Tonlé Sap Lake: An Introduction
The Tonlé Sap is a unique, natural wonder of the world; for most of the year it is relatively small, however come the rainy season, the Tonlé Sap River reverses direction, flooding the lake and increasiong its size almost tenfold to become the largest freshwater lake in South-East Asia. Thanks to this, the Tonlé Sap is one of the most fish abundant lakes in the world and the sediment deposits left behind by the annual floods also create fertile ground for agriculture. It is no surprise that one of Asia’s greatest ancient civilisations developed near this lake and today much of Cambodia’s livelihood still depends on its output. There are a total of 360 floating villages on the lake, several of which can be visited on a day trip from Siem Reap. Along with the houses, will discover shops, schools, temples and even churches!
In early June as the annual rainy season commences the water level of the Mekong River rises substantially enough to divert part of its flow off its course into the ocean and redirect it into the Tonlé Sap River. By early November the water level has risen so much that a natural phenomenon occurs with the flow of the Tonlé Sap changing direction for a brief period of time! Each year at this time Cambodians celebrate the Bon Om Dteuk - 'Water Festival'.
Kampong Phluk
Siem Reap provides easy access to the Tonlé Sap which makes for a good day trip or just a few hours if preferred. One of the highlights is Kampong Phluk or the ‘flooded forest’. Easily packed into a morning, travel by local boat and pass amongst the tree-tops of this remarkable forest. Enjoy a swim or stay on board and sample local fruits or fish being sold by the local fishermen.
Kampong Phrak can only be visited between August and February due to water levels.
Travelling on the Tonlé Sap
Travelling by boat from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is a wonderful experience - the perfect opportunity to observe river life and to glimpse some Cambodian culture away from the big cities.
Cambodia's Great Lake - if the Mekong River is the 'lifeblood of South-East Asia' then the Tonlé Sap Lake is Cambodia's heart.