While not exactly a party destination, the rural island of Koh Trong is a real hidden gem. Sitting just off the coast of Kratie on the Mekong, the island attracts both local and international visitors with its laid-back charm, quiet villages, and uninterrupted river views. It is not a place for luxury or nightlife, but it is perfect for those who want to slow down and see real rural Cambodia.
Koh Trong Guide
Koh Trong covers about six square kilometres and is home to a few thousand Khmer families who live off small-scale farming and fishing. Life here is simple and traditional, with bicycles and ox carts still the main forms of transport. During the Khmer Rouge years, like much of rural Cambodia, the island suffered, but today it is peaceful and welcoming.
The economy is mostly subsistence-based, though tourism is slowly providing extra income through homestays, guided visits, and local crafts. The river, the rice paddies, and the simple village life make Koh Trong a unique window into traditional Khmer living.
Getting There and Away
To reach Koh Trong, you first need to get to Kratie, accessible by bus from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. From Kratie town, the island is just a short boat ride across the Mekong. Wooden ferries run frequently and are cheap, taking roughly ten minutes. Private boats can also be arranged through local guesthouses, offering flexibility to set your own schedule and avoid the crowds. Either way, the crossing gives a taste of river life before stepping onto the island.
What to Do on Koh Trong
Koh Trong may be small, but there is plenty to keep you entertained if you enjoy outdoor and cultural experiences. The famous sign on the island mentions fifteen things to do, and while you don’t need to tick them all off, most involve simple village life and nature. Cycling around the quiet roads, exploring rice paddies, and watching local fishermen at work are obvious highlights. Riding ox carts, horse carts, or bicycles through villages is a must. You can visit small pagodas, try your hand at planting trees with community projects, or watch the bats emerge at dusk along the river. The riverbanks are perfect for swimming or watching the sunset, while volleyball is sometimes played by locals and tourists. Some families even invite visitors to help with cooking or farming, giving a glimpse into traditional Khmer life. Wandering the quiet streets and observing daily routines is as rewarding as any activity. The island is all about slowing down and soaking in rural Cambodia.
Food on Koh Trong
Food on Koh Trong is simple but satisfying. Local eateries serve Khmer staples like fried rice, noodles, freshwater fish, and fresh fruit. Many homestays prepare meals for guests, offering authentic home-cooked Cambodian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Portions are generous, prices are cheap, and the meals are filling, perfect after a day of cycling or exploring.
Hotels on Koh Trong
Accommodation is mostly homestays, part of sustainable tourism projects supporting local families. Staying in a homestay gives you an authentic experience of life on the island, with simple but clean rooms and welcoming hosts. Soriyabori Resort offers private rooms which are high-end rustic, a great pool, resaturant and an overall higher-enmd vibe.
Homestays also provide meals and allow visitors to participate in daily life, helping tourism money flow directly to the local community. The combination of homestays and the small hotel ensures the island remains peaceful and genuine while giving visitors choices.
Conclusion
Koh Trong is not about nightlife, shopping, or luxury. It is about quiet roads, cycling through villages, watching the Mekong, and experiencing real Khmer life. It offers solitude, green scenery, and a genuine escape from city bustle. For a break from town life and a taste of rural Cambodia, Koh Trong delivers more than you might expect.
Click to check our bespoke Cambodia Tours.
About Post Author
