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Bassac River

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Bassac River

Bassac River

The Bassac River is a distributary that branches off from the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, flowing through the central district of Phnom Penh. Travelers visit the riverbanks to walk along the waterfront and observe the city views and river traffic.

Getting There

The river runs through the heart of the city center. Depending on your starting point in the central district, it is accessible within a few minutes by tuk-tuk or a short walk. Most central hotels are located within a 5 to 10-minute commute from the banks.

Duration of Visit

A walk along the riverside typically takes between 1 and 2 hours, depending on how far you choose to stroll along the banks.

When to Visit

Late afternoon and early evening are the most common times to visit to avoid the midday heat. The area can become crowded with locals and tourists during the weekends and public holidays. The dry season generally offers more stable weather for walking.

Nearby Attractions

The river's central location makes it easy to combine a visit with other landmarks. Nearby sites include:

  • Cambodia–Vietnam Friendship Monument (1.9km)
  • Tonle Sap River (2.1km)
  • Independence Monument (2.2km)
  • Monivong Bridge (2.2km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Bassac River

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Bassac River Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Cambodia–Vietnam Friendship Monument

Heritage & monuments

Cambodia–Vietnam Friendship Monument

This concrete monument stands in Botum Park, not far from the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, and was built to commemorate the alliance between Vietnam and Cambodia following the fall of the Khmer Rouge in 1979. It features socialist-realist statues of soldiers from both countries.

1.9 km away

Tonle Sap River

Nature

Tonle Sap River

The Tonlé Sap River connects Tonlé Sap Lake with the Mekong and is known for the unusual phenomenon of its flow reversing direction with the seasons. Its banks offer scenery rich with abundant ecology.

2.1 km away

Independence Monument, Phnom Penh

Heritage & monuments

Independence Monument, Phnom Penh

This monument stands at the roundabout where Norodom Boulevard meets Sihanouk Boulevard in Phnom Penh, commemorating Cambodia's independence. Built in 1958 to mark independence from France in 1953, its lotus-shaped tower echoes the style of Banteay Srei temple.

2.2 km away

Monivong Bridge

Views & landmarks

Monivong Bridge

This busy bridge crosses the Bassac River in Phnom Penh. As a key route linking southern Cambodia with Vietnam, it offers pleasant riverside views along the way.

2.2 km away

Boeng Keng Kang Muoy Sangkat

Shopping & districts

Boeng Keng Kang Muoy Sangkat

Located in central Phnom Penh, Boeng Keng Kang 1 is a popular district packed with stylish cafés and restaurants. Quiet residential streets popular with expats make it a pleasant area to explore on foot.

2.2 km away

Silver Pagoda, Phnom Penh

Temples & religious sites

Silver Pagoda, Phnom Penh

The Silver Pagoda stands just south of the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, known for its ornate roof and intricate decoration. It's a highlight of Cambodia best visited together with the palace.

2.3 km away