Kampong Chhnang

Literally meaning “Port of Pottery,” Kampong Chhnang lies just west of the Tonlé Sap River and has long been known for its traditional ceramic craft. The town is well-connected to Phnom Penh by both highway and railway, making it an easy stopover. While rice cultivation remains the backbone of the local economy, Kampong Chhnang was once equally famous for its floating villages, which dotted the river during the high-water monsoon season. The last of these villages was dismantled in 2022, marking the end of an era, but visitors can still experience the region’s deep-rooted traditions through its pottery workshops and riverside communities..

Cultural Heritage and Scenic Landscapes of Kampong Chhnang

Just north of Kampong Chhnang town, Phnom Kong Rei, also known as “The Sleeping Lady,” rises to 310 meters across the Tonlé Sap River, offering a striking natural landmark steeped in local legend. Nearby, Ondong Rossey (Andong Russei) Village provides an immersive experience of traditional Khmer pottery-making. Visitors can explore the workshops, observe the entire process from clay preparation to firing in communal kilns, and purchase handcrafted pieces directly from the artisans. Just 7 km from the village, Krang Dei Meas, or “Golden Mountain,” supplies the fine clay that has sustained this centuries-old craft, offering a unique glimpse into the rhythms of rural Cambodian life and the heritage of local artisans.