How to travel from Kampot to Koh Rong

អាណាចក្រខ្មែរ គឺ ជា សម័យ មួយ ដែល មាន ភាពរុងរឿង បំផុតក្នុងប្រវត្តិសាស្ត្ រជាតិខ្មែរ។ ដោយសារ ហេតុដែលខ្មែរមានដែនដីធំធេង និងវិសាលភាព យ៉ាងច្រើន អាណាចក្រខ្មែរ ត្រូវបានហៅថា “មហាអាណាចក្រខ្មែរ”។ ប្រវត្តិសាស្ត្រ របស់អាណាចក្រ នេះត្រូវបានចងក្រង និងរក្សាទុកតាមរយៈសិលាចារឹក និងសាស្ត្រាស្លឹករឹត។

សាស្ត្រាស្លឹករឹត គឺជាគម្ពីរ ឬ អត្ថបទបុរាណដែលត្រូវបានចារនៅលើស្លឹករឹត។ ស្លឹករឹតគឺជាស្លឹករបស់ដើមទ្រាំង ដែលមានប្រភពមកពីភាគខាងកើត និងខាងជើងនៃប្រទេសឥណ្ឌា និងស្រីលង្កា។ នៅក្នុងតំបន់អាស៊ីអាគ្នេយ៍ ដើមទ្រាំងនេះអាចរកឃើញនៅប្រទេសកម្ពុជា ថៃ និងភូមា។ នៅប្រទេសកម្ពុជា ដើមទ្រាំងមានច្រើននៅខេត្តក្រចេះ និងកំពង់ធំ។

សម្ដេចព្រះសង្ឃរាជ ជួនណាត បានពន្យល់ថា ពាក្យ “សាស្ត្រា” ក្នុងភាសាបាលី និងសំស្ក្រឹត មានន័យថា ក្បួនច្បាប់ ឬ សេចក្តីដឹង ដែលពាក់ពន្ធ័ទៅនឹងចំណេះដឹង វិទ្យាសាស្ត្រ សាសនា ច្បាប់ និងទ្រឹស្តីអំពីជីវិត។ អ្នកស្រាវជ្រាវខ្លះទៀតក៏បានរៀបរាប់ថា សាស្ត្រាស្លឹករឹតមានកំណើតចាប់ពីសម័យអង្គរ។

សាស្ត្រាស្លឹករឹត ត្រូវបានផ្សព្វផ្សាយដល់ប្រជាជនខ្មែរយ៉ាងទូលំទូលាយ នៅសម័យកាលមុនៗ ហើយត្រូវបានប្រើប្រាស់ជាប្រចាំ។ ប៉ុន្តែពេលកន្លងមក វប្បធម៌សិលាចារឹក និងសាស្ត្រាស្លឹករឹតក៏បានរលាយបាត់បង់បន្តិចម្តងៗ ដោយសារអវត្តមាននៃការរក្សាទុក និងការចែកចាយខ្វះខាត។

សព្វថ្ងៃ សាស្ត្រាស្លឹករឹតភាគច្រើន ត្រូវបានរក្សា និងប្រើប្រាស់នៅតែក្នុងវត្តអារាមប៉ុណ្ណោះ ដូច្នេះ វាក៏មានហានិភ័យបាត់បង់បន្តិចម្តងៗ ផងដែរ។ បណ្តាលមកពីការរីកចម្រើននៃបច្ចេកវិទ្យាទំនើប ដែលរំពឹងឱ្យប្រើសៀវភៅ ឬវិធីសាស្ត្រឌីជីថលជំនួស។

សរុបមក សាស្ត្រាស្លឹករឹតគឺជាទ្រព្យសម្បត្តិបុរាណដ៏មានតម្លៃ ដែលបង្ហាញពីភាពចម្បងនៃវប្បធម៌ និងស្មារតីដ៏ខ្ពង់ខ្ពស់របស់ជាតិខ្មែរ។ វាអាចជាគម្ពីរសាសនា ឬឯកសារដែលរៀបរាប់អំពីពង្សាវតារនៃប្រទេសខ្មែរយើងផងដែរ។

The Khmer Empire was one of the most glorious periods in Cambodian history. Due to the vast territory under Khmer control, it earned the title of the “Great Khmer Empire.” This rich history has been recorded and preserved through stone inscriptions and Sastra Slëk Rëet (palm-leaf manuscripts).

What is Sastra Slëk Rëet made from?
Sastra Slëk Rëet refers to ancient texts inscribed on palm leaves, specifically the leaves of the T’rang tree (Corypha palm). This tree originates from the eastern and northern parts of India and Sri Lanka. In Southeast Asia, the T’rang tree can be found in countries like Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar. In Cambodia, the tree is mostly found in Kratie and Kampong Thom provinces.

According to Samdech Preah Sangharaja Chuon Nath, the word Sastra in Pali and Sanskrit means “doctrine,” referring to knowledge, sciences, religion, law, and philosophies about life. Some scholars have stated that Sastra Slëk Rëet dates back to the Angkor period.

These palm-leaf manuscripts were widely shared among Khmer people in the past and used over many generations. However, as time went on, both the tradition of stone inscriptions and the use of palm-leaf manuscripts have gradually faded. Today, Sastra Slëk Rëet is mostly preserved and used only within Buddhist pagodas. As a result, it is slowly being lost due to the rise of modern technology such as printed books and digital formats.

In conclusion, Sastra Slëk Rëet is a valuable cultural heritage of the Khmer people. These texts, written on palm leaves, include religious scriptures and historical records that reflect the wisdom and identity of the Khmer civilization.

#at Sokchea Angkor Hotel Lobby

Discover true relaxation and rejuvenation at Nibi Spa, a hidden sanctuary in the peaceful town of Kampot where natural beauty and tranquility come together to create an unforgettable wellness experience. Designed to refresh both body and mind, Nibi Spa offers a serene environment inspired by nature, with soothing music, gentle lighting, and aromatic scents that instantly calm your senses. Each treatment is thoughtfully crafted to promote healing, balance, and inner peace using high-quality natural products and traditional techniques. Guests can choose from a wide range of massages — from the classic Khmer traditional massage to aromatherapy and deep tissue options — all performed by professional and attentive therapists dedicated to ensuring your complete comfort.

At Nibi Spa, it’s not just about relaxation; it’s about renewal. The spa’s holistic approach focuses on relieving stress, improving circulation, and enhancing overall well-being. Whether you’ve spent the day exploring Kampot’s scenic countryside, the majestic Bokor Mountain, or the tranquil riverside, a visit to Nibi Spa provides the perfect way to unwind and restore your energy. Couples can also indulge in special treatments designed to create moments of connection and serenity. With its peaceful ambiance, warm hospitality, and dedication to quality care, Nibi Spa stands out as one of Kampot’s most cherished wellness destinations. Step inside, leave your worries behind, and let Nibi Spa take you on a soothing journey that refreshes your body, awakens your spirit, and renews your sense of balance in the heart of Kampot.

Located along the River about 11 km from Sokchea Kampot Hotel.

Operation Hours: 9:00 AM, 9:30 AM, or 10:00 AM Tuesday to Friday
Reservation contact +855 (0)16460110

Kampot, a charming riverside town in southern Cambodia, offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences. Here are some things to do in Kampot:

1. Explore Bokor National Park: Take a trip to Bokor Mountain, where you can explore the national park’s lush rainforest, visit the old French hill station, and see the abandoned buildings, including the Bokor Palace Hotel.
2. Cruise along the Kampot River: Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the scenic Kampot River. You can take a sunset cruise or opt for a daytime excursion, which often includes stops at riverside villages and opportunities for swimming or kayaking.
3. Visit Kampot Pepper Farms: Kampot is renowned for its high-quality pepper. Visit one of the local pepper farms to learn about the cultivation process and sample some of the world-famous Kampot pepper.
4. Explore Kampot Town: Wander around Kampot’s picturesque streets lined with colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, and art galleries. Don’t miss the Old Market, where you can sample local snacks and shop for souvenirs.
5. Take a Kampot Pepper Farm Tour: Go on a guided tour of one of the pepper farms in the area to learn about the cultivation process of Kampot pepper, which is renowned for its unique flavor and aroma.
6. Visit Salt Fields: Take a trip to the nearby salt fields, where you can observe the traditional method of salt production and learn about the importance of salt in Cambodian cuisine and culture.
7. Explore Kep: Kep, famous for its seafood and relaxed atmosphere, is just a short drive away from Kampot. Visit the Kep Crab Market, relax on the beach, or hike up to Kep National Park for panoramic views of the coastline.
8. Try Water Sports: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the serene waters of the Kampot River. You can also try your hand at windsurfing or kiteboarding if you’re feeling adventurous.
9. Visit Phnom Chhnork Cave: Explore the ancient Phnom Chhnork Cave, which features a Hindu temple dating back to the 7th century. The cave is located a short drive from Kampot and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
10. Sample Local Cuisine: Don’t leave Kampot without trying some of the local delicacies, such as fish amok, crab with Kampot pepper, or grilled squid. There are plenty of restaurants and street food stalls where you can taste authentic Cambodian dishes.

The Kampot Salt Fields are located in Kampot Province, Cambodia, near the coastal town of Kampot and the neighboring province of Kep. These salt fields are renowned for their traditional salt production methods, which have been passed down through generations.

The salt fields are typically made up of vast expanses of shallow, rectangular basins filled with seawater. The process of salt production begins during the dry season when the seawater is directed into the basins through a series of canals and channels. As the water evaporates under the hot sun, it leaves behind a layer of salt crystals on the basin’s surface.

Workers then carefully rake the salt crystals from the basins and pile them up to dry further in the sun. Once dried, the salt is collected, sorted, and packed for distribution to local markets or for export.

Visitors to the Kampot Salt Fields can observe this traditional salt-making process and learn about the significance of salt production in the region’s economy and culture. The salt fields also offer picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset, making them a popular destination for tourists exploring the Kampot Province. Additionally, many tours in the area include visits to the salt fields as part of their itinerary, providing visitors with insight into Cambodia’s rural life and traditional industries.

The Equinox Angkor is a special solar phenomenon that occurs twice a year at Angkor Wat in Cambodia. The first event, called the Vernal Equinox, typically occurs between March 21st and 23rd from 5:00 AM to 6:30 AM. The second event, known as the Autumnal Equinox, usually takes place in September.

The Equinox Angkor is one of the most popular events, attracting tourists from around the globe as well as local Cambodians. During these events, thousands of visitors gather in front of the western entrance of the Angkor Wat temple, waiting to witness and capture photos of the breathtaking sunrise.

River Festival 2025: Celebrating Cambodia’s Natural and Cultural Heritage
Cambodia is a country rich in cultural traditions and natural beauty, and one of the most anticipated annual events that showcases this heritage is the River Festival. This festival, which first began in 2015, is held in a different province each year, highlighting the significance of Cambodia’s rivers in the country’s history, tourism, and daily life. In 2025, the 9th River Festival will take place from March 21 to 23 in Takeo province, under the theme “The Value of River: Bridging Culture with Nature Tourism.” This event will serve as a platform to promote tourism, celebrate local culture, and bring economic benefits to the community while emphasizing the importance of protecting Cambodia’s natural waterways

A Celebration of Culture and Tourism
The River Festival is designed to be a vibrant and inclusive event that attracts visitors from across Cambodia and beyond. It features a variety of cultural performances, exhibitions, and interactive experiences that showcase the rich traditions of the host province. Takeo province, known for its ancient temples, serene landscapes, and historical significance, is an ideal location for this event. The festival’s main venue, Takeo Lakeside Park in Daun Keo City, will provide a stunning backdrop for the festivities, allowing visitors to appreciate both the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region.

The 2025 festival’s theme emphasizes the deep connection between Cambodia’s rivers and its cultural identity. The event will highlight how rivers have played a vital role in Khmer civilization for centuries, serving as essential transportation routes, sources of livelihood, and centers of spiritual significance. By blending cultural performances with eco-tourism activities, the festival aims to encourage sustainable tourism practices and promote the conservation of Cambodia’s natural resources.

Exciting Activities and Attractions
One of the most exciting aspects of the River Festival is the diverse range of activities it offers. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, showcasing Cambodia’s artistic heritage. Local artisans will display their crafts, allowing guests to witness and purchase handmade products that reflect the craftsmanship of Takeo’s skilled artisans. Food lovers will have the opportunity to sample traditional Khmer cuisine, with food stalls offering a variety of local dishes.

Beyond cultural experiences, the festival will also feature sports competitions, including canoeing, kayaking, and boat races, which celebrate the strong connection between Cambodian people and their waterways. A 75-kilometer Phnom Penh-Takeo cycling race is expected to draw professional and amateur cyclists alike. Other sports activities, such as fun runs, volleyball, and traditional Khmer martial arts demonstrations, will provide entertainment and participation opportunities for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of the event will be the sky lantern displays, where hundreds of lanterns will be released into the night sky, creating a breathtaking visual experience. This tradition is believed to bring good luck and is a favorite attraction for both locals and tourists.

Economic and Social Impact
The River Festival is not only a celebration but also an important economic and social event. By attracting thousands of visitors, it provides a significant boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and transportation services. The festival also creates opportunities for local entrepreneurs and artisans to showcase their products and generate income.

In preparation for the festival, the Ministry of Tourism has issued guidelines to ensure high-quality services for visitors.

Local vendors are encouraged to decorate their stalls in ways that reflect Khmer culture and the unique identity of Takeo province. Authorities are working closely with businesses to maintain fair pricing, ensure cleanliness, and provide sufficient parking spaces to accommodate large crowds. These efforts aim to enhance the visitor experience and establish Takeo as a premier tourist destination.

A Tradition of Success
Since its launch in 2015, the River Festival has been hosted in different provinces, each offering a unique cultural and natural backdrop. In 2024, the event was held in Siem Reap and attracted over 500,000 visitors, making it one of the most successful editions of the festival. The event was temporarily suspended in 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but resumed in 2023 with great enthusiasm. The 2025 edition in Takeo is expected to continue this success, drawing even larger crowds and further solidifying the festival’s role in Cambodia’s tourism industry.