Kandal is the sea that surrounds Phnom Penh, miles of plains and rice paddies punctuated by awe-inspiring stupas, pagodas and even palaces. One of the most populous provinces in Cambodia, its capital, Ta Khmao, is only 5 miles (8 kilometers) south of Phnom Penh. Visit Kandal to travel between small towns and remote religious sites, with the capital a short drive away.
Explore the royal architecture of Udong, which served as the capital of Cambodia for almost 250 years until the middle of the19th century. Cross the Mekong River to appreciate the natural beauty of Koh Dach, or Silk Island, which features several secluded swimming spots that offer blessed relief on hot days. Stop at the Handicraft Center to buy silk cloth and garments produced by women working diligently across the island. Try culinary delights in the floating restaurants of Wat Kean Svay Krau.
Rent a car or hire a driver to explore the many remote religious sites that characterize the province. Brave the long wooden bridge that leads to the Angkor Chey Pagoda, which backs onto a hill that may have been inhabited by prehistoric people. Find villages and stupas amid beautiful natural surroundings at Phnom Edtharoes then see a different religious tradition at the Ta San Mosque, now mostly a ruin.
Kandal completely surrounds Phnom Penh, leading to extremely porous borders with the capital. In the middle of the city, Phnom Penh International Airport is the closest major airport, with easy taxi connections to most areas of the province as well as to Vietnam at its southern border. Buses provide connections between the major towns. The Koh Dach ferry runs regularly and transports cars as well. Renting a car or hiring a driver can be helpful for exploring the hinterlands.
Take a day to really relax in Kandal with a fishing expedition near Saang Phnom, a wooded hill that looks almost like an island during the rainy season.