Kratie is a peaceful riverside province in Eastern Cambodia, best known as the home of the rare and endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. Unlike the bustling cities of Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, Kratie offers a slow-paced atmosphere where the rhythm of life is dictated by the flow of the mighty Mekong River.
The star attraction is the Kampi Dolphin Pool, located about 15km north of the town. Here, visitors can board small wooden boats to catch a glimpse of the freshwater dolphins surfacing for air. For a more immersive nature experience, head to Koh Trong Island, a lush oasis in the middle of the Mekong. Rent a bicycle to ride through pomelo orchards, traditional wooden houses, and rice fields. The island represents a slice of authentic Cambodian rural life that has remained unchanged for decades.
Culture seekers should visit the 100 Pillar Pagoda (Wat Sorsor Muoy Roi), a historic site with a tragic legend and vibrant murals. As the sun begins to set, the Kratie riverfront becomes the place to be, offering some of the most spectacular golden-hour views in Southeast Asia.
