Kampong Cham City (pop 45,000)

Kampong Cham Province (pop 950,000)

Kingdom of Cambodia or Kampuchea (pop 15 million)

January 30, 2019

I visit two special sites in Central Cambodia. 

One ancient, for sure. 

One modern, sort of.

Prasat Kuh Nokor

Prasat Kuh Nokor is a Buddhist temple in the village of Trodoc Poung, Pong Ror Commune, Baray District, Kampong Thom Province, Cambodia.  It was built in 10th -11th century by King Suryavarman I.  It is part of the pagoda Wat Kuh Nokor.

The temple is made of black laterite stone.  I love the tactile nature of the rough bricks as I run my hand across the ancient pitted surface.  The few surviving 1000-year-old carvings are attractive and intriguing.

A school is located on the grounds of the Pagoda.  As always in Cambodia, the children are curious yet friendly, and oh so charming.

The Bamboo Bridge

This unique bamboo bridge is located at Kampung Cham city, about 125km (78 mi) from Phnom Penh.  It is currently used by pedestrians and connects to the Koh Pen Island.

Annual repair is carried out during the dry season as a result of the damage done by the high tide of the Mekong.  Repairs are in progress now as I slowly (and carefully) make my way along the wooden path while the deceptively calm current runs below.

This 1-km long bridge is rather strong and stable.  Walking across the bamboo slats produces a “crunchy” sound - indeed a unique experience.

I stroll just above the water, about as close as I can get without swimming.

The Bamboo Bridge and the Prasat Kuh Nokor are well worth the visit in Central Cambodia. 

The Temple … mysterious.

The Bridge … fun!