Kratie

Kratie is one of Cambodia's eastern provinces with a smaller population that lives on the Mekong River's banks. Beyond the riverbanks is a rural location with practically no habitation and densely forested areas to let you relax. The provincial capital, Kratie, is likewise located on the banks of the famous Mekong River, which runs across the province from north to south.

A group of uncommon sweet water Irrawaddy dolphins may be found in the river near Kratie town. As a result, the dolphins are the province's and town's principal tourist attraction. The river also boasts hundreds of green islands and circular water, which draw tourists. Kratie village is peaceful yet lovely, with sandbars and large islands out front and river bends. Unlike in many other cities in Cambodia, the war years were rather kind to the French architecture and roadways in the town itself.

There are also nice-looking residences in French and Khmer styles dotted about, which adds to the pleasant atmosphere. There's also a lively market where you can see frogs being skinned (and escape first through the holes in the nets), try some excellent meals (like freshly grilled corn cakes), and generally, soak up rural Cambodian culture. The Mekong River, just north of Kratie, is home to the uncommon freshwater Irrawaddy dolphins. With just around 120 left, they are surely worth a visit.

Kratie is a good destination to spend a night or two if you are merely seeing the river villages along the Mekong or completing a complete circuit journey across the east and northeast. In the late afternoon and evening, the river scene of Kratie has a magnificent river boulevard with hundreds of food and drink booths, making this a good area to hang out and watch the folks parade past. Along the river, there are a few large concrete decks. The river road is ideal for a stroll or a jog. Take in the spectacular sunsets over the Mekong.