Kratie is a delightful city situated 70 km northwards of Kampong Cham and nestled along the eastern banks of River Mekong. Tourists from all over the world visit this city to bear witness to the playful antics of the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins that thrive here. Tourists can also plan a trek to meditation hubs such as Phnom Sombok, venture into river islands situated in the neighborhood, take up kayaking or other water rides when on the Mekong Discovery Trail, or catch a glimpse of rare turtle species at a conservation project site. To top it off, Kratie still exuberates old-world charm through its colonial architecture. Let us walk through this travel guide to learn about the tourism prospects of Kratie.

By Air:

The fastest way to reach Kratie is to catch a flight to the nearby Kratie Airport. Located approximately 3.5 km from the heart of town, this airport initially formed a military airfield. Other airports in the vicinity include Kompong Thong Airport, Phnom Penh International Airport, and Svay Rieng Airport.

By Road:

Two national highways that run in and out of Kratie include National Highway 7 and National Highway 6. These highways not only connect Kratie to the Lao border, but also cities such as Snoul, Sen Monorom, Stung Treng, Kampong Cham, and Phnom Penh. Prime bus carriers such as Giant Ibis, Sorya Bus, and Mekong Express ply through this route regularly.

By Water:

The most luxurious way to land onto the shores of Kratie involves catching a bullet boat to this city. The two bullet boat options that work along this route include the Kratie-Stung Treng bullet boat service and the bullet boats that run in the morning from Kampong Cham to Kratie. These boat rides usually cost passengers about 7 to 8 USD.

The tropical weather of Kratie makes it accessible for tourism prospects all round the year. However, the warm and parched climate of the dry season proves perfect for tourists to explore the city. Let us check out the different seasons experienced in Kratie.

Dry Season (October to mid-May):

The dry season in Kratie witnesses humid and brittle conditions with temperatures usually ranging between 27°C and 36°C. This season is the aptest time of the year to spot the high-spirited Irrawady dolphins going about their daily routine. The dry season also allows visitors to enjoy sunsets at beachside restaurants and resorts.

Wet Season (Mid-May to September):

The wet season in Kratie experiences humidity levels that rise to the heights of about 90%, with temperatures fluctuating between 24°C and 36°C. The heavy rainfall that the city receives turns it into a green paradise that breeds picturesque sceneries. The wet season is a perfect time to visit the stunning nature reserves located in Kratie.

Picturesque Nature Reserves:

One of the scenic nature reserves that thrive within Kratie includes Mekong Turtle Conservation Center. This nature reserve is home to the endangered Cantor’s giant softshell turtles. Apart from this, bird watchers will find themselves at home when in Kratie, thanks to the presence of incredible bird species such as Mekong Wagtail, Indian Cormorants, River Lapwing, and Kingfisher.

Discover Cultural Fervor:

Kratie houses several age-old Buddhist shrines such as 100-Column Pagoda, Phnom Sopor Kaley, Wat Roka Kandal, and Phnom Sombok. These shrines are traditionally located atop beautiful hillocks and provide tourists with breathtaking viewpoints. These shrines also depict ancient Khmer architecture and the happenings of the past era through the incredible paintings sculpted across their walls.

Thrilling Water Resorts:

Kratie is blessed with a beautiful collection of riverside resorts such as Kampi Picnic Resort, Waterfall of Cham Pey, and Phnom Sam Bok Resort. These freshwater resorts provide tourists with rejuvenating experiences, including stunning landscapes visible in the surrounding vicinity, and exciting resort amenities such as ponds and water rides. They offer a breathtaking view of the bird, animal, and plant life that thrive in the region.

The people of Kratie appreciate their cuisine and never shy away from introducing tourists to their traditional dishes. Some of the mouth-watering dishes found in Kratie include steamed rice accompanied by fresh mangoes and grilled lake snails either served on skewers or with tangy soup. Other dishes that are must-haves when in Kratie include krolanh, which comprises rice filled into baked bamboo, accompanied by coconut milk and mung beans. A dish named Nem is also famous for the tangy river fish that is wraps inside banana leaves.

Located within touching distance of Mekong River, the Kratie Market offers several daily items such as fish, meats, vegetables, fruits, and other packed food items. Apart from this, the city also has a couple of night markets that are situated within proximity of the Heng Heng Hotel. The CEDAC shop present here offers tourists with a varied list of traditional handicrafts and items such as local juices, honey, handmade hats, and rice. Dolphin Men of Kratie Calendar provides tourists with opportunities to take home unique souvenirs that have dolphins embossed on every month.