Kratie Province, north-east Cambodia · Cambodia
A quiet Mekong town where you can see rare freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins.
Photo: Jakub Hałun · CC BY-SA 4.0
Kratie is a sleepy town on the banks of the Mekong, best known as the base for seeing endangered Irrawaddy dolphins, which live in a deep pool of the river about 15 kilometres north. Only a small number remain, and boat trips operate with strict rules to protect them.
The town itself has French-colonial buildings, a lively waterfront and sunset views over the wide river. Just offshore, Koh Trong is a peaceful island of farms and villages, reached by short ferry and ideal for cycling. Further afield, there are temples, hills and waterfalls.
Kratie is a good stop between Phnom Penh and Laos, or on the road to Mondulkiri. It is relaxed, with few tourists, and a day or two is enough for dolphins, the island and sunset.
Why visit
Kratie is about river life and rare wildlife.
A rare sight.
Wide skies.
Rural island cycling.
Waterfront charm.
Few visitors.
Main attractions
Sights are around the town.
Boat trips to see dolphins.
Tip Go early or late.
A peaceful island of farms.
Tip Rent a bike.
Sunsets over the Mekong.
Tip Evening stroll.
A hilltop temple.
Tip Climb the steps.
Pre-Angkorian temples.
Tip Day trip from Kratie.
Fruit and food.
Tip Morning.
Things to do
Simple, gentle activities.
Boat trips.
Tip Follow guidelines.
Quiet lanes.
Tip Rent a bike.
On the river.
Tip Bring a drink.
Temple tour.
Tip Dress modestly.
Waterfront stalls.
Tip Try river fish.
In a hammock.
Tip Take it slow.
Local food
River fish and Khmer staples.
Grilled fresh.
Where to try it Waterfront.
Coconut curry.
Where to try it Restaurants.
Noodle soup.
Where to try it Breakfast.
Cheap.
Where to try it Stalls.
Sweet snack.
Where to try it Markets.
Accommodation
Guesthouses on the river.
Transport
Kratie is a road trip from Phnom Penh.
Tuk-tuks and bikes.
When to go
Cool and dry months are best.
Cool and dry.
Hot.
Rainy.
River full.
Worth planning around: April and May.
Itinerary
Dolphins and island.
Kampi
Koh Trong
Travel tips
Tips.
FAQ
Very likely.
One to two days.
No.
November to February.
Not advised.
Yes.
Keep exploring
Places that pair well with Kratie, whether you have a few spare days or are building a longer route.
Mondulkiri Province, eastern Cambodia, Cambodia
A cool highland province with Sen Monorom, Bunong culture, waterfalls, elephant sanctuaries and wild forest.
Don't miss Walking with rescued elephants through the hills of Mondulkiri.
Explore Destination — MondulkiriPhnom Penh Municipality, Cambodia
A busy riverside capital with the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Central Market, Tuol Sleng, Choeung Ek and a growing food scene.
Don't miss Watching the sun set over the river from a rooftop after a day of palaces and markets.
Explore Destination — Phnom PenhBattambang Province, north-west Cambodia, Cambodia
A relaxed provincial capital with French architecture, a contemporary arts scene, the bamboo train, Phnom Sampov bat cave and temples.
Don't miss Riding the rattling bamboo train through green fields.
Explore Destination — BattambangRead next
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