Cambodia - Tonlé Sap Lake
Cambodia Information
Capital: Phnom Penh
Major language: Khmer
Population: 13.7 million (UN 2006)
Head of state: King Norodom Sihamoni
Currency: Riel
Major Religion: Buddhism
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Its boundaries extend anywhere from 20 – 50km and its depths increase from
a mere two metres to as deep as 10. The Tonlé Sap is one of the most fish
abundant lakes in the world and the sediment deposits left behind by the annual
floods have also created 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. So dependent
are Cambodians on the great lake that the government vigorously enforces fishing
bans from March to November.
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 Phrak
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 in our opinion is Kampong
Phrak 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.