Tonle Sap Lake

No visit to Siem Reap is complete without visiting Tonle Sap Lake. Surrounded by five different provinces, Tonle Sap not only is a scenic tourist destination, but also a source of livelihood for people in the surrounding areas. It is also the largest fresh water lake in South East Asia. Tonle Sap Lake is also known for its biodiversity as it provides habitat to over 300 species of fresh water fish. Tonle Sap is located nearly 15 kilometer south of Siem Reap town. There are several ways to explore the lake and its surroundings. One of the most popular villages located on the banks of the lake is Chong Khneas, which is a floating village. Here, you can indulge in boat tours and discover the true identity of Cambodian society. You can witness the daily life of local people in a close, personal way.
Tonle Sap Lake has very high cultural significance in Cambodia. The lake is the site of celebration of the Seven Headed snake. The festival is also known as Water and Moon Festival. It is celebrated to mark the beginning of the fishing season. The festival starts on the last day of the full moon and continues for three days. During the celebrations, you can see canoe races.
At Tonle Sap Lake you can not only see floating villages, but other interesting sites such as a floating basketball court and a floating church. You can also embark on a boat journey from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap to admire the lake in its entire splendor.
Be sure to get a glimpse of Tonle Sap Lake by night with Sunset Dinner on Tonle Sap Lake with a Floating Village Tour.