Koh Dach Silk Island in Phnom Penh

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Koh Dach is a long, green island in the Mekong river, north-east of central Phnom Penh. It is often called silk island because many families here weave silk by hand. It belongs to the city, but it feels like countryside, with wooden houses, fruit gardens and quiet lanes. It is an easy half-day trip from the centre. This guide explains how to get there, what to see, and the best time to go.

Getting to the island

Koh Dach lies in the Mekong, in the Chroy Changvar district, north-east of the old centre. The classic way to get there is by road across the Tonle Sap to the Chroy Changvar side, then a short river crossing on a small local ferry. Roads and crossings in this area have changed in recent years, so ask your driver for the current route. Many visitors hire a tuk-tuk for half a day, so the driver waits and brings you back. Some boat tours leave from the riverside in the city and stop at the island. Cycling tours are also popular. The trip from the centre takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic.

Silk weaving

Silk weaving is the main reason to visit. In many houses, a wooden loom stands in the cool space under the raised floor. Women weave silk scarves, sarongs and cloth with fine patterns, one thread at a time. Some workshops show the whole process, from spinning the thread to dyeing and weaving. You can watch quietly and ask before you take photos. Most workshops have a small shop. Buying a scarf or a bag here helps the weavers directly. Prices depend on the type of silk and the pattern, and handmade pieces take many days of work. Ask whether the silk is fully hand-woven.

Village lanes and the river beach

The island is flat and green, so it is pleasant to explore by bicycle or tuk-tuk. Narrow lanes pass wooden stilt houses, fruit gardens, small fields and local shops. You see mangoes, bananas and other fruit trees, and children riding bikes home from school. In the dry season, when the Mekong is low, sandy banks appear along the river. Local families come to sit in simple wooden huts by the water, eat grilled fish and fruit, and swim. In the rainy season, the water rises and covers much of the sand. The pace is slow, which is a good change from the city traffic.

When to go

The dry season, from about December to April, is the best time. The weather is drier, the roads are dusty but easy, and the river beaches are open. Go in the morning, when it is cooler and the looms are busy. The middle of the day is very hot, with little shade on the lanes. In the rainy season, from about May to November, the island is very green, but showers can make the lanes muddy. Bring cash in small notes, water, a hat and sun cream. Dress modestly, as this is a quiet village area. Allow about half a day for the trip.

Koh Dach Silk Island at a glance

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