Located just across the border from Laos, on the banks of the Mekong River where a small community of Irrawaddy Dolphins live, a small Cambodian village has opened their doors (literally) for visitors to experience Cambodian lifestyle and natural attractions.
With sponsorship by the Mekong Discovery Trail and other donor organizations, the village has built a dolphin viewing platform next to their restaurant (and several snack shops) where visitors can also borrow aging mountain bikes to ride to the village where the homestays are located, or into the countryside to look for wildlife.
The homestays are just that, rooms within the homes of local villagers, and as such have very rudimentary communal bathrooms and limited electricity. Meals are cooked by the families if you wish to join them. As long as you are prepared to rough it a bit and live like the villagers do, this is a unique opportunity to experience rural Cambodian life.
Getting There
Preah Rumkel Commune is located just south of the Laos border on the west bank of the Mekong River. Preah Rumkel Village is accessible by a 45 minute drive to Ou Svay (55km) and a 15 minute boat ride, or a 45 minutes ‘fast boat’ from Stung Treng Pier. This must be arranged through the Mekong Discovery Trail or at Riverside Guesthouse.
Need to Know
- What is It?: A Cambodian community on the banks of the Mekong River, just opposite Laos, where visitors can experience Cambodian life and nature, including Irrawaddy Dolphins.
- When to Go: Any time of year, though the dry season between November and March is, well, drier.
- Nearest Town: Stung Treng is the best place to start trips to the village, though daytrips are also possible from Laos.
- Opening hours: n/a
- Entrance fees: Guests must pay several dollars a night for the homestay and meals.