Tonlé Sap

Tonlé Sap is a stunning freshwater lake that changes dramatically with the seasons. The lake is home to floating villages that offer a glimpse into a rare way of life—but timing is key. In the dry season, water levels drop, and many “floating” houses sit on dry land. The sunset viewpoint is absolutely worth a stop, offering golden reflections over the water. While there are charming floating tea points scattered across the lake, expect high prices and limited choices. Visit during the wet season for the most authentic and beautiful experience.

It's the biggest lake in Southeast-Asia and it's definitely impressive. We visited during the dry season, so during our boat tour we got to see the way the houses on stilts were constructed. The sunset is stunning.

Tonle Sap Lake in Siem Reap is a magical place, especially during sunset. Watching the golden hues spread across the vast waters while on a boat was a breathtaking experience. The sun seemed to dance on the rippling surface, painting the sky with shades of orange, pink, and purple. The calmness of the lake, combined with the natural beauty of the setting sun, made the moment unforgettable and peaceful. What made the visit even more special was witnessing the unique lifestyle of the floating village. The houses, built on tall stilts, stand resilient against the seasonal changes in water levels. Families live, work, and thrive in this remarkable environment, relying on the lake for fishing and transportation. It was inspiring to see how they have adapted so beautifully to their surroundings, showcasing the strength and resourcefulness of human spirit.

Highlight of my Siem Reap trip was visiting a floating village in Siem Reap. People there live outside the world of convenience. They use alum to filter lake water for cooking, drinking and washing. 😳. Visiting there was a reminder of all the things we have to be grateful for. 🫶

This is the largest freshwater lake in southeast Asia, designated as a Reserve by the UNESCO. You need to buy a ticket to get to the port to take the boat to the lake. There are different sizes of boats to accommodate different group sizes. We took a middle size boat that accommodates 10/12 people. We enjoyed the trip very much. The trip was an adventure as small and medium size boats cross each other along the river leading to the lake. Water was low but the trip was fun. You will see interesting homes with long stairs leading to the river. Fishermen families have been living on the water houses for decades if not centuries. There are some floating restaurants that serve local dishes, specially crocodile meat. You may see in these restaurants small crocodile farms. The lake floating village includes a church, restaurants, community spaces and many homes, is worth the visit. This is definitely a place to visit while in Siem Rip.

An off the land settlement in SE Asians largest fresh water lake. The water level rises during monsoon and shrinks in summer. Boats of several sizes are available to chauffeur people to the lake which is about 15 mins away. Touristy souvenirs and pricing for everything.

biggest lake in the south east asia it's worth a visit riding a wooden boat to see the boat people living in the lake MUST VISIT FOR SUNSET

The Tonle Sap River Market is a unique and lively experience, offering a fascinating glimpse into local Cambodian life and culture. Located along the Tonle Sap River, one of Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lakes, the market is bustling with vendors selling a wide range of goods—from fresh produce and local crafts to souvenirs and textiles. It’s a great place to shop for authentic Cambodian items while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the area. Tonle Sap itself is a significant part of Cambodia’s history. It is the lifeblood of many local communities and has provided sustenance and transportation for centuries. The river’s ecosystem supports a rich diversity of wildlife and is central to Cambodia’s agricultural industry, especially with its unique seasonal fluctuations that bring fish, rice, and other resources to the region. A truly unforgettable experience at the market is seeing the live crocodiles! These impressive creatures are often kept in tanks near some of the stalls, offering visitors a rare opportunity to view them up close. It’s an exciting and slightly thrilling sight amidst the market’s more peaceful surroundings. Whether you’re interested in shopping, exploring the history of the Tonle Sap River, or simply enjoying the lively local atmosphere, the Tonle Sap River Market is a great stop. Highly recommended for anyone looking to experience the authentic heart of Cambodia!