Things To Do
in Ta Khmau
Ta Khmau is a growing town on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It blends residential neighborhoods with busy markets and riverside scenes, giving visitors an authentic glimpse of life just beyond the capital. The town is known for its Khmer eateries, pagodas, and easy access to nearby rural villages.
It makes a convenient base for exploring southern Phnom Penh suburbs while staying budget-friendly and low-key.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the lively local market in Ta Khmau, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant sights and scents of fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with friendly vendors as you explore stalls filled with unique crafts and fresh fruits. Don’t forget to try a typical Cambodian breakfast like Bai Sach Chrouk, a delicious pork and rice dish.
After lunch at a local eatery, take a stroll through the town to soak in the blend of traditional and modern architecture. Visit the nearby Buddhist temples where you can learn about the local culture and history while enjoying the serene atmosphere. Capture photographs of the intricate designs and statues that reflect the Khmer heritage.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy cafe where you can relax with a refreshing drink and watch the bustling town come alive. Engage in conversations with locals and fellow travelers to gain insights into the daily life and customs of Ta Khmau. Conclude your day by enjoying a traditional Khmer dinner in a local restaurant, savoring the rich flavors of Cambodian cuisine.
Kickstart your day with an early morning trip to the capital, Phnom Penh, which is just a short drive away from Ta Khmau. Visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, marveling at the stunning architecture and history they embody. A walk in the gardens surrounding these iconic sites provides a refreshing and peaceful start to your day.
After exploring the palace, visit the National Museum, where you can appreciate the exquisite collection of Khmer artifacts and learn more about the country's rich history. Grab lunch at a popular restaurant with a riverside view, enjoying local dishes infused with fresh herbs and spices. The vibrant atmosphere of Phnom Penh will keep you energized for the rest of the day.
Return to Ta Khmau in the evening, and unwind at a local food market where you can taste a variety of street food offerings. Bask in the lively atmosphere as families gather to enjoy dinner together, and indulge in snacks like fried spring rolls or grilled skewers. Embrace the charm of the evening ambiance before heading back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.50-2 |
| 🧁Street food snack | $0.25-1.50 |
| 🚕Local taxi or moto-taxi short ride | $2-6 |
| 🛍️Market souvenirs | $3-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Phnom Penh, enabling easy day trips
- Affordable food, markets, and guesthouses
- Rich river life, pagodas, and cultural experiences
- Relaxed pace compared with the capital
- Limited nightlife and Western-style entertainment
- Some areas feel suburban or developing
- Traffic can be heavy around markets and peak hours
- Public transport within town is limited
- "Chomreabsuor" - Hello
- "Sok sabay te?" - How are you?
- "Orkun" - Thank you
- "Som tos" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Tha mouy" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Ta Khmau
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views with boats and the golden hour light; best from riverside parks or bridges.
Intricate temple architecture and ceremonial spaces; photograph with respectful permission and modest dress.
Early morning activity, steam, and colorful produce provide dynamic street photography opportunities.
Quiet roads flanked by palm trees and rice paddies for candid portraits and everyday life.
Food in Ta Khmau
Ta Khmau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy fish mousse steamed in banana leaves with coconut milk, lemongrass, and kaffir lime; commonly found in riverside eateries and family kitchens.
Must-Try!
A hearty Khmer soup of vegetables, fish or meat, herbs, coconut milk, and palm sugar; a staple at markets and home-style restaurants.
Marinated beef or chicken served with rice, a tangy pepper-lime dipping sauce, and a fried egg on top.
Khmer rice noodles with a fragrant fish gravy, typically enjoyed for breakfast at markets or street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market offering fresh produce, grilled meats, and Khmer snacks; try kuy teav (noodle soup) and grilled skewers from street stalls.
Morning stalls around temples and residential streets with fresh herbs, tropical fruit, and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes when entering pagodas and some homes.
Show deference and use polite language when addressing older people.
Ask permission before taking photos of people; avoid taking pictures of children without consent.
Offer items with the right hand; in formal settings, use both hands when giving or receiving.
Safety
Tipping in Ta Khmau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not required; rounding up bills or leaving 5–10% at nicer places is common. In markets and casual stalls, tips are not expected.
Cash is widely used, with both Cambodian riel and US dollars accepted. Cards are more commonly accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants; ATMs are available in Phnom Penh and Ta Khmau area; mobile wallet usage varies.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with high humidity. Plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings, stay hydrated, and wear sun protection.
Heavy rainfall and lush landscapes; trails can be muddy and some streets flood. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof footwear; indoor activities are good options on heavy rain days.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for outdoor exploration, walking tours, and photography.
Ta Khmau at Night
Hiking in Ta Khmau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic hill with pagodas; a popular short hike offering city and rural views.
Gentle rural trails through rice fields and villages suitable for a relaxed day trip.
Airports
How to reach Ta Khmau by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about 25–40 minutes from Ta Khmau by car depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The overwhelming majority of residents with strong cultural ties to the region.
Small but active communities contributing to markets and commerce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal play are common in neighborhoods.
Traditional kick volleyball played in parks and schools; observe local demonstrations when available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ta Khmau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Khmer cuisine often uses fish sauce and shrimp paste. To navigate as a vegetarian, ask for no fish sauce, or opt for vegetable curries with tofu and fresh herbs. Look for dishes labeled as vegetarian at markets and avoid fish-based broths; carry snacks if you’re unsure.