Stung Treng (also Stoeng Treng) is a small town in northeastern Cambodia, and can easily be described with the word "outpost" more than anything else. Many tourists heading to/from Laos pass through here, though few stay long as Banlung and Kratie offer far more excitement, activities, and remedies.
Stung Treng is the capital of Stung Treng Province, Cambodia. It was formerly called Xieng Teng and was once a part of the vast Khmer Empire, then the Lao kingdom of Lan Xang and later the Lao kingdom of Champassack. During the period of French Indochina it was again ceded to Cambodia. It is located in the western part of the Virachey National Park. It is the major city (and capital) of both the district and province. It's a friendly, quiet country town situated on the confluence of the San River and the Mekong River. It actually sits on the banks of the San River on a high sandy bank overlooking the Mekong River on the northeastern outskirts of the town. In Stung Treng, about 79.4% of the population is involved in the agriculture sector. The secondary and tertiary sectors account for 2.4% and 18.2% respectively.
The San River goes by three names, depending on which of the locals you speak to. Some call it the Kong River because the San and Kong Rivers merge together about 10 km northeast of Stung Treng town, confusing people about which name the river should bear. Others call it the Sekong River, which is the combined name of these two rivers. Whatever name the fiver beside the town goes by, it's another one of Cambodia's beautiful picture-postcard river towns. It's a nice place to kick back and chill out if you are on a circuit tour of the Northeast River Scene, from here to Laos.
It lies along the National Highway 7, about 400 km from Phnom Penh and 50 km south of the Laos border. A bridge connects the city to the other side of the river. The population is made up of a mix of Khmer and Lao peoples.
The river port area just in front of the small city park is fairly busy, handling trade between Cambodia and Laos. The ferry across the San River to where National Highway No 7 continues north to the Laos border is also at this pier. There is not much to see along the way besides light jungle and some remnants next to the road that was a target of carpet bombing during the Vietnam War (the road was recently overhauled and is now one of the best in the country). The road works its way eastward so it does not afford views of the Mekong River as one would hope.
Climate
The country has a tropical climate - warm and humid. In the monsoon season, abundant rain allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops. This year-round tropical climate makes Cambodia ideal for developing tourism. Travellers need not to fear natural disasters such as erupting volcanoes or earthquakes, and the country is not directly affected by tropical storms.
Climate: Cambodia can be visited throughout the year. However, those plans to travel extensively by road should be avoided the last two months of the rainy season when some countryside roads may be impassable. The average temperature is about 27 degrees Celsius; the minimum temperature is about 16 degrees. December and January are the coolest months, whereas the hottest is April.
General information about the provincial climate:
- Cool season: November- March (18-26c)
- Hot season: March- May (27c -35c)
- Rainy season: May - October (26-34c, with humidity up to 90%.)
Get around
Since the town is so small, there's no point in using anything other than your own two feet to get you anywhere within the town itself. If you decide to see any of the area's limited sights, simply hire one of the few motodops around for no more than a couple of thousand riels.
See
Most tourists who end up here do so only for a couple of hours before being rushed on south to Kratie or north to the Laos border. But, like anywhere in Cambodia, you could easily spend a day here relaxing by the river (don't plan on a week here, of course). There are a couple of sights to see here, but not enough to seriously keep yourself occupied.
The only meaningful sight in Stung Treng is watching the sun set and rise over the landscape. Great for lounging in a hammock, bottle of Angkor Beer in hand, lazily chatting with your comrades.
Do
The town itself is not so big, and one can explore it on foot. There are some Wats (temples) in the town and a daily fresh market. To explore more of the area though, it is wiser to rent a motorbike. You can rent one at the Riverside guesthouse or near the market.
Next to the Sekong river (a tributary of the mighty Mekong), about 4 km east from the town centre there is the weaving co-operative Mekong Blue, which warrants a visit for the lovely fabrics and patterns they produce.
The San River is fronted in Stung Treng by a nice stretch of paved road. It's the centre of socializing (as in most Cambodian river towns) in the late afternoon and early evening hours as the locals ride up and down the stretch enjoying the view and each other. Drink and dessert stands spring up earlier to serve the daily merrymaking crowd. It's a nice spot for a walk or jog any time of the day as the river road turns into a pleasant rural road that leads to the airport 4 km north of town.
Furthermore, Stung Treng Village is a good base to explore Stung Treng Province. It's a beautiful place with some historical value. The Ramsar site to the north that connects to Laos is a real treat to explore and several (nearly extinct) Irrawaddy dolphin pools surround this charming provincial town. There are several NGO's such as Tourism for Help, Evergreen Community and Mlub Baitong active in the region and these welcome any kind of support from travellers where needed. The town links well to Banlung (Ratanakiri) and can be used for more than just a stopover. Hikes are available to see the 4000 Islands area from the mountain top and the unique merging of the 4 main rivers (also known as the Mekong plus 3 areas) makes the place great for riverine exploration.
Tourist Attractions in Stung Treng
• Fresh Water Dolphin
Nowadays the dolphins live mainly in the rivers and waterways of Kratie and Stung Treng Provinces. The number of these mammals is estimated to be between 40 and 60 and they are often seen travelling in small groups of 6 to 10 individuals. The females usually give birth to young once every two years most often during the months of June to August. The young dolphins are about 1m in length at birth and suckle milk. By adulthood the dolphins can attain a length of over 2.5m and weigh up to 180kg. Their diet consists mainly of small fish, shellfish and snails. The dolphins can swim at speeds up to 40km per hour and stay submerged for periods between five and ten minutes.
• Hang Kho Ba Pagoda:
Hang Kho Ba Pagoda is the cultural and historical site, located at Hang Kho Ba Village, Hang Kho Commune, Stung Treng District in six-kilometer distance from the provincial town by the road to the airport, then turning left across the river of Se Kong. The pagoda of Hang Kho Ba is over 300 years. The local people there speak Lao majorly. Stung Treng Province has been recognized in two special characteristics:
- The province riches in sweet tamarind fruit.
- The province riches in Pa Si Yi fish.
- Pava fish. Hang Kho Ba Pagoda, Stung Treng is one of the most beautiful pagodas in this Cambodian town. Pagodas are basically temples that were built to worship Buddha. These pagodas are synonymous to Buddhism. In Cambodia most of the population is Buddhist. This temple is also known for the design that is etched on its walls. Hang Kho Ba Pagoda, Stung Treng is located in the Hang Kho Commune.
While exploring the various Tourist Attractions in Stung Treng travelers cannot miss the Hang Kho Ba Pagoda, Stung Treng. It is, in fact, an important part of the cultural history of the city. This place was built 300 years ago. Despite its age the place is still pretty strong and you will be able to appreciate the beauty of its design.
Apart from the aestheticism that it reflects, the Hang Kho Ba Pagoda, Stung Treng has a very nice location. Travelers find the surroundings really enchanting. You can easily access this spot of sightseeing in Stung Treng from the nearest airport. It is just six kilometers from the airfield. The Mekong River is quite near to the structure making its location even more hypnotizing. If you come to Hang Kho Ba Pagoda, Stung Treng you will see various Buddhist artifacts. These temples are not only places of worship but also act as museums by providing information to the curious souls. After sightseeing if you feel tired and hungry then you can have Pava fish in lunch. It is the special menu that can be tasted in this part of the country.
• Kantuy Ko
Kantuy Ko, Stung Treng is a place that works as a sanctuary to plants and animal here. If you want to take the pleasure of fresh air and greenery then this is the place to visit. In fact that is the reason why travelers love to come here year after year. It is also one of the most visited sightseeing spots in Stung Treng. Kantuy Ko, Stung Treng is quite near to the Samki Village.
That is why you can access Kantuy Ko, Stung Treng from the village. This serves two purposes. One is you will be able to interact with the village people and the other of course is to explore the sanctuary. The collection here is a very good one. You will find all kinds of animals here.
Travelers will be able to reach Kantuy Ko, Stung Treng very easily from the center of the city. The animals that are available here include many endangered species as well. You will find tigers and other mammals. There are various kinds of reptiles here too.
As far as the plants are concerned, you will find a number of varieties of them here. Kantuy Ko, Stung Treng is definitely one of the perfect Tourist Attractions in Stung Treng that provides a combination of knowledge and thrill. The Indochinese Tiger is one of the main attractions here. It is one of the endangered species in the world.
Like other attractions in Stung Treng, this one too promises a few wonderful moments. You can capture those moments in your camera so you can refer to them later.
• Mekong Discovery Trail
The Mekong Discovery Trail takes you into the heart of the Mekong where the beauty of the river and the friendliness of the people create unforgettable river life experiences in northeast Cambodia.The Mekong Discovery Trail is a network of safe, ecotourism journeys through some of the most natural and least populated parts of the Mekong.
The free trail guide provides maps, transport and accommodation options. You can travel on a small part of the trail, or all of it. You can travel alone or with a group. There are many options along the 180 km trail, which runs between Kratie and the Cambodian/Laos border. But remember to allow enough time to go with the flow of river life.
Along the trail, you will have the opportunity to see critically endangered Mekong River Dolphins, while minimising your impact on them and the habitats they rely on.By using the Trail, you will also be assisting river communities, some of the poorest (but most welcoming) in Cambodia.
Highlights of the Mekong Discovery Trail
• Mekong River Dolphin Viewing: The Trail offers many opportunities to view critically endangered Mekong River Dolphins.
• Horse Carts in Kratie: A very special way to relax and experience the Mekong River is on a traditional river boat. Sit back and enjoy the magnificent sunsets and sunrises and spectacular flooded forests of the Ramsar wetlands. Buy fish from passing boats and stop at riverside villages to shop in local markets.
Horse Carts
• Mountain Biking with No Carbon Emissions: One option along the Mekong Discovery Trail caters especially for experienced and intrepid mountain bike riders who are prepared for an 'off the beaten track’ experience. You will travel through some of the least disturbed and most remote parts of the Mekong, and stay overnight in guesthouses and home stays in rural villages along the way.
• Local Produce from the Farms and Markets: Kratie and Stung Treng Provinces are famous for their sticky rice (krolan) and pickled fish (nem), as well as delicious tropical fruits and fresh fish that are included in local dishes. Taste some while you travel along the Mekong Discovery Trail. You'll find a recipe for the famous Fish Amok in the Trail guide book.
• Homestays and Wat-stays in local communities: A very personal way to experience the home life and daily rituals of Khmer villages is to stay in homes or Wats. Home stays and Wat stays are available at several places along the Trail. The Trail guide book provides a few tips about etiquette to make it easier to connect with the local cultures.
• Trekking in the Forests along the Mekong River: There are opportunities to trek through fringing forests that line the banks of the river and to enjoy wonderful views over the maze of islands as well as braided river channels north of Stung Treng. A local guide will assist with navigation and make the experience so much richer.
• Mekong River Trip to Laos: The Mekong River between Stung Treng and the Laos border is very light on population and heavy on beautiful scenery. Boulder outcroppings, numerous sets of rapids, swirling pothole currents, wide sweeping stretches of river and forested landscape along the banks all await the boat traveler. It makes for a great trip, either for the traveler that wants to continue on to Laos or for those wanting to enjoy a wild stretch of the Mekong in Cambodia. The trip is difficult to downright impossible to make on this shallow stretch of the Mekong during the dry season, with cont less sunken islands and a virtual forest of trees growing right in the middle of the river. The trip becomes an obstacle course for the boat drivers this time of the year, as they carefully try to choose the best way to guide their craft through the maze that nature has created without losing a propeller to the river. The best time of the year to take this trip is from May to November when sufficient upstream rains have raised the river to a level that allows the boats to pass through carefully.
• Phnom Preah Theat: Phnom Preah Theat is located in Thmey Village and Commune, Stung Treng District, about 2 kilometes (5mn) from Provincial Town. It is a Nature Wildlife and Preserves. The Phnom Preah Theat, Stung Treng is one of the natural sanctuaries of Cambodia and happens to be one of the chief tourist attractions in Stung Treng. The Phnom Preah Theat, Stung Treng is situated in the quaint realms of the hamlet better known as Thmey. Tourists flock to the Phnom Preah Theat, Stung Treng to get a glimpse of the dense forests of the reserve as well as its unique and rare wildlife.
In fact, some of the grounds of the Phnom Preah Theat in Stung Treng in Cambodia are so thickly filled with vegetation that it is impossible for the sun's rays to penetrate them. There are some pathways that run across the entire length of the Phnom Preah Theat in Stung Treng. These pathways have been constructed so that tourists can walk through them comfortably as the terrains of the Phnom Preah Theat, Stung Treng are quite 'jungly'. However, tourists are not permitted to walk by themselves. The professional guides of the Phnom Preah Theat, Stung Treng escort them through the jungles. This they do to prevent the tourists from encountering wild beasts or getting entangled with some branch of a tree.
• Preah Ko Temple: Preah Ko was the first temple to be built in the ancient and now defunct city of Hariharalaya (in the area that today is called Roluos), some 15 kilometers south-east of the main group of temples at Angkor, Cambodia. The temple was built under the Khmer King Indravarman I in 879 to honor members of the king's family, whom it places in relation with the Hindu deity Shiva.
After the Khmer king Jayavarman II founded the Khmer empire in 802 A.D., he finally established his capital at Hariharalaya. Indravarman I was the nephew of Jayavarman II. When he ascended to the throne, he ordered the construction first of Preah Ko, which was dedicated in 879, and later of the temple-mountain known as the Bakong. It is likely that this building program was made possible by the king's peaceful reign and his ability to draw income from the expanding empire. A restoration of the towers took place in early 1990s, financed by German government.
Preah Ko consists of six brick towers arranged in two rows of three towers each perched on a sandstone platform. The towers face east, and the front central tower is the tallest. The sanctuaries are dedicated to three divinized forefathers of Indravarman and their respective wives. The front central tower is dedicated to Jayavarman II, the founder of the Khmer empire. The tower to the left is dedicated to Prithivindreshvara, King Indravarman's father; the tower to the right to Rudreshvara, his grandfather. The three rear towers are dedicated to the wives of these three men. The central towers all bear images of the Hindu god Shiva.
Preah Ko, which means 'the sacred bull' (Shiva's vehicle Nandi), was built by Indravarman I in 879. It is part of the Roluos group of monuments about 13 kilometers east of Siem Riep. The temple is distinguished from others in the area by the unusual arrangement of its six central towers, which stand in two rows facing east.
The three towers on the east side are staggered so that the central tower is slightly further to the west. This tower is dedicated to Shiva, the Hindu god closely associated with the rule of Jayavarman II, the founder of the Khmer Empire. The tower to the north was dedicated to the founder of Preah Ko, and the tower to the south was dedicated to the King's father. Each of these shrines once contained a statue, but they were removed at some time in the past.
• Pream Buorn Lveng Temple: The location of the Pream Buorn Lveng Temple, Stung Treng is amidst the fine environment of the Kang de Sor Village. This is in the Thala Bariwatt District. You can reach this temple very easily from the provincial town. It is not very difficult travel 6 kilometers. You can board a motorbike that will take you to your destination. Most of the accommodations are not far from this Pream Buorn Lveng Temple, Stung Treng. It is one of the well located attractions in Stung Treng.
Pream Buorn Lveng Temple, Stung Treng has played an unforgettable part in the history of the country. This is the place that every travelers should visit to understand the the kind of religious belief the local people believe in to. You can worship here as well. Like any other temples in Stung Treng this one too has a fine locale that is just perfect for meditation. This can be one reason why this shrine was built here in the first place.
Tourist Attractions in Stung Treng are, therefore, quite varied and you will be able to find many such buildings here. The Pream Buorn Lveng Temple, Stung Treng has a very good architecture. It shows the combination of robustness and beauty. So, while sightseeing in Stung Treng you must visit here. It is temples like these that have helped this country to attract tourists every year. They love to architectures, designs and the locations of these temples.
• Wat Phnom: Wat Phnom, Stung Treng borrows the name of the famous land mark temple in Phnom Penh, this one isn’t high enough for a good view of the area, though you can see the mountains along the Lao border to the north. A new Wat is currently under construction on the site. River scene, from here to Laos the San River is fronted in Stung Treng by a nice stretch of paved road. It’s the center of socializing (as in most Cambodian river towns) in the late afternoon and early evening hours as the locals ride up and down the stretch enjoying the view and each other. Drink and dessert stands spring up earlier to serve the daily merrymaking crowd. It’s a nice spot for a walk or jog any time of the day as the river road turns into a pleasant rural road that leads to the airport 4 km north of town.
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