The Unseen Cambodia: An unforgettable day in the countryside

The tour you see before you today was born as a result of the amazing hospitality of our host, Mr Sophean and the spontaneity of our local team. While on a recent visit to Kouk Doung Village, 16 km from Siem Reap, to learn and try our hands at traditional rice husking methods, we found ourselves having the most amazing unplanned day out in the village. There was nothing that prepared us for the richness of the experience at Kouk Doung. 

The idea of getting out of Siem Reap and into the countryside might not be appealing to most as the comfort and familiarity of the main town holds us back. However, there is a certain quintessential quality about exploring the Cambodian countryside - an experience few indulge in but one that surely everyone would find great appreciation for. Afterall, it is how most Cambodians live, in tight-knit farming communities as the one we found in Kouk Doung. We encourage everyone to get out into the countryside, if not this particular tour, try another, but go. And you will easily see why the charm and beauty of the countryside is as appealing as the rest of Cambodia's attractions. The best part is, you don't have to go far, a 30 minutes drive will get you well into the countryside. 

For this tour, we have an interesting itinerary prepared which guests can choose to customize. From learning about the significance of rice husking with a pestle to fishing and hunting crabs in the streams that water the fields, there is so much to do and see. You will have ample opportunities to interact with the locals and have tonnes of fun along the way. The host himself is an active community builder - having started a private school for underprivileged children and revived and introduced traditional rice husking methods to the community. He will delight as he shows you his village in this personal, intimate journey into the heart of the country. 

Itinerary (flexible) 

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Pickup from hotel and transfer to Kuok Doung 

9:30 AM - 10:20 AM: Traditional fishing and hunting crabs

10:30 AM-11:15 AM: Traditional rice husking activity

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM: Rice Farming/ Rice Harvesting (seasonal)

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch prepared at the host's house

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Tour the village to see local life

2: 15 PM - 2:45 PM: Transfer back to hotel

Note: Timing could vary if guests have a particular interest in a certain activity. The above schedule is simply a rough guide to the tour.