Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Koh Dach
Known as 'Silk Island' by foreigners, this is actually a pair of islands lying in the Mekong
River about 5km northeast of the Japanese Friendship Bridge. They make for an easy half-
day DIY excursion for those who want to experience the 'real Cambodia'. The hustle and
bustle of Phnom Penh feels light years away here.
The name derives from the preponderance of silk weavers who inhabit the islands.
When you arrive by ferry, you'll undoubtedly be approached by one or more smiling wo-
men who speak a bit of English and will invite you to their house to observe weavers in
action and - they hope - buy some
kramas,
sarongs or other silk items. If you are in the
market for silk, you might follow them and have a look. Otherwise, feel free to smile back
and politely decline their offer - you'll see plenty of weavers as you journey around the
islands.
Other attractions include a few colourful modern temple complexes and the rural
scenery.
Getting There & Around
Remork
drivers offer half-day tours to Koh Dach; US$20 should do it (less if you just
want to be dropped off at the ferry), but they have been known to charge as much as
US$40. The daily
boat tours
(per person US$10)
from the tourist boat dock, departing at
8.30am, 9.30am and 1pm, are another option (minimum four people).
Otherwise, hire a mountain bike or motorbike and go it alone. Ferries cross the Mekong
in three places and cost 500r per person, plus 500r per bike. The southernmost ferry cross-
ing is the most convenient; it takes you to the larger, closer island. Cross the Japanese
Bridge and follow NH6 for 4km, then turn right just before the Medical Supply Pharma-
ceutical Enterprise. You immediately hit a small dirt road that parallels the Mekong. Turn
left and follow it north for about 500m until you see the ferry crossing.
Over on the larger island, you are just a short cycle ride to a bridge that links the two is-
lands. The smaller island (technically named Koh Okhna Tey, or Mekong Island) has bet-
ter infrastructure, including a paved main road; the larger island is more rustic and remote
feeling, especially as you venture north.
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