The Mekong Lowlands’ marshy plains have been fruitful for Cambodians, creating a region interesting for history and agriculture. Consisting of much of southern Cambodia, including the capital Phnom Penh, the area has seen difficulties in its past. Today it is a profoundly interesting place for a vacation. Explore the capital and linger in the area’s more remote villages for a change of pace.
Find history throughout Cambodia, especially in the Lowlands. Tour the National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh. Outside the city, the incredible ruins of the pre-Angkorian Sambor Prei Kuk were built more than 1500 years ago. The 11th-century architecture of the Nokor Wat temple complex is just outside Kampong Cham. Study the memorials of Cambodia’s dark 20th century at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek in the capital’s outskirts.
Appreciate the natural rhythms of Cambodian river life along the Tonle Sap, where boats are available to rent. In the dry season, cross the Mekong River to Koh Paen Island via the Bamboo Bridge. The structure gets swept away with each year’s rains. Wake up early to ascend Phnom Hanchey for incredible sweeping views of the sun rising over the Mekong.
The Mekong Lowlands include much of southern Cambodia stretching to the Vietnamese border. Encompassing nine provinces, the region is relatively sprawling. Phnom Penh International Airport is near the city center and is relatively easily reached from anywhere in the area.
Most of the major cities in the Mekong Lowlands are connected with buses or other transportation methods. It is always possible to hire a driver for one or more days. Rent a car or motorcycle from the airport or in major cities. Depending on the season, some attractions may be inaccessible due to flooding or inhospitable roads.
For a lasting memory, take the rickety ferry through the Mekong Lowlands from Phnom Penh to Koh Dach, the Silk Island, where Cambodian women craft beautiful scarves and fabrics in silk made on the island.
