your cruising on the Mekong River to the destination, a beautiful landscape of green lush and rustic villages of rural will please your heart.

Phnom Sopor Kaley - Discover The Beauty Of Kratie

Upon arrival, stroll for minutes to encounter the village of Chrauy Bantey in Chrau Ampil Commune and get acquainted with the locals. Then, take the 800 steps on the Sopor Kaley Mountain to reach the historical pagoda. On the top, spend time sightseeing the fascinating view and exploring the gorgeous temple.

Visit the Koh Trong

Koh Trong is the most beautiful destination of Katie with a rustic rural view on an island. To get to the island, the ferry is the means of transport. As soon as you arrive, you can rent a motorcycle or a bike to take the 9 km trail to overlook the entire island. Along your way through paddle fields, you will have a chance to see floating villages, grazing cows, locals in daily life, and kids playing their folk games.

Koh Trong - The hidden Mekong island near Kratie

Contemplating the Waterfall of Cham Pey

It is not really far to travel to the captivating waterfall of Cham Pey. On No.68 road, it takes half an hour (35 km) reach to the goal. Near the waterfall, there are several resorts, in case tourists like to stay longer for the epic view. From the resort, walking on feet about 500 meters, you can contemplate and enjoy the chill air of Cham Pey waterfall. It would be fantastic if you could camp with your friends and immerse yourself in the clear water.

Waterfall of Cham Pey

Spend Time at Kampi Resort

Located 15 km away from the provincial town, Kampi Resort is a tourist attraction with many unique features. What is special about Kampi Resort is it is a natural resort with shelters on stilt alongside the river. They are used for dolphin shelters as well. On those leaves shelter, locals are selling dishes, snacks, and cold drinks. Also, hammocks are available.

The unique Kampi Resort

Furthermore, the water at Kampi Resort is so clear that its bottom can be seen, it flows with undangerous speed. What can be better when you can immerse yourself in the chill water? When heading for the resort, you will take National Road No.7 and make a stop at Prek Kampi Bridge, where you can observe the magnificent scene of thousands of islands with lush green plants.

4. GETTING TO AND AROUND KRATIE

Getting to Kratie

You can choose the options below that are suitable to your time and budget:

By bus and vans: Many companies are providing the route from many provinces to Kratie, like Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, PSD Xpress, Sorya Bus, Kampot Express, and so on. Buses/ Vans are available for the ride every hour. The price is reasonable, depending on where you start.

• Depart from Siem Reap: takes 8 hours to move. Costs about 22$ (only by van, prices are different for each company)
• Depart from Phnom Penh: takes 7 hours moving. Costs about 8-10$ (by bus, prices are different for each company.

Popular transport in Kratie

Hire a car: companies of rental cars are most available in the big city of Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. Costs about 60$ per day. The gas is on you. Some common companies are Avis car rental and Europcar car rental.
If you start in Kampong Cham (people usually spend a day time there before heading to Kratie). Since there are no routes for bus from Kampong Cham to Kratie, you can take:

Bullet boat: takes about 3 hours to move. Costs around 7$. Only runs in the rainy season or when the water level is high enough.

Taxi: takes about 2 hours to move. Costs from 90-160 $, it is cheaper if you can share the price with friends.

Getting around Kratie

A bike tour in Kratie

• By bike: costs 1-2$ per day hire, available at most guesthouses and hotels.
• By motorcycle: costs 5-6$ per day hire. The gas is on you. Wear a helmet when you drive. Available in most guesthouses and hotels.
• By moto (motorcycle taxi): about 10-15$ per day hire. An English-speaking driver will take you anywhere you are told. The drivers usually run around to look for the guests, they will give you an offer.
• By tuk tuk: the price depends on the destinations you head for, it is cheaper taking than a taxi. Easily found on the street and sidewalk, some drivers run around and give the guests offers.

5. DOS & DON'TS

Way to Phnom Sambok Pagoda

• Learn the Cambodian basic language.
• Learn to bargain at the market.
• Prepare cash as most stores and stalls in the market will not take cards.
• Bring along toilet paper.
• Don’t be trapped in a conflict or fight with locals.