Stung Treng Province

Stung Treng Province is located in the northeastern part of the Kingdom of Cambodia, approximately 455 km from Phnom Penh, which borders: To North, East, South and West with Laos, Ratanakiri,​ Kampong Thom, Kratié p, and Preah Vihear provinces, respectively. Stung Treng is covered 12,016 square kilometers. Its location along the border with Laos and proximity to the Mekong River make it a key transit point between Cambodia and Laos. The province’s capital, Stung Treng town, sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Sekong rivers.

Regarding Stung Treng Province, some documents indicate that Stung Treng Province was originally called Sa Teung Teng (សាទឹងទែង). This name​ was founded by a monk named Seang Peng from Vientiane whom had significant influence and power over the area. For the above reasons, he was appointed as the ruler the territory (provincial governor) of Sa Teung Teng by the Khmer king at that time. When Mr. Peng became the provincial governor and had the title of Oknha Peng, he always brought tribute to the King of Cambodia every year. After three years, Mr. Peng escaped from Khmer rule and lived in Vern Sai district, which is currently in Ratanakiri province, bordering Laos. After that, the King of Cambodia also promoted the title of provincial governor to Mr. Peng’s younger brother and then gave it to his son, who was named Chea Peng Nha Sam. Chea Peng Nha Sam, after ruling the province for a short time, conspired with his people to seek refuge in the rule of the Siamese king. Then, Siam appointed him as the Ruler of Mueang Xiang Taeng. Therefore, the word Sa Teng Teng was changed to Xiang Taeng. According to the Lao language, the word Xiang means a monk who has left the precepts (Xiang means Anthit). Taeng in Lao means to build. Over the years, our Khmer people called Xiang Taeng and became Stung Treng. The Khmer word Stung Treng means a region with a river of reeds.

Stung Treng is divided into 5 administrative districts and 1 municipality, Stung Treng City. The province has one international checkpoint called Trar Paing Kriel. With over 165,000 people, the province is Cambodia’s eighth largest area and 21^st in populations. Today, Stung Treng retains a rich cultural legacy with a mix of Khmer, Lao, and indigenous groups such as the Phnong, Tampuan, and Kuy. These communities maintain distinct traditions, languages, and customs that contribute to the province’s diverse identity. Stung Treng’s history reflects a resilient spirit, shaped by centuries of external influence and internal resilience, and its heritage is celebrated in local festivals, handicrafts, and religious practices.

History

Stung Treng Province, located in northeastern Cambodia along the Mekong River and close to the Laos border, has a long and complex history shaped by its geography and cultural significance. The province has long been a crossroads for various civilizations and trade routes, contributing to its cultural diversity and historical depth.

Pre-History or Early History Period

Stung Treng’s earliest history likely dates back to pre-Angkor times when the region was influenced by the Funan and Chenla kingdoms, ancient civilizations that controlled much of the Mekong River region.

During the Funan period, the province was only part of the northern part of the Kingdom. This according to record of Chinese Sailors at that time defined the territory of the Kingdom from Sopheakmith Rapid or Lbak Khoun Rapid to the Gulf of Thailand as the territory of Funan Kingdom. During this time, the province was in the territory of Sambopura (City of Scholars), one of many regions that were subordinate to the Funan Kingdom. Sambopura often fought with the Vyadhapura (City of Mountain Hunters). In the 5^th century, the King of Vyadhapura fought a war to unite the two regions and continued to conquer other regions in the entire Funan Kingdom, transforming the territory into the Chenla Kingdom in 550.

During the Chenla Period, the location of Stung Treng was an area with many temples and shrines, and evidence of nearly 100 temple foundations has been found present-day. However, due to age and war, only the Preah Ko or Srei temple remains in its original structure in Thala Barivat district. When the Chenla Kingdom was divided into two, the location of Stung Treng province was located within the land Chenla Kingdom. Later, the two Chenla Kingdoms were reunited in the late 900 A.D. by King Rajendravarman and moved the city to Mahendraparvata (on the slope of Phnom Kulen Mountain in Siem Reap province). The influence of the Khmer Empire, especially during the Angkor period (9th–15th centuries), is evident in the temples and infrastructure left behind, although less preserved than those around Angkor Wat. This period marked significant expansion for the Khmer, with Stung Treng serving as a strategic point for controlling the northern territories.

Post-Angkor Period

After the collapse of the Angkor Empire, the Chatumuk period began. And the location of this northeastern province was under the rule of several Cambodian kings. During that period, Cambodia experienced frequent royal conquests and civil wars.

In 1594, during the downfall of Longvek Kingdom, the location of Stung Treng province is recorded as the location where the Khmer King Preah Sattha I brought his reigning son, Preah Chey Chetha I, to escape the pursuit of Preah Reamea Cheung Prei and remained there until his death. On the other hand, this province was the location where Preah Chao Nhea Tan lived before he ascended the throne in the capital of Srei Santhor in 1596. In later periods, the province was often invaded by Lao and later Siam, causing the province to remain a vassal territory of these countries. Laotian and Siamese troops invaded northern Cambodia and took control of Stung Treng province till Kampong Cham province along the Mekong River. Later, the Khmer army fought back the Siamese and Laotian troops. The war repeatedly invading and occupying the territory of Stung Treng province, then the province was the vassal of Champasak Kingdom and later Siam Kingdom (in the late 18^th century). From the 14th to 18th centuries, this province was heavily influenced by the Lao kingdom of Lan Xang and the Lao kingdom of Champasak, which controlled territories across present-day Laos and parts of Cambodia. The Mekong River was an important artery for trade, religion, and politics, leading to cultural exchanges between the Lao and Khmer populations in the region. Lao influence is still present in some aspects of local customs and language today.

In 1814, the Siamese army invaded the Khmer kingdom again, taking control of the provinces of Mlou Prey and Tonle L’pov and annexing Stung Treng province to Siam. At that time, the King of Cambodia severed ties with Laos because Stung Treng province was under Siamese control. There is a record that at that time the Vietnamese also invaded Stung Treng province, but were defeated by the Siamese. From the late 18th to the 19th century, this province became a contested region between Siam (now Thailand) and Vietnam. During this period, both countries vied for control over Cambodia, including its northern provinces. Stung Treng, due to its strategic location, saw influence from both sides and occasionally shifted allegiances, a pattern that continued until the French colonized Cambodia.

Colonial Period

In 1863, the French came to Cambodia to serve as a medical center. In 1864, Siam signed a treaty with the French and Cambodian governments. Siam agreed to return the areas of Tonle L’ Pov, Mlou Prey, Stung Treng, and Siem Pang to Cambodia. In 1876, Siam took control of the areas it had ceded. At that time, King Sisowath defeated the Siamese army with the help of France. In 1873, France forced Siam to return some of the Cambodian territory it had gained, such as Stung Treng province. On October 13, 1893, Siam signed a treaty that ceded the provinces it controlled along the Mekong River to France for continued control. After the Franco-Siamese crisis of 1893, Stung Treng was administered by French Lower Laos from 1893 to 1904. In 1904 French Laos traded the province to the French Protectorate of Cambodia in exchange for Champassak, leaving a small Laotian minority in Cambodia. Siam only ceded the Mlou Prey and Tonle L’ Pov according to the French treaty dated February 13, 1904. Then, a French treaty dated December 6, 1914, returned Stung Treng Province to the Kingdom of Cambodia. Stung Treng Province was then reorganized into two administrative provinces, Stung Treng Province and Mol Mok “ខេត្តមូលមោក” Province (present-day Vern Sai District, Ratanakiri Province). In the late 19th century, Cambodia became a French protectorate, and Stung Treng came under direct colonial administration. The French viewed the province as an important part of their strategy to control the Mekong River and establish trade routes through Indochina. They invested in limited infrastructure, and Stung Treng served as an administrative post. During this period, the local economy relied on trade, forestry, and fishing. Stueng Treng Province during the reign of King Sisowath Monivong (1927-1941), was divided into the following districts and regions:

• Chao Vai Khet “ចៅហ្វាយខេត្ត” (Provincial Governor): Oknha Muntrei Chol’ Thear Keam Varin Hintha Rath Vadha Sakda Roeung Rith Udomkrampahu “ឧកញ៉ា​មន្ត្រីជលធារគាមវារិន្ទហិន្ធរ​រដ្ឋវឌ្ឍសក្ដារឿងឫទ្ធិ​ឧត្ដមក្រមពាហុ”
• Phu Chuy Khet “ភូឈួយខេត្ត” (Vice Provincial Governor): Chok Sak Sena “ជកសក្តិសេនា”
• Ballat Khet “បាឡាត់ខេត្ត”: Sena Chol’Thi “សេនាជលធី”
• Chao Vai Srok Stueng Treng “ចៅហ្វាយស្រុកស្ទឹងត្រែង” (Governor of Stueng Treng District): Reachea Chol’ Thi “រាជាជលធី”
• Chao Dambon Siem Bouk “ចៅតំបន់សៀមបូក” (Governor of Siem Bouk Region): Pheak Soriya “ភក្ដិសុរិយា”
• Chao Dambon Siem Pang “ចៅតំបន់សៀមប៉ាង” (Governor of Siem Pang Region): Raksa Pol Khan “រក្សាពលខន្ធ”
• Chao Dambon Lomphat “ចៅតំបន់លំផាត់” (Governor of Lomphat Region): Lomphat Sena “លំផាត់សេនា”
• Chao Vai Srok Vouen Sai “ចៅហ្វាយស្រុកវ៉ឺនសៃ” (Governor of Vouen Sai District): Aranh Roeung Rithy Sithi Sangkream “អរញ្ញរឿងឫទ្ធិសិទ្ធីសង្គ្រាម”
• Ballat Srok Vouen Sai “បាឡាត់ស្រុកវ៉ឺនសៃ” (Ballat of Vouen Sai District): Vouen Sai Borirak “វិនសៃបរិរក្ស”

Independence and Conflict Period

Following Cambodia’s independence in 1953, Stung Treng, like much of Cambodia, faced significant turmoil. Because of its border location and forested mountains in the northeast, the province was a hub of communist rebel activity—and a target for US bombings in the 1960s and 1970s. The insurgency continued from the Vietnamese infiltration in the 1950s to the late Khmer Rouge years. During the Cambodian Civil War (1970–1975) and the Khmer Rouge regime (1975–1979), the province suffered devastation. Many people were displaced, and much of the infrastructure was destroyed. The Khmer Rouge’s control left a lasting impact, with Stung Treng experiencing violence, forced labor, and hardship.

Modern Day

In the years following the Khmer Rouge era, Stung Treng began a slow process of recovery. In recent decades, the province has focused on rebuilding and developing its economy, largely centered on agriculture, fishing, and more recently, ecotourism. The Mekong River and its surrounding natural beauty have attracted interest for sustainable tourism, with efforts to protect its unique biodiversity, including rare freshwater dolphins and endangered fish species.

Dignitaries who were former governors of Stueng Treng since 1979

There were 12 Governors of Stueng Treng Province from 1979-Present, including:

1. H.E. Kham Sanith (ឯកឧត្តម ខាំ សានិត) served as Chairman of Provincial People’s Revolutionary Committee 1979-1980
2. H.E. Thong Bai (ឯកឧត្តម ថង បៃ) served as Chairman of Provincial People’s Revolutionary Committee 1980-1983
3. H.E. Veng Khoun (ឯកឧត្តម វេង ឃួន) served as Chairman of Provincial People’s Revolutionary Committee 1983-1988
4. H.E. Sika Bunheng (ឯកឧត្តម ស៊ីកា ប៊ុនហេង) served as Chairman of Provincial People’s Revolutionary Committee 1988-1991
5. H.E. Soam Sopha (ឯកឧត្តម សោម សុផា) served as Chairman of Provincial People’s Revolutionary Committee 1991-1993
6. H.E. Ly Sou (ឯកឧត្តម លី ស៊ូ) served as provincial governor from 1993-1998
7. H.E. Chhim Chhorn (ឯកឧត្តម ឈឹម ឈន) 1998-2003
8. H.E. Khim Sela (ឯកឧត្តម ឃឹម សិលា) 2003-2006
9. H.E. Loy Sophath (ឯកឧត្តម ឡូយ សុផាត) 2006-2013
10. H.E. Kol Sam Ol (ឯកឧត្តម កុល សំអុល) 2013-2015
11. H.E. Mom Saroeun (ឯកឧត្តម ម៉ុម សារឿន) 2015-2021
12. H.E. Svay Sam Ang (ឯកឧត្តម ស្វាយ សំអ៊ាង) 2021-2024
13. H.E. Sor Soputra (ឯកឧត្តម សរ​ សុពុ​ត្រា) 2024-Present

Geography

Stung Treng Province is located in northeastern Cambodia and is known for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and proximity to the Mekong River, which runs through much of the province. This region is characterized by a mix of riverine and forested areas, along with wetlands, islands, and fertile lowlands that support a range of ecosystems and wildlife.

Topography: Stung Treng, a province in northeastern Cambodia, has a varied topography characterized by rivers, forests, and low-lying areas along the Mekong River. The Mekong is a dominant geographical feature, running through Stung Treng and creating fertile floodplains. The river widens here, forming small islands, wetlands, and providing crucial resources for local communities. The province is marked by floodplains and seasonal wetlands, especially near the Mekong River. These areas support diverse ecosystems and are important for agriculture, fishing, and biodiversity conservation. The northeastern and eastern parts of the province contain dense forests, which are part of the larger tropical forest region of Cambodia. These areas are rich in flora and fauna and have lower population densities. While Stung Treng is largely low-lying, the eastern regions near the border with Laos and Vietnam have gentle hills and higher elevations, though they are not mountainous compared to western Cambodia. The soils in Stung Treng vary from sandy along riverbanks to loamier in forested areas, supporting agriculture, especially rice and cassava cultivation. This combination of riverine landscapes, forests, and agricultural plains defines Stung Treng’s unique topography and natural resources.

Water Bodies: Stung Treng is dominated by the Mekong River, which flows from Laos into Cambodia, providing vital water resources, transportation routes, and a base for fishing and agriculture. Additionally, One of the Mekong’s major tributaries, the Sekong river flows from the eastern highlands of Laos into Stung Treng, meeting the Mekong near Stung Treng town. Sesan and Srepok Rivers, originating in the highlands of Vietnam, also flow into the Mekong within Stung Treng, creating a rich river network that supports diverse aquatic life. These rivers form a vital part of the province’s economy and culture, serving as a resource for local communities and home to rare species, including the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin.

Climate: Stung Treng experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with a distinct rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. The annual rainfall can exceed 2,000 mm, with temperatures averaging between 25-30°C. The river levels fluctuate significantly with the seasons, impacting agriculture and transportation but also enhancing soil fertility and supporting the aquatic ecosystem.

Natural Resources, Vegetation and Land Use: Stung Treng’s landscapes are rich in forest cover, including dense tropical rainforests and seasonal deciduous forests. The province is part of the larger Mekong River Basin and the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, making it an area of global conservation importance. Some notable protected areas include:

• Vireakchey National Park​ is covered an area of 405,766 hectare, sharing with Ratanakiri province. Although primarily in neighboring Ratanakiri, this national park extends into Stung Treng and is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare mammals like the clouded leopard and various primate species.
• Vern Sai-Siem Pang National Park​ is covered an area of 280,359 hectare, sharing with Ratanakiri province.
• Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary is covered an area of 356,087 hectares, sharing with Ratanakiri, Mondulkiri, and Kratié.
• Prey Lang Wildlife Sanctuary is covered an area of 489,663 hectares, sharing with Kratié, Kampong Thom, and Preah Vihear.
• Siem Pang Wildlife Sanctuary is covered an area of 133,707.7 hectares.
• Chhaeb-Preah Roka Wildlife Sanctuary is covered an area of 347,568 hectares, sharing Preah Vihear.
• Stung Treng Protected Landscape is covered an area of 37,852 hectares.
• Stung Treng Ramsar/Wetlands is covered an area of 14,600 hectares. Recognized as a Ramsar site for its ecological significance, this wetland area along the Mekong provides habitats for numerous fish, bird, and plant species, some of which are endangered.

Most of Stung Treng’s population lives in rural communities along the Mekong and its tributaries, relying on subsistence agriculture, fishing, and forestry. The capital, Stung Treng town, is the largest settlement and serves as the administrative and economic center. The province’s fertile land supports rice paddies, fruit orchards, and rubber plantations, while recent years have also seen growth in tourism centered around the natural landscapes. The province faces environmental challenges, including deforestation, illegal fishing, and the impact of upstream hydropower dams on the Mekong, which affect water levels, fish migration, and local livelihoods. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect its biodiversity, preserve fish stocks, and develop sustainable tourism.

Administrative divisions

As of 2024, the province is divided into 1 municipality (Krong) and 05 districts (Srok), 04 Sangkat and 30 communes (Khum), and 137 villages. Based on Population Census of 2019, the total population is 165,713 people (female 81,319), the number of households is 34,627 households, and the density is 15 people/km². Stueng Treng municipality is the seat of government, commonly known Krong Stueng Treng or Stueng Treng City.

1. Stueng Treng Municipality (04 Sangkat)
2. Sésan District (07 Khum)
3. Siem Bouk District (07 Khum)
4. Siem Pang District (05 Khum)
5. Thala Boriwat District (08 Khum)
6. Borei O Svay Senchey District (03 Khum)

The provincial symbol is decaled by Ministry of Interior via a Prakas No.2108 BrK dated 1 April 2019 on the Establishment of Stueng Treng Province Symbol. In this symbol, there are​images, such as:​ temple image, Rice Husk image, Palm Trees image, Mountain image, River image, Water Rapid image, Irrawaddy Dolphins image, Fish image, the ribbon below has the written letters of Stung Treng Province in Khmer Letter with dark red background.

Accessibility

• Road: The main road through Strung Treng is National Road 7 (455 kilometers) which starts in Phnom Penh.
• Waterway: The province also has three major rivers: the Sekong, Sesan, and Mekong, with hundreds of small islands distributed throughout the river stretch in Stung Treng.
• Airway: Stung Treng Airport is an airport serving Stung Treng. The airport was closed in 2003, but there’s helipad that is still in use today. The airport is 200 feet (61 m) above mean sea level. The runway 02/20 has an asphalt surface measuring 1,300 by 20 meters (4,265 ft × 66 ft).

Tourism Products

Stung Treng Province, with its unique combination of natural landscapes, river ecosystems, and cultural diversity, has become an emerging destination for ecotourism and cultural exploration in Cambodia. Here’s an overview of some key tourism resources in the province:

Ba Daem Temple “ប្រាសាទបាដឺម” ៖ was built by King Jayavarman I, during the 7th century and is dedicated to Hinduism. It is made of brick and laterite. Because of its age and location, it is hard to manage and maintain the temple. The temple was ruined and collapsed for a long time, and there are only thousands of pieces of stone left in this area. The Ba Daem Temple is located along the Sesan River near Wat Chedi Yaram, in Kamphun commune of Sesan district. It is worth noting that the pagodas in this area are in the Lao style, smaller than the Khmer pagodas. Ba Daem is a Lao word meaning father, which corresponds to the word Ba Daem. On the banks of the Mekong River, there was also a temple called Bajong, but unfortunately Bajong has been washed away into the river. The Ba Daem Temple is no different from other temples in the vicinity, built in the 7th century. The temple is completely destroyed, with only the walls and some pillars remaining on the ground. It is located about 20 kilometers from Stung Treng city.

Prasat Ba Kou or Ba Kou Temple (ប្រាសាទបាគូ)៖ it is a historical attraction site which can attract both national and international tourists to visit like other sites. It is one of the oldest of the ruined temples in Stung Treng Province, which may have been built during the 6th-7th centuries to be dedicated to Hinduism. Most of the structures are made of bricks mixed with sandstone. Only a few decorative pieces remain. One of the remaining objects is two large black stone blocks and another large stone block, 1 meter in diameter and 1 meter deep, called the “ancient well”, which is really cold and never dry. The people living in the area believe that the water in this ancient well can bring good luck and health. It is located about 5 kilometers from Ba Deum temple in Kamphun commune of Sesan district.

Phnom Prasat Temple “ប្រាសាទភ្នំប្រាសាទ” ៖ An ancient temple is located in Anlong Svay village, O Rai commune, Thala Barivat district, Stung Treng province, which the villagers call Phnom Prasat. Situated on the Anlong Svay hill, about 70 meters high, this ancient temple is in a dilapidated state, which buried in the ground and has some decorations made of sandstone, and only a wall about 3 meters high. This ancient temple has a foundation of brick and laterite, which is an ancient temple built in the late of 6th and the early of 7th centuries, depending on the style of the decoration.

Pram Boun L’veng or Pram Bei L’veng temple “ប្រាសាទប្រាំបួនល្វែង ឬប្រាសាទប្រាំបីល្វែង” ៖Located about 6 kilometers from Stung Treng downtown, this temple was built by King Jayavarman I in the 6th-7th century to be dedicated to Hinduism, and the temple is mostly built of bricks mixed with sandstone. The temple is located in a forest area about 2 kilometers south of Preah Ko Temple, which is in a state of almost total ruined. Due to more than three decades of war, neglect of maintenance, further destruction of nature, and the destructive excavations of some unscrupulous people in search of valuable artifacts. At present, the entire temple is nothing left except a few lintels and the foundation. There is a beautiful lintel with a carved image of Rahu (Rahu is the god of time in Khmer culture and tradition) standing on the spire of the temple gate, and a large number of lintels have fallen and broken. Now only trees and bamboos have grown up, covering the entire temple.

Preah Ko Temple or Srei Temple (ប្រាសាទព្រះគោ ឬប្រាសាទស្រី) ៖ it is a historical attraction site which is located in Thala Barivat village, Thala Barivat commune of Thala Barivat district, about 300 meters of the Mekong’s River west bank or 12 kilometers from newly roundabout. This temple is the only temple that has preserved a large part of its appearance in Stung Treng province. This temple was built in the late 6th and early 7th centuries, made of sandstone, laterite and red brick. Preah Ko Temple has a tower 7 meters high, 9 meters long and 8 meters wide. In front of this temple about 10 meters, there is a statue of a cow, which is a sacred place for people to pray for good luck. Every year, villagers hold a temple ritual in March or early Khmer New Year and various folk games (Veay Khel Game of Kouy ethnic group). This is according to a report by the Department of Culture and Fine Arts of Stung Treng province. Nowadays, this temple is in a dilapidated state because of its age, natural factor and human factor.

Preah Theat or Phnom Theat Temple (ប្រាសាទព្រះធាតុ ឬភ្នំធាតុ) ៖ is a historical attraction site located in the uplands of Stung Treng Province. This temple has become a worshiping place for local people and tourists. It is an important part of the history of Stung Treng Province. It was built in the late of 6th century A.D by King Jayavarman I and dedicated to the Hinduism. Nowadays, there are a lot of tourists visiting this temple.

Koh Meas “កោះមាស”៖ Located in Kamphun village, Kamphun commune of Sesan district, it is a natural attraction site located along the Sesan River, about 16 kilometers from Stung Treng city and just only 300 meters from Sesan district hall. It has a beautiful natural landscape, a large area of water that allows tourists to ride boats and view the landscape, as well as watch birds along the river. This island has been attracting a lot of national and international tourists to visit because of its beautiful views.

Koh Han “កោះហាន”៖ it is natural paradise place in the Ramsar site of the Upper Mekong River in Stung Treng Province. It is located on an island in Koh Snaeng commune​ of Borei O Svay Sen Chey district, where we can access through crossing the Sekong Bridge on the National Road 7 from Stung Treng city, about 24 kilometers, to stop at community pier, and continue by boat to the island. The island is about 70 meters wide and about 100 meters long, and has a beautiful sandy beach that is worth visiting. From November to February time, the scenic area is really beautiful with white sand beaches, the green flooded forest, crystal clear water and the sunset and sunrise view. The beach is in a tiered shape and has small trees growing in bush that provide shade and shelter, and it is possible to pitch tents and organize various events. The river water is azure blue, with gentle currents and shallow depths, making it ideal for swimming. On this island, visitor can also watch the beautiful sunset in the evening and sunrise in the morning, and can see many types of water birds and watch the fishing activities of the community. Moreover, there are also some crops grown by the community, such as watermelons, which they keep for eating and selling at the market.

Koh Preah “កោះព្រះ”៖ it is a natural site that has attracted a lot of tourists to visit, located Koh Preah village, Koh Preah commune of Siem Bouk district.​ This island situated in the middle of the Mekong River, about 35 kilometers from the provincial capital. It has an area of 12 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide and has a population of over 1,500 people, equivalent to 149 families.

L’Ngor Island “កោះល្ង”៖ it is an island in the middle of the Mekong River, located in Koh L’ngor village, Preah Rumkel commune of Thala Barivat district, Stung Treng province. It is about 50 kilometers north of Stung Treng provincial capital, near the Lao border, divided by the Mekong River. To reach this site, one must travel from Stung Treng town along a paved road for about 30 kilometers, and then continue on a red dirt road for about 20 kilometers. This island is elongated, strechign along the Mekong River, with an area of about 2 square kilometers. The island is adjacent to Koh Chheu Teal Toch and Koh Cheu Teal Thom.  

Neak Khiev Mountain “ភ្នំនាគខៀវ”៖ In the area of Phnom Chap Phlerng also known as Phnom Neak Khiev is a cultural and natural attraction site with a beautiful landscape, charming forest and a mountain. The mountain area has statues of white elephants with blue ivory, elephants with three thousand bells, large rock caves showing evidence of early human habitation, all kinds of large trees, etc., which are valuable natural resources. This resource is a sign that the Phnom Neak Khiev area was a place where people lived habitation since the Funan era, in the 1st century between 550 and 802 AD. Along National Road No. 9, approximately 60 kilometers from the provincial capital of Stung Treng to Sralao village, Anlong Chrey commune, Thala Parivat district, if you look to the right, you will see a high mountain. This is the Neak Khiev Mountain, which the public believes has spiritual powers. Tourist will feel good by breathing fresh air, listening to the sound of birds and viewing the fantastic view of the natural forest. 

O Chralang or O Veng Stream “ទឹកហូរអូរច្រឡង ឬទឺកហូរអូរវែង”៖ is an unspoiled natural attraction site that has not known by many visitors. Because it is located in the forest, the area does not yet have an easy access road, requiring a 2,700-meter journey from village through the forest. The place provides a calm atmosphere with flowing water (there is only 1 kilometers of swimmable area), many kinds of birds, and surrounding lush green forest. Visiting this place and tourist can come to relieve their stress. It is located in O Chralang village, O Mreah commune of Siem Bouk district.

Phnom Prak Cave (ល្អាងភ្នំប្រាក់)៖ it is located at the foot of Phnom Prak, about 18 kilometers from O Svay commune. It is a historical cave located in the middle of a community. To reach this cave, tourists must travel by boat along a tributary of the Mekong River for about an hour to reach Vern Sai village, then continue on foot or ride a horse-drawn carriage into the forest for another 3 kilometers. It is located in a mountainous area with both rock caves and tens of hectares of forest that can be a great camping site. It attracts a lot of tourists to visit. This cave is hundreds of meters in length and it is shaped like a snake tail.

Anlong Cheuteal Dolphin Pool (តំបន់ទេសចរណ៍អន្លង់ផ្សោតឈើទាល)៖ Located near the border with Laos, the Anlong Cheuteal Dolphin Pool is one of the last habitats of the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in Cambodia. It is about 69 kilometers from the provincial capital. When you reach the mouth of the Mekong River at Preah Rumkel, on the other side of the river is Koh Sadam, Champasak district, Laos, while the island on the right-hand side, called “Koh L’Ngor”, is a Cambodian island, and the people there also speak a lot of Lao. Moreover, there is an ecotourism site called Preah Rumkel Community-based Ecotourism. There are many Irrawaddy Dolphins living in this area. Besides that, there are also beautiful landscapes, lush green nature, fresh air, a waterfall and a mountain.

O’Svay Community-Based Ecotourism Site៖ Located about 40 km from Stung Treng town, O’Savy Community-Based Ecotourism is one of the well-known ecotourism sites that national and international tourists often visit. This place is a part of the Ramsar area that has many Irrawaddy river dolphins. O’Svay offers a community-led ecotourism experience where visitors can stay in local homestays, enjoy traditional meals, and participate in cultural activities like craft-making and cooking classes. The surrounding area offers nature trails, birdwatching, and forest walks, providing a unique opportunity to experience the region’s natural and cultural heritage. It is located O’Svay village, O’Svay commune of Thala Barivat district.

Sopheakmit Rapid (ទឹកធ្លាក់សុភក្រមិត្ត ឬល្បាក់ខោន) ៖ This giant rock waterfall has three names that locals call it: Sopheakmit Waterfall, L’Bak Khaon Waterfall, or Preah Nimit Waterfall. But the most popular name is L’Bak Khaon Waterfall. It is located in Cambodia, bordering Laos. It is an area where the Mekong River flows down from the plateau and falls into the Mekong River in Cambodia. L’Bak Khaon Waterfall or Sopeakmit Waterfall is located in Preah Rumkel commune, Thala Barivat district, which is approximately 80 kilometers from Stung Treng province, and in Kampong Sralao village, Chhaeb district, which is more than 100 kilometers from Preah Vihear province.

Vireakchey National Park (តំបន់ឧទ្យានជាតិវីរៈជ័យ)៖ Although mostly in neighboring Ratanakiri Province, Vireakchey National Park’s borders extend into Stung Treng, offering a range of trekking and ecotourism opportunities. The park is one of Cambodia’s largest protected areas, known for its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including gibbons, hornbills, and wild cats. Multi-day treks led by local guides allow visitors to explore remote trails, wildlife habitats, and scenic viewpoints.

Phnom Chhngouk (ភ្នំឈ្ងោក)៖ Everyone has heard of Phnom Chhngouk in Kampot province, but in Stung Treng province, there is also Phnom Chhngouk. While their appearances are quite similar as they were the underwater mountains in the past. However, Phnom Chhngouk in Stung Treng province is rich in many tourist attractions, all of which are connected to nature. The mountain is under the protection of the Phnom Chhngouk Community-Based Ecotourism, located in Chwang commune of Thala Barivat district, about 30 kilometers from the provincial capital.

Other Activities

• Mekong River and Islands: The Mekong River offers scenic boat cruises and kayaking opportunities, allowing visitors to explore its tranquil beauty and observe local fishing villages along its banks. The river is especially beautiful around sunset, with views of the surrounding landscapes and wildlife. During the dry season, various islands and sandbars emerge in the river, creating unique spots for picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring. Some islands are accessible from Stung Treng town and are popular for relaxation and sightseeing.
• Guided Treks and Wildlife Spotting: Although the majority of Vireakchey National Park is in neighboring Ratanakiri, parts of the park extend into Stung Treng. The park is known for its lush rainforests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including gibbons, leopards, and hornbills. Visitors can embark on multi-day treks into the park, exploring remote trails, waterfalls, and mountain viewpoints. Several tour operators offer eco-trekking experiences with local guides, often from indigenous communities, who can share their knowledge of the flora, fauna, and traditional forest uses.
• Cultural Experiences and Handicrafts: Stung Treng Women’s Development Center supports local women artisans in producing traditional silk weaving and handicrafts. Tourists can visit the center to watch the weaving process, learn about traditional Cambodian textiles, and purchase locally made souvenirs.
• Cycling Routes along the Mekong: Stung Treng offers beautiful cycling routes that take visitors through rural landscapes, riverside villages, and scenic stretches along the Mekong River. Cycling is a popular way to see the countryside, interact with locals, and experience the natural beauty of the province at a leisurely pace.
• Local Festivals and Cultural Events: Celebrated in Stung Treng as throughout Cambodia, the Water Festival in November brings vibrant boat races and festivities to the Mekong, marking the end of the rainy season. It’s a lively event with traditional music, dance, and local food, giving visitors a chance to experience Khmer culture firsthand. Another important cultural event, Pchum Ben is celebrated in pagodas across the province, where locals honor their ancestors. Visitors can witness traditional ceremonies, offerings, and religious practices associated with this festival.
• Fishing Villages and Local Life on the Mekong: Stung Treng’s riverside villages give visitors a unique look at the daily lives of local communities who rely on the river for fishing, farming, and transportation. Tours to these villages often include meeting with local fishers, learning traditional fishing techniques, and seeing fish farms that support the local economy.
• Boat Tour: Tour operators offer boat tours through the wetlands, where visitors can experience the diversity of flora and fauna up close. The best time for these tours is during the wet season when water levels are higher, creating more channels and passages through the wetland area.

Stung Treng has a diverse array of tourism service providers that cater to the needs of visitors, offering everything from guided tours and transportation to accommodation and dining. Below is an overview of the main types of tourism service providers in the province:

Accommodation: Eco-lodges and Homestays, various eco-lodges and homestays offer comfortable accommodations while promoting sustainable tourism practices. Staying with local families provides an authentic cultural experience. Resorts and Guesthouses: A range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to more upscale resorts, are available in Stung Treng city and other parts of the province. There are 5 places of resorts, hotels, Bungalows, equally 185 rooms and Guesthouse is 27 places (337 rooms).

Restaurants and Eateries: Local Restaurants and Cafés offer a variety of Cambodian dishes, including regional specialties. Moreover, Street Food offers an authentic way to experience local cuisine, with vendors selling snacks and meals at markets and along the streets.

Transportation Services: Several bus companies operate services from Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and other major cities to Stung Treng city. The journey typically takes around 6-7 hours from Phnom Penh and about 5 hours from Siem Reap, depending on road conditions. Renting a car or hiring a taxi can offer more flexibility and comfort. The road conditions vary, but significant improvements have been made in recent years. Local transport options include tuk-tuks, motorbike rentals, and buses, making it easier for visitors to explore the region. Once in Stung Treng city, local tuk-tuks and motorbike rentals are available for exploring the province and accessing tourist attractions. Shared taxis or minivans can be a convenient way to travel between towns and attractions within the province. Some roads, especially during the rainy season, may be less accessible, leading to potential delays or detours. It’s advisable to check local conditions and plan accordingly. While province has basic amenities, more remote areas may have limited facilities, so it’s important to be prepared for a more rustic travel experience.

These tourism resources in provide a mix of ecotourism, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure, making the province ideal for visitors interested in sustainable travel and natural beauty. With its untamed rivers, rich wetlands, and friendly communities, province continues to grow as a destination for travelers looking to experience Cambodia’s quieter, less-traveled side.

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