Cambodia & Tourism: Boeung Chhouk, authenticity and nature in Banteay Srei

The Boeung Chhouk Tourism Community is a relatively unknown destination that charms visitors with its authenticity, natural beauty and warm welcome.

Offering a complete immersion in rural Cambodian life, this ecotourism haven is a treasure trove for travellers seeking unique experiences, surrounded by unspoilt nature, local traditions and lush green landscapes.

An authentic and natural destination

Boeung Chhouk, located in the commune of Khnar Sanday, about 37 kilometres from Siem Reap, offers an enchanting setting of lakes and rice fields bathed in the reflection of the sky. This community is much more than just a tourist spot: it is a true ecological sanctuary where visitors can discover the unspoilt beauty of Cambodian nature.

The region is renowned for its varied ecotourism activities, including traditional fishing, boat and kayak trips on Boeung Chhouk Lake, and bird watching and other wildlife viewing in the surrounding area.

In Boeung Chhouk, every experience is a direct contact with the local culture. Visitors can taste Cambodian specialities, fish alongside the locals or stroll through traditional villages where crafts and ancestral skills are still alive.

Unforgettable activities and experiences

The activities offered by the Boeung Chhouk Tourism Community showcase the natural environment while respecting its fragile balance. In addition to boat and kayak trips, community-based tourism includes farm visits, walking and cycling tours around the mountainous landscapes and rice fields, and the chance to discover local wildlife, particularly at the nearby Angkor Biodiversity Conservation Centre.

For foodies, several local restaurants offer the chance to savour authentic cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced produce. This culinary change of scenery perfectly complements the immersive experience.

How to get to Boeung Chhouk

From Siem Reap, the nearest gateway, access to the Boeung Chhouk Tourist Community is simple and pleasant. It is about 40 kilometres and takes approximately one hour by car or motorbike. From the famous Neak Poan roundabout in Siem Reap, simply take the road towards Banteay Srei district, then follow the signs for Khnar Sanday commune and Boeung Chhouk village.

The roads are well maintained, offering a bucolic journey through the Cambodian countryside, dotted with rice fields, small villages and green hills.

It is possible to hire a vehicle with a driver or join an organised tour from Siem Reap, allowing you to fully enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics.

A lasting commitment to responsible tourism

The Boeung Chhouk Tourism Community is also a model of sustainable ecotourism. The locals work closely together to preserve their natural and cultural environment while offering visitors respectful and enriching access. This community-based tourism not only contributes to the local economy, but also raises awareness of the importance of protecting Cambodia's biodiversity and heritage.

By choosing Boeung Chhouk, travellers opt for a journey to the heart of the real Cambodia, far from the crowds and beaten track, where authenticity and nature combine to offer unforgettable memories.

Offering the perfect combination of cultural discovery, immersion in nature and peaceful adventure, the Boeung Chhouk Tourism Community is an invitation to slow down and marvel at a more secret, purer and more vibrant Cambodia. A must-see for any visitor curious about Siem Reap province and its surroundings, for a charming and emotional getaway.

illustrations: Khuth Sao - AKP Siem Reap