Siem Reap to Kampong Cham: Bus | Prices & Schedules

There are 1 way(s) to get from Siem Reap to Kampong Cham

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Siem Reap

📍In Siem Reap, most buses to Kompong Cham depart from the Siem Reap Giant Ibis Bus Terminal. It's a modern and well-organized terminal, often used by major operators like Giant Ibis and Virak Buntham. You'll find ticket counters, waiting areas, and often small shops for refreshments.

🚇The Giant Ibis Bus Terminal is located a short distance outside the city center, typically a 10-15 minute tuk-tuk ride. Expect to pay around $3-$5 USD for a tuk-tuk from Pub Street or the old market area. Negotiate the price with your driver beforehand.

⏰Buses from Siem Reap to Kompong Cham typically depart multiple times a day, with services starting in the early morning (around 7-8 AM) and continuing until mid-afternoon. Check specific operator schedules for precise timings.

Practical tips

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Book in Advance, Especially for Popular Routes

While you can often buy tickets on the day, booking online a day or two ahead, especially through platforms like 12go.asia, ensures you get your preferred seat and avoid sold-out buses. It also helps you lock in the price and avoid last-minute touts.

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Verify Departure Points

Bus terminals can sometimes be a bit out of the city center. Always double-check the exact departure location on your ticket or booking confirmation to ensure you head to the correct spot. Plan your transport to the terminal accordingly.

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Keep Your Valuables Secure

When travelling by bus, keep your most important valuables (passport, money, phone) on your person or in a small bag that stays with you. Store larger luggage in the compartment below, but don't leave anything valuable there.

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Bring Snacks and Water

While some longer bus journeys might have a stop, it's always wise to bring your own snacks and enough water. This way, you won't be caught out if there are no convenient stops or if options are limited.

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Stay Connected with Operators

For any last-minute schedule changes or questions, having the operator's contact number (often found on your ticket or their website) can be very helpful. Some operators also use messaging apps to communicate updates.

🛣️ The journey experience

Planning your journey from Siem Reap to Kompong Cham can feel a bit like navigating a maze, especially when you're looking for reliable info. Forget those overly optimistic schedules; what you need is a clear picture of what to expect, door-to-door. We've cut through the noise to bring you the real duration and all your transport options laid out side-by-side.

For this route, the bus is your most straightforward and budget-friendly choice. Expect the journey to take around 4 hours, costing roughly €8. While several operators run this route, Giant Ibis and Virak Buntham are generally considered the most reputable for comfort and punctuality. Look for direct services to avoid unnecessary transfers and ensure a smoother ride.

Don't let the lack of information elsewhere make you second-guess your journey. By understanding your options and booking with a trusted operator, you'll avoid common hassles. Always book your ticket online a day or two in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee your seat and ensure you're getting a fair price. This route is generally uncomplicated, so you can travel with peace of mind.

Frequently asked questions — Siem Reap → Kampong Cham

How long does the bus journey from Siem Reap to Kompong Cham really take? +

How much does a bus ticket from Siem Reap to Kompong Cham cost, and should I book in advance? +

Which is the best way to travel between Siem Reap and Kompong Cham? +

Are there night buses available on this route? +

✨ Why visit Kampong Cham?

✓ Visit Wat Nokor Bachey, an ancient temple complex blending Angkorian and modern architecture.
✓ Stroll along the Mekong River promenade and enjoy local street food.
✓ Cross the bamboo bridge to Koh Pen island, especially during dry season.
✓ Explore the local market for fresh produce and authentic Cambodian snacks.
✓ Cycle through surrounding villages and rubber plantations.

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Recommended stay

1 to 2 nights — sufficient to experience major attractions and local life.

☀️ When to visit Kampong Cham?

TROPICAL SAVANNA CLIMATE

November to March — dry season, cooler temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities.

Jan 😞

Feb 😐

Mar 😐

Apr 😞

May 😐

Jun 😊

Jul 😊

Aug 😊

Sep 😊

Oct 😊

Nov 😐

Dec 😐

What to do in Kampong Cham?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE

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Nokor Bachey Temple Complex

Explore this ancient Angkorian-era temple, a fascinating blend of older structures and newer pagodas. It offers a glimpse into Cambodia's rich history and religious practices. Climb to the upper levels for good views. A small entrance fee, typically around 2€, applies. Best visited in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.

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Bamboo Bridge to Koh Pen

Cross the famous seasonal bamboo bridge to Koh Pen island, rebuilt every dry season. This unique engineering marvel connects you to a tranquil rural island life. Rent a bicycle on the island to explore villages and farms. The bridge usually requires a small toll of about 0.50€ per person for maintenance.

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Sunset Along Mekong River

Witness breathtaking sunsets over the mighty Mekong River from Kampong Cham's riverfront promenade. The vibrant colors reflecting on the water create a serene and memorable experience. Grab a seat at one of the riverside cafes or simply find a spot along the public walkway. Best enjoyed with a cold drink in hand.

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Taste Local Street Food

Dive into the local culinary scene by exploring the street food stalls around the central market and riverside. Try regional specialties like 'num banh chok' (Khmer noodles) or grilled fish. Prices are very affordable, often starting from 1€-2€ per dish. Don't be afraid to try new flavors, and look for busy stalls for freshness.

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Phnom Srei and Phnom Pros

Visit 'Man Hill' and 'Woman Hill', two sacred hills with pagodas and temples, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Phnom Pros features a large stupa and numerous monkeys. Climb the hundreds of steps to reach the summits. A small donation is usually appreciated at the pagodas. Combine both hills for a nice afternoon outing.

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Colonial Architecture Stroll

Wander through the town's older districts to admire the remaining French colonial architecture. Many buildings, though faded, still retain their charm and offer a glimpse into Kampong Cham's past as an important trading post. Look for the old post office and governor's residence. No cost, just a leisurely walk, preferably in the cooler parts of the day.

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Explore Local Pagodas

Beyond the main temples, Kampong Cham is dotted with numerous active pagodas, each with its unique character and vibrant murals. Wat Hanchey, slightly outside town, offers stunning river views. Remember to dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting. Donations for maintenance are always welcome, but not obligatory.

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Cycling Rural Countryside

Rent a bicycle and venture into the peaceful countryside surrounding Kampong Cham. Cycle through rice paddies, rubber plantations, and local villages, observing daily life away from the main town. Bicycle rentals are readily available, often for around 3€-5€ per day. It's a fantastic way to experience authentic Cambodian rural charm at your own pace.

⏱️ How long to visit Kampong Cham?

1 to 3 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 2 full days are ideal to explore Kompong Cham. This allows you to visit the Bamboo Bridge, Koh Paen island, Wat Nokor, and enjoy the riverside atmosphere without rushing. If you only have one day, focus on the town's highlights; with three days, you can delve deeper into rural life and nearby temples.

Other trips from Siem Reap

Siem Reap → Bangkok 5h 36min · From 14€ Siem Reap → Battambang 1h 10min · From 4€ Siem Reap → Chiang Mai 1h 30min · From 18€ Siem Reap → Ho Chi Minh City 6h 22min · From 14€ Siem Reap → Kampot 4h 46min · From 14€ Siem Reap → Kep 5h · From 14€ Siem Reap → Koh Chang 3h 24min · From 8€ Siem Reap → Koh Rong 4h 39min · From 14€ Siem Reap → Koh Samui 1h · From 18€ Siem Reap → Kratie 3h 55min · From 14€ Siem Reap → Kuala Lumpur 1h 30min · From 18€ Siem Reap → Mondulkiri 5h 47min · From 14€

How to get from Siem Reap to Kampong Cham

🗺️ Route & distance: Siem Reap → Kampong Cham