Koh Dach (Silk Island)

Island in Phnom Penh

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Kent Kruhoeffer

Mekong Island, locally known as Koh Dach, offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh. Located about 15 km north of the city center, this serene destination is surrounded by lush rice paddies, vegetable farms, and fruit orchards, providing visitors with a glimpse of Cambodia’s idyllic rural life.

Discovering the Charm of Mekong Island

Koh Dach is a perfect spot for a day trip or picnic, offering a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Cambodia’s authentic culture. Spanning 10 hectares, it is a hub for traditional Cambodian handicrafts, with villagers skilled in silk weaving, pottery, woodcarving, and dyeing.

The island is renowned for its cohesive village communities that exemplify rural Cambodian life. Traditional stilt houses dot the landscape, and locals rely on agriculture, fishing, and silk weaving for their livelihood. A must-visit commune on the island is Koh Dach Village, often referred to as Cambodia’s silk weaving center. Here, you’ll find thousands of artisans producing exquisite silk fabrics beneath their elevated homes. Visitors can even try their hand at weaving on spinning wheels made from bicycle parts, and purchase silk products directly from the weavers.

Activities and Attractions

Koh Dach offers more than just handicrafts. The island is known for its fresh produce, including bananas, sesame, corn, and beans. Several pagodas, such as Ampor Phal, Kra Pumpich, and Sa Maki Kbal Koh, are scattered across the island, adding to its cultural appeal. During the summer, you can cool off by swimming at the island’s northern beach, a picturesque area lined with thatched picnic huts and food stalls.

Cycling through the island’s orchards and farmland is another enjoyable way to explore its beauty. For a memorable experience, don’t miss the sunset over the convergence of the Mekong, Tonle Bassac, and Tonle Sap rivers. Specialised boat cruises are available to capture this breathtaking view while enjoying Khmer snacks and scenic river vistas.

Getting to Mekong Island

The most scenic way to reach Koh Dach is by cruise boat from Sisowath Quay in Phnom Penh. The round trip takes about 2.5 hours and often includes visits to the island’s handicraft villages, sunset views, and refreshments. Alternatively, you can hire a tuk-tuk to the Japanese Bridge, where a ferry will take you across to the island.

The Koh Dach (Silk Island) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Phnom Penh!

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