Pursat is Cambodia’s fourth largest province, most of which is remote, rural, and relatively wild.
Stretching from the banks of the Tonle Sap lake to the lush jungle of the Cardamom Mountains, Pursat seems to have it all, except for many tourists. However, those few who stop in Pursat town on the voyage between Phnom Penh and Batdambang will experience a charming town worthy of visit, and those adventurous enough to explore the interior of the province may discover some of Cambodia’s most exotic wildlife.
The provincial capital, Pursat, rests on the banks of the Stung Pursat river, which flows from the Cardamom Mountains to the Tonle Sap lake. While Pursat town features many fine examples of French Colonial architecture, several beautiful Buddhist monasteries, and the marble-carving village of Bontee Dae, all of the sights in Pursat town, including the riverside parks, can be explored on foot or bicycle in as little as half a day. However, the southwestern region of the province, including remote veal-veng, will require up to a week to visit properly, as road conditions to this portion of Cambodia are poor and once there, waterfalls, wildlife, and traditional Cambodian village life should keep visitors busy for a few days.
Pursat province is located roughly 2/3 of the way along National Road 5 between Phnom Penh and Batdambang. The province borders Batdambang, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Speu, and Koh Kong provinces, as well as Thailand to the west.
Trivia: Pursat province is famed for its oranges, features the greatest diversity of ecology of all the Cambodian provinces, and has some of the most outstanding trekking, mountain biking, and dirt-biking in the kingdom.
Where to Go
- Kampong Luong: A floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional life on the water with its vibrant markets and stilted houses.
- Pursat: A tranquil provincial capital known for its marble sculptures, local crafts, and as a gateway to the Cardamom Mountains.
- Veal Veng: A remote, rugged region ideal for ecotourist adventurers, featuring dense jungles and waterfalls.