Situated at the heart of Cambodia, Kampong Chhnang is a centrally located province known for its fertile landscapes, thriving river culture, and easy accessibility. It borders Kampong Thom to the north, Kampong Cham to the east, Kampong Speu to the south, and Pursat to the west, with the provincial capital just 91 kilometers from Phnom Penh, making it one of the most reachable provinces from the capital.
The name “Kampong Chhnang” translates to “Port of Pottery,” a nod to its traditional ceramic production, though today the province is better known for its rich rice fields, vibrant fisheries, and tranquil river views.
Geography and Natural Features
Kampong Chhnang lies next to Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, and benefits from its fertile alluvial soil, making the province ideal for rice cultivation and fishing. The central region is mostly flat, with wide stretches of rice paddies and wetlands, while the southwestern edges border the Cardamom Mountains, including Phnom Aoral, Cambodia’s highest peak at 1,813 meters.
Forested areas are limited to the distant southwest, where some of the last remaining large forests in the region begin. The rest of the province is extensively used for agriculture and aquaculture.
Economy
The economy of Kampong Chhnang is predominantly agrarian, with the majority of the population engaged in rice farming and fishing. The fertile floodplains of Tonle Sap ensure high agricultural productivity. Additionally, fruit cultivation—notably mangoes and bananas—is widespread, and several garment factories contribute to the province’s growing industrial profile.
Breakdown of the workforce (2007 data):
- 85.5% (407,453 people) are farmers
- 6% (29,250 people) are fishermen
- 7.5% (35,076 people) are traders
- 1% (4,783 people) are government officers
Efforts are also underway to promote small-scale tourism, especially around the river port and Tonle Sap.
Population
As of 2007, Kampong Chhnang had a population of 538,163 people, or 3.6% of Cambodia’s total population. The gender distribution includes 259,347 males and 278,816 females, with a population growth rate of 2.4%. Communities are spread between the provincial capital, smaller towns, and the surrounding rural areas, where traditional ways of life remain central.
Kampong Chhnang Town and Travel
The provincial capital, Kampong Chhnang Town, is a relaxed port city along the Tonle Sap River. It’s well connected by National Road No. 5, with frequent buses and taxis from Phnom Penh. The journey also offers the chance to pass Udong, Cambodia’s former royal capital.
A new riverfront walkway offers scenic evening strolls and serves as a gathering place for locals. The town is also a hub for river-based travel—including speedboats to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, which pass through some of Cambodia’s most scenic countryside.
Visitors can explore the floating villages, rent motorized or traditional wooden boats, or visit nearby ceramic villages known for traditional pottery craftsmanship. Local eateries offer fresh river fish, simple Khmer cuisine, and fruit-based treats from nearby farms.
Climate
Kampong Chhnang experiences a tropical monsoon climate, typical of Cambodia, making it suitable for year-round farming and travel. The average annual temperature is around 27°C, with April being the hottest month and December–January the coolest.
Seasonal Overview:
- Rainy Season: May to October (27°C – 35°C, humidity up to 90%)
- Cool Season: November to March (18°C – 28°C)
- Hot Season: March to May (28°C – 36°C)
The province receives plenty of sunshine, and while some roads may become muddy during the rainy season, it generally remains accessible throughout the year.
Kampong Chhnang blends agricultural richness with riverside tranquility. Its central location, fertile lands, and cultural traditions rooted in fishing and farming make it an essential part of Cambodia’s rural heartland. Whether arriving by road or river, visitors will find a welcoming community, scenic countryside, and glimpses into Cambodia’s traditional way of life. With its strategic location and growing connectivity, Kampong Chhnang continues to evolve while staying grounded in its natural and cultural strengths.
