Things To Do
in Kratie
Kratie is a small riverside town on the Mekong River in northeastern Cambodia, known for its relaxed pace and friendly locals. It serves as a gateway to Mekong wildlife and easy day trips, including boat rides and island cycles. The town blends simple Khmer cuisine, colonial-era architecture, and lively riverside markets with scenic sunset views.
Visitors come to glimpse the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins near Kampi, explore Koh Trong by bike, and experience authentic river life along the Mekong.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Cambodian dishes like Bai Sach Chrouk (grilled pork and rice). After breakfast, stroll through the charming streets of Kratie, taking in the colonial architecture and vibrant local markets. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Wat Roka Kandal, a beautiful temple that reflects the town's historical significance.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the Kratie Riverfront, where you can learn about the history and culture of the area. Stop by the Old Market to indulge in some local snacks and shop for handmade crafts. As the sun begins to dip, find a cozy spot along the riverbank to witness the breathtaking views of the sunset over the water.
For dinner, savor fresh seafood at one of the riverside restaurants while enjoying the gentle breeze. After your meal, take a stroll along the river promenade, where you can see locals gathering for evening activities. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local bar or café to experience the nightlife and mingle with fellow travelers.
Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading out to the Mekong River for a dolphin spotting adventure. Join a boat tour that takes you to the famous Irrawaddy dolphin habitat, where you can observe these rare creatures in their natural environment. Listen to your guide as they share fascinating insights about the dolphins and the conservation efforts in place.
After spotting the dolphins, enjoy a picnic lunch on a small island in the river, surrounded by serene nature. Spend your afternoon kayaking or swimming in the tranquil waters, taking in the beauty of the scenic surroundings. As you paddle along, keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that inhabits the area.
Return to Kratie in the evening and dine at a local restaurant specializing in Khmer cuisine. Try dishes like Amok Trey (fish curry) or Lok Lak (stir-fried beef) while engaging with locals and other travelers. Conclude the day with a peaceful walk along the river, reflecting on the day's adventures under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.75-2 |
| 🚲Tuk-tuk or short taxi ride | $1-4 |
| 💧Bottled water | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🛏️Budget hostel bed | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Laid-back riverside atmosphere with easy access to wildlife
- Affordable food and lodging for budget travelers
- Friendly locals and a compact town center for walking
- Good base for dolphin watching near Kampi and island cycling on Koh Trong
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure compared to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap
- Longer road journeys to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap
- Seasonal river water levels can affect boat trips
- Smaller selection of upscale dining and accommodations
- "ជំរាបសួរ" - Hello
- "អរគុណ" - Thank you
- "បាទ/ចាស" - Yes
- "ទេ" - No
- "សូមទោស" - Sorry / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Kratie
Visit one of these nice places.
Early morning or late afternoon boat trips give chances to photograph the elusive dolphins against the Mekong backdrop.
Long riverside views with boats, featured light and reflective water for silhouettes.
Quiet village streets, palm trees, and bamboo bridges provide colorful, candid shots.
Faded facades and teak shutters along the river-side streets offer nostalgic textures.
Food in Kratie
Kratie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy coconut curry steamed in banana leaves, often made with river fish and fresh herbs.
Must-Try!
Marinated beef (or sometimes chicken) stir-fried with onions and pepper, served with rice and a tangy lime-pepper sauce.
Khmer rice-noodle dish typically eaten for breakfast, served with a turmeric fish gravy and fresh greens.
Coconut-based curry with chicken or fish, eggplant, and string beans; pairs well with steamed rice.
Freshly caught Mekong fish grilled with herbs, served with lime, pepper, and greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can sample fresh fruit, sticky rice, and river fish dishes.
Casual stalls along the Mekong offering grilled fish, noodle soups, and fruit smoothies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples; shoulders and knees should be covered and remove hats before entering.
Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in villages or markets.
A light bow with hands pressed together is common; use the right hand for giving or receiving items.
Safety
Tipping in Kratie
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping small amounts to guides, boat crews, and waitstaff is appreciated but not mandatory; 1-2 USD for short services, 5-10% for higher-end restaurants.
In more tourist-oriented places, a tip of 10% is common if service charge isn’t included.
Cash in US dollars and Cambodian riel are widely accepted; ATMs are available in town; some larger hotels and restaurants take cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to June is hot and humid with chance of afternoon thunderstorms; plan early morning activities and shade breaks.
November to February brings cooler evenings and pleasant days; ideal for cycling and outdoor markets.
May to October brings heavy rains and higher river levels; some boat trips may be affected but foliage is lush and photography can be dramatic during downpours.
Kratie at Night
Hiking in Kratie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Protected forest and wetlands near Kratie with guided forest walks and wildlife spotting.
Moderate hikes and easy trails along the riverbank suitable for all ages.
Airports
How to reach Kratie by plane.
Main international gateway to Cambodia; about a 3.5–5 hour drive from Kratie depending on traffic and road conditions.
Popular regional hub; longer overland journey to Kratie, typically 6–8 hours by road with a transfer through intermediate towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group, with friendly hospitality and strong river-town traditions.
A mix of backpackers, volunteers, and short-term visitors drawn to the Mekong and dolphin-watching experiences.
Small communities with distinct culinary traditions and market stalls.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed by locals and expats; pickup games and local leagues can be observed around town fields.
Common leisure activities along the Mekong; bike trips to Koh Trong are a highlight.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kratie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries; ask for vegetables with rice or tofu-based dishes and avoid fish-based sauces. Some places can adapt fish dishes into vegetable curries.