Koh Dach (Silk Island)

Overview

Koh Dach, known as Silk Island, is a rural Mekong river island about 15 km northeast of central Phnom Penh. Villagers here practise traditional silk weaving on wooden looms beneath their stilted houses, offering visitors an authentic glimpse of rural Cambodian life just minutes from the capital.

Highlights

• Silk Weaving Workshops: Watch weavers create intricate ikat-patterned silk on traditional looms and purchase directly.
• Village Cycling: Flat, quiet paths wind through rice paddies and fruit orchards — ideal for cycling.
• Mekong Swimming: Locals and visitors swim in the river during the dry season.

History

Koh Dach has been a centre of Cambodian silk weaving for generations. The island's mulberry trees provide food for silkworms, and the tradition has been passed down through families for centuries. It survived the Khmer Rouge period and has since been supported by preservation programmes.

Visitor Tips

• Access: Take the free public ferry from Prek Leap on National Road 6A; the crossing takes 5 minutes.
• Bring a bicycle: Rent a bike on the mainland or on the island for the easiest way to explore.
• Duration: 2.5–3 hours.