When open, the Bunrany Hun Sen Vocational Craft Training Center is an interesting location to witness traditional handicrafts skills at work and purchase souvenirs, including woven silks and hand-made baskets.
The Bunrany Hun Sen Vocational Craft Training Center, located in Cambodia, is a unique facility aimed at preserving and promoting traditional Khmer craftsmanship while providing vocational training for the local community. Named after Cambodia’s first lady, Bunrany Hun Sen, the center plays a crucial role in empowering underprivileged individuals by equipping them with essential skills in traditional crafts such as silk weaving, wood carving, and stone sculpting.
Visitors to the Bunrany Hun Sen Vocational Craft Training Center can expect a hands-on experience where they will witness artisans at work and learn about the intricate processes behind Cambodia’s traditional crafts. The center is designed not only to teach students but also to showcase the country’s cultural heritage through its craftsmanship. From silk weaving to wood carving, visitors will see a variety of crafts being practiced by students who are mastering these techniques.
Guided tours offer insights into the history of the crafts, the materials used, and the training process that helps students build skills to create high-quality products. The center is also a hub for socially responsible tourism, as it supports community development and preserves Cambodia’s rich artistic traditions. It may also be possible to do courses here in cloth weaving, mat weaving, and marble carving if you have the time.
When to Go
The Bunrany Hun Sen Vocational Craft Training Center is open year-round, but it’s best to visit during weekdays when training sessions are actively conducted. Visitors should plan to spend a few hours exploring the center and participating in workshops, with mornings and early afternoons offering the best opportunity to see artisans at work.
Getting There
Connected with the Phnom Penh (115 miles/187km) via National Highway 5, which continues on to with Batdambang (65 miles / 104km), Pursat is best reached by bus or private car from Battambang or Kampong Chhnang/Phnom Penh, while traveling between the two destinations.
Need to Know
- What is It?: Handicraft center and souvenir shop
- Nearest Town: Phnom Penh is located 115 miles/187km southeast on National Highway 5, while Batdambang is 65 miles / 104km northwest of Pursat. Visitors may fly into Phnom Penh, which serves domestic and international airlines, and those traveling from Thailand to Phnom Penh frequently stop in Batdambang after crossing the Thai border.
- Opening hours: Variable: probably M-Sa during daylight hours