Kampong Cham (Cambodia)

Kampong Cham is a Mekong River cruise port in eastern Cambodia, and the capital city of Kampong Cham Province. The city is located approx 124 km (77 ml) northeast from country's capital Phnom Penh. By population (around 65,000) it is ranked Cambodia's 6th biggest.

Kampong Cham has no airport, and can be reached only by boat or road. Vehicles and ships travel from Phnom Penh (travel time nearly 2,5 hours). The city is connected to Tbong khmum province via Kizuna Bridge (length 1500 m / 4920 ft). Opened in 2001, this was Cambodia's first bridge spanning over Mekong River.

Wat Hanchey is a temple complex on a hilltop overlooking Mekong. Wat Hanchey dates back from 8th centuryn (pre-Angkor Chenla Empire period) and is located approx 20 km from Kompong Cham. The complex has numerous religious statues and small-sized buildings. Here live many monks, also giving the tourists the traditional water blessing.

The complex is located within walking distance (via series of stairs) from the cruise dock on the riverbank. The hill is located next to the river bend, with a large island in the middle of Mekong. The view from the top is outstanding - considered one of the best in Cambodia).