Visit Kratie, watch rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins and more

Kratie is located on the east bank of the Mekong River and is one of Cambodia’s eastern provinces. Beyond the riverbanks, it is a remote place with less population and thick- forested areas to calm down. Kratie is a laid-back friendly, very small and less tourist town comparing to Siem Riep, Phnom Penh and even Battambang. The provincial capital is also called Kratie and dominated by a central marketplace surrounded by old French colonial buildings.

1. What to explore

Irrawaddy Dolphins

Coming to Kratie, you have a chance to see the endangered freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong River north of the town. This is only possible in this one town across the entire country of Cambodia. The dolphins can be found deep in the Mekong that is close to the Kampi village and about 15km north of Kratie. By taking a 25-minute boat ride, tourists not only see these rare majestic creatures but also admire the authentic life of the local Cambodians.

Koh Trong

This is a picturesque island of market gardens and homestays which are famous for the local grapefruit and vegetables. Koh Trong is also a perfect example of the rural Cambodian life. Located in the middle of the Mekong River and virtually opposite the Kratie riverfront, Koh Trong is very quiet with a unique floating village, a few white and sandy beaches and surrounded by farmland. You can hire bicycles that are available here to go around the whole island and understand more about the rural Cambodian life.

Sunsets on Mekong River

Kratie also makes it possible to experience some of the finest Mekong sunsets you are likely to contemplate. Many tourists and locals take the short trip to the river at about 7 pm in the evening to watch as the sun slowly sets over the river. This makes a very relaxing way to finish the sightseeing. The colors, the reflections of sunset and the quiet and peaceful Kratie will give you unforgettable memory in your Cambodia tour.

2. How to get to Kratie

Kratie is relatively easy to reach from Siem Reap (taking about 6 hours) and Phnom Penh (taking about 5 hours). You can get to Kratie from Phnom Penh with a bus, minibus or by taxi. Many of the bus services run once or twice daily to make the journey very easy and convenient and are relatively inexpensive at about $6 one way. Other options include the motorbike rentals at approximately $6 per day, which are great for traveling further afield such as looking around the local countryside.

3. Where to stay

Kratie itself makes a pleasant spot to rest up for a night or two, with a decent clutch of hotels and some good restaurants lined up along the serene riverside. The quality and number of hotels have seen a significant increase in the last few years with plenty of high-quality places to stay for the couples or families. Also, there are plenty of great guest houses in the local area. The cost of the accommodation can vary with the time of the season.

Here are some place you may want to know in Kratie: River Dolphin Hotel, Heng Heng II Hotel, Le Bungalow, Oudom Sambath Hotel, Silver Dolphin and You Hong Guesthouse…

4. Eat and drink

This town has a great selection of food stalls that include Chinese, Vietnamese and Cambodian dishes. The riverfront is a great place to explore for the low-cost food in the evenings when more of the food stalls are set up. Besides, some unique street foods in Kratie are worth to try out like grilled corn cakes, grilled fishes and etc.