Community Yoga Classes in Kampong Cham

We’re excited to offer community yoga classes led by Gisèle Lupi, an experienced yoga teacher originally from New Zealand. Gisèle has previously visited the resort, offering retreats and sharing her expertise in yoga and wellness. She has taught in various settings around the world and brings a unique perspective to every session. Classes take place every Saturday and Sunday from 2–3 pm in our serene Lotus Shala, with no yoga mat needed—just come as you are.

What is yoga, and what are the benefits?

Yoga, which means union, is a practice that connects the body, mind, and spirit through gentle movements and mindful breathing. It is known to reduce stress, improve flexibility, and enhance overall well-being. More importantly, it provides an opportunity to bring people together, fostering connections and community. Whether you are new to yoga or looking to explore something different, these sessions are a great way to feel more balanced and relaxed.

At Hanchey Bamboo Resort, we’ve noticed that we are the only ones offering yoga in Kampong Cham. We believe yoga should be more accessible to everyone, not just our guests, and this inspired us to create classes that the local community can enjoy. Our Lotus Shala, surrounded by tranquil lotus ponds, provides the perfect space to unwind. After class, there’s plenty more to enjoy at the resort, from a refreshing dip in the pool to savoring fresh, local meals with stunning views of the Mekong River. You can also explore ideas for day visits to make the most of your time here.

Why we’re offering these classes

As part of our commitment to making a positive impact, we aim to support the local community while fostering meaningful cultural exchanges. These classes are an opportunity to introduce yoga and wellness practices to those who may not have experienced them before. We are also always interested in supporting local businesses and people, reflecting our mission to create a stronger, connected region.

We also offer them to our own staff to help support their mental and physical wellbeing, developing skills alongside those they learn working with us and with BSDA.

Class details

When: Every Saturday and Sunday
Time: 2–3 pm
Where: The Lotus Shala at Hanchey Bamboo Resort
What to bring: Nothing—just bring yourself.

Join us in embracing the benefits of yoga in this beautiful setting. Take the opportunity to relax at the resort, explore its facilities, and enjoy the peaceful countryside atmosphere. You might also discover what makes Hanchey Bamboo Resort unique, including its collaboration with BSDA (Buddhism for Social Development Action) and their impactful work with local youth and communities.

Partner Doll Painting

We’re expanding our on-site offerings at Hanchey Bamboo Resort and our latest addition, clay doll painting, is an experience designed to encourage mindfulness and creativity while embracing the calm beauty of our surroundings.

A Unique Creative Escape in the Heart of Nature

Imagine sitting beneath a lush canopy of trees, surrounded by the gentle sounds of nature. With a brush in hand and vibrant colors at your disposal, the simple act of painting a small figurine becomes a way to immerse yourself in the moment. At Hanchey Bamboo Resort, we’ve carefully curated this experience as a chance to disconnect from daily stresses and reconnect with yourself and loved ones.

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A Playful Activity for All Ages

Whether you’re visiting as a couple, a family, or a solo traveler, doll painting offers something special. For couples, it’s a playful way to reconnect, create something unique together, and make lasting memories. Families can bond over colors and designs, letting kids’ imaginations run wild while parents enjoy a quiet moment in nature. Solo travelers find it a perfect way to be present, to play with colors and creativity in a peaceful, meditative setting.

Connect, Create, and Live in the Moment

In a world that’s constantly on the go, our doll-painting activity provides a rare opportunity to slow down and appreciate the beauty of a single moment. It’s about more than just painting—it’s a chance to tap into your inner creativity, enjoy laughter and connection, and walk away with a personal memento of your time in Kampong Cham.

An Eco-Friendly Experience in the Countryside

As part of our commitment to sustainability, our materials are locally sourced, reflecting the beauty of the region and our respect for its natural resources. By offering this experience, we aim to combine luxury with mindfulness and eco-awareness, making it an ideal activity for those seeking a wellness retreat.

This doll-painting activity aligns beautifully with our vision for Hanchey Bamboo Resort: an eco-luxury escape where guests can connect deeply with themselves, each other, and the unique spirit of the Khmer countryside.

Book Your Experience Today

Whether you’re painting for fun, for mindfulness, or to create a lasting memory, we invite you to join us at Hanchey Bamboo Resort and let your creativity bloom in the heart of nature.

Visit Phomn Pros and Phnom Srey

What to See on Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey

Both hills offer visitors the opportunity to explore temples and pagodas nestled near their peaks. Phnom Pros, with its rounded and easily accessible summit, is home to two pagodas: one built during the Sangkum Reastr Niyum period and another more recently constructed. Atop Phnom Pros stands a prominent five-peak temple, designed in the style of the famous Banteay Srei temple, along with a 15-meter-tall statue known as Keo So. These religious structures provide insight into Cambodia’s architectural and spiritual history.

At the base of Phnom Pros, you'll find traditional monastic cells, or *kots*, where monks live and practice. While Phnom Pros has long been a place of religious significance, it also bears a darker history. From 1975 to 1979, during the Khmer Rouge era, it was used as a detention site for political prisoners. This somber past adds a layer of reflection for visitors.

In contrast, Phnom Srey is known for its more challenging climb of 308 stone steps leading to the summit. At the top, you'll discover an old, ruined temple maintained by a few dedicated nuns, as well as panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Phnom Srey is quieter and more secluded than Phnom Pros, offering a peaceful escape with stunning vistas that stretch across Kampong Cham province.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The region surrounding Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey, including the nearby Dang Rek, Ba Ley, and Chhuk mountain ranges, is rich in history. Phnom Pros has long been a spiritual site, but its role during the Khmer Rouge regime adds a profound gravity to its significance. The area between the two hills was once a killing field, and today, visitors may come across memorials dedicated to those who lost their lives during that tragic time.

Phnom Srey, on the other hand, remains primarily a site of religious importance. Its name, meaning "Woman Hill" in Khmer, harks back to the legend of the men and women’s competition. Visitors can see small shrines, interact with local nuns, and contribute donations toward the upkeep of the site. Throughout the year, Phnom Srey hosts visitors for traditional Khmer festivals such as Pchum Ben and the Cambodian New Year, when locals come to honor their ancestors and make offerings to the monks.

Why Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey Are Perfect for Day Trips

Being only a 45-minute drive from Hanchey Bamboo Resort, Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey are ideal for a day trip, whether you're seeking scenic beauty, cultural exploration, or a spiritual connection. Guests often include these hills in their itineraries during retreats, as they offer a meaningful way to engage with both the natural landscape and Cambodia’s cultural traditions.

The journey to Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey takes you through Kampong Cham’s rural countryside. The climb to the top of each hill is rewarding, with panoramic views, temples, and pagodas awaiting you. For those interested in learning more about Khmer culture, Phnom Srey’s peaceful environment and Phnom Pros’ rich history provide a perfect balance.

Many visitors find Phnom Pros to be a more accessible spot for relaxation, while Phnom Srey offers a quieter, more contemplative space to admire the surrounding natural beauty. Both hills stand as testimonies to Cambodia’s vibrant spiritual practices and historical resilience.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey from Hanchey Bamboo Resort, be sure to allocate enough time to explore both hills and appreciate their cultural significance. We recommend wearing comfortable clothes and shoes for climbing the stairs, especially on Phnom Srey. It's also important to dress respectfully, as you’ll be visiting sacred sites—long pants or skirts and modest attire are recommended. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views from the peaks of both hills.

For those interested in making this part of a more extended cultural journey, our retreat guests often combine visits to Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey with trips to other nearby landmarks, such as the Bamboo Bridge or local Khmer cooking classes. This day trip offers the perfect balance of relaxation and cultural exploration, ensuring a meaningful experience that will stay with you long after you return to the resort.

Visiting Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey offers an enriching glimpse into Cambodia’s cultural and spiritual history, all while providing breathtaking views and peaceful moments of reflection. Whether you're intrigued by the legends or simply seeking an escape into nature, these two iconic hills are not to be missed. If you're staying at Hanchey Bamboo Resort and interested in exploring Phnom Pros and Phnom Srey, feel free to inquire at our reception about arranging a tour.

Plan a tour

Clarity & Courage Yoga Retreat | 4th - 6th October 2024

Escape to the stunning Cambodian Countryside for this unique Yoga Retreat Experience in Kampong Cham, running from the 4th to 6th October 2024

This weekend Yoga Retreat is designed to revitalize your spirit, renew your mind, and reconnect with your inner self amidst the tranquil beauty of our eco-friendly resort.

Join us for 2 days and 2 nights of Yoga and Wellness

After checking in and discovering our resort, you are invited to join Giséle for a Relaxing Yin Yoga session in our open-air Lotus Shala to loosen up any stiffness from your travel. Then, you’ll make your way to the Bamboo Restaurant for a delicious a la carte dinner followed by a very special Yoga Nidra session, in preparation for a deep slumber.

The next morning, awaken early for a classical, sunrise Hatha yoga class suited to all abilities. Following Breakfast, you’ll then take part in an authentic Khmer Cooking class where you’ll learn to cook healthy, traditional food from locally sourced ingredients - an experience that’s not be missed!

A guided Temple tour will follow Lunch, before meeting in the Lotus Shala for a flowy Vinyasa yoga session at 5.30pm. After dinner, a simple and beautiful candle-lit walking meditation will be offered to help you wind down and integrate the day.

Sunday morning will begin again with a classical Hatha Yoga class, and our closing circle will be celebrated after Breakfast - sealing the experience before leaving with new memories and friends made, your heart filled with love.

Friday, 4th October

• Check-in: 2:00 PM

• Welcome Ceremony: 4:30 PM

• Relaxing Yin Yoga: 5:00 PM

• Dinner: 6:30 PM

• Yoga Nidra: 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Saturday, 5th October

• Hatha Yoga: 6:30 AM - 7:30 AM

• Breakfast: 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM

• Khmer Cooking Class: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

• Lunch: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

• Break-Time: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

• Wat Hanchey Pagoda Visit: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

• Vinyasa Yoga Flow: 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

• Dinner: 6:30 PM

• Walking Meditation: 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Sunday, 6th October

• Hatha Yoga: 6:30 AM - 7:30 AM

• Breakfast: 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM

• Closing Circle: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

• Check-out: 12:00 PM

Luxury on-site accomodation

Enjoy our retreat with various accommodation options designed to suit your preferences. Each accommodation is crafted to provide comfort and serenity, enhancing your retreat experience.

Stay in an Eco-Bamboo House (single) for $123, or indulge in a Luxury Bungalow (single) for $160. For those who prefer company, our Shared Room is available at $111 per person until August 18th.

Meet Your Teacher, Gisèle

Welcomed into paradise with a traditional Khmer dance while sipping on a coconut, we will introduce you to our guest Yoga teacher Gisèle who will be leading the retreat.

Hailing from New Zealand, Gisèle has travelled extensively and taught around the globe, although this is her first visit to Cambodia.

Her teaching style will make your experience in classes easeful and fun. Through simple and intelligent cueing you will feel confident and able to receive the practice with joy.

Meet Gisèle

Book Your Spot Today

Don't miss this opportunity to rejuvenate and reconnect at the Hanchey Bamboo Resort. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, our retreat offers something for everyone.

Book now to secure your spot and embark on a journey of wellness and discovery. We look forward to welcoming you!

Elevate Your Energy with Yoga and Meditation Retreat

Embark on a transformative journey of wellness with Hanchey Bamboo Resort's special Yoga Retreat

It is our pleasure to host the reknowned Mr. Vat Kimly for this retreat, running from December 23 to December 24, 2023. Consider this your invitation to increase your life energy through the artful practices of Asana (Yoga) and Meditation.

Engage in a schedule that harmonizes dining, serene accommodation, and de-stressing activities set amidst the resort's beautiful natural backdrop. Revitalize your energy to enhance both your personal and professional life.

Saturday

• 12:00 PM: Check-in

• 12:30 PM: Lunch

• 3:30 PM: Break-Time

• 5:00 PM: Yoga Session (Contemplation body energy)

• 6:00 PM: Meditation

• 7:00 PM: Dinner

• 8:30 PM: Personal time

Sunday

• 6:00 AM: Morning Yoga (Boosting mental and body energy)

• 7:30 AM: Meditation

• 8:30 AM: Breakfast

• 10:30 AM: Monk Blessing

• 12:00 PM: Lunch

• 1:30 PM: Check out

To participate in this rejuvenating experience, please contact us.

For additional details, don't hesitate to reach out directly to our team.

We look forward to welcoming you to a space where peace and progress go hand in hand. 🙏