Kratie is a north northeastern town in Cambodia which receives relatively fewer tourists than other parts of the province. Yet, people equally love this place, and it is rated as a visit destination when you are in Cambodia. One of the most famous things about Kratie is that it is home to endangered species of Irrawaddy dolphins, which cannot be found elsewhere.

In addition to its laid-back environment, Kratie provides serenity to your soul and a deep connection to the Cambodian lifestyle. There are many things that you can do in this French-themed town. Let's see the top 7 things to do in Kratie, Cambodia, to make the most out of the trip:

7 Amazing Things to Do in Kratie, Cambodia

Visit Irrawaddy Dolphins

Let's start with the signature activity to do in Kratie. It is one of the main attractions of places just 15km north in the village of Kampi. This place is the habitat of a dolphin group with almost twenty dolphins.

How you wish to go there depends on you; joining an organized tour is the best option. Besides that, you can hire a private bike and ride to Kampi, where, with the help of a boatman, you can reach the dolphins' habitat.

The best time to watch dolphins in full glory is early morning or evening. This is when these creatures come to the surface and show playful tricks. Hold your camera close to capture these moments with the lens you can watch forever.

Visit the Mekong Turtle Conservation Center

Heading forward to explore more of the fauna life in the region, you must visit the Mekong Turtle Conservation Center. It is a half-hour drive from Kampi in the area of Sombor.

This facility is dedicated to working for the conservation of the Cantor's giant soft-shelled turtles. The project is the initiative of a monk devoted to nurturing these endangered turtles. The centre's environment is suitable to give these turtles a safe habitat to breed and nurture.

Your visit will support a good cause of saving endangered species and learning about environmental conservation. The cost of entry is $4, keeping this more significant cause of protecting nature.

Visit The 100 Pillar Pagoda

Once you are done with the conservation centre, right next to it stands 480, the old historical treasure of the 100 Pillar Pagoda, another spot in Kratie. It is one of the biggest, most beautiful, and oldest temples in Kratie, with 100 columns, but not anymore due to reconstruction; now it stands on 116 pillars; well, who cares?

The story is pretty sad; when the temple was built, it had 100 pillars, but 22 columns were burnt by lightning. So, the local people took the initiative and rebuilt the temple, so now it stands on 116 columns. Despite its sad story, the temple still stands in full glory, serving the marvel of rich historical and cultural fusion.

Embark on a Cycling Journey in Koh Trong

Next is a cycling tour in Koh Trong, one of the best places in Kratie to see. When you cross the Mekong to Koh Trong, you will see an 8km sand –bar offering vehicle-free Cambodian bliss. You will start by renting a bike from a local shop and explore the Island's smooth trial.

Witness nature up close while passing through bamboo huts, beaches, and palm trees. The ride will give you many experiences, like watching urban life, exploring nature, and the best form of physical activity.

Hang Out at the Kampi Rapids

During summers, the water levels of the Mekong lowers, resulting in the creation of shallow stretches of fast-moving water termed rapids. So, that is where the place has gained its name, Kampi Rapids, near where you watched dolphins.

People visit this spot often; that's why wooden huts are structured on the top of the rapids. Where you can stay for a bit and enjoy the calm, Kampi rapids are famous among locals, so you will see many families and communicate with locals.

It is the best picnic spot in Kratie during the dry season, where you can cool off in a mild breeze. Food stalls also allow you to eat and drink while swimming in these waters.

Watch Sunset over the Mekong

The best experience in Kratie is to witness sunset over the Mekong River. Sunsets on the riverside bring ultimate bliss to your eyes and senses, but Mekong's sunset is famous for its multi-coloured hues along the horizon of the sky.

The best way to do this is to visit a riverside café like Sorya Cafe, Jasmine Boat Restaurant, or Green Restaurant. There, you can sit facing the sky while sipping on your favourite delicacies. The other option is to take a leisurely walk along the promenade.

You might have seen many sunsets, but this will capture you in a trance when you witness the sky being painted in exploding hues with the fainting light of the sun.

Enjoy the Mekong Discovery Trail

The Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia launched the Mekong Discovery Trail project with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and a Dutch development organization (SNV). It aimed to allow an easy passage for tourists to unfold the least visited parts of the Mekong River.

This trail is 180km long and is between the Kratie and Laos border, offering to explore plenty of sites like:

• Irrawaddy dolphins
• Cycle through rural villages
• Camp on the banks of the river
• Explore hiking trails
• Visit waterfall

Final Thoughts

These 7 things to do in Kratie, Cambodia, will make your trip memorable forever, and you might want to return to experience it again. Watching these Irrawaddy dolphins thrive in their natural habitat and witnessing breathtaking sunsets at the Mekong River offers a range of multi-faceted experiences. This place offers something to get the attention of all tourists, including nature lovers, wildlife researchers, historical enthusiasts, and routine breakers.

Please share your thoughts in the comment section below, and let me know which activity sounds thrilling in Kratie.