What to expect

Wat Hanchey is a historic and culturally rich temple complex located atop a hill 20 kilometers north of Kampong Cham, overlooking the Mekong River. This sacred site dates back to the 7th century, when it was initially built as a Hindu temple during the Chenla Empire, reflecting the region's deep Hindu roots. As Cambodia transitioned to Buddhism, Wat Hanchey gradually became a predominantly Buddhist temple, now serving as a residence for monks and a pilgrimage site for locals and tourists alike.

The site features a blend of ancient and modern structures, including a red-brick stupa from the Chenla period, which miraculously survived both the Khmer Rouge era and U.S. bombings. Visitors can also explore more recent Buddhist pagodas, vibrant sculptures, and shrines that have been added over the centuries, illustrating Cambodia's religious evolution. The panoramic views of the Mekong River and the surrounding landscape make the 300-step climb to the temple worthwhile.

Wat Hanchey also offers visitors a unique opportunity to interact with the resident monks, many of whom are young novices from nearby villages. A highlight for many travelers is receiving a traditional water blessing, conducted by the monks in the central pagoda.

Today, Wat Hanchey remains an active religious and cultural center, where the ancient meets the modern. It is home to a vibrant monastic community, with young monks, known as novices, living and studying within its walls. These novices, often from local villages, participate in daily rituals and practices, including meditation, prayer, and communal meals, many of which are supported by local donations. Visitors can witness these activities firsthand and engage with the monks, learning about their lifestyle and Buddhist teachings.

Wat Hanchey also plays a key role in the spiritual lives of the surrounding communities, hosting religious festivals and ceremonies. One such experience is the traditional water blessing, where monks offer blessings to visitors by gently pouring sacred water over them, believed to bring good fortune and spiritual cleansing. The temple also serves as a gathering point during important festivals like the Cambodian New Year and Pchum Ben, when locals visit to offer food and prayers to the monks.

This blend of religious practice and community engagement makes Wat Hanchey not only a historical site but also a living, breathing symbol of Cambodia's enduring spiritual traditions.

Day Visits to Wat Hanchey

Wat Hanchey is just 1.7 km from Hanchey Bamboo Resort, making it a perfect spot for a short visit, typically taking around an hour. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the Mekong River, explore the old temple, visit the monk houses, and admire the many sculptures scattered around the complex. It's also a great place to learn about Buddhist culture, interact with locals, and even receive a blessing from a resident monk in exchange for a small donation. Khmer food and drinks are available from local vendors, and there are plenty of photo opportunities.

Visitors can walk, bike, or take a motorbike to the temple. A respectful dress code is required—long pants or robes are recommended, and revealing clothing should be avoided, particularly for women.